20 Best Horror Movies of 2008
The films listed below include 2008 horror movies; including movies shown in movie theaters ranked in order of best to worst.
For released horror movies in movie theaters , Blu-ray/DVD , and On-Demand/VOD services like Netflix .
A quick rundown of some scary movies coming to movie theaters soon include . Full details for those new movies and more you can find here .
Box Office Performance for Horror Movies in 2008
| Rank | Movie Title | Release Date | Opening | Total Gross |
| 1 | The Mummy Tomb of the Dragon Emperor (2008) | Aug 01, 2008 | $40,457,770 | $102,491,776 |
| 2 | Cloverfield (2008) | Jan 18, 2008 | $40,058,229 | $80,048,433 |
| 3 | Hellboy II The Golden Army (2008) | Jul 11, 2008 | $34,539,115 | $75,986,503 |
| 4 | Saw V (2008) | Oct 24, 2008 | $30,053,954 | $56,746,769 |
| 5 | The Strangers (2008) | May 30, 2008 | $20,997,985 | $52,597,610 |
| 6 | Prom Night (2008) | Apr 11, 2008 | $20,804,941 | $43,869,350 |
| 7 | Quarantine (2008) | Oct 10, 2008 | $14,211,321 | $31,691,811 |
| 8 | The Eye (2008) | Feb 01, 2008 | $12,425,776 | $31,418,697 |
| 9 | Mirrors (2008) | Aug 15, 2008 | $11,161,074 | $30,691,439 |
| 10 | One Missed Call (2008) | Jan 04, 2008 | $12,511,473 | $26,890,041 |
Total Gross of All Movies $532,432,429
List of horror movies released in 2008 list sorted by popular, most voted, and alphabetical order. Check out which movie was the top grossing movie of 2008.
20 Best Horror Movies of 2008
20). Splinter (2008) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Honest Review: Splinter (2008)
Director: Toby Wilkins
Stars: Charles Baker, Jill Wagner, Paulo Costanzo, Shea Whigham, Rachel Kerbs
19). Mirrors (2008) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Detailed Review: Mirrors (2008)
Director: Alexandre Aja
Stars: Kiefer Sutherland, Paula Patton, Cameron Boyce, Arika Gluck, Amy Smart
18). The Strangers (2008) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Full Review of The Strangers (2008)
Director: Bryan Bertino
Stars: Alex Fisher, Peter Clayton-Luce, Scott Speedman, Liv Tyler, Gemma Ward
17). Sauna (2008) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Antti-Jussi Annila
Stars: Ville Virtanen, Tommi Eronen, Viktor Klimenko, Rain Tolk, Kari Ketonen
16). Lake Mungo (2008) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Lake Mungo Horror Movie Review
Director: Joel Anderson
Stars: Rosie Traynor, David Pledger, Martin Sharpe, Talia Zucker, Tania Lentini
15). Outlander (2008) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Our Take on Outlander (2008)
Director: Howard McCain
Stars: Jim Caviezel, Sophia Myles, Jack Huston, John Hurt, Cliff Saunders
14). Rule Number One (2008) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Kelvin Tong
Stars: Shawn Yue, Ekin Cheng, Stephanie Che, Renee Lee, Fung Ming Ng
13). Dead Space: Downfall (2008) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Exploring Dead Space: Downfall – Full Review
Director: Chuck Patton
Stars: Nika Futterman, Keith Szarabajka, Jim Cummings, Kevin Michael Richardson, Kelly Hu
12). Surveillance (2008) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Jennifer Lynch
Stars: Caroline Aaron, Hugh Dillon, David Gane, Gill Gayle, Kent Harper
11). 1920 (2008) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Vikram Bhatt
Stars: Rajniesh Duggall, Adah Sharma, Anjori Alagh, Raj Zutshi, Vipin Sharma
Top 10 Horror Movies 2008
10). Repo! The Genetic Opera (2008) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Darren Lynn Bousman
Stars: Alexa PenaVega, Paul Sorvino, Anthony Head, Sarah Brightman, Paris Hilton
9). Resident Evil: Degeneration (2008) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Detailed Review: Resident Evil: Degeneration (2008)
Director: Makoto Kamiya
Stars: Paul Mercier, Alyson Court, Laura Bailey, Roger Craig Smith, Crispin Freeman
8). Pontypool (2008) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Detailed Review: Pontypool (2008)
Director: Bruce McDonald
Stars: Stephen McHattie, Lisa Houle, Georgina Reilly, Hrant Alianak, Rick Roberts
7). 4bia (2008) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Directors: Banjong Pisanthanakun, Paween Purikitpanya, Yongyoot Thongkongtoon …
Stars: Maneerat Kham-uan, Witawat Singlampong, Apinya Sakuljaroensuk, Chon Wachananon, Nattapong Chartpong
6). Under the Salt (2008) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Mario Muñoz
Stars: Humberto Zurita, Plutarco Haza, Emilio Guerrero, Irene Azuela, Ricardo Polanco
5). Eden Lake (2008) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Exploring Eden Lake – Full Review
Director: James Watkins
