Hi all!

What a spooky year it has been! Today I am sharing my five favourite horror movies of the year. 2025 delivered some excellent and terrifying films. However, these were the best of the best. Without further ado, let’s get into it!

1.) The Rule of Jenny Pen 

The Rule of Jenny Pen is absolutely my favourite horror movie of 2025. It was released in 2024 in some parts of the world, but in Australia, it hit cinemas earlier this year. The performances from both Geoffrey Rush and John Lithgow were phenomenal. I couldn’t tell you who did a better job. Watching the events of this film unfold, felt like a fever dream. I was mesmerised from start to finish. You never quite knew where it was going to go next, or how low the character of Dave Crealy would stoop. If you’re expecting blood, gore and jumpscares, look elsewhere. The horror stems purely from the psychological torment. This slow-burn can feel almost uncomfortable at times. I felt as helpless as Stefan in that wheelchair. In fact, that was whole point. The intended message was to shine a light on the mistreatment and abuse of elderly people. Mission accomplished! Also, I have a strong love for creepy dolls and puppets. Jenny Pen was just as unnerving as her master. I loved the look of her – simple, yet eerie. Nothing even came close to topping this masterpiece. I wish it was talked about more. 

2.) Companion

Companion is a perfect movie. I genuinely could not fault it. I enjoyed every aspect of the film from start to finish. There was a generous amount of gore, violence and blood, balanced with pretty visuals, a pink colour grading and a rom-com undertone. It reminded me of Fresh from 2022 – a feature as light-hearted, as it was vicious. The reflection of human nature is undeniable. If the world actually had access to this type of technology, users would abuse it for their own ends. In terms of performances, they were all top-notch. Even the villains were likeable. I wanted them to remain alive for as long as possible. However, Sophie Thatcher was the standout. I find her very versatile as an actor and captivating to watch. Companion was perfectly paced, full of plot-twists and an excellent horror comedy I can see everyone enjoying.

3.) Frankenstein 

In third place, we have Frankenstein. This story has always meant a lot to me. I love the book by Mary Shelley, the Boris Karloff version and the comedic parody by Mel Brooks. Del Toro executed his vision for this horror classic perfectly. It was so beautiful to look at and experience. I found this retelling to be quite heartwrenching. It really begs the question: who is the real Monster? Jacob Elordi’s performance was phenonemal. You could see the actual pain in his eyes when he was left for dead by Victor. I found myself getting caught up in the costume design, cinematography, score and makeup. It’s long but I didn’t feel the runtime at all. There was so much to take in and I cannot wait to watch it again. 

4.) Sinners

In fourth place, we have Sinners. Up until last month, it was third on my list, but Frankenstein just edged it out. This movie is equal parts sexy, seductive and powerful. The black history of music scene is a cinematic masterpiece. That moment brought tears to my eyes. Make no mistake, this drama horror is all about vampires. Bloodsuckers may have been done to death but Sinners takes it in a more zombie-esque direction. There were elements that strongly reminded me of Queen of the Damned – the way music can bring a person to life, yet also call the darkness. What really stole the show however, was the performance from Michael B. Jordan. The way he was able to play two very distinct twin brothers; giving them each their own personality. You knew who was who simply in the way they held themselves. From a horror perspective, it was bloody, gritty and downright sensual. The entire film takes place over one day and night, but don’t forget to stick around for a special mid-credit scene. Overall, this is a story about slavery, black oppression and community. Its message runs deep. No matter how much white people have tried to break the black spirit since the dawn of time, they’ve never been able to break their soul. 

5.) The Long Walk 

Last, but not least, we have The Long Walk. I’m so glad, yet surprised it made my top five of 2025. I truly believe it works better as a film. There were some creative decisions I really appreciated. For one, it was directed by Francis Lawrence (The Hunger Games). What better person to tackle a game of death story? He really brought Stephen King’s vision to life. He also didn’t cut corners with the brutality. Secondly, they reduced the number of participants from 100 to 50. That was a great choice. I always thought 100 was too much. 50 not only gave the boys more motivation to compete (after all, it ups their odds of winning) but it quickens the pace – an issue I had whilst reading the book. It was also easier to keep track of everybody. Thirdly, the movitation behind Garraty‘s participation made a lot more sense to me. In the novel, we learn that Garrarty’s father was taken away by the squad. In the movie, we actually see him get shot in front of his son. For that, I was able to buy into Ray’s rationale. Finally, what I appreciated the most, was the ending. Instead of Garraty being the last man standing, it was my beloved McVries. I loved this interpretation. It was a lot less ambiguous, proving the nature of the game will eventually try to stamp out whatever hope someone has left.  It’s bleak but the bonds of brotherhood were beautiful. 

Thank you so much for reading! What were your favourite horror movies of the year? 

Peace & Love xoxo