Horror fans have had plenty to feast on in 2025, and we’re merely months into the year. The genre kicked off strong with Companion, a chilling sci-fi horror that blended artificial intelligence with existential dread, keeping audiences on edge. Presence took ghost stories to new heights with a hauntingly intimate approach, while The Monkey brought Stephen King’s unsettling short story to life with a mix of eerie tension and dark humor.

But the year is far from over, and what’s ahead promises to be just as thrilling, diverse, and terrifying. Two different Frankenstein films will put fresh spins on Mary Shelley’s classic monster, while new entries in beloved franchises (Final Destination: Bloodlines, Saw XI, and The Conjuring: Last Rites) will resurrect fan-favorite nightmares. And let’s not forget the eager return of the Predator with Predator: Badlands, or the eerie new chapter in Blumhouse’s Five Nights at Freddy’s 2.

With original horror stories, inventive sequels, and unexpected reimaginings, 2025 is shaping up to be one exciting year for horror. Here’s every horror movie hitting screens in 2025 (that we know of!) from what’s already terrified audiences to the nightmares still lurking ahead.

Janurary

The Damned

If you love your horror bleak, atmospheric, and utterly chilling, The Damned delivers it in spades. Set in 19th-century Iceland, this supernatural period thriller, directed by Þórður Pálsson, feels like something ripped straight out of folklore—the kind of tale whispered around a fire to keep children from wandering into the cold, dark unknown. The film follows a struggling fishing village that makes a fateful decision to let shipwrecked strangers die rather than risk their own survival. Naturally, this choice doesn’t go unnoticed by the forces beyond, and soon, something vengeful begins creeping into their isolated world.

Odessa Young leads the film as Eva, a woman haunted by grief and the weight of past choices, with strong performances from Joe Cole and Siobhan Finneran. With its stark cinematography and eerie tension, The Damned feels like The Witch (2015) meets The Lighthouse (2019), but with its own uniquely Icelandic brand of doom. If you’re a fan of slow-burning, dread-filled horror that lingers long after the credits roll, this one should absolutely be on your list.

Wolf Man

Leigh Whannell, the modern master of reimagined horror (The Invisible Man), takes on Universal’s classic Wolf Man, and if early reactions are anything to go by, he’s done it again. This isn’t just another werewolf movie—it’s an intense, terrifying descent into the curse of lycanthropy, drenched in blood and psychological horror. Christopher Abbott plays Blake Lovell, a man who moves his family to his childhood home in Oregon, only to discover that whatever haunted his past is still lurking in the shadows. And when the full moon rises, well… let’s just say it’s not just memories coming back.

Julia Garner shines as Blake’s wife Charlotte, bringing the kind of raw emotional depth that makes horror hit even harder. And yes, Wolf Man leans into practical effects, with transformations that feel agonizingly real, a mix of body horror and old-school monster movie magic. Produced by Blumhouse, this promises to be one of the year’s standout horror films—especially for fans of creature features that don’t skimp on either terror or tragedy.

Presence

Steven Soderbergh’s Presence redefines the haunted house genre with a unique perspective—literally. Told from the viewpoint of an unseen ghost, the film follows the Payne family (Lucy Liu, Chris Sullivan, Eddy Maday, and Callina Liang) as they move into a new home, unaware they’re being watched. But as teenage Chloe, still grieving the loss of a friend, starts sensing something eerie, tensions within the family bubble to the surface.

Unlike traditional horror, Presence thrives on atmosphere and slow-burning dread rather than jump scares. Soderbergh’s direction and the film’s voyeuristic approach make it a chilling study of grief, family dynamics, and unseen forces, both supernatural and emotional. It’s a ghost story where the scariest thing might not be the spirit lurking in the shadows, but the fractures in the family itself.

Companion

What happens when your AI-powered best friend suddenly decides it has a mind of its own? Companion flips the script on sci-fi horror, blending dark comedy with unsettling tension in a way that keeps audiences both unnerved and entertained. Directed by Drew Hancock, this film introduces us to Iris (Sophie Thatcher), a companion robot designed to be the perfect friend… until, well, she starts thinking for herself. Stuck in a weekend getaway with her owner Josh (Jack Quaid), things go from slightly awkward to full-blown terrifying when Iris’ newfound self-awareness takes a sinister turn.

