20 Best Horror Movies of 2009
The films listed below include 2009 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 2009
| Rank | Movie Title | Release Date | Opening | Total Gross |
| 1 | The Final Destination (2009) | Aug 28, 2009 | $27,408,309 | $66,477,700 |
| 2 | Friday the 13th (2009) | Feb 13, 2009 | $40,570,365 | $65,002,019 |
| 3 | My Bloody Valentine 3-D (2009) | Jan 16, 2009 | $21,241,456 | $51,545,952 |
| 4 | The Unborn (2009) | Jan 09, 2009 | $19,810,585 | $42,670,410 |
| 5 | Drag Me to Hell (2009) | May 29, 2009 | $15,825,480 | $42,100,625 |
| 6 | Orphan (2009) | Jul 24, 2009 | $12,871,483 | $41,596,251 |
| 7 | H2 Halloween 2 (2009) | Aug 28, 2009 | $16,349,565 | $33,392,973 |
| 8 | The Uninvited (2009) | Jan 30, 2009 | $10,325,824 | $28,596,818 |
| 9 | Saw VI (2009) | Oct 23, 2009 | $14,118,444 | $27,693,292 |
| 10 | Jennifers Body (2009) | Sep 18, 2009 | $6,868,397 | $16,204,793 |
Total Gross of All Movies $415,280,833
List of horror movies released in 2009 list sorted by popular, most voted, and alphabetical order. Check out which movie was the top grossing movie of 2009.
20 Best Horror Movies of 2009
20). The Revenant (2009) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: D. Kerry Prior
Stars: David Anders, Chris Wylde, Louise Griffiths, Jacy King, Eric Payne
19). The House of the Devil (2009) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Read Our The House of the Devil Review
Director: Ti West
Stars: Jocelin Donahue, Tom Noonan, Mary Woronov, Greta Gerwig, AJ Bowen
18). Dead Snow (Dod Sno) (2009) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Exploring Dead Snow (Dod Sno) – Full Review
Director: Tommy Wirkola
Stars: Vegar Hoel, Stig Frode Henriksen, Charlotte Frogner, Lasse Valdal, Evy Kasseth Røsten
17). The Collector (2009) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
The Collector Horror Movie Review
Director: Marcus Dunstan
Stars: William Prael, Diane Ayala Goldner, Juan Fernández, Josh Stewart, Michael Reilly Burke
16). The Uninvited (2009) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
The Uninvited (2009) Review
Directors: Charles Guard, Thomas Guard
Stars: Emily Browning, Arielle Kebbel, David Strathairn, Elizabeth Banks, Maya Massar
15). Lo (2009) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Lo (2009) Review
Director: Travis Betz
Stars: Jeremiah Birkett, Sarah Lassez, Ward Roberts, Devin Barry, Aaron Gaffey
14). Macabre (2009) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Directors: Kimo Stamboel, Timo Tjahjanto
Stars: Shareefa Daanish, Julie Estelle, Ario Bayu, Sigi Wimala, Arifin Putra
13). Daybreakers (2009) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Read Our Daybreakers Review
Directors: Michael Spierig, Peter Spierig
Stars: Harriet Minto-Day, Jay Laga''aia, Damien Garvey, Sahaj Dumpleton, Allan Todd
12). Occult (2009) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Kôji Shiraishi
Stars: Mika Azuma, Horiken, Kôen Kondô, Shinobu Kuribayashi, Kiyoshi Kurosawa
11). [Rec] 2 (2009) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
[Rec] 2 Horror Movie Review![[Rec] 2 poster](https://hellhorror.com/cdn-cgi/image/w=100,h=150,q=50,fit=crop,f=auto/images/inTheaters/origs/d56ab-rec-2-2009-poster.jpg)
Directors: Jaume Balagueró, Paco Plaza
Stars: Jonathan D. Mellor, Óscar Zafra, Ariel Casas, Alejandro Casaseca, Pablo Rosso
Top 10 Horror Movies 2009
10). The Last House on the Left (2009) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Honest Review: The Last House on the Left (2009)
Director: Dennis Iliadis
Stars: Garret Dillahunt, Michael Bowen, Josh Coxx, Riki Lindhome, Aaron Paul
9). Antichrist (2009) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
In-Depth Antichrist Review
Director: Lars von Trier
Stars: Willem Dafoe, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Storm Acheche Sahlstrøm
8). The Forbidden Door (2009) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Joko Anwar
Stars: Fachry Albar, Marsha Timothy, Ario Bayu, Tio Pakusadewo, Verdi Solaiman
7). The Loved Ones (2009) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
What We Thought of The Loved Ones
Director: Sean Byrne
Stars: Xavier Samuel, Robin McLeavy, John Brumpton, Richard Wilson, Victoria Thaine
6). Drag Me to Hell (2009) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Our Take on Drag Me to Hell (2009)
Director: Sam Raimi
