Five essential monster movies to binge on Netflix

It’s officially turning colder and getting scarier outside. As the cobwebs gather and the mist surrounds our cities, there is no better time to dive into some scary movies than now. Below, we’ve got five of the most essential monster movies to watch on Netflix right now.

As the leaves turn crimson and the nights grow longer, there’s no better time to cosy up with a bowl of popcorn and immerse yourself in spine-tingling tales that will send shivers down your body. Our essential list of horror films available on Netflix will help you get into the mood.

All of the movies below are from the 21st century to avoid all the cheap prosthetics and frame-removing special effects. But the list is full of classic monsters, including giant lizards, unseen mist men and perhaps the freakiest 21st-century phenomena ever.

Below, dive into the five essential monster movies.

Five essential monster movies to watch on Netflix:

Evolution (2001)

The 2001 film Evolution, directed by Ivan Reitman, is a science fiction comedy that humorously explores an unconventional take on the theory of evolution. Starring David Duchovny, Orlando Jones, and Julianne Moore, the story unfolds as a group of scientists and government officials come together to combat rapidly evolving alien organisms that threaten humanity. The film’s absurd and often slapstick humor combines with imaginative creature designs and witty dialogue to create an entertaining and lighthearted experience.

While not a critical hit, Evolution has gained a following for its quirky charm and the comedic chemistry of its cast, offering an amusing take on the battle against extraterrestrial foes.

Slender Man (2018)

Slender Man is a 2018 supernatural horror film directed by Sylvain White, inspired by the popular internet urban legend of the same name. The story follows a group of teenage girls who attempt to uncover the truth behind the enigmatic Slender Man after discovering a mysterious video. As they delve deeper into the myth, they unwittingly unleash an evil force that begins to haunt and terrorize them.

The film effectively taps into the fear of the unknown, utilizing suspense, eerie imagery, and a sense of impending doom to create a chilling atmosphere. While the movie received mixed reviews from critics and faced some controversy due to its connection to a real-life tragedy involving the Slender Man character, it still delivers moments of genuine fright. Slender Man explores the darker aspects of internet folklore and the consequences of delving too deeply into the unknown, making it a captivating and unsettling watch for horror enthusiasts.

Godzilla (2014)

The 2014 Godzilla film, directed by Gareth Edwards, marked a triumphant return for the iconic kaiju monster to Hollywood. This iteration of Godzilla offered a modern and more serious take on the classic franchise, aligning itself with the original 1954 Japanese film’s themes of nuclear consequences and environmental disaster.

Starring Bryan Cranston, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and Elizabeth Olsen, the movie revolved around the awakening of ancient, gigantic creatures known as MUTOs (Massive Unidentified Terrestrial Organisms) and the subsequent emergence of Godzilla as Earth’s natural defence. The film’s visual effects were nothing short of spectacular, offering breathtaking and realistic depictions of massive monster battles.

Godzilla is known for its slow-burning tension and well-executed suspense, with Godzilla’s limited screen time adding to the anticipation and excitement. While some critics felt the human characters were underdeveloped, the film’s impressive cinematography and epic monster showdowns make it a must-see for fans of the kaiju genre and a successful reboot for the King of the Monsters.

Hellboy (2004)

The 2004 film Hellboy, directed by Guillermo del Toro, brought Mike Mignola’s beloved comic book character to the big screen. Ron Perlman’s charismatic performance as the titular Hellboy, a demon summoned to Earth during World War II, captured the essence of the character’s dark humour and heroic nature.

The film blends supernatural elements, folklore, and a unique blend of horror and humour to create a visually stunning and entertaining experience. With impressive makeup and practical effects, the film stands out in the world of comic book adaptations. “Hellboy” is a cult classic known for its distinct style and a charismatic, cigar-chomping, red-skinned hero.

Attack the Block (2011)

Attack the Block is a 2011 British sci-fi comedy horror film directed by Joe Cornish. This action-packed movie follows a group of South London teenagers defending their housing complex from an alien invasion. The film’s youthful energy and sharp humour, coupled with its innovative creature design, make it a standout in the genre. Led by John Boyega in his breakout role, the cast delivers strong performances, adding depth to their characters.

Attack the Block cleverly combines social commentary with thrilling extraterrestrial action, resulting in a refreshing and entertaining take on both alien invasion and coming-of-age stories, earning it a cult following for its unique approach to the genre.