All the movies on this list had a somewhat wide release in 2013 (theatre, VOD, DTV…). I’m using IMDb for validation when in doubt (especially for non-english movies).
2013 was a great year for Horror Movies Fans and many movies could have been on this list. I have decided to do a TOP 10, but watch out for the Horror Movies Awards at the end of the month.
10 – American Mary
The Soska sisters stepped up their game with this excellent Rape Revenge Flick. With a kickass performance from Khatarine Isabelle, some inspired torture scenes and great cinematography, American Mary is one of the best Indie Horror of 2013.
9 – Maniac
A very interesting remake of the original Maniac with an impressive work from lead actor Elijah Wood. Maniac left me cold at first but the movie has since slowly grown on me.
8 – The ABC’s of Death
The first horror anthology of the year was also the most ambitious with no less than 26 segments each with a different director, each around a different letter of the alphabet. While some of them are weak of just plain weird/gross (mostly the japanese ones) there are a few gems, in particular Timo Tjahjanto (Macabre, V/H/S 2) “L for Libido” and Marcel Sarmiento’s (DeadGirl) “D for Dogfight”, easily two of the best horror shorts ever made. If not for V/H/S 2, this would have been the best horror anthology of the year.
7 – The Seasoning House
One of the toughest movie to watch this year, The Seasoning House is a relentless movie that shows the true horrors of this world. Highly recommended for revenge movies fans.
Click Here for a Full Review of The Seasoning House
6 - Pee Mak Phrakanong
I could make this list without mentioning Pee Mak, the highest grossing movie ever in Thailand. King of the horror comedy Pee Mak is an exciting mix between traditional thai ghost movies and slapstick comedy. Loved the characters and the story. Not to be missed .Full Review of Pee Mak Phrakanong Here
5 - The Conjuring
This is by far the highest grossing movie of the list in the US. A frightening story by none other than James Wan (Saw, Insidious) who seems to become better with each movie. Will probably end up on top of many best of horror lists in 2013.Full Review of The Conjuring Here
4 - You're Next
Technically, this movie should belong to the 2011 horror movies list. But since it has been released in theaters only this year (and I've just watched it) I'm including it into the 2013 list. You're Next is an awesome Home Invasion Movie filled with action, dark humor and a few twists. Forget about The Purge and go watch that one instead.Full Review of You're Next here
3 - Modus Anomali
This one caught me by surprise. The latest movie from famed indonesian director, Joko Anwar, is an indie gem filled with tension and shocking bursts of violence.Full Review of Modus Anomali Here