Stars: Alison Lohman, Justin Long, Lorna Raver, Dileep Rao, David Paymer
5). Pandorum (2009) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Full Review of Pandorum (2009)
Director: Christian Alvart
Stars: Dennis Quaid, Ben Foster, Cam Gigandet, Antje Traue, Cung Le
4). Tales of the Black Freighter (2009) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Directors: Daniel DelPurgatorio, Mike Smith
Stars: Gerard Butler, Jared Harris, Lori Tritel, Siobhan Flynn, Salli Saffioti
3). Orphan (2009) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Our Take on Orphan (2009)
Director: Jaume Collet-Serra
Stars: Vera Farmiga, Peter Sarsgaard, Isabelle Fuhrman, CCH Pounder, Jimmy Bennett
2). Thirst (2009) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Honest Review: Thirst (2009)
Director: Chan-wook Park
Stars: Kang-ho Song, Hee-jin Choi, Dong-soo Seo, Hwa-ryong Lee, Mi-ran Ra
1). Zombieland (2009) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Zombieland Horror Movie Review
Director: Ruben Fleischer
Stars: Jesse Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson, Emma Stone, Abigail Breslin, Amber Heard
Horror Movies of 2009 List
1). Zombieland (2009) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Zombieland Horror Movie ReviewDirector: Ruben Fleischer
Stars: Jesse Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson, Emma Stone, Abigail Breslin, Amber Heard
2). Thirst (2009) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Honest Review: Thirst (2009)Director: Chan-wook Park
Stars: Kang-ho Song, Hee-jin Choi, Dong-soo Seo, Hwa-ryong Lee, Mi-ran Ra
3). Drag Me to Hell (2009) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Our Take on Drag Me to Hell (2009)Director: Sam Raimi
Stars: Alison Lohman, Justin Long, Lorna Raver, Dileep Rao, David Paymer
4). Cropsey (2009) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Directors: Barbara Brancaccio, Joshua Zeman
Stars: Joshua Zeman, Barbara Brancaccio, Bill Ellis, Dorothy D''Eletto, Geraldo Rivera
5). The Loved Ones (2009) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
What We Thought of The Loved OnesDirector: Sean Byrne
Stars: Xavier Samuel, Robin McLeavy, John Brumpton, Richard Wilson, Victoria Thaine
6). Amer (2009) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Directors: Hélène Cattet, Bruno Forzani
Stars: Cassandra Forêt, Charlotte Eugène Guibeaud, Marie Bos, Biancamaria D''Amato, Harry Cleven
7). The House of the Devil (2009) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Read Our The House of the Devil ReviewDirector: Ti West
Stars: Jocelin Donahue, Tom Noonan, Mary Woronov, Greta Gerwig, AJ Bowen
8). Tony (2009) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Gerard Johnson
Stars: Peter Ferdinando, Greg Kam, Ricky Grover, Kerryann White, Eddie Johnson
9). Wake Wood (2009) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: David Keating
Stars: Aidan Gillen, Eva Birthistle, Timothy Spall, Ella Connolly, Ruth McCabe
10). Book of Blood (2009) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Full Review of Book of Blood (2009)
Director: John Harrison
Stars: Jonas Armstrong, Sophie Ward, Clive Russell, Paul Blair, Romana Abercromby
11). The Eclipse (2009) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Conor McPherson
Stars: Billy Roche, Eanna Hardwicke, Hannah Lynch, Ciarán Hinds, Mac
12). Salvage (2009) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Lawrence Gough
Stars: Neve McIntosh, Shaun Dooley, Dean Andrews, Linzey Cocker, Trevor Hancock
13). Lo (2009) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Lo (2009) ReviewDirector: Travis Betz
Stars: Jeremiah Birkett, Sarah Lassez, Ward Roberts, Devin Barry, Aaron Gaffey
14). Laid to Rest (2009) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Robert Hall
Stars: Bobbi Sue Luther, Kevin Gage, Lena Headey, Sean Whalen, Richard Lynch
15). Heartless (2009) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Philip Ridley
Stars: Jim Sturgess, Luke Treadaway, Clémence Poésy, Justin Salinger, Fraser Ayres
Exploring the Best Horror Movies Released in 2009
Are you a horror movie enthusiast looking for a chilling scare? Look no further than the year 2009, which saw the release of some of the best horror films that still manage to send shivers down the spine. From psychological thrillers to supernatural horrors, this was a year that offered a diverse range of terrifying delights for fans of the genre.
