8 Underrated Folk Horror Movies You Need To See

Hey guys, are you ready to dive into the wonderfully weird world of folk horror? This genre, steeped in folklore, mythology, and the eerie traditions of rural communities, often gets overshadowed by its more mainstream horror cousins. But trust me, some absolute gems are hiding in the shadows, just waiting to be discovered. So, grab your blankets, dim the lights, and let's explore eight of the most underrated folk horror movies of all time! We're ranking these based on their atmosphere, originality, and overall creep-factor – so buckle up for a spooky ride!

What is Folk Horror?

Before we jump into the list, let's quickly define folk horror. What exactly makes a movie fit into this niche genre? At its core, folk horror explores the darker aspects of folklore, paganism, witchcraft, and the clash between modern society and ancient beliefs. Think isolated communities, strange rituals, and a deep connection to the land – often with sinister undertones. These films tap into primal fears and anxieties, creating a unique brand of terror that's both unsettling and thought-provoking. The visual language of folk horror is often characterized by pastoral settings juxtaposed with disturbing imagery, creating a sense of unease and dread. Folk horror movies often utilize the environment as a character, imbuing the landscape with a sense of ancient power and mystery. The recurring motifs of folk horror often include pagan rituals, fertility rites, and the reemergence of ancient deities or entities into the modern world. These elements are not merely window dressing; they are integral to the narrative, driving the plot and shaping the characters' fates. One of the key aspects of folk horror is the exploration of insular communities and their adherence to traditions that may seem bizarre or even menacing to outsiders. These communities often operate under their own set of rules and beliefs, creating a sense of otherness and isolation that heightens the tension and suspense. Think about it, how creepy is it when a whole town is in on something, and you're the only one who doesn't know what's going on? That's the kind of creeping dread that folk horror excels at. The best folk horror films use subtlety and suggestion to create an atmosphere of unease, rather than relying on cheap jump scares or gore. They delve into the psychological aspects of fear, exploring the human psyche's vulnerability to superstition and the unknown. Another important theme in folk horror is the clash between modernity and tradition. Characters often find themselves caught between the rational world and the irrational world of ancient beliefs, leading to internal conflict and psychological breakdown. This tension between the old and the new is a constant source of dramatic conflict in the genre. In many folk horror films, the past is not just something that happened long ago; it's a living, breathing force that continues to exert its influence on the present. Ancient curses, forgotten gods, and ancestral spirits can all play a role in the unfolding drama, reminding us that we are all connected to the past in ways we may not fully understand.

1. Kill List (2011)

First up on our list is Kill List, a British psychological horror film that starts as a crime drama but quickly descends into a nightmare of cults and ritualistic killings. Guys, this one is a slow burn, but the payoff is HUGE. The movie follows two hitmen as they take on a new assignment, only to find themselves entangled in something far more sinister than they could have ever imagined. The atmosphere in Kill List is thick with dread, and the film's unsettling imagery will stay with you long after the credits roll. The use of violence is both brutal and shocking, but it's never gratuitous. Instead, it serves to underscore the film's themes of corruption, betrayal, and the loss of innocence. What really sets Kill List apart is its ambiguous ending, which leaves the audience to ponder the true nature of the events they've witnessed. Was it all a conspiracy, or was there something more supernatural at play? The film's refusal to provide easy answers makes it all the more disturbing and thought-provoking. The performances in Kill List are outstanding, particularly Neil Maskell as Jay, the emotionally scarred ex-soldier who finds himself drawn into a world of darkness. His portrayal of a man struggling with his inner demons is both compelling and heartbreaking. MyAnna Buring also delivers a memorable performance as Jay's wife, Shel, who becomes increasingly concerned about her husband's mental state. The film's use of handheld camerawork and naturalistic dialogue adds to its sense of realism, making the horror all the more palpable. Kill List doesn't rely on jump scares or cheap thrills; instead, it creates an atmosphere of creeping unease that builds to a terrifying climax. This film is a masterful example of folk horror that will stay with you long after the credits roll. The film's exploration of PTSD and the psychological toll of violence adds another layer of complexity to the narrative, making it a truly harrowing viewing experience. The film's themes of revenge, justice, and the corrupting influence of power are also relevant and thought-provoking. If you're looking for a horror film that will challenge and disturb you, Kill List is a must-see.

