The year 2016 was a standout for horror cinema, delivering a mix of spine-chilling thrillers, supernatural scares, and psychological horror that left audiences clinging to the edges of their seats. This curated list of the 25 best horror films from 2016 offers a thrilling journey through the dark and twisted corridors of fear. Whether you're a die-hard horror fan or just dipping your toes into the genre, these films provide a diverse palette of terror that's sure to satisfy your cravings for suspense, jump scares, and the macabre. Let's dive into this haunting collection and explore why these movies have earned their place in the annals of horror history.

The Invitation (2016)
Description: A man attends a dinner party hosted by his ex-wife, only to suspect that something sinister is afoot. Its slow-building tension and psychological horror elements are masterfully executed.
Fact: The film was shot in just 20 days, with much of the action taking place in a single location.


The Conjuring 2 (2016)
Description: Paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren travel to London to help a single mother and her four children who are being terrorized by a malevolent spirit. Its blend of real-life events and supernatural horror is gripping.
Fact: The film is based on the real-life Enfield Poltergeist case, which occurred in the late 1970s.


The Autopsy of Jane Doe (2016)
Description: A father-son coroner team uncovers supernatural secrets during the autopsy of an unidentified woman. Its clever use of a confined setting builds suspense to a terrifying climax.
Fact: The film was originally conceived as a short story by its director, André Øvredal.


Don't Breathe (2016)
Description: A group of thieves break into a blind man's home, only to find themselves trapped in a deadly game of cat and mouse. The film's twisty plot and intense atmosphere make it a must-watch.
Fact: The film was shot in chronological order to capture the genuine reactions of the actors as the story unfolded.


The Witch (2016)
Description: Set in 1630s New England, this film follows a family's descent into paranoia and witchcraft. Its slow-burning tension and historical accuracy make it a standout in modern horror.
Fact: The film was shot entirely on location in a forest, with the cast living in a 17th-century style farmhouse to maintain authenticity.


Under the Shadow (2016)
Description: Set during the Iran-Iraq War, this film follows a mother and daughter as they face both physical and supernatural threats. Its unique setting and cultural context enrich the horror narrative.
Fact: The film was Iran's submission for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 89th Academy Awards.


Lights Out (2016)
Description: A supernatural entity that only appears in darkness terrorizes a family. Its simple yet effective premise and jump scares make it a memorable horror experience.
Fact: The film was based on a short film of the same name by director David F. Sandberg.


Train to Busan (2016)
Description: A father and daughter board a train to Busan, only to find themselves in the midst of a zombie apocalypse. Its fast-paced action and emotional depth set it apart from typical zombie flicks.
Fact: The film was a massive hit in South Korea, becoming one of the highest-grossing films in the country's history.


Raw (2016)
Description: A vegetarian veterinary student develops a taste for human flesh after a hazing ritual. Its exploration of body horror and coming-of-age themes is both shocking and thought-provoking.
Fact: The film was banned in Russia due to its graphic content, but it received widespread critical acclaim elsewhere.


The Wailing (2016)
Description: A small village is plagued by mysterious deaths, leading to a detective's investigation into a possible supernatural cause. Its blend of horror, mystery, and folklore makes it a unique entry.
Fact: The film was initially banned in China for its portrayal of a Japanese shaman, but the ban was later lifted.
