If you enjoyed the chilling horror of Red Christmas (2016), a twisted holiday slasher with a darkly festive twist, you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similarly unsettling movies and shows that deliver suspense, gore, and psychological terror—perfect for fans craving more blood-soaked thrills. Whether you love holiday horror or relentless tension, these picks will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Wicker Man (1973)
Description: A folk horror film that contrasts idyllic rural settings with disturbing pagan rituals, creating a sense of unease and dread.
Fact: The film was heavily edited upon its initial release, with many scenes being cut; a restored version was later released as 'The Final Cut.'


Black Christmas (1974)
Description: A holiday-themed horror film that blends suspense and slasher elements, creating a tense atmosphere where the festive setting contrasts with the terror unfolding.
Fact: Considered one of the earliest slasher films, predating Halloween. It features one of the first uses of the 'killer's POV' shot.


Gremlins (1984)
Description: A horror-comedy that juxtaposes the whimsy of Christmas with chaotic and destructive creatures, creating a blend of humor and terror.
Fact: The film's release led to the creation of the PG-13 rating due to its mix of family-friendly elements and intense horror scenes.


Silent Night, Deadly Night (1984)
Description: A horror film that subverts the cheer of Christmas by introducing a killer Santa Claus, playing on the fear of a corrupted festive icon.
Fact: The film was highly controversial upon release, leading to protests and being pulled from theaters due to its portrayal of Santa as a murderer.


The Others (2001)
Description: A gothic horror film that relies on slow-building tension and a chilling atmosphere, with a twist that recontextualizes the entire story.
Fact: The film was shot almost entirely on location in Spain, using natural light to enhance its eerie, period-accurate atmosphere.


The Descent (2005)
Description: A claustrophobic horror film that traps its characters in an underground cave system, blending survival horror with supernatural elements.
Fact: The film's cave sets were built to be intentionally narrow and confining, to heighten the actors' sense of panic and claustrophobia.


The Orphanage (2007)
Description: A psychological horror film that uses a haunting atmosphere and emotional depth to explore themes of loss and the supernatural.
Fact: The film was produced by Guillermo del Toro, who is known for his distinctive blend of fairy-tale aesthetics and horror.


Krampus (2015)
Description: A darkly comedic horror film that explores the darker folklore surrounding the holiday season, featuring supernatural entities punishing those who lose the Christmas spirit.
Fact: The creature design for Krampus was inspired by traditional European folklore, blending elements of demonic and animalistic features.


Hereditary (2018)
Description: A psychological horror film that delves into family trauma and supernatural horror, with a slow-burning narrative that culminates in shocking violence.
Fact: The film's miniature dioramas, created by the protagonist, were actually built by the production team and used to enhance the film's unsettling tone.


Midsommar (2019)
Description: A daylight horror film that uses bright, pastoral visuals to contrast with its gruesome and ritualistic violence, creating a unique sense of dread.
Fact: The film's script was partially inspired by the director's own experiences with a breakup, adding a layer of personal trauma to the story.