2. The Witch (2015)

Speaking of atmosphere, The Witch is a masterclass in creating a sense of creeping dread. Set in 17th-century New England, this film follows a Puritan family who are banished from their colony and forced to fend for themselves in the wilderness. As you can imagine, things go from bad to worse pretty quickly. This film just nails the feeling of isolation and paranoia. The dialogue is authentic to the period, which adds to the sense of immersion. The cinematography is stunning, capturing the beauty and brutality of the New England landscape. The score is haunting and unsettling, perfectly complementing the film's atmosphere. What makes The Witch so effective is its slow-burn approach. It doesn't rely on jump scares or cheap thrills; instead, it gradually builds a sense of unease and dread. The film's exploration of religious fanaticism and the dangers of paranoia is both relevant and thought-provoking. The performances in The Witch are uniformly excellent, particularly Anya Taylor-Joy as Thomasin, the eldest daughter who is accused of witchcraft. Her portrayal of a young woman struggling against the forces of both nature and superstition is both compelling and heartbreaking. Ralph Ineson also delivers a powerful performance as William, the family patriarch who is driven to the brink of madness by his religious beliefs. The film's use of period-accurate language and costumes adds to its sense of authenticity, making the horror all the more palpable. The Witch is not just a horror film; it's a historical drama that explores the darker aspects of the human psyche. The film's themes of faith, family, and the struggle for survival are universal and timeless. If you're looking for a horror film that will stay with you long after the credits roll, The Witch is a must-see. The film's ambiguous ending leaves the audience to ponder the true nature of the events they've witnessed. Was Thomasin truly a witch, or was she a victim of circumstance? The film's refusal to provide easy answers makes it all the more disturbing and thought-provoking. The film is a chilling and atmospheric exploration of the dark side of faith and the power of superstition.

3. The Wicker Man (1973)

Okay, guys, let's talk about a classic. The original Wicker Man is a cornerstone of folk horror, and for good reason. This British film follows a devout Christian police sergeant who travels to a remote Scottish island to investigate the disappearance of a young girl. What he finds there is a pagan community with some very strange ideas about life, death, and fertility. This movie is just plain weird, in the best possible way. The unsettling atmosphere, the bizarre rituals, and Christopher Lee's iconic performance as Lord Summerisle all combine to create a truly unforgettable cinematic experience. The film's use of folk music and pagan imagery is both beautiful and disturbing. The contrast between the sergeant's rigid beliefs and the islanders' free-spirited paganism creates a constant sense of tension. What makes The Wicker Man so effective is its gradual reveal of the islanders' true nature. At first, they seem welcoming and friendly, but as the sergeant delves deeper into their community, he discovers a darker side to their beliefs. The film's ending is one of the most shocking and memorable in horror history. The image of the sergeant trapped inside the wicker man as it burns is truly unforgettable. The Wicker Man is not just a horror film; it's a social commentary on the clash between tradition and modernity, faith and reason. The film's themes of religious extremism and the dangers of blind faith are just as relevant today as they were in 1973. If you haven't seen The Wicker Man, you absolutely need to add it to your watchlist. The film's influence on the folk horror genre is undeniable, and it remains a chilling and thought-provoking masterpiece.

4. Witchfinder General (1968)

Vincent Price at his absolute creepiest? Yes, please! Witchfinder General is a brutal and disturbing historical horror film set during the English Civil War. Price plays Matthew Hopkins, a self-appointed witchfinder who terrorizes the countryside, torturing and executing suspected witches for his own personal gain. This film is a tough watch, guys, but it's also a powerful and important one. The violence is graphic and unsettling, but it's used to highlight the brutality of the era and the injustice of the witch hunts. The film's atmosphere is oppressive and claustrophobic, reflecting the fear and paranoia that gripped England during this period. What makes Witchfinder General so effective is its unflinching portrayal of human cruelty. Hopkins is a truly monstrous character, and Price's performance is both chilling and captivating. The film's exploration of power, corruption, and the dangers of religious extremism is both relevant and thought-provoking. The film's historical accuracy adds to its impact, reminding us that these events actually happened. Witchfinder General is not just a horror film; it's a historical drama that explores the darker aspects of human nature. The film's themes of injustice, oppression, and the abuse of power are universal and timeless. If you're looking for a horror film that will challenge and disturb you, Witchfinder General is a must-see. The film's ending is particularly harrowing, leaving the audience with a sense of despair and hopelessness. The film is a stark reminder of the dangers of fanaticism and the importance of fighting for justice.