With a supporting cast that includes Lukas Gage, Megan Suri, and Rupert Friend, Companion feels like M3GAN meets Ex Machina, but with a sharper edge of horror. It’s got humor, it’s got tension, and most importantly, it’s got that creeping sense of dread that AI horror does so well. If you’ve ever side-eyed your Alexa or wondered just how “smart” your smart devices really are, this one’s going to hit close to home.

February

Heart Eyes

Directed by Josh Ruben, Heart Eyes masterfully intertwines romantic comedy with slasher horror, delivering a fresh take on Valentine’s Day thrills. The film introduces the Heart Eyes Killer, a masked assailant with glowing heart-shaped eyes, who terrorizes couples each Valentine’s Day. This year, coworkers Ally (Olivia Holt) and Jay (Mason Gooding) find themselves mistakenly targeted as his next victims. As they navigate this perilous ordeal, their budding chemistry adds depth to the narrative. The film has been praised for its engaging romance and graphic gore, offering a bloody twist on love in Seattle.

The Monkey

Osgood Perkins brings Stephen King’s 1980 short story to life in The Monkey, a darkly comedic horror film that explores the sinister consequences of a cursed toy. The narrative follows twin brothers, portrayed by Theo James and Christian Convery, who discover a toy monkey that triggers bizarre and deadly events. Perkins masterfully balances macabre humor with genuine scares, crafting a film where “people die in insane ways.” The ensemble cast includes Elijah Wood, Sarah Levy, and Tatiana Maslany, each contributing to the film’s exploration of family trauma and mortality. The Monkey has been praised for its unique tone, blending fear and laughter seamlessly.

The Buildout

The Buildout, directed by Zeshaan Younus, is a psychological horror film presented in a found-footage style. The story follows two women embarking on a desert road trip, only to encounter inexplicable and unsettling events. Filmed over seven days in the Anza-Borrego Desert, this crowdfunded project marks Younus’s feature film debut. The film has been lauded for its cosmic horror elements and genre-bending narrative, earning accolades at the 13th Oceanside International Film Festival, including Best Narrative Feature and Best Direction.

March

Ash

Directed by Steven Ellison, also known as Flying Lotus, Ash is a sci-fi horror film that promises a visceral experience. The story follows Riya (Eiza González), who awakens on a deserted space station with no memory of her identity or mission, only to find her crew brutally murdered. As she seeks answers, Brion (Aaron Paul), a figure from her past, responds to a distress call, leading them to a nearby planet filled with ominous and psychedelic visuals, including a hellish portal in the sky. Flying Lotus not only directs but also composed the film’s score, adding a unique auditory layer to the chilling visuals. Ash is set to premiere on March 21, 2025.

Popeye the Slayer Man

In a bold reimagining of the classic character, Popeye the Slayer Man transforms the beloved sailor into a slasher villain. Directed by Robert Michael Ryan, the film follows a group of friends who sneak into an abandoned can factory to investigate the legend of the “Sailor Man.” Their adventure turns deadly as they encounter Popeye, portrayed by Jason Robert Stephens, who is far from the spinach-loving hero of old. The film also stars Sarah Nicklin, Angela Relucio, Scott Swope, and Mabel Thomas. Popeye the Slayer Man is scheduled for release in theaters and on VOD on March 21, 2025.

The Woman in the Yard

The Woman in the Yard, directed by Jaume Collet-Serra, is a psychological horror film that delves into folklore and family dynamics. The narrative centers on a family who discovers a mysterious woman dressed in black standing in their yard, delivering a chilling warning. As the family grapples with her presence, they uncover unsettling truths about their community and themselves. The film stars Danielle Deadwyler as Ramona, with Okwui Okpokwasili portraying the enigmatic woman, alongside Russell Hornsby, Peyton Jackson, and Estella Kahiha. The Woman in the Yard is set to be released in the United States on March 28, 2025.

