Demonic activity, alien-human hybrids, a psychiatrist, and a plot twist- no, we’re not talking about the second season of American Horror Story; this is the subject matter of this month’s Shudder movie recommendations.
Whether you’re a fan of action-packed sci-fi thrillers, slow-burn thought-provoking horror, or mind-altering paranormal tales, there’s a scary movie for you to watch here—or you can kick off 2023 with a little bit of everything.
The Best Movies to Stream on Shudder This Month
The Lair
Neil Marshall, whose directorial resume includes The Descent and Dog Soldiers, is back with another monster movie: The Lair. It is a new release to Shudder and is about a Royal Air Force pilot (Charlotte Kirk) stranded in a bunker that houses creatures that were bioengineered weapons of warfare: alien-human hybrids. Judging from the trailer, Neil Marshall has once again exhibited a knack for capturing the creepy essence of a monster. This action-packed and bloody film is for those looking for a sci-fi/slasher/creature feature. The Lair begins streaming on Shudder on January 26th.
Await Further Instructions
As an estranged family gets together to celebrate the holidays, the house suddenly goes into lockdown, and a message emblazons across the TV screen: “Await Further Instructions.” From there, the family members have to decide how much they are willing to listen to the television and how far they will go. This film is immediately gripping and a blast to watch, especially for those who are into isolation/choose-your-destiny horror movies.
Marionette
How much of our reality is preordained? Is everything all a part of a master plan, where our decisions are all at the hands of someone else pulling the strings? This slow-burn film asks and uniquely answers these questions by telling the story of a psychiatrist treating a ten-year-old boy whose drawings create reality. The film is as thought-provoking as it is haunting. If you like a slow-burn psychological thriller, look no further.
Lake Mungo
Shudder’s 101 Scariest Movie Moments (2022) featured this new addition to the Shudder catalog with good reason. Directed by Joel Anderson, this Australian horror film follows the paranormal experiences of a family faced with a tragic loss. It’s a story once told, you will remember. Fans of found footage/documentary/supernatural horror, here you are.
Satan’s Slaves: Communion
This Indonesian horror film provides some of the creepiest imagery this list offers. Most of the movie takes place three years after the events of the first film, Satan’s Slaves. The remaining members of the Suono family have moved on with their lives but find the nightmare isn’t over. If you didn’t see the first one, have no fear – it’s also available to stream on Shudder. It takes a bit to get going, but its unsettling presentation is enough to forgive the slowness. This one is for you, fans of paranormal/zombie/demonic activity movies.
Honorable Mention: Creepshow
I love horror comedies, and Creepshow is a critical staple in this category. I wouldn’t feel right if I didn’t mention that Creepshow 2, Creepshow the series by Greg Nicotero, and Creepshow: The Animated Special are all streaming on Shudder. It’s best to stay caught up anyway, given that Creepshow season 4 should finally be upon us soon.
Enjoy your horror viewing, and let us know which was your favorite! Stream these movies and more on Shudder today.