Stars: Kelly Reilly, Michael Fassbender, Tara Ellis, Jack O`Connell, Jack O''Connell
4). Martyrs (2008) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
In-Depth Martyrs Review
Director: Pascal Laugier
Stars: Morjana Alaoui, Mylène Jampanoï, Catherine Bégin, Robert Toupin, Patricia Tulasne
3). Hellboy II: The Golden Army (2008) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Hellboy II: The Golden Army Horror Movie Review
Director: Guillermo del Toro
Stars: Ron Perlman, Selma Blair, Doug Jones, John Alexander, James Dodd
2). Cloverfield (2008) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
What We Thought of Cloverfield
Director: Matt Reeves
Stars: Lizzy Caplan, Jessica Lucas, T.J. Miller, Michael Stahl-David, Mike Vogel
1). Let the Right One in (Lat den ratte komma in) (2008) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Full Review of Let the Right One in (Lat den ratte komma in) (2008)
Director: Tomas Alfredson
Stars: Kåre Hedebrant, Lina Leandersson, Per Ragnar, Henrik Dahl, Karin Bergquist
Horror Movies of 2008 List
1). Let the Right One in (Lat den ratte komma in) (2008) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Full Review of Let the Right One in (Lat den ratte komma in) (2008)Director: Tomas Alfredson
Stars: Kåre Hedebrant, Lina Leandersson, Per Ragnar, Henrik Dahl, Karin Bergquist
2). Hellboy II: The Golden Army (2008) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Hellboy II: The Golden Army Horror Movie ReviewDirector: Guillermo del Toro
Stars: Ron Perlman, Selma Blair, Doug Jones, John Alexander, James Dodd
3). Lake Mungo (2008) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Lake Mungo Horror Movie ReviewDirector: Joel Anderson
Stars: Rosie Traynor, David Pledger, Martin Sharpe, Talia Zucker, Tania Lentini
4). Martyrs (2008) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
In-Depth Martyrs ReviewDirector: Pascal Laugier
Stars: Morjana Alaoui, Mylène Jampanoï, Catherine Bégin, Robert Toupin, Patricia Tulasne
5). Cloverfield (2008) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
What We Thought of CloverfieldDirector: Matt Reeves
Stars: Lizzy Caplan, Jessica Lucas, T.J. Miller, Michael Stahl-David, Mike Vogel
6). Eden Lake (2008) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Exploring Eden Lake – Full ReviewDirector: James Watkins
Stars: Kelly Reilly, Michael Fassbender, Tara Ellis, Jack O`Connell, Jack O''Connell
7). Tokyo Gore Police (2008) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Yoshihiro Nishimura
Stars: Eihi Shiina, Itsuji Itao, Yukihide Benny, Jiji Bû, Ikuko Sawada
8). Pontypool (2008) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Detailed Review: Pontypool (2008)Director: Bruce McDonald
Stars: Stephen McHattie, Lisa Houle, Georgina Reilly, Hrant Alianak, Rick Roberts
9). Baghead (2008) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Directors: Jay Duplass, Mark Duplass
Stars: Steve Zissis, Ross Partridge, Greta Gerwig, Elise Muller, Jett Garner
10). Splinter (2008) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Honest Review: Splinter (2008)Director: Toby Wilkins
Stars: Charles Baker, Jill Wagner, Paulo Costanzo, Shea Whigham, Rachel Kerbs
11). The Cottage (2008) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Paul Andrew Williams
Stars: Andy Serkis, Reece Shearsmith, Jennifer Ellison, Steven O''Donnell, James Bierman
12). Dance of the Dead (2008) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
What We Thought of Dance of the Dead
Director: Gregg Bishop
Stars: Jared Kusnitz, Greyson Chadwick, Chandler Darby, Carissa Capobianco, Randy McDowell
13). Dead Space: Downfall (2008) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Exploring Dead Space: Downfall – Full ReviewDirector: Chuck Patton
Stars: Nika Futterman, Keith Szarabajka, Jim Cummings, Kevin Michael Richardson, Kelly Hu
14). The Burrowers (2008) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Full Review of The Burrowers (2008)
Director: J.T. Petty
Stars: Clancy Brown, David Busse, Harley Coriz, Jocelin Donahue, Alexandra Edmo
15). I Sell the Dead (2008) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Full Review of I Sell the Dead (2008)
Director: Glenn McQuaid
Stars: Dominic Monaghan, Larry Fessenden, Angus Scrimm, Ron Perlman, Brenda Cooney
Exploring the Terrifying Horror Movies Released in 2008
Get ready to be spooked as we dive into the chilling world of horror movies released in 2008. This was a year that delivered a terrifying array of supernatural beings, psychological thrillers, and gory nightmares. From cult favorites to critically acclaimed gems, 2008 brought us some unforgettable horror experiences that are still haunting us to this day.
