Movies - TV
Underrated Horror Movies That Never Got A Theatrical Release
By ERIC LANGBERG
Prey
Director Dan Trachtenberg's 2022 film "Prey," arguably the best in the franchise, is set in the 1700s and features Comanche warriors battling an alien Predator.
Despite its beautiful cinematography and impressive action sequences, the film was released directly on Hulu to bolster the platform, missing the theatrical release it deserved.
Chucky
The "Chucky" franchise maintains continuity through sequels and a TV series, but some fans might not know about the two straight-to-video films that continue the saga.
The 2013 release "Curse of Chucky" returns to the franchise's horror roots with a haunted house theme, exploring inventive ways to terrorize Fiona Dourif's character, Nica.
2017's "Cult of Chucky" is a wintry horror film set in an asylum. It introduces an army of dolls controlled by Charles Lee Ray's split soul, delivering even more slasher thrills.
Significant Other
The plot follows a couple on a hike who encounter something strange in the woods, blending relationship drama with deranged and delightful sci-fi/horror elements.
The film's lush Pacific Northwest setting and strong performances by Jake Lacy and "It Follows" star Maika Monroe deserved a theatrical release, but it went straight to Paramount+.
Trick 'r Treat
"Trick 'r Treat," a 2007 Halloween-themed anthology, was initially released straight to DVD. As it grew in popularity, it finally played in theaters in 2022 and 2023.
The film centers on the spooky adventures of Sam, a burlap-clad pumpkinhead who ties together loosely linked Halloween tales, making it a must-watch Halloween horror classic.
The Passenger
This 2023 film follows a meek fast food worker, Randy (Johnny Berchtold), who becomes entangled in a violent spree led by his coworker Benson (Kyle Gallner).
The film's killer sound design, with explosive gunfire and percussive effects, would have been overwhelming on a theatrical speaker system, enhancing the viewing experience.