Welcome to Day 22 of Spooky Season!! Today, I’m sharing part 7 of horror films I believe are criminally underrated. These are some horror films that I feel don’t get enough love even within the horror community. If you like these recommendations, please check out my Criminally Underrated Films Collection. I hope you enjoy and let me know which horror films you believe deserve more love!!

Idle Hands

Synopsis (provided by IMDb.com): A teenage slacker’s right hand becomes possessed with murderous intent.

This is a horror comedy that’s a must-watch every Halloween! The concept of the film is so unique and hilarious. The soundtrack (along with the entire film) was peak ‘90s and the characters were all so fantastic and had great chemistry together. Everyone involved in this film was on their game and it kills me that it does not get enough recognition. Although it’s perfect for the Halloween season, I think it’s a great casual watch any day of the year!

Gothika

Synopsis (provided by IMDb.com): A psychiatrist awakens as a patient in a mental institution, with no memory of the murder she’s accused of committing. As she tries to regain her memory, a vengeful spirit manipulates her.

This was one of the horror films that traumatized me as a kid but I found new appreciation for as an adult. First off, we have a stellar cast that includes Halle Berry, Robert Downey Jr., Penelope Cruz, and John Carroll Lynch. It’s a tragic and intriguing mystery that makes you question everything you know about the characters. Not to mention it’s absolutely terrifying. I’ve seen it many times and it still sends a chill down my spine!

Dead Silence

Synopsis (provided by IMDb.com): After his wife meets a grisly end, Jamie Ashen (Ryan Kwanten) returns to his hometown of Ravens Fair to find answers. His investigation leads him to the ghost of a ventriloquist named Mary Shaw (Judith Roberts) who seems to have ties to his entire family tree.

As someone who was absolutely terrified of ventriloquist dolls as a kid, I gotta say this film would’ve given me nightmares for years. The tale and mystery of Mary Shaw is so fascinating and attention grabbing. She is a severely undervalued villain. The atmosphere is perfect and the shocking deaths are truly unforgettable. Plus, I have to say that Donnie Wahlberg gives one of his most entertaining performances in this film. If you’re a fan of James Wan’s films, you have to give this one a chance!

You’re Next

Synopsis (provided by IMDb.com): When the Davison family comes under attack during their wedding anniversary getaway, the gang of mysterious killers soon learns that one of the victims harbors a secret talent for fighting back.

This was a really unique home invasion film. I love films where a character is seriously underestimated and the bad guys quickly find out just how screwed they are. This is a very intense thriller that throws you through so many loops, you’ll question everything you just saw. It takes the typical dysfunctional family trope and amplifies it by adding a couple of killers to the mix. From beginning to end, this film will keep you on the edge of your seat!

The Collection

Synopsis (provided by IMDb.com): A man who escapes from the vicious grips of the serial killer known as The Collector (Randall Archer) is then forced to help rescue an innocent girl from the killer’s booby-trapped lair.

Although I believe both The Collector and The Collection are highly underrated, I think The Collection doesn’t get nearly as enough love as the first film. We’re thrown into the belly of the beast in this film, and we get to see just how depraved this killer is on his turf. It has some of the most creative kills and a real Saw vibe to it. Plus, if you love a good heroine, you can’t go wrong with Elena (Emma Fitzpatrick). This is an intense thrill-ride with plenty of gore to go around!

Candyman (2021)

Synopsis (provided by IMDb.com): A sequel to the horror film, Candyman that returns to the now-gentrified Chicago neighborhood where the legend began.

I feel like this film got a lot of undeserved hate before it was even released, and I think it was a fantastic sequel that needs a second chance by horror fans. The filmmakers successfully found a respectful way to continue the story of Candyman without changing the original concept. This film was able to expand the legend and give us a fresh take on the characters. It has plenty of gore and scares and it didn’t sacrifice its important message. If you haven’t yet, I BEG you to give this one a chance!