20 Best Horror Movies of 2011
The films listed below include 2011 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 2011
| Rank | Movie Title | Release Date | Opening | Total Gross |
| 1 | Paranormal Activity 3 (2011) | Oct 21, 2011 | $52,568,183 | $104,028,807 |
| 2 | Final Destination 5 3D (2011) | Aug 12, 2011 | $18,031,396 | $42,587,643 |
| 3 | The Cabin in the Woods (2011) | Apr 13, 2012 | $14,743,614 | $42,073,277 |
| 4 | Red Riding Hood (2011) | Mar 11, 2011 | $14,005,335 | $37,662,162 |
| 5 | The Rite (2011) | Jan 28, 2011 | $14,789,393 | $33,047,633 |
| 6 | Priest 2011 (2011) | May 13, 2011 | $14,953,664 | $29,137,000 |
| 7 | The Darkest Hour (2011) | Dec 25, 2011 | $2,993,519 | $21,443,494 |
| 8 | Shark Night 3D (2011) | Sep 02, 2011 | $8,404,260 | $18,877,153 |
| 9 | Youre Next (2011) | Aug 23, 2013 | $7,020,196 | $18,494,006 |
| 10 | Fright Night (2011) | Aug 19, 2011 | $7,714,388 | $18,302,607 |
Total Gross of All Movies $365,653,782
List of horror movies released in 2011 list sorted by popular, most voted, and alphabetical order. Check out which movie was the top grossing movie of 2011.
20 Best Horror Movies of 2011
20). The Rite (2011) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
The Rite (2011) Review
Director: Mikael Håfström
Stars: Anthony Hopkins, Colin O''Donoghue, Alice Braga, Ciarán Hinds, Toby Jones
19). Grave Encounters (2011) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Our Take on Grave Encounters (2011)
Directors: Colin Minihan, Stuart Ortiz, The Vicious Brothers
Stars: Ben Wilkinson, Sean Rogerson, Ashleigh Gryzko, Merwin Mondesir, Juan Riedinger
18). Red State (2011) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Red State Horror Movie Review
Director: Kevin Smith
Stars: Michael Angarano, Deborah Aquila, Nicholas Braun, Ronnie Connell, Kaylee DeFer
17). The Thing (2011) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
In-Depth The Thing Review
Director: Matthijs van Heijningen Jr.
Stars: Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Joel Edgerton, Ulrich Thomsen, Eric Christian Olsen, Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje
16). Scream 4 (2011) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
In-Depth Scream 4 Review
Director: Wes Craven
Stars: Lucy Hale, Roger Jackson, Shenae Grimes-Beech, Dane Farwell, Anna Paquin
15). Carl Panzram: The Spirit of Hatred and Vengeance (2011) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Full Review of Carl Panzram: The Spirit of Hatred and Vengeance (2011)
Director: John Borowski
Stars: John DiMaggio, Tom Lodewyck, David Salmonson, Brett Jetmund, David Weiss
14). The Lost Home aka Ladda Land aka The Lost Land (2011) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
The Lost Home aka Ladda Land aka The Lost Land Horror Movie Review
Director: Sophon Sakdaphisit
Stars: Saharat Sangkapreecha, Piyathida Woramusik, Sutatta Udomsilp, Athipich Chutiwatkajornchai, Deuntem Salitul
13). Haunted - 3D (2011) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Vikram Bhatt
Stars: Mimoh Chakraborty, Tia Bajpai, Achint Kaur, Mohan Kapoor, Sanjay Sharma
12). Juan of the Dead (2011) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Alejandro Brugués
Stars: Alexis Díaz de Villegas, Jorge Molina, Andros Perugorría, Andrea Duro, Jazz Vilá
11). Kill List (2011) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Exploring Kill List – Full Review
Director: Ben Wheatley
Stars: Neil Maskell, MyAnna Buring, Harry Simpson, Michael Smiley, Emma Fryer
Top 10 Horror Movies 2011
10). Fright Night (2011) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
What We Thought of Fright Night
Director: Craig Gillespie
Stars: Anton Yelchin, Colin Farrell, Toni Collette, David Tennant, Imogen Poots
