10 Trendy Bubblegum Horror Films to Add to Your Watchlist

      Vanessa Maki presents some bubblegum horror recommendations for your viewing pleasure…

      When horror comes to mind for some, they often picture dark aesthetics, gothic or southern gothic architecture, and nightmarish scenarios. However, horror can also incorporate vibrant colors, sugary scares, and lively moments that stand in contrast to its violent and grim themes.

      Bubblegum horror is a subgenre characterized by bright, colorful, and aesthetically pleasing visuals that juxtapose with horrific, frightening, or violent content. This genre challenges the conventional notion of horror often associated with dark colors and moods. Many beloved horror films might actually fall under the bubblegum horror category without audiences realizing it. This subgenre doesn’t receive as much attention compared to traditional categories like slashers, supernatural horror, or psychological horror. Thus, this list highlights some newer bubblegum horror films (from the 2010s to 2020s) that you might enjoy. So, let’s venture out into the daylight in vibrant attire while contemplating a possible threat (or maybe not)…

      **The Neon Demon (2016)**

      The fashion world is portrayed as a monstrous entity in this film, manifesting in unsettling ways. The Neon Demon tells the story of a hopeful young model (Elle Fanning) who relocates to Los Angeles with aspirations of fame. Her youthful beauty sparks envy among older women, leading to perilous circumstances. The vivid colors and glamorous setting starkly contrast with the film's bizarre and taboo moments, offering a visually captivating experience that will leave viewers questioning what they just watched.

      **The Babysitter (2017)**

      This lighthearted horror comedy showcases Samara Weaving’s versatility. The Babysitter revolves around a young boy struggling to survive a night after discovering his babysitter and her friends are part of a cult. The film maintains an upbeat tone that intentionally clashes with the exaggerated violence, and as a horror comedy, it encourages viewers not to take it too seriously. It’s a fun watch full of playful horror elements.

      **M.F.A. (2017)**

      Exploring the tough territory of rape-revenge horror, M.F.A. is a noteworthy film. It follows a college student whose rapist dies by accident, prompting her to seek vengeance on similar men. While it resembles Promising Young Woman in theme, it unfolds quite differently. The film appeals to those who appreciate a solid revenge narrative.

      **Bit (2019)**

      A bold queer horror film, Bit centers on a trans teen who, during a trip to LA, becomes entangled with a group of vampires. It’s a proudly queer and feminist narrative that relishes in exacting revenge on predatory men. Embracing its indie roots, the film visually showcases this aspect, and the coming-of-age story contributes to its classification as bubblegum horror. If you're seeking a horror film featuring a trans lead, this one is worth checking out.

      **Freaky (2020)**

      This film features a body swap scenario between a teenage girl and a serial killer. Freaky follows Millie (Kathryn Newton), who unintentionally switches bodies with a killer known as the Butcher. The comedic premise is complemented by a playful tone throughout the film, which includes witty dialogue and amusing deaths. It's a horror comedy that possesses a certain warmth, making it enjoyable.

      **Last Night in Soho (2021)**

      This film provokes complicated emotions and features numerous captivating sequences. Last Night in Soho tells the story of a teenager who experiences visions while pursuing fashion studies in London. The psychological film plays with various timelines, creating a disorienting effect for both the protagonist and the audience. Anya Taylor-Joy and Thomasin McKenzie deliver outstanding performances, enhancing the film's appeal, especially for fans of either actress.

      **Bodies Bodies Bodies (2022)**

      This satirical film is intentionally humorous, and the performances contribute significantly to its success. Bodies Bodies Bodies focuses on a dysfunctional group of friends who find themselves trapped during a storm, leading to a disastrous game of Bodies Bodies Bodies. It cleverly uses satire to critique language manipulation for self-serving purposes, class privilege, and how the wealthy interact with others. Overall, it’s a prime example of recent bubblegum horror characterized by its aesthetics and unfolding violence.

      **The Substance (2024)**

      Though it may not offer anything particularly original regarding beauty standards or the industry, The Substance is memorable. Following an aging actress who uses a serum to regain her youth, the film explores the repercussions of her choice. Utilizing body horror to portray the dangers of societal beauty standards, it effectively delivers shock value. The film embraces its body horror essence with vibrant visuals, allowing both Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley to shine, especially in its wild third act.

      **Grafted (2024)**

      The pursuit of beauty standards becomes a nightmarish experience, particularly for marginalized individuals. Grafted follows Wei (Joyena Sun), a Chinese girl who moves to New Zealand for a scholarship, only to