10 Horror Films That Will Definitely Make You Uncomfortable

      Vanessa Maki presents ten horror films sure to leave you feeling uneasy…

      Contrary to popular belief, horror should sometimes provoke discomfort and unease in its audience. As viewers, we are occasionally meant to squirm in our seats or feel heightened anxiety when watching these movies at night. Ultimately, horror doesn't necessitate jump scares, screaming ghosts, or knife-wielding men to effectively evoke discomfort or fear.

      Instead of showcasing well-known and beloved horror films, the following suggestions will vary in their recognition. From a gritty international horror film to a low-budget found footage feature that gained traction on YouTube, or a Shudder original with a unique lead character, the list provides diverse options for every viewer.

      Continue reading to discover a potential new film that might leave you feeling profoundly uncomfortable during your first viewing. You won’t be let down, although discomfort is almost guaranteed—and that’s the intention.

      [REC] (2007)

      The overwhelming chaos and dire circumstances make for a nerve-wracking experience. [REC] follows a reporter and her cameraman who become trapped in an apartment building under quarantine. What begins as an already tense situation escalates into a life-threatening ordeal due to an outbreak within the building. With police sealing exits, escape is essentially impossible, leaving everyone trapped.

      The infection's nature, its manifestation, and the horrendous actions of those infected create a deep sense of discomfort. Additionally, as a found footage film, its tense atmosphere and the inability to leave amplify the sense of dread. The notion of escape is futile, leaving the characters with only the options of running and hiding. The film's conclusion is quite bleak; if that doesn't deter you, definitely give it a shot.

      The House of the Devil (2009)

      Before the X trilogy, Ti West delivered this homage to the 80s that doesn’t fit the typical slasher mold. The House of the Devil centers on a college student who takes a babysitting gig, only to find her life endangered due to unsettling occurrences in the house. The film pays tribute to the aesthetics of the 70s and 80s, making it feel like an authentic product of that time.

      This movie is deliberately slow-paced, gradually revealing the unsettling truths lurking in the expansive house. Instead of thrusting the protagonist into danger right away, it builds tension through dread and paranoia. The atmosphere is incredibly uneasy, leading to a subjective conclusion that still merits a watch.

      Starry Eyes (2014)

      This film serves as a stark reminder of the cruelty in Hollywood, where powerful individuals frequently manipulate and exploit others without repercussions. Starry Eyes follows an aspiring actress whose quest for fame takes a dark turn. It's a gritty film featuring body horror that's devoid of glamour and opts for a muted color palette.

      From the outset, it’s evident that Sarah's (Alexandra Essoe) ambition is headed for disaster, facing shaming and exploitative demands from those in power. Alongside this, she encounters body horror that she ultimately accepts. The film exudes heaviness that lingers until the end.

      The Wailing (2016)

      Expect a gut-wrenching finale in this South Korean horror masterpiece. The Wailing tells the story of a police officer investigating mysterious illnesses and murders in a rural village. The unsettling visuals throughout are likely to disturb viewers, depending on their tolerance levels. This is definitely not a film that leads to a happy ending or a heroic rescue.

      The film unfolds slowly, carefully examining its impact on the community, particularly for the desperate policeman whose daughter's life hangs in the balance. Elements like the unsettling atmosphere and the behavior of the afflicted characters will likely compel you to reach for your blanket. At the very least, you'll find the entire progression uncomfortable.

      Capture Kill Release (2016)

      Avoid this title if you cannot handle depictions of intentional animal cruelty in horror. Capture Kill Release follows a couple planning to commit murder together, but their relationship becomes strained when one partner hesitates. The film unsettlingly portrays the dynamics of manipulation, personal change, and the origins of some killers.

      Presented as a found footage film, the violence feels even more immediate and real. There are particularly distressing scenes, including one involving a bathtub, that give the impression of witnessing actual events. It's a lesser-known gem within the found footage genre, appealing to viewers who appreciate darker narratives.

      The Devil’s Candy (2017)

      Visually striking and committed to capturing the essence of metal music, The Devil’s Candy follows an artist experiencing disturbing phenomena after moving into a new home with his family. The film features numerous unsettling elements, particularly through its use of disturbing imagery. As the lead character is an artist, his artwork reflects the turmoil within him.

      If you have an aversion to mildly distorted, bizarre, and somewhat psychedelic horror films, you might find The Devil’s Candy rewarding. Contrary to its name, it doesn't strictly adhere