My Top 12 International Horror Films (and it's so hard to stop at 12)

Let's dive into October with Spooky Horror Films From Around the Globe

Oh, it's spooky season. The air bites with the first hints of cold, crisp mornings. Leaves swirl lazily to the ground, where they crunch with each step. Soft, oversized sweaters wrap us in warmth, while steaming mugs send curls of fragrant mist, tempting us with their rich, comforting aromas.

We gather around, drawn to the glow of the television, much like our ancestors once gathered around the fire. Both offer a reprieve from the lingering chill. Huddled together, we brace ourselves for the next eerie tale, hearts quickening as we prepare to be spellbound by the shadows of the unknown.

Join me each week as I dive into some of my favorite spooky films—stories that tug at the heartstrings and cast a spell on the mind. 

This week, we’re starting with a journey into the unnerving world of international horror. 

Here are my top 12 picks to kick off the season because I couldn’t narrow it down.

One Cut Above the Dead (Japan)

This is a feel-good horror film. Trust me. Go in blind. It’s so worth it. 

Tigers Are Not Afraid (Mexico)

Oh, this movie brought me to tears. Tigers Are Not Afraid follows a group of orphaned children struggling to survive while avoiding the gangs that threaten to abduct or recruit them. At the heart of the story is a young girl searching for her mother, who has mysteriously gone missing. Grief runs deep throughout this film, and if you want to explore those themes further, check out my detailed post here.

The Host (Korea)

Another tear-jerker. The film captures the heartbreaking yet heartwarming complexities of being human—the monsters we battle without fully understanding and the ones who wear human skin and go unnoticed. It sheds light not only on family dynamics but also on deeper societal issues. At its core, it’s the story of a family fighting to save their youngest from a mutated river creature, exploring the lengths a parent will go to protect their child—whether human or not. The film masterfully balances brutal tragedy with moments of surprising comedic relief.

Train to Busan (Korea)

Train to Busan is a heart-pounding ride that blends the terror of a zombie apocalypse with the raw emotions of survival and sacrifice. As the infection spreads through the passengers, the film explores not only the fear of the undead but also the humanity—or lack thereof—within the living. At its core, it’s a story about a father’s desperate fight to protect his daughter, all while grappling with his own failings. Brutal, intense, and unexpectedly tender, Train to Busan masterfully balances high-stakes action with gut-wrenching emotional moments that linger long after the credits roll.

Censor (England)

Enid, an overworked film censor, grapples with the societal backlash against violent horror films and their supposed influence on the public. At the same time, she’s haunted by the unresolved grief of her sister's disappearance, a loss that has lingered since childhood. Censor delves into powerful themes of censorship, the effects of media on mental health, the toll of work on well-being, and the emotional burden of ambiguous loss. For about the grief themes in this film:

Perfect Blue (Japan)

Perfect Blue is a haunting psychological thriller that explores the blurred boundaries between reality, identity, and illusion. The film follows Mima, a former pop idol turned actress, as she navigates the pressures of her new career while being stalked by an obsessive fan. As her life spirals out of control, Mima’s grip on reality begins to unravel, leading her to question who she really is. With its intense exploration of mental health, fame, and the dangers of losing oneself in the public eye, Perfect Blue delivers a chilling portrayal of identity crisis and the dark side of celebrity culture.

His House (England)

His House is a gripping horror film that intertwines supernatural terror with the haunting realities of trauma and displacement. The story follows Bol and Rial, refugees who escape war-torn South Sudan and are placed in a decrepit house in England. As they try to adjust to their new life, they are haunted not only by the horrors they left behind but by a malevolent presence lurking in their new home. The film masterfully explores themes of guilt, grief, and the immigrant experience, blending social commentary with bone-chilling horror in a way that is both powerful and unsettling.

She Will (England)

She Will follows Veronica as she retreats to the Scottish Highlands, seeking recovery and solace after a double mastectomy. But instead of peace, she becomes deeply connected to the land's eerie history, haunted by the lingering presence of witches and the powerful forces that stir within the mystical landscape.

Infested (France)

Infested is a tense, claustrophobic horror film that traps its characters—and viewers—in a nightmarish scenario. Set in a run-down apartment complex, the story follows a group of tenants as they confront a horrifying infestation of bloodthirsty creatures. As the situation escalates, the real terror lies not only in the relentless swarm but in the unraveling of trust and sanity among the residents. With its chilling blend of body horror and psychological suspense, Infested explores themes of isolation, survival, and the fragility of human connections under extreme pressure.

Relic (Australia)

Relic powerfully portrays the harrowing journey of dementia, capturing both the suffering of those afflicted and the emotional toll on their loved ones. Through haunting symbolism and unflinching depictions of the disease, the film reveals the deep sense of loss intertwined with fleeting moments of connection. It emphasizes the importance of empathy, patience, and unwavering support in caregiving, reminding us that, even as dementia reshapes the people we love, the bonds of family endure. Ultimately, Relic is a testament to the strength of familial love and the resilience required to face the heartbreaking challenges of dementia. For more about dementia:

La Llorona (Guatemala)

An aging former military general, sheltered by his wife and daughter, evades punishment for his war crimes—until vengeance arrives at his doorstep. As his paranoia grows, so too does the toll of his deteriorating physical and mental health on his family. His daughter, granddaughter, and wife are forced to confront the horrifying truths about his past and his true nature. With all but one loyal servant abandoning him due to his crimes, the family hires a new young maid—but this newcomer hides a dark secret, one that will upend their fragile existence. For a more in depth review:

Lake Mungo (Australia)

Lake Mungo centers on the mysterious disappearance of Alice and the discovery of her body, unraveling the emotional journey of her grieving parents and brother. The film poignantly explores how grief can feel like being haunted as Alice’s family searches for answers, attempting to piece together who she truly was and what led to her death. Along the way, they unearth unsettling secrets, leaving them grappling with truths they are unprepared to face. For more about this film:

👻 Bonus

I am currently enjoying this series of films:

Senritsu Kaiki File Kowasugi starts a bit slow, and by the 4th one, they are getting good!

And I will be diving into the world of Giallo films (Italy), first up:

Final Thoughts

The world of international horror has something for everyone.

If you want more international horror. Pick movies from a country you have visited, want to visit or one you are interested in.

Get curious! Have fun!

What did you watch?

What’s your favorite international film?