In 2009, horror lovers were treated to acclaimed films such as "Paranormal Activity," a found footage-style film that terrified audiences with its simple yet effective scares. Another standout was "Drag Me to Hell," directed by the master of horror, Sam Raimi. This darkly comedic yet creepy tale had viewers on the edge of their seats.
If you prefer psychological horror, "Orphan" took audiences on a twisted journey as a couple adopts a seemingly innocent girl with a hidden and sinister past. And let's not forget "Zombieland," a unique blend of horror and comedy that became an instant favorite.
Whether you're a die-hard horror fan or just looking for a good scare, 2009 had something for everyone. Let's take a closer look at the best horror movies released that year and dive into a world of fright and suspense.
Overview of the year 2009 in horror cinema
The year 2009 marked a significant turning point in the horror genre, with a diverse array of films that captivated and terrified audiences worldwide. This was a year that saw the rise of found footage horror, the return of iconic directors, and the emergence of unique takes on classic horror tropes. From the chilling supernatural thrills of "Paranormal Activity" to the darkly comedic delights of "Zombieland," 2009 offered something for every horror enthusiast.
What made this year so remarkable was the sheer variety of horror films that hit the big screen. Audiences were treated to a wide range of subgenres, from psychological thrillers like "Orphan" to the visually stunning and controversial "Antichrist." The horror landscape was further enriched by the return of beloved directors, such as Sam Raimi with "Drag Me to Hell," and the introduction of fresh perspectives from international filmmakers like Park Chan-wook's "Thirst."
The success of these films not only captivated audiences but also pushed the boundaries of the genre, challenging traditional horror tropes and offering new and innovative ways to scare and entertain. The impact of these movies can still be felt today, as they continue to be celebrated and discussed by horror fans and critics alike. This was a year that proved that the horror genre was alive and thriving, delivering a diverse range of cinematic experiences that left an indelible mark on the industry.
"Paranormal Activity": A game-changer in found footage horror
In the realm of horror, few films have had as much of an impact as "Paranormal Activity" in 2009. This low-budget found footage gem, directed by Oren Peli, captivated audiences with its simple yet highly effective scares. The film's premise was deceptively simple: a young couple, Katie and Micah, set up a camera in their home to document the strange occurrences they've been experiencing, leading to a chilling and unnerving descent into the supernatural.
What made "Paranormal Activity" so groundbreaking was its ability to create a sense of unease and dread using minimal elements. The film's reliance on subtle, unsettling sounds and the slow-burn buildup of tension kept viewers on the edge of their seats, constantly anticipating the next scare. The found footage format, which had been used in horror before, was elevated by the film's commitment to realism and the sense of authenticity it created. Audiences were drawn in, convinced that they were witnessing genuine paranormal events unfold before their eyes.
The success of "Paranormal Activity" was a testament to the power of simplicity in horror. By stripping away the elaborate special effects and jump scares that had become commonplace in the genre, the film proved that true terror could be found in the mundane and the everyday. The film's low-budget production and grassroots marketing campaign, which saw it gradually expand to more theaters based on audience demand, further added to its sense of authenticity and created a cult-like following among horror fans. "Paranormal Activity" not only reinvigorated the found footage subgenre but also paved the way for a new era of minimalist, high-impact horror films that would captivate audiences in the years to come.
"Drag Me to Hell": Sam Raimi's return to horror
After a successful foray into the superhero genre with his "Spider-Man" trilogy, director Sam Raimi returned to his horror roots in 2009 with the release of "Drag Me to Hell." This darkly comedic supernatural thriller marked a triumphant comeback for the master of horror, delivering a deliciously twisted tale that left audiences both terrified and entertained.
"Drag Me to Hell" follows the story of Christine Brown, a bank loan officer who, in a moment of weakness, denies an old woman an extension on her mortgage, unknowingly triggering a curse that will drag her to hell. What follows is a wild, roller-coaster ride of demonic possession, supernatural forces, and a desperate struggle for survival. Raimi's signature style, which blends horror, humor, and over-the-top visuals, is on full display, creating a film that is both deeply unsettling and darkly comedic.
