Hey horror fans in the UK! Are you looking for a good scare? Well, you've come to the right place. Netflix UK has a killer selection of horror films right now, and I've compiled a list of the top 10 to get your heart racing and keep you up at night. So, grab your popcorn, turn off the lights, and let's dive into the best horror Netflix has to offer! Get ready for some serious thrills and chills!

1. Hereditary

Hereditary isn't just a horror movie; it's a masterclass in psychological terror. This film burrows under your skin and stays there long after the credits roll. The story revolves around the Graham family, who are grappling with the aftermath of a death of their secretive grandmother. As they grieve, a series of increasingly disturbing events begin to unfold, revealing dark secrets and a terrifying destiny. What makes Hereditary so effective is its slow-burn approach. It doesn't rely on cheap jump scares but instead builds an atmosphere of dread and unease that permeates every scene. The performances are phenomenal, particularly Toni Collette as Annie Graham, whose portrayal of a woman on the verge of a breakdown is both heartbreaking and terrifying. The film delves into themes of family trauma, grief, and the occult, creating a multi-layered narrative that is as intellectually stimulating as it is emotionally draining. The cinematography and sound design are equally impressive, contributing to the film's overall sense of unease. The use of shadows, unsettling imagery, and a haunting score work together to create a truly immersive and terrifying experience. Hereditary is not for the faint of heart, but if you're looking for a horror film that will stay with you long after you've watched it, this is a must-see. It's a film that demands your attention and rewards it with a chilling and unforgettable experience. It's a modern horror masterpiece that has set a new standard for the genre. Prepare to be disturbed. Seriously.

2. The Babadook

The Babadook is a unique and deeply unsettling horror film that explores themes of grief, depression, and the challenges of single parenthood. The story centers on Amelia, a widowed mother who is struggling to cope with the loss of her husband and the difficulties of raising her troubled son, Sam. One night, they discover a mysterious pop-up book titled "The Babadook," which tells the story of a sinister creature that torments those who acknowledge its existence. As the Babadook begins to manifest in their lives, Amelia and Sam must confront their inner demons and fight against the darkness that threatens to consume them. What sets The Babadook apart from other horror films is its psychological depth. It's not just about jump scares and monsters; it's about the very real struggles of a mother trying to cope with grief and the challenges of raising a child with behavioral issues. The Babadook itself can be interpreted as a metaphor for Amelia's repressed grief and the destructive power of negative emotions. The film's use of practical effects and unsettling imagery creates a palpable sense of dread and claustrophobia. The performances are excellent, particularly Essie Davis as Amelia, who delivers a raw and emotionally charged performance. The Babadook is a must-watch for horror fans who appreciate films that are both scary and thought-provoking. It's a film that will stay with you long after you've watched it, prompting you to reflect on the nature of grief, trauma, and the monsters that lurk within us all.

3. His House

His House offers a chilling and poignant exploration of the refugee experience through the lens of horror. The film follows Bol and Rial, a Sudanese couple who escape the war-torn South Sudan and seek asylum in the UK. After enduring a harrowing journey, they are granted a dilapidated house in a predominantly white neighborhood. However, their new home is haunted by malevolent spirits that torment them with reminders of their past trauma and the guilt they carry. His House is more than just a ghost story; it's a powerful commentary on the challenges faced by refugees as they try to rebuild their lives in a new and often hostile environment. The film effectively blends supernatural horror with social commentary, creating a narrative that is both terrifying and thought-provoking. The performances are outstanding, particularly Sope Dirisu and Wunmi Mosaku as Bol and Rial, who convey the emotional toll of their experiences with remarkable nuance and authenticity. The film's use of visual effects and sound design creates a palpable sense of dread and unease, immersing the viewer in the couple's nightmarish reality. His House is a powerful and important film that sheds light on the human cost of war and displacement. It's a must-see for anyone who wants to understand the challenges faced by refugees and the importance of empathy and compassion.

4. The Ritual

The Ritual blends classic horror elements with a truly unsettling atmosphere set deep within the Scandinavian wilderness. This film follows a group of old college friends who reunite for a hiking trip in Sweden to honor a deceased friend. However, their trek through the remote forests soon turns into a nightmare as they encounter a malevolent presence that stalks them through the trees. As they become increasingly lost and isolated, they are forced to confront their own inner demons and the dark secrets that bind them together. The Ritual excels at creating a sense of dread and paranoia. The film's stunning visuals of the Scandinavian landscape are juxtaposed with unsettling imagery and a haunting score, creating an atmosphere of constant unease. The creature design is particularly effective, adding to the film's overall sense of terror. The performances are solid, and the characters are well-developed, making their plight all the more believable. The Ritual is a creepy and atmospheric horror film that will appeal to fans of films like The Blair Witch Project and The Witch. It's a film that explores themes of grief, guilt, and the dangers of the unknown.

