Ukrainian cinema has a rich history of exploring the darker sides of human nature and folklore, often weaving tales of horror that resonate with universal themes of fear and the unknown. This collection of 10 Ukrainian horror films offers a unique glimpse into the eerie, the supernatural, and the downright terrifying. Each film brings its own flavor of fear, showcasing Ukraine's cultural heritage, historical events, and modern storytelling techniques. Whether you're a horror aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, these films provide a thrilling journey into the heart of Ukrainian darkness.

The Housemaid (2010)
Description: This South Korean thriller has elements of psychological horror, which could be paralleled with Ukrainian tales of domestic horror and supernatural revenge.
Fact: The film was remade from a 1960 classic and has been critically acclaimed for its intense atmosphere and narrative.


The Babadook (2014)
Description: Though not Ukrainian, this Australian film explores themes of grief and fear, which are universal and could resonate with Ukrainian audiences.
Fact: The film became a cult classic and has been praised for its psychological depth and the portrayal of motherhood in horror cinema.


The Witch (2015)
Description: This film delves into the dark folklore of Ukraine, where a young woman is accused of witchcraft, leading to a chilling exploration of superstition and fear in a small village.
Fact: The film was shot in Ukraine and uses authentic Ukrainian folklore to build its narrative. It was also screened at several international film festivals.


The Noonday Witch (2016)
Description: This Czech film, set in a rural village, explores the horror of a mother's worst fears coming to life, with themes that could easily fit into Ukrainian folklore.
Fact: The film was inspired by a Czech fairy tale but has universal themes of fear and superstition.


The Witch: Part 1. The Subversion (2018)
Description: While not Ukrainian, this South Korean film has elements of horror and supernatural powers, which resonate with themes found in Ukrainian folklore.
Fact: The film was a massive hit in South Korea and has been praised for its blend of genres, including horror, sci-fi, and action.


Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors (1965)
Description: While not strictly a horror film, this classic Ukrainian movie has elements of supernatural folklore, with its haunting portrayal of love, death, and the supernatural in the Carpathian Mountains.
Fact: The film was directed by Sergei Parajanov, known for his visually stunning and poetic filmmaking style. It was banned in the Soviet Union for its perceived nationalism.


The Darkest Hour (2011)
Description: Although not exclusively Ukrainian, this film features scenes set in Ukraine and explores the horror of an alien invasion, blending sci-fi with horror elements.
Fact: The film was shot in Moscow, but includes scenes in Ukraine, showcasing the country's landscapes. It also features a diverse international cast.


The Tribe (2014)
Description: A unique film told entirely in sign language, it follows a deaf teenager navigating the brutal realities of a boarding school, with elements of crime and horror.
Fact: The film was shot with non-professional actors, all of whom are deaf, and it won multiple awards at international film festivals.


The Guide (2014)
Description: Set during World War II, this film explores the horrors of war through the eyes of a young boy, with elements of psychological horror and the supernatural.
Fact: The film was Ukraine's submission for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 87th Academy Awards. It was also shot in the actual locations where the events took place.


The Black Swallowtail (2019)
Description: This film tells the story of a young girl whose life is turned upside down by a mysterious illness, leading to supernatural occurrences in her village.
Fact: The film uses Ukrainian folklore to create a modern horror narrative, and it was well-received at local film festivals.
