Best-Reviewed Horror Movies 2014

Critics Consensus: The Babadook relies on real horror rather than cheap jump scares -- and boasts a heartfelt, genuinely moving story to boot.

Synopsis: Six years after the violent death of her husband, Amelia (Essie Davis) is at a loss. She struggles to discipline her 'out of control' 6... View Full Synopsis

Starring: Essie Davis, Daniel Henshall, Noah Wiseman, Hayley McElhinney

Directed By: Jennifer Kent

Critics Consensus: Writer-director Bobcat Goldthwait's first foray into horror doesn't break any new ground, but it does wring fresh terror from a well-worn genre formula -- and offers a few nasty laughs in the bargain.

Synopsis: A man (Bryce Johnson) and his girlfriend (Alexie Gilmore) camp in the woods to capture firsthand evidence of Bigfoot.

Starring: Alexie Gilmore, Bryce Johnson, Bucky Sinister, Peter Jason

Directed By: Bobcat Goldthwait

Critics Consensus: Compact and effective, In Fear offers discerning horror fans a smart and disturbing plunge into the depths of cinematic anxiety.

Synopsis: A young couple gets lost in a maze of country roads and becomes the target of a mysterious tormentor.

Starring: Iain De Caestecker, Alice Englert, Allen Leech, Jemma Powell

Directed By: Jeremy Lovering

Critics Consensus: With an emphasis on dread over gore and an ending that leaves the door wide open for sequels, Oculus could be just the first spine-tingling chapter in a new franchise for discerning horror fans.

Synopsis: Haunted by the violent demise of their parents 10 years earlier, adult siblings Kaylie (Karen Gillan) and Tim (Brenton Thwaites) are now struggling to rebuild... View Full Synopsis

Starring: Karen Gillan, Brenton Thwaites, Katee Sackhoff, Rory Cochrane

Directed By: Mike Flanagan

Critics Consensus: Smart, stylish, and nail-bitingly tense, Honeymoon packs more slow-building horror than many bigger-budget productions.

Synopsis: A honeymooning bride (Rose Leslie) goes sleepwalking into the woods surrounding a secluded cabin. When she returns she looks the same, but something about her... View Full Synopsis

Starring: Rose Leslie, Harry Treadaway, Ben Huber, Hanna Brown

Directed By: Leigh Janiak