2025 was a great year for horror movies, as many anticipated films were released and many new projects were showcased. Below are 8 of the best films that were shown this year, with many highlighting gore and the undead alongside some heavy hitter actors.
- We Bury the Dead
We Bury the Dead is an Australian film that follows a community after dealing with the aftermath of an outbreak that leaves the dead still “living.” The film explores grief in a way that hasn’t necessarily been seen before in horror, paired with psychological tension.
Photo Credit: Vertical Entertainment
2. Black Phone 2
The sequel to the ever-popular 2021 original piece that features Ethan Hawke and Mason Thames. A supernatural horror that looks at the Grabber and his relentless pursuit against Finn. Even darker than the first film, this sequel is one to watch.
Photo Credit: Sabrina Lantos for Universal Pictures
3. 28 Years Later
One of the most anticipated films of all time, 28 Years Later draws on the 2002 film where a world is still reeling from the rage virus decades after the initial outbreak. A fast-paced action horror film starring Aaron Taylor Johnson and Ralph Fiennes, this movie was well worth the wait.
Photo Credit: Miya Mizuno
4. Dangerous Animals
If you liked Jaws or The Meg, this film is for you! Dangerous animals is an Australian original that combines torture, survival, and sharks into one cannot miss film. This film is your biggest fears coming true.
Photo Credit: IFC Films
5. I Know What You Did Last Summer
Featuring the iconic original cast of the 1997 motion picture, the franchise is back and scarier than ever. Starring a vast array of up-and-coming actors, the film rings true to the original and pays homage to the twisted story that viewers fell in love with over 20 years ago.
Photo Credit: Courtesy Everrett Collection for Columbia Pictures
6. Final Destination: Bloodlines
The franchise returns with creative and gruesome death scenes that remind audiences why this series is one of the best. Shocking moments and constant tension make this film a fan favorite and a great return to the big screen.
Photo Credit: Courtesy Everrett for Warner Bros
7. Weapons
Director Zach Cregger of Barbarian made a strong comeback when he debuted the trailer for Weapons, which quickly became one of the most anticipated films of 2025. A unique twist to horror films, this film spread like wildfire with the creation of memes and Halloween costumes that came out of it. A must see from Cregger!
Photo Credit: Warner Bros.
From zombie apocalypses to supernatural, and creature features, 2025 proved that horror continues to evolve while still sticking to its traditional roots.
