Psychological horror has a way of getting under viewers' skin. Some films have long-lasting effects that can't be shaken off for days and even weeks. With unnerving suspense and deeply disturbing plots, psychological horror can also feel like a mouse-and-cat chase between the director and the viewers. From Smile to Speak No Evil to Jacob's Ladder, some films have left fans truly terrified.
Some horror is external, while some come from within. Leaning toward the unknown, the most terrifying psychological thrillers make viewers' worst nightmares come true. Leaving the lights on after watching these is highly recommended. The worst psychological horrors are not for the faint of heart...
- 'The Killing of a Sacred Deer' Explores What's Familiar
- 'Excision' Delivers the Horror It Promised
- 2015's 'The Invitation' Traps Viewers in an Unsettling Dinner Party
- 'Session 9' Evokes Slow-Burning Unease
- 'A Clockwork Orange' Depicts Systemic Violence
- 'Last Shift' Creates a Story of Fear
- 'Jacob's Ladder' Delivers a Puzzling Experience
- 'Se7en' Recontextualizes Events With a Massive Plot Twist
- The Original 'Speak No Evil' Terrifies Fans With a Bleak Ending
- 'Smile' Torments Viewers Along With Rose