If you’re looking for the best horror movies on Netflix, you want one thing: something that’s actually worth watching right now. In late 2025, Netflix’s horror lineup delivers more than cheap jump scares, offering a sharp mix of psychological terror, survival horror, standout international films, and critically praised originals.
Most “top 10” lists stop at titles. This guide goes further by explaining why each movie works and who it’s best for. That way, you spend less time scrolling and more time enjoying genuinely scary movies. Whether you love slow-burning dread, high-stakes survival, or unsettling supernatural stories, this list helps you choose with confidence.
Why Netflix Has the Best Horror Selection in 2025
Netflix didn’t accidentally build a strong horror library. Over time, the platform invested in director-driven projects, global storytelling, and horror that respects the audience’s intelligence. As a result, its catalog feels deeper and more varied than most competitors.
Additionally, Netflix horror succeeds because it doesn’t rely solely on jump scares. Instead, many films focus on atmosphere, character trauma, and social commentary. Consequently, these movies linger long after the credits roll.
Just as important, Netflix consistently supports international horror. That global reach introduces viewers to new myths, cultural fears, and storytelling styles that Hollywood often overlooks.
Top-Rated Netflix Horror Originals You Shouldn’t Skip
His House (2020)
At first glance, His House looks like a traditional haunted-house movie. However, it quickly becomes something far more disturbing. The film blends supernatural terror with the emotional weight of refugee trauma, guilt, and loss.
Because the horror grows from real human suffering, the scares feel grounded and relentless. Instead of cheap tricks, the movie relies on dread and symbolism. Consequently, it resonates long after you finish watching.
Best for: Viewers who prefer psychological horror with emotional depth.
Gerald’s Game (2017)
Rather than using monsters or elaborate effects, Gerald’s Game traps fear in one room. Directed by Mike Flanagan, the film turns isolation into a weapon. Every moment feels suffocating, personal, and raw.
Moreover, the movie proves that imagination can be scarier than anything on screen. As tension builds, mental collapse becomes the real threat. Because of this, the film feels intensely uncomfortable in the best way.
Best for: Fans of psychological breakdown horror and Stephen King adaptations.
Under the Shadow (2016)
Set during the Iran-Iraq war, Under the Shadow layers political fear with supernatural menace. The result is a chilling story where danger exists both inside and outside the home.
Unlike louder horror films, this one thrives on restraint. Each quiet moment carries weight, and every shadow feels threatening. Therefore, the tension never lets up.
Best for: Slow-burn horror fans who value intelligence and atmosphere.
Best New Horror Movies on Netflix in 2025
28 Years Later
After years of anticipation, 28 Years Later expands the infected universe with brutal realism. While the action hits hard, the emotional weight hits even harder. Humanity feels fragile, desperate, and frighteningly believable.
Additionally, the film explores long-term survival rather than initial chaos. As a result, the horror feels more existential than explosive.
Fear style: Survival horror mixed with bleak realism.
Frankenstein
Guillermo del Toro’s Frankenstein reimagines the classic story through a tragic, gothic lens. While the visuals impress immediately, the emotional storytelling leaves the strongest mark.
Instead of focusing on fear alone, the movie emphasizes isolation, creation, and rejection. Consequently, the horror feels sorrowful rather than shocking.
Fear style: Gothic and emotional horror.
Until Dawn
Based on the PlayStation game, Until Dawn thrives on paranoia and repetition. Each decision feels dangerous, and the time-loop mechanic keeps tension high.
Rather than relying on gore, the movie builds fear through anticipation. Therefore, suspense remains constant from start to finish.
Fear style: Psychological survival horror.
Best International Horror Movies on Netflix
Incantation
Incantation doesn’t just tell a story—it involves you in it. By breaking the fourth wall, the film makes viewers feel complicit in the curse. As a result, the fear feels personal and invasive. Few movies manage that level of immersion.
The Ritual
Lost in a Swedish forest, grief and ancient evil collide. The Ritual balances emotional trauma with creature horror beautifully. Because the monster reveal feels earned, the payoff hits hard without feeling rushed.
Veronica
Inspired by a real police report, Veronica builds fear slowly and relentlessly. Instead of spectacle, it focuses on realism and emotional vulnerability. Consequently, the film feels disturbingly plausible.
Popular Netflix Horror Hits That Still Hold Up
- The Fear Street Trilogy – Stylish slashers with surprising emotional depth
- The Platform – Social horror with brutal imagery
- A Quiet Place: Day One – Loud tension mixed with emotional storytelling
How to Choose the Right Horror Movie for Your Mood
Not all horror works the same way. Therefore, matching the movie to your fear preference matters.
- Psychological horror: His House, Gerald’s Game
- Survival horror: 28 Years Later, Until Dawn
- Supernatural dread: Veronica, Under the Shadow
- Social horror: The Platform, His House
Choosing this way prevents disappointment and improves your overall viewing experience.
FAQs: Best Horror Movies on Netflix
What is the scariest horror movie on Netflix right now?
Currently, Incantation and His House top most fear-based rankings due to their psychological impact.
Are Netflix horror movies actually good?
Yes. In fact, Netflix originals often outperform theatrical horror in storytelling and critical reception.
How often does Netflix add new horror movies?
Netflix updates its horror catalog regularly, with major releases appearing quarterly.
Are foreign horror films worth watching?
Absolutely. Many international horror movies rely on atmosphere rather than jump scares, making them more unsettling.
Final Verdict: What Should You Watch Tonight?
For lingering psychological fear, start with His House. If nonstop survival tension is what you want, 28 Years Later delivers. And when you’re craving something truly disturbing, Incantation is hard to top.
In the end, it all comes down to your fear tolerance and mood. Some nights call for slow dread, while others demand pure adrenaline. Choose wisely, dim the lights, silence your phone, and press play.
