If you’re a horror fan but prefer a good night’s sleep, there are certain films that you might want to save for the daylight hours. These movies are filled with terrifying visuals, suspenseful atmospheres, and haunting storylines that linger in your mind long after the credits roll. Here’s a list of ten horror films that could leave you sleeping with the lights on if you watch them too close to bedtime.
1. Hereditary (2018)
This psychological horror by Ari Aster is not for the faint-hearted. Hereditary explores themes of grief, family secrets, and supernatural terror, creating an unsettling atmosphere that intensifies with each scene. The chilling moments and disturbing visuals make it one of the most talked-about horrors in recent years, and it’s guaranteed to leave an impact.
2. The Conjuring (2013)
Based on the real-life paranormal investigations of Ed and Lorraine Warren, The Conjuring is filled with jump scares, unsettling exorcisms, and eerie moments. The film’s grounded realism adds to its terror, making you feel as if the haunted happenings could occur in your own home.
3. Sinister (2012)
Ethan Hawke stars as a crime writer who discovers horrifying home videos that reveal a series of murders. Sinister creates a haunting atmosphere with disturbing imagery and a sinister soundtrack. This movie is notorious for its unsettling effect on viewers and has even been labeled as one of the scariest films in recent studies.
4. The Ring (2002)
This remake of the Japanese horror film Ringu revolves around a cursed videotape that dooms anyone who watches it. With disturbing imagery and one of horror’s most iconic ghosts, The Ring builds suspense and dread from start to finish, making it one to avoid if you want a restful night’s sleep.
5. Insidious (2010) Insidious takes audiences into the terrifying world of astral projection and demonic possession. Directed by James Wan, this film combines eerie music with bone-chilling visuals to keep you on the edge of your seat. The unnerving scenes in “The Further” will leave you double-checking your surroundings in the dark.
6. Midsommar (2019)
Ari Aster’s second major horror film, Midsommar, is an unsettling journey into the disturbing rituals of a secluded Swedish cult. Despite taking place mostly in daylight, the film’s haunting atmosphere and grotesque scenes are enough to disturb your sleep and provoke nightmares. The psychological intensity makes it one of the most unique horrors of recent times.
7. The Babadook (2014)
A psychological thriller that centers around a mother and her son haunted by a mysterious creature, The Babadookexplores grief and trauma in a uniquely terrifying way. Its eerie atmosphere, combined with a deeply unsettling storyline, leaves a lasting impression, making it one you might want to avoid watching at night.
8. Paranormal Activity (2007)
This found-footage horror film created a stir upon its release, using minimal effects to build maximum tension. Paranormal Activity follows a couple experiencing disturbing supernatural events in their home. The fact that it feels real makes it even scarier, and its simple but effective scares will have you glancing over your shoulder for hours.
9. It Follows (2014)
This indie horror film brings a unique premise where a supernatural entity relentlessly pursues its victim. It Followscreates a sense of paranoia and dread, making you feel as if something is constantly watching. The slow, looming scares and suspenseful soundtrack make it a nightmare-inducing choice to avoid before bed.
10. The Witch (2015)
Set in 1630s New England, The Witch is a period horror that immerses viewers in a dark, oppressive atmosphere. The eerie setting, disturbing events, and unnerving religious undertones create a horror experience unlike any other. The film’s haunting visuals and sense of doom are unsettling, making it a film you’ll want to avoid watching too close to sleep.
