Retro-inspired horror movies…
Whether you’re a die-hard horror fan, a lover of spooky tales, or just someone who appreciates a good vintage vibe, this list is for you. No shade to the horror blockbusters of the past, but this list of retro-aesthetic horror movies doesn’t actually include movies that were made in the era of Halloween, The Exorcist, or Nightmare on Elm Street – instead, this list is made up of movies that harken back to those best-of vintage horror vibes but were made in the last decade or so.
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Modern horror, vintage vibes.
I’ve collected 17 modern horror movies that have nailed that retro aesthetic, blending the best of the past with contemporary scares. From haunting synth soundtracks to throwback fashion, these films are a perfect mix of old and new.
Check out this list of retro-inspired horror movies, I hope you find a new horror favorite!
1. It Follows (2014)
Director: David Robert Mitchell
Stars: Maika Monroe, Keir Gilchrist, Olivia Luccardi
Plot
A young woman is relentlessly pursued by a supernatural entity after a sexual encounter. To escape, she must pass the curse to someone else. The film’s ambiguous setting, blending vintage cars, classic horror tropes, and modern technology, creates a timelessly eerie atmosphere.
Retro Elements
The mix of retro and modern technology, old cars, and vintage fashion styles creates a disorienting, timeless feel.
Why I Like It
The unique concept and the retro vibe that isn’t tied to a specific era. I always love a horror movie that’s unique without being too cerebral. It’s fast-paced enough to keep it interesting but slow-burn enough to build tension and keep you in suspense.
Watch this if you like
“Halloween” (1978)
“A Nightmare on Elm Street” (1984)
Trailer
2. The House of the Devil (2009)
Director: Ti West
Stars: Jocelin Donahue, Tom Noonan, Mary Woronov
Plot
A college student takes a babysitting job at a remote house, only to discover that the family harbors a terrifying secret. The film meticulously recreates the style and atmosphere of 1980s horror.
Retro Elements
Authentic 80s vibe with period-accurate props, costumes, and a slow-building tension typical of the era’s horror films.
Why I Like It
The film’s dedication to capturing the look and feel of 80s horror is impressive. It’s a slow-burn that pays off with genuine scares, making it a nostalgic yet fresh experience.
Watch this if you like
“The Amityville Horror” (1979)
“Fright Night” (1985)
Watch the Trailer
3. Stranger Things (2016-Present)
Directors: The Duffer Brothers
Stars: Winona Ryder, David Harbour, Millie Bobby Brown
Yes, I know… it’s not a movie. It’s a TV show. But it’s hard for me to think of a spooky retro watchlist that doesn’t include the vibes that Stranger Things brings to the table.
Plot
A group of kids in the 1980s uncovers supernatural occurrences in their small town while searching for their missing friend. The series masterfully blends nostalgic elements with compelling storytelling.
Retro Elements
The show is steeped in 80s culture, from its music and fashion to its homage to 80s films and television.
Why I Like It
The blend of 80s nostalgia with supernatural elements makes it incredibly fun to watch. The characters are endearing, and the plot keeps you hooked with its twists and turns. If you’re looking for a retro-inspired horror movie but you don’t want to commit to the 2-hour timeline, this show is a great episodic alternative.
Watch this if you like
“E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” (1982)
“The Goonies” (1985)
Trailer
4. The Guest (2014)
Director: Adam Wingard
Stars: Dan Stevens, Maika Monroe, Sheila Kelley
Plot
A mysterious soldier visits the family of a fallen comrade, but his presence soon brings deadly consequences. The film’s synth-heavy soundtrack and retro costumes give it a distinct 80s action thriller feel.
Retro Elements
Synth-heavy soundtrack, retro costumes, and a plot reminiscent of 80s action thrillers.
Why I Like It
The blend of intense action and retro style makes this film both thrilling and visually captivating. Dan Stevens delivers a magnetic performance that really draws you in.
Watch this if you like
“The Terminator” (1984)
“Drive” (2011)
Trailer
5. Beyond the Black Rainbow (2010)
Director: Panos Cosmatos
Stars: Eva Bourne, Michael Rogers, Scott Hylands
Plot
In a mysterious research facility, a young woman with unusual abilities struggles to escape her captor. The film’s psychedelic visuals and retro-futuristic setting evoke the science fiction and horror of the 1970s and 1980s.
Retro Elements
Psychedelic visuals, retro-futuristic setting, and an atmosphere reminiscent of 70s and 80s sci-fi horror.