The film's strength lies in its ability to balance the horrific and the humorous, often within the same scene. Raimi's signature camera work, with its frantic pacing and disorienting angles, heightens the sense of unease and dread, while the film's tongue-in-cheek approach to the supernatural elements provides a much-needed release of tension. The performances, particularly that of Alison Lohman as the tormented Christine, are equally impressive, with the actress navigating the film's tonal shifts with remarkable skill.
"Zombieland": A comedic take on the zombie apocalypse
In a year filled with harrowing horror, "Zombieland" stood out as a refreshing and entertaining take on the zombie genre. Directed by Ruben Fleischer, this film blended the thrills of a zombie apocalypse with the comedic sensibilities of a road trip movie, creating a unique and highly enjoyable cinematic experience.
The story follows a young man named Columbus, who has survived the zombie outbreak by strictly adhering to a set of survival rules. When he encounters a tough-talking, zombie-killing machine named Tallahassee, the two team up and embark on a journey to the supposed zombie-free zone of Los Angeles. Along the way, they pick up two other survivors, the quick-witted Wichita and her younger sister, Little Rock, and the four form an unlikely group of misfits navigating the chaos of the undead-infested landscape.
What made "Zombieland" such a standout was its ability to balance the horror of the zombie apocalypse with moments of genuine humor and heart. The film's clever script, written by Rhett Reese and Paul Wernick, is filled with witty one-liners, memorable characters, and a self-aware sense of the genre's tropes. The performances, particularly from Woody Harrelson as the enigmatic Tallahassee and Jesse Eisenberg as the neurotic Columbus, are pitch-perfect, elevating the film's comedic moments while still delivering some truly intense and thrilling zombie action.
"Orphan": A chilling tale of a deceptive child
In the realm of psychological horror, few films from 2009 were as chilling and unsettling as "Orphan." Directed by Jaume Collet-Serra, this twisted tale of a family's descent into darkness captivated audiences with its compelling narrative and the sheer intensity of its central performance.
The film follows the Colemans, a family who, after the tragic loss of their unborn child, decide to adopt a young girl named Esther. Initially, Esther appears to be a sweet and well-behaved child, but as the family welcomes her into their home, a series of disturbing events begins to unfold, leading to the realization that Esther is not who she seems. What follows is a tense and gripping exploration of the depths of human deception, as the Colemans find themselves trapped in a nightmarish scenario from which there may be no escape.
The strength of "Orphan" lies in its ability to subvert audience expectations and challenge the traditional tropes of the "evil child" horror subgenre. The film's slow-burning narrative, coupled with Isabelle Fuhrman's chilling performance as Esther, creates a sense of unease that permeates every frame. The audience is drawn in, captivated by the mystery of Esther's true nature and the family's desperate attempts to uncover the truth. The film's shocking twists and turns keep viewers on the edge of their seats, making "Orphan" a truly memorable and unsettling cinematic experience.
"The House of the Devil": A throwback to 80s horror
In a year filled with innovative and genre-bending horror films, "The House of the Devil" stood out as a loving tribute to the golden age of 80s horror. Directed by Ti West, this atmospheric chiller transported audiences back to a time when horror was steeped in a sense of foreboding dread and slow-burning suspense.
Set in the 1980s, the film follows Samantha, a college student who takes a babysitting job in a remote, ominous-looking house. As she settles in for what she expects to be a routine evening, Samantha soon realizes that something is not quite right about the home and its mysterious owners. What unfolds is a tense and unsettling descent into a world of occult rituals, satanic cults, and a growing sense of impending doom.
"The House of the Devil" is a masterclass in building tension and atmosphere. West's direction pays homage to the visual style and pacing of 80s horror, with long takes, muted color palettes, and a synth-heavy score that evokes the era. The film's slow-burn approach to storytelling, with its deliberate pacing and attention to detail, creates a palpable sense of unease that steadily builds throughout the runtime. The performances, particularly from Jocelin Donahue as the increasingly unnerved Samantha, are equally compelling, adding to the film's sense of authenticity and period-appropriate feel.
"Antichrist": Lars von Trier's controversial psychological horror
In a year filled with diverse and captivating horror offerings, few films were as divisive and controversial as Lars von Trier's "Antichrist." This psychological horror masterpiece, which premiered at the 2009 Cannes Film Festival, polarized audiences and critics alike with its unflinching exploration of grief, trauma, and the darker aspects of human nature.
The film follows a couple, simply known as "He" and "She," who retreat to a secluded cabin in the woods after the accidental death of their young son. As they grapple with their overwhelming grief, the couple's already fragile mental state begins to unravel, leading them on a descent into a nightmarish world of psychological and physical torment. What unfolds is a visually striking and deeply unsettling meditation on the nature of evil, the power of the subconscious, and the potential for human cruelty.
