Movies

Only 3 Horror Movies of 2023 on Netflix Hold Above 80% on Rotten Tomatoes

Only 3 Horror Movies of 2023 on Netflix Hold Above 80% on Rotten Tomatoes
Image credit: XYZ Films, TriStar Pictures

It's easy for horror flicks to scare us, but far more difficult for them to impress us.

Out of the more than 150 horror films released in 2023, only 3 of them managed to score big with Rotten Tomatoes, earning praise and a score in the illustrious 80s. Each of these movies is unique in their own way, but they all seem to share a common element of dark humor and, unsurprisingly, blood.

There's Something in the Barn (2023)

Only 3 Horror Movies of 2023 on Netflix Hold Above 80% on Rotten Tomatoes - image 1

Rotten Tomatoes 80%

If you're into the holly-jolly Christmas cheer, this terrifying holiday movie probably isn't for you.

Set against the tranquil Christmas backdrop, There's Something In The Barn follows a typical young American family who unexpectedly inherits a remote cabin in Norway. They trade in their old lives for a cold and peaceful getaway, but soon discover that their dream may be more of a nightmare. The longtime tenants of their barn is less than pleased with the new residents, and even less so when the family fails to follow their three simple rules.

If you enjoy murder, mayhem, and movies that don't take themselves too seriously, then There's Something in the Barn is the perfect choice for you. It's playful, silly, and snarky, and will inadvertently remind you of both Gremlins and Home Alone.

El Conde (2023)

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Rotten Tomatoes 82%

Jamie Vadell plays Augusto Pinochet, a 250-year-old vampire with a strong aversion to being called a "thief". After witnessing and being involved in many controversial historical events during his centuries-long life, and finally being investigated for his ill-gotten wealth, Pinochet fakes his death and goes into hiding. Running from the sins of his past and living in a ruined mansion, he decides to give up eternal life.

Having turned away from drinking human blood, Pinochet chooses to accept mortality and eventual death, which sends his family into a panic, especially over their inheritance.

Pablo Larraín's film is a thoughtful yet hilarious commentary on fascism, dictatorship, and one of the most controversial political figures of all time, all while telling an entertaining story. Cleverly hidden within are many references to the real-life Chilean dictator, giving the film a much deeper meaning.

Thanksgiving (2023)

Only 3 Horror Movies of 2023 on Netflix Hold Above 80% on Rotten Tomatoes - image 3

Rotten Tomatoes 84%

This holiday, we're thankful for some really good scares.

Thanksgiving proved to have all the ingredients for a truly terrifying teen slasher. In the small town of Plymouth, a masked killer begins a bloody and seemingly random murder spree just one year after the events of the tragic Black Friday riot that left several dead and many injured.

Featuring the likes of Patrick Dempsey (Grey's Anatomy), Rick Hoffman and Nell Verlaque, Thanksgiving has no shortage of strong actors to add to the suspenseful story as the mystery unfolds and the missing pieces are filled in.

Critics describe it as "a crazy experience, but in the best way. This over-the-top kill-fest sticks to its guns until the very end, delivering some memorable thrills along the way.

Aside from the acting, critics loved Thanksgiving for being a fresh take on the tired slasher genre, complete with wit and unexpected twists; somehow, despite the gore, the movie managed to be exciting, scary and fun. In addition to an 84% rating from critics, the film received an 80% from audiences, exceeding expectations across the board.