When it comes to cinematic experiences, the horror genre holds a unique space, weaving its web of fear and anticipation in the hearts of countless worldwide viewers. The chills down the spine, the quickened heartbeat, the adrenaline rush – something inexplicably intriguing about a good horror flick.
While other genres offer their forms of entertainment, horror films often combine elements of psychological thrillers, comedy, romance, and much more, resulting in an unpredictable roller-coaster ride.
Hot on the heels of a riveting July 2023 lineup featuring outstanding movies like Insidious: The Red Door, Bird Box Barcelona, Cobweb, and The Flood, August is all set to take the horror film frenzy up a notch. Brace yourselves because, from creature features to psychological thrillers, the next month promises a hearty mix of terror and suspense.
Meg 2: The Trench (August 4)
Deep Sea Terror
Nothing quite compares to the thrill of creature films. These movies have held an integral position in the horror genre ever since Steven Spielberg’s Jaws introduced a new form of terror in the mid-1970s.
The Meg, released in 2018, although not quite reaching the heights of Spielberg’s masterpiece, offered its fair share of entertainment, becoming a fun weekend movie for many. After a long five-year wait, the sequel is set to hit the big screen.
Meg 2: The Trench takes us on a harrowing journey into the deepest, darkest parts of the ocean. Our hero, Jonas Taylor, portrayed by the ruggedly charming Jason Statham, leads a brave team of explorers into the abyss. But little do they know, their exploration will rouse the slumbering prehistoric Megalodons, turning their adventurous voyage into an unanticipated horror trip.
The question on everyone’s lips is whether they can outrun and exterminate these aquatic giants before they make the innocent sea-goers their next meal.
The Passenger (August 4)
A Mind-Bending Adventure
Psychological horror thrillers are always intriguing, taking viewers on an unexpected journey into the human psyche. The Passenger is one such film.
Despite the initial impressions suggesting a narrative dealing with split-personality disorder and serial killings, the storyline might have a twist or two up its sleeve.
Our protagonist, Randy, played by the ever-engaging Johnny Berchtold, is a man living an unremarkable, almost invisible existence. However, his dull life is turned upside down when his coworker Benson, portrayed by Kyle Gallner, embarks on a horrifying killing spree, dragging Randy into the chaos.
As terror engulfs his once mundane life, Randy must figure out how to survive this nightmare.
Last Voyage of the Demeter (August 11)
A Voyage into Fear
Dracula, the iconic prince of darkness, has always been a fascinating character in the horror genre. The Last Voyage of the Demeter adds another chilling chapter to the long saga of Dracula-based films. This supernatural horror film is an adaptation of the chilling “The Captain’s Log” chapter from Bram Stoker’s classic 1897 novel, Dracula.
Set aboard the ill-fated ship, Demeter, the film recounts the horrifying experiences of the ship’s crew, who find themselves hunted by a monstrous beast every night. Survival seems elusive, but will they find the strength to stand against this terrifying creature?
Elevator Game (August 11)
When Games Turn Deadly
Trends can be fun, exciting, and even bizarre, but what happens when they turn terrifying? Elevator Game explores just that. Based on a popular Korean urban legend that recently caught the attention of TikTokers worldwide, this film spins a spine-chilling tale of a game gone wrong.
In this gripping narrative, friends looking for an adrenaline rush decide to try the Elevator Game and share it on social media. However, they misplay the game, which leads to dreadful consequences. A terrifying presence begins stalking them, and the only way to rid themselves of it is to complete the game as it should be played.
The film is set to release on Shudder on August 11.
The Strangers (August 17)
A Nightmare in Paradise
The countryside is often associated with peace and tranquility. But what if a serene vacation turned into a horrifying ordeal? The Strangers, featuring Riverdale’s Madelaine Petsch, adds a sinister twist to a relaxing countryside getaway.
The story revolves around a couple taking a cross-country trip to mend their relationship. However, they find themselves stuck in a secluded Airbnb in Oregon when their vehicle breaks down. Three masked strangers terrorized them throughout the night as if the situation wasn’t stressful enough.
The anticipation for these horror releases is palpable as we inch closer to August. The variety in these films ensures something to scare every kind of horror enthusiast.
So, which of these upcoming horror films gives you the creeps the most? Do let us know!