In this article, we will explore the most chilling and bone-chilling horror movies that unleashed terror in 2008. Whether you're a horror aficionado or just looking for a good scare, these films promise to keep you on the edge of your seat. Prepare yourself for jump scares, twisted plots, and moments that will make your blood run cold.
Join us as we journey through the dark corridors of 2008's horror releases. We'll discuss the iconic movies that defined the genre that year and delve into what made them so terrifyingly captivating. So grab your popcorn, turn down the lights, and get ready for a spine-tingling trip down memory lane.
Box office hits and critical successes of 2008
The year 2008 was a standout year for horror movies, with several box office hits and critically acclaimed films that left an indelible mark on the genre. One of the most notable success stories was "Cloverfield," a found-footage monster movie that captivated audiences with its unique perspective and pulse-pounding thrills. Directed by Matt Reeves, "Cloverfield" followed a group of young New Yorkers as they documented the sudden appearance of a colossal creature that unleashes chaos and destruction upon the city. The film's innovative approach to storytelling and its intense, cinéma vérité-style camerawork earned it widespread praise from critics and a respectable box office performance, grossing over $170 million worldwide.
Another box office hit that year was "The Strangers," a home invasion thriller directed by Bryan Bertino. Starring Liv Tyler and Scott Speedman, the film followed a young couple who are terrorized by a group of masked intruders in their secluded vacation home. "The Strangers" tapped into the primal fear of the unknown, delivering a tense and unsettling experience that resonated with audiences. The film's minimalist approach, combined with its strong performances and creepy antagonists, made it a standout horror release of 2008, earning over $82 million globally.
In addition to these commercial successes, 2008 also saw the release of several critically acclaimed horror films that elevated the genre. One such example was "Let the Right One In," a Swedish vampire film directed by Tomas Alfredson. Adapted from the novel of the same name, "Let the Right One In" told the story of a young boy named Oskar who befriends a mysterious girl named Eli, who turns out to be a centuries-old vampire. The film's poetic, atmospheric storytelling and its nuanced exploration of themes like loneliness and the nature of love earned it widespread critical acclaim, with many hailing it as one of the best vampire films in recent memory.
Iconic horror movies released in 2008
Among the most iconic horror movies released in 2008 was "Martyrs," a French psychological thriller directed by Pascal Laugier. The film followed a young woman named Lucie who, after escaping a horrific ordeal, seeks revenge on her captors. What unfolds is a deeply unsettling and visceral exploration of the nature of suffering and the limits of human endurance. "Martyrs" was praised for its unflinching depiction of violence and its philosophical exploration of the human condition, cementing its status as a modern horror classic.
Another iconic horror release of 2008 was "The Strangers," which not only found commercial success but also left a lasting impact on the genre. The film's minimalist approach, combined with its creepy antagonists and the sense of vulnerability it evoked in its protagonists, made it a standout entry in the home invasion subgenre. The Strangers' chilling premise and its refusal to provide easy answers or resolution resonated with audiences, solidifying its place as one of the most memorable horror films of the year.
One of the most talked-about horror movies of 2008 was "Trick 'r Treat," a horror anthology film directed by Michael Dougherty. The film interweaves several stories set on Halloween night, featuring a mysterious figure in a burlap sack mask who serves as a dark harbinger of the holiday's traditions. "Trick 'r Treat" was praised for its clever storytelling, its homage to classic horror tropes, and its ability to capture the spirit of Halloween. The film's unique structure and its memorable antagonist, Sam, have made it a beloved cult classic among horror fans.
Noteworthy performances in horror movies of 2008
The horror movies of 2008 were not only defined by their chilling narratives and innovative filmmaking but also by the standout performances of their casts. In "Cloverfield," the ensemble cast, led by Lizzy Caplan, Michael Stahl-David, and T.J . Miller, delivered convincing and relatable portrayals of ordinary people thrust into an extraordinary situation. Their performances, combined with the film's immersive found-footage style, created a sense of urgency and authenticity that heightened the overall terror of the experience.