"Antichrist" is a challenging and often confrontational film that pushes the boundaries of the horror genre. Von Trier's bold, avant-garde approach to storytelling, combined with his unflinching depiction of graphic violence and disturbing s**ual imagery, created a cinematic experience that was as mesmerizing as it was deeply unsettling. The film's dreamlike visuals, haunting score, and the powerful performances from Willem Dafoe and Charlotte Gainsbourg only added to the sense of unease and psychological torment that permeated every frame.
"Thirst": Park Chan-wook's unique vampire film
In a year filled with diverse and innovative horror offerings, one film that stood out for its unique take on the vampire genre was "Thirst" from acclaimed South Korean director Park Chan-wook. This visually stunning and thematically complex vampire tale captivated audiences with its blend of gothic horror, dark humor, and profound exploration of the human condition.
The film follows the story of Sang-hyun, a priest who, after volunteering for a medical experiment, becomes infected with a mysterious virus that transforms him into a vampire. As Sang-hyun grapples with his newfound thirst for blood and the moral dilemmas it presents, he becomes entangled in a twisted love triangle with a married couple, Tae-ju and her husband, Kang-woo. What ensues is a darkly comedic and deeply unsettling exploration of the nature of desire, the limits of morality, and the transformative power of the vampire mythos.
"Thirst" is a cinematic tour de force, showcasing Park Chan-wook's masterful command of visual storytelling and his ability to blend genres with seamless precision. The film's gothic aesthetics, coupled with its bold, unconventional narrative, create a truly unique and captivating viewing experience. The performances, particularly from Song Kang-ho as the tormented Sang-hyun, are equally impressive, as the actors navigate the film's complex themes and emotional beats with remarkable nuance and depth.
Conclusion: Why 2009 was a standout year for horror movies
The year 2009 was a remarkable time for horror cinema, a year that saw the release of a diverse array of films that pushed the boundaries of the genre and captivated audiences worldwide. From the groundbreaking found footage thrills of "Paranormal Activity" to the darkly comedic delights of "Zombieland," this was a year that offered something for every horror enthusiast.
What made 2009 so special was the sheer variety and innovation on display. Filmmakers were not content to simply rehash familiar tropes but instead sought to reinvent and redefine the horror genre. Whether it was the return of a master like Sam Raimi with "Drag Me to Hell" or the emergence of bold, auteur-driven visions like Lars von Trier's "Antichrist," the horror landscape in 2009 was a vibrant and ever-evolving tapestry of cinematic delights.
The enduring legacy of these films is a testament to the power of the horror genre to captivate, terrify, and challenge audiences. From the simple yet effective scares of "Paranormal Activity" to the deeply unsettling psychological torment of "Orphan," the best horror movies of 2009 proved that the genre could be both entertaining and thought-provoking, offering a diverse range of cinematic experiences that continue to resonate with fans today. As we look back on this remarkable year, it's clear that 2009 was a pivotal moment in the evolution of horror cinema, one that paved the way for a new generation of filmmakers to push the boundaries of the genre and deliver unforgettable cinematic experiences.
24 List of 2009 Horror Films Worth Watching!
Looking for the best 2009 horror movies? Included in our best horror movies of 2009 list are "Zombieland (2009), Thirst (2009), Drag Me to Hell (2009), Cropsey (2009), and The Loved Ones (2009)." 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 2009 is Zombieland (2009) scoring 7.94/10 stars with our combined scores. IMDB already has over 664,590 votes for this movie. Starring in Zombieland (2009) is Jesse Eisenberg, Woody Harrelson, Emma Stone, Abigail Breslin, and Amber Heard. Director Ruben Fleischer did a phenomenal job treating us with this 2009 best horror film which was remarkable.Zombieland (2009) is in Horror, Sci-Fi, Action, Fantasy, Comedy, and Adventure movie genres.
The next best 2009 horror movie is Thirst (2009) with a score of 7.68/10 stars.
Kang-ho Song, Hee-jin Choi, Dong-soo Seo, Hwa-ryong Lee, and Mi-ran Ra star in "Thirst (2009)". Thirst (2009) is directed by Chan-wook Park and has over 53,360 IMDB votes. You can find Thirst (2009) in Horror, Thriller, Drama, Fantasy, and Romance movie genres.
These are the best horror films of 2009, and we hope you enjoy the 152 movies on our list of good 2009 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.