18 Horror Movies That Made Us Sleep With The Lights On For A Week

Enter, dear reader, if you dare, into the dim-lit corners of the cinematic world, where shadows twist into unspeakable horrors and the line between reality and nightmare blurs.

Be prepared, for this journey requires courage, a love for the thrill of fear, and perhaps an extra light bulb or two. We're about to explore 18 horror films that, despite our best efforts, compelled us to sleep with the lights blazing for a week.

Updated on December 8th, 2023 by Louise Everitt: This article has been updated with additional content to keep information relevant. We've added some of the latest titles released in 2023 to keep things up-to-date and interesting for you. Dive in and check out what's new!

Totally Killer (2023)

A unique blend of slasher tropes and time travel, where a teen from the present is hurled back to 1987 to stop the Sweet 16 Killer, who killed her mother. This film debuted on Amazon Prime shortly before Halloween, offering a retro '80s throwback for horror enthusiasts​​.

Renfield (2023)

Starring Nicolas Cage as Dracula, this horror comedy delves into the story of bad bosses. Though it flew under the radar and was a box office flop, it features a notable performance by Nicholas Hoult and Awkwafina​​.

No One Will Save You (2023)

A virtually dialogue-free alien invasion film that made a mark on Hulu. Praised for its bold narrative choices and the designs of its alien invaders, the film's limited release on a single streaming service restricted its viewership despite positive reviews​​.

Cobweb (2023)

A Halloween-set story about a young boy who hears voices behind his wall, released theatrically in July, which might have affected its reception. However, it has garnered attention for its twisty plot and eerie atmosphere​​.

Knock at the Cabin (2023)

Directed by M. Night Shyamalan, this film is an adaptation of Paul Tremblay's "The Cabin at the End of the World." It deviated from the book in significant ways, stirring some rather heated debates among fans of Tremblay's writing and apocalyptic fiction​​.

The Exorcist (1973)

Let's start with a set of classics, because how can we not? This tale of a young girl possessed by a demonic entity shocked audiences worldwide and set the standard for horror cinema. Its bone-chilling visuals, sinister narrative, and unnerving sound design make it a film that lingers in the shadows of our rooms, and our minds, long after viewing.

Hereditary (2018)

Ari Aster's directorial debut weaves a tale of familial grief interspersed with supernatural horrors. The terrifyingly real depiction of a family's descent into darkness, coupled with dread-inducing cinematography, make 'Hereditary' a truly nerve-jangling experience.

A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)

Wes Craven's seminal slasher film introduces us to Freddy Krueger, a disfigured killer who preys on his victims in their dreams. With the safety of sleep compromised, viewers were left questioning the shadows of their bedrooms and the security of their dreams.

The Ring (2002)

The American adaptation of the Japanese horror film Ringu utilizes the creeping dread of a cursed videotape to induce horror. The eerie, uncanny atmosphere permeates every scene, and the film's climax leaves a haunting impression that's not easily shaken.

Lake Mungo (2008)

This Australian horror film uses a mockumentary format to weave a haunting story of a family dealing with their daughter's death. As they delve into her past, they uncover chilling secrets. The film's subtle scares and lingering sense of unease make it a hidden gem in the horror genre.

Session 9 (2001)

A psychological horror film set in an abandoned mental hospital, 'Session 9' focuses on an asbestos cleanup crew that begins to unravel due to the building's oppressive atmosphere and the disturbing discoveries they make. Its sense of creeping dread and claustrophobic setting make for a spine-tingling viewing experience.

The Wailing (2016)

This South Korean horror film combines elements of mystery, thriller, and supernatural horror to create an atmospheric and deeply unsettling narrative. When a small village is plagued by a mysterious disease following the arrival of a stranger, a policeman investigates and descends into a terrifying supernatural conflict.

The Witch (2015)

Though not entirely unknown, Robert Eggers' directorial debut may not be on the average viewer's radar. Set in the 17th century, 'The Witch' is a slow-burning film that follows a Puritan family experiencing unexplained and disturbing events on their remote farm, amplifying the horror of the unknown.

Pontypool (2008)

Imagine a horror not of blood and gore, but of words, an infection spread through the English language. Sounds absurd? That's Pontypool for you. A nerve-rattling ride that leaves you distrustful of your own words – it's enough to make a basilisk's gaze seem benign.

It Follows (2014)

Ever had that feeling of being watched? It Follows takes this common fear and amplifies it tenfold. With an unseen entity that relentlessly pursues its victims, it's a nightmare-inducing game of hide and seek that would have even Lord Voldemort checking over his shoulder.

A Tale of Two Sisters (2003)

South Korea strikes again with a psychological horror film that's as mystifying as an unsolvable potion riddle. Twisted family secrets, spectral apparitions, and a plot twist that's sure to make your head spin faster than a rogue bludger.

Raw (2016)

Raw isn't just a film; it's an experience, one that might have you opting for a vegetarian diet post-viewing. It's a gruesome coming-of-age tale that explores the darker side of human nature and the grotesque lengths one might go to for survival, as blood-curdling as it can be.

The Babadook (2014)

The Babadook, with its psychological depths and chilling metaphor of grief, is more than a simple monster-in-the-closet film. Its titular monster, a top-hatted specter from a children's book, could give even Bogarts a run for their money in terms of sheer terror.