5. Apostle

Apostle delivers a brutal and bloody folk horror experience set on a remote Welsh island in 1905. The story centers on Thomas Richardson, a man who infiltrates a religious cult in search of his kidnapped sister. As he delves deeper into the cult's secrets, he uncovers a dark and disturbing truth about their beliefs and the supernatural forces that control them. Apostle is not for the faint of heart. The film is filled with graphic violence and disturbing imagery. However, it's also a well-crafted and suspenseful horror film with a compelling story and strong performances. Dan Stevens delivers a particularly impressive performance as Thomas Richardson, conveying his character's determination and desperation. The film's atmosphere is thick with dread, and the isolated setting adds to the sense of claustrophobia and unease. Apostle is a gripping and disturbing horror film that will appeal to fans of folk horror and films like The Wicker Man. It's a film that explores themes of faith, fanaticism, and the corrupting power of belief.

6. Cargo

Cargo offers a surprisingly emotional and suspenseful take on the zombie apocalypse genre. Set in the Australian outback, the film follows Andy, a father who is infected with the zombie virus. With only 48 hours before he turns into a zombie himself, Andy must find a safe haven for his infant daughter, Rosie. Cargo is more than just a zombie movie; it's a story about love, sacrifice, and the bond between a father and his child. The film explores themes of parenthood, responsibility, and the lengths to which a parent will go to protect their child. Martin Freeman delivers a powerful and moving performance as Andy, capturing the character's desperation and determination. The film's Australian setting adds a unique and visually striking element to the zombie genre. Cargo is a must-see for fans of zombie movies who are looking for something with a little more heart and substance. It's a film that will stay with you long after you've watched it.

7. 1922

1922 is a slow-burn, gothic horror film based on a novella by Stephen King. The story is told from the perspective of Wilfred James, a Nebraska farmer who confesses to murdering his wife with the help of his son. As Wilfred recounts the events leading up to the murder, he is haunted by guilt, paranoia, and supernatural occurrences. 1922 is a dark and atmospheric film that explores themes of guilt, regret, and the consequences of one's actions. The film's setting is bleak and desolate, adding to the sense of dread and isolation. Thomas Jane delivers a compelling performance as Wilfred James, capturing the character's descent into madness. 1922 is a must-see for fans of Stephen King and gothic horror. It's a film that will stay with you long after you've watched it, prompting you to reflect on the nature of guilt and the darkness that can lurk within the human heart.

8. The Platform

The Platform is a Spanish social horror film that is both disturbing and thought-provoking. The story is set in a vertical prison where inmates are fed via a platform that descends through the levels. The inmates at the top levels get to eat their fill, while those at the bottom are left with scraps or nothing at all. The Platform is a brutal and unflinching commentary on social inequality and the human condition. The film explores themes of class, greed, and the lengths to which people will go to survive. The film's premise is simple but effective, and the execution is both visceral and thought-provoking. The Platform is a must-see for fans of social horror and films that challenge the status quo. It's a film that will leave you with plenty to think about long after you've watched it.

9. In the Tall Grass

In the Tall Grass, another Stephen King adaptation (co-written with his son, Joe Hill), delivers a disorienting and unsettling horror experience. After hearing a child's cry for help from a vast field of tall grass, a brother and sister venture in to rescue him, only to become trapped and separated. They soon discover that the grass is more than just a field; it's a labyrinthine nightmare where time and space are distorted, and a malevolent presence lurks. This film messes with your head in the best way. The disorienting visuals and the constant sense of being lost create a palpable feeling of unease. The performances are strong, and the story keeps you guessing until the very end. If you're looking for a horror film that will truly mess with your mind, In the Tall Grass is a solid choice.

10. Before I Wake

Before I Wake offers a more fantastical and emotionally driven horror experience. This film centers on a couple who adopt an orphaned boy named Cody. They soon discover that Cody's dreams manifest into reality. While his pleasant dreams bring joy, his nightmares unleash terrifying creatures into their world. This film stands out with its blend of heartwarming moments and genuine scares. It explores themes of grief, loss, and the power of imagination. The visual effects are well-done, and the story is both imaginative and emotionally resonant. It's a unique and memorable horror film that will appeal to those who enjoy a blend of scares and sentimentality.

So there you have it, guys! My top 10 horror films on Netflix UK right now. Hopefully, this list has given you some inspiration for your next movie night. Happy watching, and don't forget to leave the lights on!