The 13 Best New Horror Movies of 2026, According to Decider
From supernatural scares to creature features, here's a look at the standout horror films released this year and where to stream or watch them.
The year 2026 has proven to be a strong one for the horror genre, featuring some of the biggest box office successes in the genre's history alongside numerous smaller triumphs. As spooky season approaches, a comprehensive guide highlights the top horror movies of the year, detailing their availability for viewing.
Among the highly recommended films is "Insidious: Out of the Further," the sixth installment in the long-running franchise. This entry is praised for its ability to innovate within the established narrative, focusing on new characters exploring the terrifying dimension known as the Further. The film is noted for its well-executed set pieces and solid B-movie craftsmanship. It is currently available for rent or purchase on video on demand (VOD) and is expected to arrive on Netflix by the end of the year.
Another notable release is "Buddy," a unique horror film that parodies 1990s children's television. Directed by Casper Kelly, the movie blends the cheerful aesthetic of shows like "Barney & Friends" with creature-feature elements and a compelling performance from Cristin Milioti. "Buddy" has garnered a cult following, leading to re-releases in theaters. It is available for home rental and purchase, with a physical media release planned for December. It is also anticipated to appear on subscription streaming services in early 2027.
"Cold Storage," a horror-comedy about a zombie-inducing pathogen outbreak, is recognized for its charming and well-acted approach to genre blending. Starring Joe Keery and Georgina Campbell, the film is considered a fun, albeit silly, addition to the genre. It can be streamed on MGM+, which is available as an add-on to a Prime Video subscription, and is also available for rental or purchase.
Director Nicholas Winding Refn's "Her Private Hell" is described as a stylized and abstract exploration of neon-lit dreamscapes. The film, centering on an actress and a man searching for his daughter, is lauded for its visual style and strong performances from Sophie Thatcher and Charles Melton. It is available for rent or purchase on VOD and is expected to stream on Hulu in the coming months.
"Forbidden Fruits" offers a dark comedy take on toxic female friendships, drawing comparisons to "Heathers." The film, which features a strong performance by Lili Reinhart, balances humor with gory consequences, making it appealing to both comedy and horror fans. It is available for streaming on Shudder.
"Obsession," a film that has sparked considerable discussion, is highlighted as a significant horror release of the year. The movie, starring Inde Navarrette, is noted for its exploration of male selfishness and societal reactions to manipulated women. It is currently streaming on Peacock.
"Never After Dark," directed by American filmmaker Dave Boyle and set in Japan, draws inspiration from both classic and remade Japanese horror films. The story follows a spiritual medium investigating a haunting at an old hotel. The film is praised for its scary and unpredictable narrative, anchored by a standout performance from Moeka Hoshi. It is still playing in select theaters and will be available for VOD rental on October 26th.
Yeon Sang-ho's "Colony" offers a new perspective on the zombie subgenre, incorporating elements of a hive mind and grotesque physical recombinations. Reminiscent of the "Resident Evil" film series, it is a fast-paced genre film that premiered at Cannes. "Colony" is available for rental through VOD platforms and is expected to eventually be available on Hulu.
"Send Help," a thriller with horror elements directed by Sam Raimi and starring Rachel McAdams and Dylan O'Brien, is described as a delirious and entertaining experience. The film, about a woman stranded on an island with her boss, is full of shock cuts and intense moments. It is currently streaming on Hulu.
"28 Years Later: The Bone Temple," the latest installment in the zombie saga directed by Nia DaCosta, continues the story of Britain post-apocalypse. The film features Ralph Fiennes in a compelling performance as a survivor who forms an unusual bond. It is currently streaming on Netflix.
"The End of Oak Street," directed by David Robert Mitchell, offers a Spielbergian adventure with horror undertones, following a family transported to dinosaur times. The film is noted for its suspense and a memorable snake encounter, making it a potentially frightening experience for younger viewers. It is available for rent or purchase on VOD and will be available on HBO Max soon.
"Resident Evil," directed by Zach Cregger, reimagines the classic zombie game experience. The film follows a medical courier navigating a zombie-infested environment, delivering scares and situational humor. It is still in theaters, with VOD rental expected soon.
Finally, "Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma," directed by Jane Schoenbrun, delves into the psychosexual aspects of slasher films and problematic art. Featuring performances by Hannah Einbinder and Gillian Anderson, the film is described as funny, sexy, eerie, and willfully strange. It is currently streaming on MUBI.