Death of a Unicorn

Death of a Unicorn is a dark comedy horror film directed by Alex Scharfman. The story follows Elliot Kintner (Paul Rudd) and his teenage daughter Ridley (Jenna Ortega), who accidentally hit and kill a unicorn while en route to a retreat hosted by Elliot’s boss, Dell Leopold (Richard E. Grant). Seizing the opportunity, Dell seeks to exploit the unicorn’s curative properties, leading to a series of darkly comedic and horrific events. The film also features performances by Will Poulter and Téa Leoni. Death of a Unicorn will have its world premiere at the South by Southwest Festival on March 8, 2025, and is scheduled for theatrical release in the United States by A24 on March 28, 2025.

April

Screamboat

Screamboat, directed by Steven LaMorte, is a slasher film that pays homage to classic horror tropes. The narrative follows a group of friends who embark on a riverboat cruise, only to find themselves targeted by a mysterious killer. The film stars David Howard Thornton, Allison Pittel, and Jesse Kove. Screamboat combines suspenseful storytelling with inventive kill sequences, offering a fresh setting for slasher enthusiasts. The film is set to be released on April 25, 2025

Hell of a Summer

Hell of a Summer marks the directorial debut of Finn Wolfhard and Billy Bryk, who also star in this horror-comedy. The film follows Jason Hochberg (Fred Hechinger), a former boy wonder grappling with feeling outdated among his teenage co-workers at Camp Pineway. As they prepare for the campers’ arrival, a masked killer begins targeting the counselors, turning the summer into a fight for survival. The film blends slasher tropes with dark humor, offering a fresh take on the genre. Hell of a Summer premiered at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival and is scheduled for release by Neon on April 4, 2025.

Drop

Directed by Christopher Landon, Drop is a mystery thriller that delves into the horrors of modern technology. The story centers on Violet (Meghann Fahy), a widowed single mother who embarks on a first date with Henry (Brandon Sklenar). The evening takes a terrifying turn when Violet receives anonymous messages threatening her loved ones unless she follows a series of disturbing instructions, culminating in a directive to kill her date. The film explores themes of fear and manipulation in the digital age. Drop is set to be released in theaters on April 11, 2025.

Sinners

Sinners, directed by Ryan Coogler, is a period supernatural horror film set in the 1930s Jim Crow-era Southern United States. The narrative follows twin brothers, Smoke and Stack (both portrayed by Michael B. Jordan), who return to their hometown only to confront demonic forces wreaking havoc at night. The film delves into themes of racial tension and supernatural terror, blending historical context with gothic horror elements. The ensemble cast includes Hailee Steinfeld, Jack O’Connell, and Delroy Lindo. Sinners is scheduled for release on April 18, 2025.

The Ritual

Directed by David Midell, The Ritual is based on a true story and follows priests Theophilus Riesinger (Al Pacino) and Joseph Steiger (Dan Stevens) as they attempt to save a young woman, Emma Schmidt (Abigail Cowen), allegedly possessed by demonic forces. The film explores the psychological and spiritual battles faced during a series of dangerous exorcisms. With a supporting cast that includes Ashley Greene and Patricia Heaton, The Ritual promises a gripping and intense portrayal of faith confronting evil. The film is set to be released by XYZ Films on April 18, 2025.

The Shrouds

David Cronenberg, the maestro of body horror, returns with The Shrouds, a film that delves into the macabre intersection of technology and mortality. Vincent Cassel stars as Karsh, a grieving widower and innovative businessman who develops a controversial device allowing the living to observe their deceased loved ones as they decompose within their shrouds. This invention, housed in his state-of-the-art yet contentious cemetery, offers a voyeuristic glimpse into death, challenging societal norms and personal boundaries. The narrative intensifies when several graves, including that of Karsh’s wife, are vandalized, propelling him into a quest to uncover the culprits and confront his own lingering grief.

The film also features Diane Kruger and Guy Pearce, who bring depth to this unsettling exploration of loss and obsession. The Shrouds had its world premiere at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, where it garnered attention for its provocative themes and Cronenberg’s signature unsettling visuals. The film is slated for a limited release in New York and Los Angeles on April 18, 2025, before expanding nationwide on April 25, 2025.

