I’ve always loved horror films that are technically great, balancing all the elements that make for a perfect horror experience. For me, cheap scares and jump tactics with loud noises don’t count—it’s about creating lasting impact through storytelling, atmosphere, and craftsmanship.

The films I would consider technically the most impressive in the horror genre are:

The Wailing

I genuinely believe The Wailing has some of the best storytelling, acting, background music, atmosphere, and overall conviction in all of horror cinema. This film has so many layers that immediately grab your attention and keep you glued until the very last scene. The heightened performances, breathtaking visuals, and masterful sound design make even the simplest scenes incredibly effective.

The twist at the end is phenomenal—one of those films I wish I could forget every time just so I could experience it fresh again.

Honorable Mentions:

• Hereditary: Near perfection, though the ending could have been better.

• Kairo (Pulse): This film would have been my number one pick if The Wailing didn’t exist.

• Rec 1: The best found-footage horror film. Period!

• Lake Mungo: Deserves far more praise and recognition than it gets. (Hot take: better than The Blair Witch Project and Paranormal Activity!)