A year of horror

This year, without a doubt, has been a year of cinema, especially horror films. As we approach the last few months of 2025, there have been countless praise worthy horror releases with even more to come. 

Being a horror film buff, we sometimes go years without a horror movie that genuinely impresses me, but this year has been transformative for the genre. From vampires to demons, psychological to supernatural, the industry has been overwhelmed with diversity and flooded with new ideas as well as new spins on the old. 

Out of the dozens of horror movies already released or releasing this year, there are five you should watch right now.

Sinners

Not only was “Sinners” the best horror movie of the year, it is one of the best horror movies ever. Led by one of my favorite directors, also responsible for Marvel’s “Black Panther” and Rocky spinoff, “Creed,” Ryan Coogler, this film was bound to succeed. “Sinners” did the impossible, somehow making the immensely overused concept of “vampires” seem completely fresh and new. The cinematography, score and casting all exceeded expectations, especially actor Michael B. Jordan, who plays twins (in case you’re in need of some eye candy). The film not only appealed to the scare factor, but also Black History, romance and most notably: music. The focus on Black music history and life in the post-antebellum area makes this film stand out beyond all horror movies I have seen in my entire life. “Sinners” is on HBO Max, go watch the best horror movie of the year!

Weapons

As soon as I saw the first preview for “Weapons,” I knew it was a must-watch. This small-town mystery combined with a hint of witchcraft is yet another fresh idea I was impressed with. The eerie image of dozens of children running out of their homes at the same time, arms stretched out, is enough to capture attention and to leave a watcher wondering why. This psychological thriller is a staple in this year's horror films, undoubtedly leaving it’s mark on viewers whether that is leaving them hoping for a sequel, unsatisfied or confused. 

The Conjuring: Last Rites

Any horror movie enthusiast has a soft spot for The Conjuring Universe. With the first Conjuring film coming out in 2013, over a decade later, the final chapter has finally been released. Like the three before it, the movie follows the beloved Ed and Lorraine Warren. The case they cover, however, ends up causing them to retire from their jobs as paranormal investigators. The movie gave a satisfying ending for me, though it was not my favorite of the four. However, if you have seen the other Conjuring movies, I advise you to watch it. These movies will be missed when they’re gone , so make sure you catch the last one. 

Together

I love a good psychological horror film. I personally would take a movie that leaves me thinking, rather than a movie only based on jump scares. Luckily, “Together” has both! This film is yet another refreshing idea, addressing the idea of codependency within couples and adding a sinister twist. Co-stars Dave Franco and Alison Brie give an amazing performance, with their chemistry being undeniable- especially because they’re married in real life. I can’t recommend this film enough to psychological horror fans!

Final Destination: Bloodlines

Lastly, this newest installment of the Final Destination series was a perfect addition to the rest of the movies. As a fan of the originals, I was weary going into the newest movie, fearing it would fall short. However, it met and exceeded my expectations. Often in horror films, plots can be subpar, this is not the case for Final Destination: Bloodlines. The movie, though scary at times and definitely brutal, is objectively hilarious. Who doesn’t like a horror film with a little humor and camp? I sure love it. Even if you haven’t seen the other films, you don’t have to! Watch the newest installment before the year ends!

Horror as a genre has taken leaps throughout this decade, but 2025 has been a special year. I personally cannot wait to keep watching how the genre transforms this year. If you haven’t seen these movies, or if you haven’t bought your tickets yet for the upcoming ones- do it! This year is going down in horror cinema history.