Until Dawn

Until Dawn, directed by David F. Sandberg, is an adaptation of the 2015 video game, offering a fresh narrative within the same universe. The film introduces a group of teenagers who find themselves trapped in a time loop, facing different horror scenarios with each reset—from masked murderers to supernatural entities. This unique approach allows the film to explore various horror sub-genres, providing a meta-commentary on the genre itself. The cast includes Ella Rubin, Michael Cimino, and Peter Stormare. Until Dawn is scheduled for release on April 25, 2025.

May

Clown in a Cornfield

Based on Adam Cesare’s 2020 novel, Clown in a Cornfield brings a fresh perspective to the slasher genre. Directed by Eli Craig (Tucker & Dale vs. Evil), the film stars Katie Douglas as Quinn Maybrook, a teenager who moves to the deteriorating town of Kettle Springs. The town’s attempt to rejuvenate its image takes a dark turn when Frendo, a clown mascot, begins a murderous rampage targeting the youth. The film also features Kevin Durand and Will Sasso. Clown in a Cornfield is scheduled for a theatrical release on May 9, 2025, with subsequent streaming on Shudder.

Final Destination Bloodlines

After a 14-year hiatus, the Final Destination franchise returns with Bloodlines. Directed by Zach Lipovsky and Adam Stein, the film introduces Stefani (Brec Bassinger), an 18-year-old plagued by premonitions linked to a tragic accident from the 1960s involving her grandmother, Esther. As Stefani uncovers that Death is now targeting the descendants of those who once escaped its grasp, she races against time to break the lethal cycle. The cast includes Tony Todd reprising his role as William Bludworth, alongside Teo Briones and Kaitlyn Santa Juana. Final Destination Bloodlines is set to be released in theaters on May 16, 2025.

Flowervale Street

Flowervale Street is an upcoming American science fiction film written, produced, and directed by David Robert Mitchell, known for his work on It Follows and Under the Silver Lake. The film stars Anne Hathaway, Ewan McGregor, Maisy Stella, and Christian Convery. Set in the 1980s, the narrative follows a family that begins to notice bizarre happenings in their neighborhood, with rumors suggesting the inclusion of dinosaurs in the storyline.

Initially slated for a May 16, 2025 release, the film’s debut has been rescheduled to March 13, 2026, to accommodate production timelines and ensure a high-quality final product. Principal photography commenced on March 22, 2024, in London and Atlanta, wrapping up on June 4, 2024. The film is produced by Bad Robot Productions and Jackson Pictures, with distribution by Warner Bros. Pictures.

Fear Street: Prom Queen

The Fear Street series continues with Prom Queen, directed by Matt Palmer. Set in 1988, the film follows the fierce competition among Shadyside High’s “It Girls” for the coveted prom queen title. The rivalry takes a sinister turn as an unexpected nominee enters the fray, leading to the mysterious disappearance of other candidates. The ensemble cast features India Fowler, Suzanna Son, Fina Strazza, David Iacono, Ella Rubin, Chris Klein, Ariana Greenblatt, Lili Taylor, and Katherine Waterston. Fear Street: Prom Queen is scheduled to premiere on Netflix on May 23, 2025.

Bring Her Back

Bring Her Back is an upcoming horror film directed by Australian twins Danny and Michael Philippou, known for their 2023 breakout hit, Talk to Me. The narrative follows a brother and sister who uncover a terrifying ritual at the secluded home of their new foster mother.

The film features a notable cast, including Academy Award-nominated actress Sally Hawkins, Billy Barratt, Sora Wong, and Jonah Wren Phillips. This marks the Philippou brothers’ continued collaboration with A24, following the success of Talk to Me, and is expected to deliver a gripping and terrifying experience. Bring Her Back is scheduled for theatrical release in the United States on May 30, 2025.

June

28 Years Later

Directed by Danny Boyle, 28 Years Later serves as the third installment in the acclaimed post-apocalyptic series, following 28 Days Later (2002) and 28 Weeks Later (2007). The narrative is set nearly three decades after the initial outbreak of the Rage Virus, focusing on survivors who have adapted to life amidst the infected. A central storyline involves a father and son venturing from their isolated island community into the mainland, uncovering hidden secrets and confronting new horrors. The film boasts a stellar cast, including Jodie Comer, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and Ralph Fiennes. Notably, Cillian Murphy, star of the original film, serves as an executive producer but does not appear on screen. An intriguing aspect of the production is Boyle’s decision to shoot the film using adapted iPhone 15s, marking a significant innovation in filmmaking techniques. 28 Years Later is scheduled for release on June 20, 2025.

