Top 20 Horror Films of the 2000s

With some feature commentary, too.



1.) Antichrist (2009)

Von Trier stated that he failed to make a horror movie, yet perhaps he was being sly or understating this movie somehow. Graphic, disturbing, violent, and dealing with a battle of the sexes that takes place in a hostile nature environment, this film doesn't pull any punches. Its also another reminder that staying in a cabin in the woods is a terrible idea.

2.) 28 Days Later (2002)

Never mind the debate about whether or not they are zombies, for it takes away from the fact that this is a great, depressing film that manages to be rather claustrophobic, too. The characters never really ever feel safe, and the last act not only borrows from Romero but even presents its own spin on certain topics that the master of zombie horror addressed in his classic Day of the Dead (1985).

3.) Shaun of the Dead (2004)

Hilarious, witty, sharp, and both a funny send up of the genre and a loving homage to zombie movies, this is an awesome zombie-rom-com that is smartly written and paced. The two leads are really likable, and this film observes one of the main rules of zombie movies: feature characters that the audience can relate to and root for.

4.) Ginger Snaps (2000)

So much blood, and a decent amount of gore are part of this feminist take on werewolves. Two sisters end up in a huge mess, and it quickly spirals out of control, as body mutilation and the onslaught of womanhood take hold. Probably one of the best werewolf movies ever made.

5.) Slither (2006)

Both a really funny and slick horror film in addition to being disgusting and gross, James Gunn puts his own unique stamp on the "Alien slugs" subgenre. Features an excellent (as usual) performance from Nathan Fillion, but its Henry Gregg that steals the movie as the endless quote machine mayor. "That bitch is hardcore."

6.) Saw (2004)

Truly disturbing, violent, gruesome and rather tense, the first entry in the long running series is almost underrated, oddly enough. Jigsaw is a truly creepy villain, and the film sports a handful of moments that are shocking and well executed. 

7.) Zombieland (2009)

Different from Shaun of the Dead in that it is only a straight up comedy with zombies involved. The cast is fantastic, the jokes are well written, and the movie is endlessly entertaining. Clearly a new modern favorite, and I'm still hoping for a sequel.

8.) Dog Soldiers (2002)

Another fine example of a good werewolf movie, even as it admittedly borrows from other horror and sci-fi movies. Spoon is one of the coolest horror characters ever, and the film never really lets up after a good solid and more quiet beginning. Seems most of the good werewolf movies have been made in the last 20-25 years (the original The Wolfman still a classic, though).

9.) Behind The Mask: The Rise of Leslie Vernon (2007)

Insanely unique, twisted, and clever, there's something fascinating about this movie even though it uses "This is being filmed live" brand of film making that has become really popular thanks to The Blair Witch Project. Leslie is actually a really entertaining and lively character despite being the villain-its really interesting how in slasher movies the killer is typically not only front and center, but a tad disturbingly easy to root for. Stick around for the end credits.

10.) The Call of Cthullu (2005)

Despite being way too short, this is still a really cool black and white silent film adaptation of one of Lovecraft's most famous works. Mostly on this list also for not featuring any CGI, as the practical effects look good. It would be great if the creators of this movie went on to make others like it, using the same techniques.

The Rest of the List:

11. Cloverfield (2008)-90, monsters
12. The Host (2006)-90, monsters
13. Let The Right One In (2008)-90, vampires
14. Pulse aka Kairo (2001)-90, ghosts
15. Dawn of the Dead (2004)-90, zombies
16. Bubba Ho-Tep (2002)-90, undead
17. Paranormal Activity (2009)-90, demons
18. The Crazies (2010)-88, monsters
19. Pontypool (2008)-88, zombies
20. Freddy Vs. Jason (2003)-87, slasher

#Horror Films #2000s #Chaos Reigns