‘Tis Fall! The season of golden leaves, cozy sweaters, and pumpkin-spiced everything. But let’s not forget the most thrilling part of this time of year – the spine-chilling cinematic masterpieces that await us in the dark corners of our favorite theaters and streaming platforms. As the nights grow longer, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a good horror flick, feeling the goosebumps rise on your skin, and hearing the distant howl of the wind and/or werewolves.
So, fellow fiends, let’s embark on a journey to discover the most bone-chilling upcoming horror movies of Fall 2023. Prepare to be thrilled, chilled, and maybe a little scared out of your wits!
It Lives Inside (In theaters Sept. 22)
Dive deep into the realms of Hindu and Buddhist mythology with this coming-of-age horror. The story revolves around Samidha, a second-generation Indian American, who grapples with her cultural identity. But when a demonic entity known as Pishach targets her former best friend, Samidha must embrace her roots to confront this malevolent spirit. This debut feature from writer-director Bishal Dutta draws inspiration from his own emigration experience, making it a personal and terrifying journey.
No One Will Save You (Streaming on Hulu, Sept. 22)
Home is where the heart is, but for Brynn Adams, it’s also where the aliens are! In this sci-fi psychological thriller, Brynn awakens to the sound of extraterrestrial beings breaking into her house. As the night unfolds, she must muster all her courage to fend off these otherworldly invaders. Director Brian Duffield humorously described the film on Twitter as “a movie where a bunch of greys try to abduct Kaitlyn Dever, and she’s like, no thank you.”
Saw X (In theaters Sept. 29)
The iconic Jigsaw Killer returns in this blood-curdling installment set between the events of Saw I and II. Tobin Bell reprises his role as John Kramer, who, after a medical scam in Mexico, decides to exact his own form of twisted justice. Directed by franchise veteran Kevin Greutert, this film offers a unique perspective, focusing on Kramer’s emotional journey rather than his victims. It promises to be a fresh take on the classic gore-filled saga.
The Exorcist: Believer (In theaters Oct. 6)
Half a century after the original Exorcist sent shivers down our spines, director David Gordon Green revives the demonic possession tale. Ellen Burstyn returns as Chris MacNeil, joining forces to save two young girls from a malevolent entity. This direct sequel to the 1973 classic is the first in a planned trilogy, ensuring that the terror is far from over.
Pet Sematary: Bloodlines (Streaming on Paramount+, Oct. 6)
Delving into the eerie past of the Creed family’s neighbor, Jud Crandall, this prequel to Stephen King’s terrifying novel unveils a sinister family legacy. Set in 1969, the story follows a young Jud as he discovers a local cemetery with resurrection powers and confronts an ancient evil that threatens to obliterate everything.
Totally Killer (Streaming on Prime, Oct. 6)
Time-travel meets slasher in this comedic horror from Blumhouse. Kiernan Shipka stars as Jamie, a teen who travels back to 1987 to prevent a notorious killer from targeting her in the present. Teaming up with her mom’s younger self, they embark on a mission to stop the masked maniac’s original murders.
V/H/S/85 (Streaming on Shudder, Oct. 6)
The beloved horror anthology returns, taking us to the dark side of the ’80s. This found footage installment showcases five chilling episodes, each promising a unique blend of terror and nostalgia. From early VR nightmares to sinister TV obsessions, this film is a retro horror lover’s dream.
Malibu Horror Story (In theaters Oct. 20)
Dive into a decade-long mystery as a team of paranormal investigators explore the enigmatic disappearance of four teens in the California hills. This found footage film, directed by Scott Slone, offers a fresh perspective on the haunted Native American burial ground trope, promising a multi-layered narrative that appeals to a broad horror audience.
Five Nights at Freddy’s (In theaters and streaming on Peacock, Oct. 27)
Blumhouse brings the popular video game to the big screen. Josh Hutcherson stars as Mike Schmidt, a security guard at Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza, who soon realizes that the animatronics have a sinister side. Directed by Emma Tammi, this adaptation has been eagerly awaited by fans since 2015.
Thanksgiving (In theaters Nov. 17)
Eli Roth serves up a holiday-themed slasher that will make you rethink your festive plans. A serial killer is on the loose, turning a Massachusetts town’s residents into his next meal. With limited plot details but a promise of Roth’s signature gore, this film is sure to be a Thanksgiving treat.
So, there you have it, folks! The upcoming horror movies of Fall 2023 are ready to send shivers down your spine. Whether you’re a fan of supernatural scares or slasher thrills, this season has got you covered.
Which freaky flick are you most excited for? Join the conversation over in the Nightmare on Film Street Discord and let us know!
Looking for something fressh to watch *right now*? Check out this list of the 15 best Horror movies of 2023 so far to wet your whistle!
