1) The Descent (2005)
“The Descent” follows a group of adventurous women who venture into a deep, unexplored cave system, only to find themselves trapped and hunted by a race of terrifying underground creatures. This film is a masterclass in tension and claustrophobia, as well as a great example of strong female characters in a horror film. If you’re a fan of survival horror, creature features, or just looking for a good scare, “The Descent” is a must-watch.
2) Session 9 (2001)
Set in an abandoned mental hospital, “Session 9” follows a group of asbestos removers as they begin to experience strange and terrifying occurrences within the building. This film is a slow-burn, psychological horror that will leave you questioning your own sanity. If you’re a fan of atmospheric horror, or enjoy films that keep you guessing until the very end, “Session 9” is a must-watch.
3) May (2002)
“May” tells the story of a lonely, socially awkward woman who becomes obsessed with creating the perfect companion. This film is a unique blend of horror and dark comedy, with a standout performance from lead actress Angela Bettis. If you’re a fan of offbeat horror, or enjoy films that explore the darker aspects of human nature.
4) Frailty (2001)
“Frailty” follows a man who believes he has been chosen by God to kill demons disguised as humans. This film is a slow-burn, atmospheric horror that explores themes of faith, family, and the nature of evil. If you’re a fan of psychological horror, or enjoy films that delve into the darker aspects of religion.
5) Ginger Snaps (2000)
“Ginger Snaps” follows two teenage sisters who are obsessed with death and the macabre, but their lives take a dark turn when one of them is bitten by a werewolf. This film is a unique take on the werewolf genre, with strong performances from the lead actresses and a great coming-of-age story. If you’re a fan of horror-comedy, or enjoy films that explore the complexities of sisterhood.
6) The Orphanage (2007)
“The Orphanage” follows a woman who returns to the orphanage where she was raised, only to find that it is haunted by the ghosts of the children who once lived there. This film is a beautifully shot, emotionally resonant horror that will leave you both scared and moved. If you’re a fan of ghost stories, or enjoy films that explore the themes of motherhood and loss.
7) The Mist (2007)
“The Mist” follows a group of people who become trapped in a grocery store when a mysterious mist rolls in, bringing with it deadly creatures. This film is a tense and suspenseful horror that also explores themes of humanity, morality, and desperation. The film’s ending is controversial and divisive, but it is sure to leave a lasting impression on viewers. If you’re a fan of Stephen King adaptations, or enjoy films that challenge your perceptions of right and wrong.
8) Behind the Mask: The Rise of Leslie Vernon (2006)
“Behind the Mask” is a mockumentary-style horror film that follows a journalist as she interviews a charismatic killer named Leslie Vernon, who is preparing for his next murder spree. This film is a clever and self-aware take on the slasher genre, with a great performance from lead actor Nathan Baesel. If you’re a fan of horror-comedy, or enjoy films that deconstruct and subvert horror tropes.
9) The Devil’s Backbone (2001) aka “El Espinazo Del Diablo”
“The Devil’s Backbone” is a Spanish-language horror film set in a boys’ orphanage during the Spanish Civil War. The story follows a young boy who discovers a ghostly presence in the school, as well as the secrets and tensions that exist among the staff and students. This film is a haunting and atmospheric horror that also serves as a commentary on the effects of war on society. If you’re a fan of ghost stories, or enjoy films that explore historical and political themes.
10) Trick ‘r Treat (2007)
“Trick ‘r Treat” is an anthology horror film that weaves together several stories set on Halloween night. The film features a great cast, including Anna Paquin and Dylan Baker, and has a fun, darkly humorous tone. If you’re a fan of horror anthologies, or enjoy films that celebrate the Halloween season.
In conclusion, these ten underrated horror films from the 2000s offer a range of subgenres and themes, from survival horror and psychological horror to ghost stories and horror-comedy. If you’re looking for some new scares or want to revisit some hidden gems, be sure to check out these films.