M3GAN 2.0

Following the success of the 2022 film M3GAN, director Gerard Johnstone returns with M3GAN 2.0, a sequel that promises to elevate the techno-horror narrative. Set two years after the original events, the story follows Gemma (Allison Williams), now a prominent author advocating for artificial intelligence regulation. Her niece, Cady (Violet McGraw), grapples with Gemma’s protective nature, leading to familial tensions. The plot intensifies when M3GAN’s technology is stolen and repurposed by a defense contractor to create a weaponized AI named Amelia, who becomes self-aware and poses a global threat. In response, Gemma reactivates and upgrades M3GAN to confront this new adversary, setting the stage for an epic showdown between the two AIs. The film also features Ivanna Sakhno as Amelia and is set to hit theaters on June 27, 2025.

July

**Untitled I Know What You Did Last Summer sequel**

The I Know What You Did Last Summer franchise is set to make a chilling return with a new installment scheduled for release on July 18, 2025. Directed by Jennifer Kaytin Robinson, this sequel brings back original stars Jennifer Love Hewitt and Freddie Prinze Jr., reprising their iconic roles as Julie James and Ray Bronson, respectively.

While specific plot details remain under wraps, the film is expected to introduce a fresh storyline that intertwines the legacy characters with a new generation. The cast includes emerging talents such as Madelyn Cline, Sarah Pidgeon, Tyriq Withers, Jonah Hauer-King, and Chase Sui Wonders.

August

Together

Together is an upcoming body horror film directed by Michael Shanks, featuring Dave Franco and Alison Brie. While specific plot details remain under wraps, the film is anticipated to explore themes of intimacy and transformation, characteristic of the body horror genre. The film is scheduled for a limited theatrical release by Neon on August 1, 2025.

Shelby Oaks

Shelby Oaks marks the feature directorial debut of Chris Stuckmann, a well-known film critic and YouTuber. This supernatural horror mystery follows Mia Brennan (Camille Sullivan) on her relentless quest to find her sister Riley (Sarah Durn), who vanished years earlier under mysterious circumstances. As Mia delves deeper into the enigma, she uncovers unsettling truths about a group of paranormal investigators known as the Paranormal Paranoids and the dark forces they encountered. The film also stars Brendan Sexton III, Michael Beach, Robin Bartlett, and Keith David. Shelby Oaks premiered at the Fantasia International Film Festival on July 20, 2024, and is scheduled for a limited theatrical release in the United States by Neon on August 22, 2025.

The Toxic Avenger

A reimagining of the 1984 cult classic, The Toxic Avenger is directed by Macon Blair. The film stars Peter Dinklage as Winston Gooze, a downtrodden janitor who, after a freak accident involving toxic waste, transforms into a mutant vigilante known as Toxie. Armed with superhuman strength and an unconventional weapon—a mop—Toxie sets out to protect his son and thwart a corrupt corporate tyrant’s nefarious plans. The star-studded cast includes Jacob Tremblay, Taylour Paige, Kevin Bacon, Elijah Wood, and Julia Davis. The film premiered at Fantastic Fest on September 21, 2023, and, after securing distribution with Cineverse, is slated for a wide theatrical release in the United States on August 29, 2025.

September

The Conjuring: Last Rites

Serving as the fourth and final installment in the main Conjuring series, The Conjuring: Last Rites brings back Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga as paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren. Directed by Michael Chaves, known for his work on The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It and The Nun II, this film is anticipated to conclude the Warrens’ cinematic journey. While specific plot details remain under wraps, the film is expected to deliver the spine-chilling experiences that have become synonymous with the franchise. Filming commenced in London in September 2024 and concluded in November 2024. The Conjuring: Last Rites is scheduled for release on September 5, 2025.