Why I Like It
Its haunting atmosphere and unique visual style make it perfect for fans of retro-futuristic horror. The film is a surreal journey that’s as visually striking as it is unsettling.
Watch this if you like
“2001: A Space Odyssey” (1968)
“THX 1138” (1971)
Trailer
6. The Void (2016)
Directors: Jeremy Gillespie, Steven Kostanski
Stars: Aaron Poole, Kenneth Welsh, Daniel Fathers
Plot
When a police officer discovers a blood-soaked man on a deserted road, he takes him to a nearby hospital, where they face nightmarish creatures and a mysterious cult. The film’s practical effects and Lovecraftian themes are clear nods to 1980s horror.
Retro Elements
Practical effects, Lovecraftian themes, and a setting that feels straight out of 80s horror.
Why I Like It
The film’s gory practical effects and unsettling atmosphere make it a must-watch for horror fans. It’s a gruesome, thrilling experience that keeps you guessing.
Watch this if you like
“The Thing” (1982)
“Hellraiser” (1987)
Trailer
7. Summer of 84 (2018)
Directors: François Simard, Anouk Whissell, Yoann-Karl Whissell
Stars: Graham Verchere, Judah Lewis, Caleb Emery
Plot
A group of teenage friends suspect that their neighbor is a serial killer and decide to investigate during their summer break. Set in the 1980s, the film captures the era’s suburban life and paranoia.
Retro Elements
80s suburban setting, complete with period-accurate fashion, music, and cultural references.
Why I Like It
The film captures the essence of 80s suburban life while delivering a suspenseful and engaging plot. It’s a perfect mix of nostalgia and mystery.
Watch this if you like
“Stand by Me” (1986)
“Disturbia” (2007)
Trailer
8. Cooties (2014)
Directors: Jonathan Milott, Cary Murnion
Stars: Elijah Wood, Rainn Wilson, Alison Pill
Plot
A mysterious virus turns elementary school children into savage killers, and a group of teachers must band together to survive. The film’s setting and character dynamics evoke classic high school movies, with a horror twist.
Retro Elements
School setting reminiscent of 80s and 90s teen comedies, with a horror twist.
Why I Like It
The combination of horror and humor set in a school setting makes for a fun, entertaining film. It’s a refreshing take on the zombie genre with plenty of laughs and scares.
Watch this if you like
“The Faculty” (1998)
“Shaun of the Dead” (2004)
Trailer
9. We Are Still Here (2015)
Director: Ted Geoghegan
Stars: Barbara Crampton, Andrew Sensenig, Lisa Marie
Plot
A grieving couple moves to a rural house, only to discover it harbors dark secrets and vengeful spirits. Set in the 1970s, the film uses vintage horror techniques and period-accurate design to great effect.
Retro Elements
1970s setting with vintage horror techniques, including practical effects and atmospheric tension.
Why I Like It
The film’s eerie atmosphere and vintage horror style make it a captivating watch. It’s a chilling haunted house story that feels like a lost classic from the 70s.
Watch this if you like
“The Changeling” (1980)
“The Fog” (1980)
Trailer
10. The Love Witch (2016)
Director: Anna Biller
Stars: Samantha Robinson, Jeffrey Vincent Parise, Laura Waddell
Plot
A modern-day witch uses spells and magic to find true love, with deadly consequences. The film’s visual style, costumes, and dialogue are meticulously crafted to mimic 1960s and 70s horror and melodrama.
Retro Elements
1960s and 70s visual style, with period-accurate costumes, sets, and Technicolor-inspired cinematography.
Why I Like It
The meticulous recreation of 60s and 70s aesthetics combined with a darkly comedic plot makes this film both visually stunning and highly entertaining.
Watch this if you like
“Bell, Book and Candle” (1958)
“Daisies” (1966)
Trailer
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11. Overlord (2018)
Director: Julius Avery
Stars: Jovan Adepo, Wyatt Russell, Mathilde Ollivier
Plot
On the eve of D-Day, American paratroopers discover a Nazi experiment that turns people into zombies. The film combines WWII action with horror elements, reminiscent of 80s war and horror films.
Retro Elements
WWII setting with practical effects and a story that feels like an 80s action-horror hybrid.
Why I Like It
“Overlord” delivers high-octane action with a terrifying horror twist, all set against the backdrop of WWII. It’s a thrilling ride that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Watch this if you like
“Re-Animator” (1985)
“Dead Snow” (2009)
Trailer
12. The Conjuring 2 (2016)
Director: James Wan
Stars: Vera Farmiga, Patrick Wilson, Madison Wolfe
Plot
Paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren travel to London to help a single mother and her children plagued by a malevolent spirit. Set in the 1970s, the film’s period detail and meticulously recreated 70s setting create a deeply immersive and chilling experience.