In "Let the Right One In," the young actors Kåre Hedebrant and Lina Leandersson delivered nuanced and emotionally resonant performances as the central characters, Oskar and Eli. Their on-screen chemistry and the subtle, understated nature of their performances were instrumental in crafting the film's poignant exploration of loneliness, friendship, and the darker aspects of the human condition.
Another standout performance came from Liv Tyler in "The Strangers." As the film's protagonist, Kristen, Tyler conveyed a range of emotions, from initial vulnerability to a growing determination to survive. Her performance, coupled with the film's minimalist approach, created a palpable sense of dread and tension that kept audiences on the edge of their seats.
Underrated Gems of horror movies in 2008
While the horror genre in 2008 was dominated by several high-profile releases, there were also a number of underrated gems that deserve recognition. One such film was "Pontypool," a Canadian horror-thriller directed by Bruce McDonald. The film took a unique approach to the zombie genre, focusing on a small-town radio DJ who becomes embroiled in a strange outbreak that spreads through language. "Pontypool" was praised for its innovative premise, its atmospheric tension, and its thought-provoking exploration of the power of communication.
Another underrated gem from 2008 was "Splinter," a creature feature directed by Toby Wilkins. The film followed a young couple who, while on a camping trip, become trapped in a gas station by a parasitic entity that transforms its hosts into horrific, spike-covered creatures. "Splinter" stood out for its creative creature design, its taut pacing, and its effective use of claustrophobic tension to heighten the sense of dread and danger.
"The Strangers" may have been a box office hit, but another home invasion thriller from 2008 deserves recognition as an underrated gem: "Funny Games." Directed by Michael Haneke, the film was a remake of Haneke's own 1997 Austrian film of the same name. "Funny Games" followed a family who are taken hostage by a pair of polite but sad**tic young men, leading to a brutal and unsettling exploration of violence and the nature of spectatorship. The film's meta-textual elements and its refusal to provide easy answers or catharsis made it a challenging but rewarding viewing experience for those willing to engage with its provocative themes.
Unique themes and storylines in horror movies of 2008
The horror movies of 2008 not only delivered thrills and scares but also explored a range of unique and thought-provoking themes. One of the most notable examples was "Let the Right One In," which used the vampire genre as a vehicle to explore themes of loneliness, bullying, and the complexities of human relationships. The film's slow-burning pace and its focus on the emotional lives of its characters set it apart from more conventional vampire narratives, creating a deeply moving and unsettling viewing experience.
Another film that delved into unique thematic territory was "Martyrs," which grappled with the nature of suffering, the limits of human endurance, and the search for meaning in the face of extreme trauma. The film's unflinching depiction of violence and its exploration of the philosophical implications of its premise made it a challenging but rewarding experience for viewers willing to engage with its deeper themes.
"Trick 'r Treat" also stood out for its innovative approach to the horror anthology format, weaving together multiple stories that explored the traditions and folklore surrounding Halloween. The film's use of the holiday as a backdrop allowed it to explore themes of community, ritual, and the consequences of breaking social taboos, all while delivering a delightfully spooky and entertaining experience.
Impact of horror movies in 2008 on the genre
The horror movies released in 2008 had a significant impact on the genre, both in terms of their immediate influence and their lasting legacy. Films like "Cloverfield" and "The Strangers" demonstrated the continued commercial viability of the horror genre, proving that audiences were hungry for innovative and suspenseful stories that could deliver genuine scares.
The critical acclaim and cultural impact of films like "Let the Right One In" and "Martyrs" also highlighted the potential for horror to be a vehicle for deeper, more nuanced explorations of the human condition. These films challenged the perception of horror as a purely superficial or exploitative genre, showcasing the medium's ability to grapple with complex philosophical and emotional themes.
The success of these films also paved the way for a new generation of horror filmmakers to emerge, who would go on to push the boundaries of the genre in the years that followed. The unique storytelling approaches, memorable characters, and thematic depth of the 2008 horror releases inspired and influenced subsequent filmmakers, leading to a renaissance in the genre that continues to this day.
Legacy and lasting impact of horror movies released in 2008
The horror movies released in 2008 have left an indelible mark on the genre, with their influence and legacy continuing to be felt in the years that followed. Films like "Cloverfield" and "The Strangers" have become modern horror classics, inspiring countless imitations and homages that seek to capture the same sense of visceral terror and suspense.
