Horror is arguably the most versatile genre of movies.

Effective horror movies attack the senses and play tricks on the mind.

Most horror movies are only as good as the performances driving them.

Characters from Midsommar, Hereditary, and The Invisible Man

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In many cases, mediocre genre movies can be elevated by stellar acting.

Shortly after arriving, the group discovers a Book of the Dead.

In this wicked and spectacularly gorysoft reboot of theEvil Deadfranchise,Levy’s performance is the absolute standout.

Zombified Mia smiling while peeking up through the chained cellar door in Evil Dead (2013)

Image via Sony Pictures Releasing

Michelle is naturally skeptical but questions concerning both Howard and the state of the outside world reveal harrowing truths.

Goodman’ssubtly sinister demeanor and vaguely threatening posturingallow the twisty narrative developments of10 Cloverfield Laneall the more tension.

Howard isn’t a traditional villain and is far from the only antagonistic force of the movie itself.

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Still, Goodman brilliantly plays Howard in accordance with10 Cloverfield Lane’s more grounded and claustrophobic sensibilities.

Wells science fiction novel, this iteration ofThe Invisible Manfollows Cecilia (Elisabeth Moss).

The Invisible Manis a psychological horror thriller that explores a particularly chilling brand of terror.

John Goodman as Howard looking serious in 10 Cloverfield Lane

Image via Paramount Pictures

Twenty-three distinct personalities exist within Kevin’s mind and fight for control.

The challenge of embodying 24 distinct personalities was almost certainly a daunting one, but McAvoy delivers excellence.

After a bedroom game gone horribly wrong, Jessie finds herself handcuffed to a sturdy wooden bedframe.

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A fight for survival ensues as Jessie battles inner demons, past traumas, and an encircling wild dog.

While she’s often delegated to supporting roles, Gugino is the heart and soul ofGerald’s Game.

Amelia and Samuel’s relationship is tested even further when those visions become reality.

Cecilia (Elisabeth Moss) is on the phone while looking up in ‘The Invisible Man’ (2020)

Image via Universal Pictures

Upon their arrival, peculiar and uncomfortable happenings undercut the lush scenery and smiles of the villagers.

Harmless tradition eventually gives way to sinister rituals as Dani and her friends must fight to escape.

It’s standout work from an actress who will only continue to prove her immense talents in the future.

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Aster’s masterful methods of ratcheting tension and unorthodox scares makeHereditaryunmissable for horror fans.

NEXT:10 Essential Horror Movies of the 2000s, Ranked

Carla Gugino tied to a bed in Gerald’s Game

Image via Netflix

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Thomas Wake laughing maniacally in The Lighthouse

Image via A24

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Amelia holding her son and looking ahead with a scared expression in ‘The Babadook’

Image via IFC Films

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Danny wearing a flower crown and looking to the distance Midsommar

Image via A24

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Red and Adelaide Wilson sitting at a table locked eyes and restraining each other in Us

Image via Universal Pictures

Annie staring in horror in Hereditary

Image via A24

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Horror

Hereditary