If you've just watched "Longlegs" and are hungry for more spine-chilling thrills, you're in the right place. This movie, directed by Oz Perkins and starring Maika Monroe and Nicolas Cage, dives deep into the dark world of serial killings with satanic undertones, creating an atmosphere that's both eerie and captivating. But if you're looking to keep that adrenaline rush going, here are ten critically acclaimed films that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
1. Silence of the Lambs (1991)
Director: Jonathan Demme
Stars: Jodie Foster, Anthony Hopkins
"Silence of the Lambs" is a timeless classic in the horror-thriller genre. FBI trainee Clarice Starling (Jodie Foster) seeks the help of imprisoned cannibalistic murderer Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Anthony Hopkins) to catch another serial killer, Buffalo Bill. The film's eerie atmosphere and the intense performances by Foster and Hopkins make it a must-watch. Hopkins' portrayal of Lecter is both chilling and charismatic, earning him an Oscar and cementing the character in cinematic history.
2. Seven (1995)
Director: David Fincher
Stars: Brad Pitt, Morgan Freeman
In "Seven," detectives David Mills (Brad Pitt) and William Somerset (Morgan Freeman) hunt a serial killer who uses the seven deadly sins as his motives. David Fincher's direction ensures a dark, oppressive atmosphere throughout, and the film's twist ending is unforgettable. Pitt and Freeman have great on-screen chemistry, and Kevin Spacey’s portrayal of the enigmatic killer adds an extra layer of menace.
3. Manhunter (1986)
Director: Michael Mann
Stars: William Petersen, Brian Cox
"Manhunter" is the first film to introduce the character of Dr. Hannibal Lecter, played by Brian Cox. FBI profiler Will Graham (William Petersen) is brought out of retirement to track down a serial killer known as "The Tooth Fairy." Michael Mann's stylish direction and the psychological depth of the characters make this film a gripping watch. Petersen's performance as Graham is intense and compelling, making it a standout in the genre.
4. Zodiac (2007)
Director: David Fincher
Stars: Jake Gyllenhaal, Robert Downey Jr.
"Zodiac" is a meticulously crafted thriller based on the true story of the Zodiac Killer. David Fincher's attention to detail and atmospheric direction immerse you in the investigative process of a journalist (Jake Gyllenhaal) and his quest to uncover the identity of the killer. The film's slow-burn approach builds tension, and the strong performances by Gyllenhaal, Robert Downey Jr., and Mark Ruffalo keep you invested throughout.
5. Prisoners (2013)
Director: Denis Villeneuve
Stars: Hugh Jackman, Jake Gyllenhaal
In "Prisoners," Keller Dover (Hugh Jackman) takes matters into his own hands after his daughter and her friend go missing, suspecting a local man. Directed by Denis Villeneuve, this film explores the moral complexities of revenge and justice. Jackman's raw, emotional performance and Gyllenhaal's portrayal of a determined detective make for a gripping narrative that keeps you guessing until the end.
6. The Exorcism of Emily Rose (2005)
Director: Scott Derrickson
Stars: Laura Linney, Tom Wilkinson
This chilling film is a courtroom drama mixed with supernatural horror. Lawyer Erin Bruner (Laura Linney) defends a priest (Tom Wilkinson) accused of negligent homicide following an exorcism. The movie is based on a true story, blending legal and supernatural elements seamlessly. Derrickson's direction creates a haunting atmosphere, and the performances by Linney and Wilkinson are compelling and intense.
7. The Blackcoat's Daughter (2015)
Director: Oz Perkins
Stars: Emma Roberts, Kiernan Shipka
"The Blackcoat's Daughter" is a slow-burn horror film directed by Oz Perkins, the same mind behind "Longlegs." Set in a boarding school during winter break, it follows two girls battling a mysterious evil force. The film's atmospheric tension and strong performances by Emma Roberts and Kiernan Shipka make it an underrated gem in the horror genre.
8. Rosemary’s Baby (1968)
Director: Roman Polanski
Stars: Mia Farrow, John Cassavetes
In "Rosemary’s Baby," a young woman suspects her pregnancy is being controlled by an occult conspiracy. Roman Polanski's direction creates an atmosphere of paranoia and dread, and Mia Farrow's performance is both vulnerable and haunting. The film is a masterclass in psychological horror, keeping you guessing about the true nature of the threat until the very end.
9. The Witch (2015)
Director: Robert Eggers
Stars: Anya Taylor-Joy, Ralph Ineson
"The Witch" is a folk horror film set in 1630s New England, where a family is torn apart by witchcraft, black magic, and possession. Robert Eggers' debut feature is a slow-burn horror masterpiece, with meticulous attention to period detail and an unsettling atmosphere. Anya Taylor-Joy’s breakout performance is mesmerizing, and the film’s haunting visuals and eerie soundtrack create a deeply immersive experience.
10. Sinister (2012)
Director: Scott Derrickson
Stars: Ethan Hawke, Juliet Rylance
"Sinister" follows true-crime writer Ellison Oswalt (Ethan Hawke) as he discovers a box of home movies that suggest the murder he is researching is the work of a serial killer whose work dates back to the 1960s. Scott Derrickson's direction and the film's chilling found footage create a terrifying experience. Hawke's performance as a man driven to the brink by his discoveries adds to the film’s unsettling atmosphere.
Have We Missed Any?
These films offer a deep dive into the dark, twisted worlds that "Longlegs" explores. Have we missed any of your favorite spine-chilling thrillers? Drop your suggestions in the comments below!