Him

Him is an upcoming American sports horror film directed by Justin Tipping, with a screenplay by Zack Akers and Skip Bronkie. The film is produced by Monkeypaw Productions, the company founded by Jordan Peele, known for its innovative contributions to the horror genre. The narrative centers on Benny Mathis (Tyriq Withers), an emerging athlete who seeks mentorship from the legendary Connor Dane (Marlon Wayans), who is on the brink of retirement. As Benny immerses himself in Connor’s world, he uncovers unsettling secrets that blur the lines between ambition and obsession. The supporting cast includes Julia Fox, Tim Heidecker, Jim Jefferies, Guapdad 4000, and Tierra Whack. Him is scheduled for theatrical release on September 19, 2025, distributed by Universal Pictures.

The Bride!

The Bride! is an upcoming horror film directed by Maggie Gyllenhaal, featuring a star-studded cast including Jessie Buckley, Christian Bale, and Penélope Cruz. This film is a modern reimagining of the classic Bride of Frankenstein tale, exploring themes of identity and creation. The narrative is expected to provide a fresh perspective on the iconic story, blending horror with profound character studies. The Bride! is slated for release on September 26, 2025.

Saw XI

The infamous Saw franchise continues with its eleventh installment, Saw XI. Directed by Kevin Greutert, who previously helmed Saw VI, Saw 3D, and Saw X, the film is set to delve deeper into the twisted world of John Kramer, portrayed by Tobin Bell. While plot specifics are yet to be revealed, fans can anticipate the intricate traps and moral dilemmas that define the series. Saw XI is scheduled to hit theaters on September 26, 2025.

October

Keeper

Directed by Osgood Perkins, Keeper stars Tatiana Maslany as Liz and Rossif Sutherland as Malcolm. The plot follows a couple embarking on a romantic anniversary retreat to a secluded cabin. When Malcolm unexpectedly departs for the city, Liz finds herself alone, confronting a sinister presence within the cabin. The film is scheduled for theatrical release on October 3, 2025, distributed by Neon in the United States and Elevation Pictures in Canada.

The Black Phone 2

The Black Phone 2 is the sequel to the 2021 supernatural horror film, directed by Scott Derrickson. The film sees the return of Mason Thames as Finney, Madeleine McGraw as Gwen, Jeremy Davies as Terrence, and Ethan Hawke as The Grabber. While specific plot details are under wraps, the sequel is expected to delve deeper into the chilling narrative established in the original film. The movie is slated for release on October 17, 2025, by Universal Pictures.

November

Predator: Badlands

Directed by Dan Trachtenberg, known for his work on Prey (2022), Predator: Badlands marks the seventh installment in the mainline Predator series. Set in a futuristic landscape, the film follows a Predator navigating an alien wasteland, intertwining its fate with that of two sisters who uncover a horrifying secret about their past. Elle Fanning leads the cast, bringing depth to this intense narrative. Filming took place in New Zealand between August and October 2024. Predator: Badlands is scheduled for a theatrical release on November 7, 2025, under 20th Century Studios.

Frankenstein

Acclaimed director Guillermo del Toro presents a fresh adaptation of Mary Shelley’s classic novel, Frankenstein. Oscar Isaac stars as Victor Frankenstein, with Jacob Elordi portraying the Creature, and Mia Goth in a pivotal role. The film delves into themes of creation and monstrosity, offering a Gothic science fiction horror experience. Principal photography occurred between February and September 2024, with locations including Toronto and Edinburgh. Frankenstein is slated for release on Netflix in November 2025, with the exact date to be announced.

December

Five Nights at Freddy’s 2

Following the success of the first film, Five Nights at Freddy’s 2 is set to terrify audiences once more. Directed by Emma Tammi, the sequel continues the haunting narrative inspired by the popular video game series created by Scott Cawthon. Josh Hutcherson reprises his role as Mike Schmidt, alongside Elizabeth Lail as Vanessa Shelly, Piper Rubio as Abby Schmidt, and Matthew Lillard as William Afton. The plot details remain under wraps, but fans can anticipate a deeper exploration into the dark history of Freddy Fazbear’s Pizza, with new animatronic horrors lurking in the shadows. The film is scheduled for release in the United States on December 5, 2025.

The production commenced in November 2024 and concluded in February 2025, with Jim Henson’s Creature Shop once again bringing the animatronics to life. The marketing campaign has teased fans with behind-the-scenes glimpses and a teaser poster featuring Toy Freddy, hinting at the introduction of new animatronic characters from the game series.

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