The critical acclaim and cultural impact of "Let the Right One In" and "Martyrs" have also had a lasting effect on the genre, demonstrating the potential for horror to be a vehicle for deeper, more nuanced storytelling. These films have inspired a new generation of filmmakers to push the boundaries of what is possible within the horror genre, leading to a wave of thought-provoking and artistically ambitious horror films in the years since.
The legacy of the 2008 horror releases can also be seen in the continued popularity and relevance of the films themselves. "Trick 'r Treat," for example, has become a beloved cult classic, with its unique approach to the horror anthology format and its memorable antagonist, Sam, inspiring a devoted following among horror fans. The film's enduring popularity has led to the development of a sequel, further cementing its place in the pantheon of iconic horror movies.
Cultural and societal influences on horror movies in 2008
The horror movies released in 2008 were not just products of the filmmakers' creative visions but also reflections of the cultural and societal forces that shaped the time. The global financial crisis of 2008, for instance, may have influenced the themes of vulnerability and the fragility of the human condition that were explored in films like "The Strangers" and "Martyrs."
The growing awareness and discussion of mental health issues in the early 21st century may have also played a role in the development of films like "Pontypool," which explored the psychological and linguistic aspects of a terrifying outbreak. Similarly, the ongoing debates around violence and the media's role in shaping public discourse may have informed the meta-textual elements of "Funny Games" and its examination of the nature of spectatorship.
The cultural and social climate of the time also likely influenced the popularity and resonance of certain horror tropes and subgenres. The continued fascination with found-footage and monster movies, as seen in "Cloverfield," may have been a response to the anxieties and uncertainties of the post-9/11 world, where the threat of the unknown loomed large in the public consciousness.
Conclusion: Reflecting on the horror movies of 2008
The horror movies released in 2008 were a testament to the versatility and enduring appeal of the genre. From box office hits like "Cloverfield" and "The Strangers" to critically acclaimed gems like "Let the Right One In" and "Martyrs," the year delivered a diverse array of films that pushed the boundaries of what was possible within the horror medium.
These films not only provided thrilling and spine-tingling experiences for audiences but also explored a range of unique and thought-provoking themes. They grappled with the complexities of human relationships, the nature of suffering and violence, and the cultural and societal forces that shape our collective fears and anxieties.
The legacy of the 2008 horror releases continues to be felt today, with their influence inspiring and shaping the work of subsequent filmmakers. The innovative storytelling approaches, memorable characters, and thematic depth of these films have cemented their place in the pantheon of horror classics, ensuring that they will continue to captivate and terrify audiences for generations to come.
As we look back on the horror movies of 2008, we are reminded of the power of the genre to not only entertain but also to challenge, provoke, and ultimately, to reveal something profound about the human experience. These films stand as a testament to the enduring appeal of the horror genre and the boundless creativity and talent of the filmmakers who continue to push the boundaries of what is possible in the realm of cinematic terror.
24 List of 2008 Horror Films Worth Watching!
Looking for the best 2008 horror movies? Included in our best horror movies of 2008 list are "Let the Right One in (Lat den ratte komma in) (2008), Hellboy II: The Golden Army (2008), Lake Mungo (2008), Martyrs (2008), and Cloverfield (2008)." Our top list is an average of our review scores, our movie fans and movie viewers like you, and a few other sources.
The best horror film of 2008 is Let the Right One in (Lat den ratte komma in) (2008) scoring 8.39/10 stars with our combined scores. IMDB already has over 233,400 votes for this movie. Starring in Let the Right One in (Lat den ratte komma in) (2008) is Kåre Hedebrant, Lina Leandersson, Per Ragnar, Henrik Dahl, and Karin Bergquist. Director Tomas Alfredson did a phenomenal job treating us with this 2008 best horror film which was remarkable.Let the Right One in (Lat den ratte komma in) (2008) is in Horror, Drama, Fantasy, Crime, and Romance movie genres.
The next best 2008 horror movie is Hellboy II: The Golden Army (2008) with a score of 7.52/10 stars.
Ron Perlman, Selma Blair, Doug Jones, John Alexander, and James Dodd star in "Hellboy II: The Golden Army (2008)". Hellboy II: The Golden Army (2008) is directed by Guillermo del Toro and has over 293,820 IMDB votes. You can find Hellboy II: The Golden Army (2008) in Horror, Sci-Fi, Action, Fantasy, and Adventure movie genres.
These are the best horror films of 2008, and we hope you enjoy the 129 movies on our list of good 2008 horror movies sorted best to worst.
Please let us know if there is a movie that you think belongs on our list that we missed.