Retro Elements
Meticulously recreated 1970s setting, with period-accurate costumes, decor, and soundtrack.
Why I Like It
I’m a bit of a sucker for all of the conjuring movies, but I do really like the 2nd and 3rd the most. The Conjuring 2 really captures that retro 70s vibe in rainy England. The Warrens’ story is always compelling and adds a human touch to the terror.
Watch this if you like
“The Exorcist” (1973)
“Poltergeist” (1982)
Trailer
13. The Blackcoat’s Daughter (2015)
Director: Osgood Perkins
Stars: Emma Roberts, Kiernan Shipka, Lucy Boynton
Plot
Two girls left alone at their boarding school over winter break face a sinister force. The film’s slow-burn horror and timeless, vintage atmosphere create a deeply unsettling experience.
Retro Elements
Timeless, vintage atmosphere with a slow-burn horror style that feels reminiscent of older psychological horror films.
Why I Like It
Its eerie, atmospheric setting and psychological depth make it a standout in modern horror. The tension builds slowly and methodically, pulling you in with every scene.
Watch this if you like
“Suspiria” (1977)
“Let the Right One In” (2008)
Trailer
14. Suspiria (2018)
Director: Luca Guadagnino
Stars: Dakota Johnson, Tilda Swinton, Mia Goth
Plot
A young dancer joins a prestigious dance academy in Berlin, only to discover it hides dark and supernatural secrets. This remake retains the 1970s Berlin setting of the original, with period-accurate visuals and a haunting, retro-inspired score.
Retro Elements
1970s Berlin setting, period-accurate visuals, and a retro-inspired score.
Why I Like It
The film’s rich, atmospheric horror and stunning period details make it a worthy homage to the original. It’s both beautiful and disturbing, a true feast for the senses.
Watch this if you like
“Suspiria” (1977)
“Mother!” (2017)
Trailer
15. The Editor (2014)
Directors: Adam Brooks, Matthew Kennedy
Stars: Paz de la Huerta, Adam Brooks, Matthew Kennedy
Plot
A film editor becomes the prime suspect in a series of gruesome murders. The movie is a loving spoof of 1970s and 1980s giallo films (Italian horror/thriller movies), complete with stylized violence, vivid colors, and a retro soundtrack.
Retro Elements
Stylized violence, vivid colors, and a retro soundtrack reminiscent of 70s and 80s giallo films.
Why I Like It
Its playful homage to giallo films and vibrant retro style make it a fun and visually striking watch. It’s a loving parody that doesn’t take itself too seriously, but be prepared it definitely isn’t for everyone.
Watch this if you like
“Deep Red” (1975)
“The Bird with the Crystal Plumage” (1970)
Trailer
16. Mandy (2018)
Director: Panos Cosmatos
Stars: Nicolas Cage, Andrea Riseborough, Linus Roache
Plot
In the 1980s, a couple’s peaceful life is shattered by a cult led by a sadistic leader. The husband embarks on a violent rampage of revenge. “Mandy” combines revenge thriller elements with psychedelic horror, creating a visually and emotionally intense experience.
Retro Elements
1980s setting with intense, psychedelic visuals and a synth-heavy score.
Why I Like It
Its intense visuals, unique story, and retro setting make it a memorable and immersive experience. Plus, Nicolas Cage delivers one of his most unforgettable performances. I’m not sure there’s a type of movie he hasn’t done at this point – the man is versatile.
Watch this if you like
“Heavy Metal” (1981)
“Hellraiser” (1987)
Trailer
17. Pearl (2022)
Director: Ti West
Stars: Mia Goth, David Corenswet, Tandi Wright
Plot
Set in 1918, “Pearl” follows the titular character as she dreams of a more glamorous life while dealing with the isolation of her rural existence. As her aspirations grow darker, so does her grip on reality. The film bridges early 20th-century aesthetics with classic horror elements, providing a unique period horror experience.
Retro Elements
Early 20th-century setting with classic horror elements and period-accurate details.
Why I Like It
The film’s rich period detail and psychological depth create a haunting and visually stunning story. It’s a beautiful, tragic, and chilling look into a character’s descent into madness.
Watch this if you like
“The Witch” (2015)
“Crimson Peak” (2015)
Trailer
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