5. The Blood on Satan's Claw (1971)

This one's a bit more obscure, but trust me, it's worth seeking out. The Blood on Satan's Claw is a British folk horror film set in the 18th century. It tells the story of a group of young people who discover a strange, hairy skull in a field and unwittingly unleash an ancient evil upon their village. The atmosphere in this film is deliciously creepy, and the practical effects are surprisingly effective for their time. This movie just oozes unsettling vibes. The performances are strong, and the story is genuinely intriguing. The film's use of pagan imagery and folklore adds to its sense of authenticity. What makes The Blood on Satan's Claw so effective is its slow-burn approach. It gradually builds a sense of dread and unease as the villagers succumb to the influence of the ancient evil. The film's exploration of the clash between paganism and Christianity is both fascinating and disturbing. The film's themes of corruption, innocence lost, and the dangers of the unknown are universal and timeless. If you're looking for a hidden gem in the folk horror genre, The Blood on Satan's Claw is a must-see. The film's ending is both shocking and tragic, leaving the audience to ponder the true nature of evil. The film is a chilling and atmospheric exploration of the dark side of human nature.

6. Wake Wood (2009)

Wake Wood is an Irish folk horror film that explores the themes of grief, loss, and the lengths people will go to for a second chance. The film follows a couple who move to a rural Irish village after the tragic death of their daughter. They soon discover that the villagers have a secret ritual that can bring the dead back to life for three days. Guys, this one gets dark. The film's atmosphere is bleak and unsettling, reflecting the couple's grief and desperation. The performances are strong, and the story is genuinely heartbreaking. The film's exploration of the ethics of resurrection is both thought-provoking and disturbing. What makes Wake Wood so effective is its realistic portrayal of grief and its consequences. The couple's actions are driven by their love for their daughter, but their desperation leads them down a dangerous path. The film's use of Irish folklore and mythology adds to its sense of authenticity. The film's themes of loss, guilt, and the consequences of our actions are universal and timeless. If you're looking for a folk horror film that will leave you emotionally drained, Wake Wood is a must-see. The film's ending is both tragic and ambiguous, leaving the audience to ponder the true cost of their actions. The film is a powerful and unsettling exploration of the human condition.

7. November (2017)

Okay, let's get a little more arthouse-y. November is a stunningly beautiful and deeply bizarre Estonian folk horror film. Shot in gorgeous black and white, this film is a visual feast for the eyes. It tells the story of a young woman living in a medieval Estonian village who uses magic and folk remedies to survive the harsh winter. This movie is unlike anything you've ever seen. The film's atmosphere is surreal and dreamlike, blurring the lines between reality and fantasy. The performances are captivating, and the story is both intriguing and unsettling. The film's use of Estonian folklore and mythology adds to its sense of otherworldliness. What makes November so effective is its unique visual style and its exploration of the power of folklore. The film is a celebration of Estonian culture and a meditation on the human condition. The film's themes of love, loss, and the struggle for survival are universal and timeless. If you're looking for a folk horror film that will challenge your expectations, November is a must-see. The film's ending is both ambiguous and hopeful, leaving the audience with a sense of wonder and possibility. The film is a true work of art, and it deserves to be seen by a wider audience.

8. Hagazussa: A Heathen's Curse (2017)

Last but not least, we have Hagazussa: A Heathen's Curse, a German folk horror film that is as disturbing as it is beautiful. Set in the 15th century, this film follows a young woman living in the Alps who is accused of witchcraft by her superstitious neighbors. Guys, this one is intense. The film's atmosphere is oppressive and claustrophobic, reflecting the woman's isolation and paranoia. The performances are powerful, and the story is genuinely tragic. The film's exploration of religious persecution and the dangers of superstition is both relevant and disturbing. What makes Hagazussa so effective is its slow-burn approach and its unflinching portrayal of violence and madness. The film is a descent into the depths of human depravity, and it's not for the faint of heart. The film's themes of isolation, paranoia, and the abuse of power are universal and timeless. If you're looking for a folk horror film that will leave you shaken, Hagazussa is a must-see. The film's ending is both tragic and nihilistic, leaving the audience with a sense of despair and hopelessness. The film is a stark reminder of the dangers of fanaticism and the importance of fighting for tolerance and understanding.

So, what are you waiting for?

There you have it, guys! Eight seriously underrated folk horror movies that deserve your attention. These films offer a unique blend of chills, thrills, and thought-provoking themes. So, grab some popcorn, settle in, and prepare to be spooked! And hey, let me know in the comments which of these you've seen and which ones you're adding to your watchlist. Happy watching!