9). The Whisperer in Darkness (2011) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Sean Branney
Stars: Stephen Blackehart, Annie Abrams, Autumn Wendel, Zack Gold, P.J. King
8). The Awakening (2011) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Exploring The Awakening – Full Review
Director: Nick Murphy
Stars: Rebecca Hall, Dominic West, Imelda Staunton, Isaac Hempstead Wright, Shaun Dooley
7). The Snowtown Murders (2011) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Justin Kurzel
Stars: Lucas Pittaway, Bob Adriaens, Louise Harris, Frank Cwiertniak, Matthew Howard
6). You're Next (2011) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
In-Depth You're Next Review
Director: Adam Wingard
Stars: Sharni Vinson, Nicholas Tucci, Wendy Glenn, AJ Bowen, Joe Swanberg
5). The Grey (2011) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Detailed Review: The Grey (2011)
Director: Joe Carnahan
Stars: Liam Neeson, Frank Grillo, Dermot Mulroney, Dallas Roberts, Joe Anderson
4). Kotoko (2011) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Directors: Shin`ya Tsukamoto, Shin''ya Tsukamoto
Stars: Shin`ya Tsukamoto, Shin''ya Tsukamoto, Yûko Nakamura, Cocco, Eiichi Takahashi
3). Guilty of Romance (2011) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Sion Sono
Stars: Miki Mizuno, Makoto Togashi, Megumi Kagurazaka, Kazuya Kojima, Satoshi Nikaido
2). The Cabin in the Woods (2011) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
The Cabin in the Woods (2011) Review
Director: Drew Goddard
Stars: Kristen Connolly, Chris Hemsworth, Anna Hutchison, Fran Kranz, Jesse Williams
1). Sleep Tight (2011) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
What We Thought of Sleep Tight
Director: Jaume Balagueró
Stars: Luis Tosar, Marta Etura, Alberto San Juan, Petra Martínez, Iris Almeida
Horror Movies of 2011 List
1). The Cabin in the Woods (2011) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
The Cabin in the Woods (2011) ReviewDirector: Drew Goddard
Stars: Kristen Connolly, Chris Hemsworth, Anna Hutchison, Fran Kranz, Jesse Williams
2). Midnight Son (2011) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Scott Leberecht
Stars: Zak Kilberg, Maya Parish, Jo D. Jonz, Larry Cedar, Arlen Escarpeta
3). The Whisperer in Darkness (2011) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Sean Branney
Stars: Stephen Blackehart, Annie Abrams, Autumn Wendel, Zack Gold, P.J. King
4). Sleep Tight (2011) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
What We Thought of Sleep TightDirector: Jaume Balagueró
Stars: Luis Tosar, Marta Etura, Alberto San Juan, Petra Martínez, Iris Almeida
5). Juan of the Dead (2011) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Alejandro Brugués
Stars: Alexis Díaz de Villegas, Jorge Molina, Andros Perugorría, Andrea Duro, Jazz Vilá
6). Livide (2011) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Directors: Alexandre Bustillo, Julien Maury
Stars: Chloé Coulloud, Félix Moati, Jérémy Kapone, Catherine Jacob, Béatrice Dalle
7). Absentia (2011) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Mike Flanagan
Stars: Katie Parker, Courtney Bell, Dave Levine, Justin Gordon, Morgan Peter Brown
8). The Snowtown Murders (2011) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Justin Kurzel
Stars: Lucas Pittaway, Bob Adriaens, Louise Harris, Frank Cwiertniak, Matthew Howard
9). Manborg (2011) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Steven Kostanski
Stars: Matthew Kennedy, Adam Brooks, Meredith Sweeney, Conor Sweeney, Ludwig Lee
10). Fright Night (2011) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
What We Thought of Fright NightDirector: Craig Gillespie
Stars: Anton Yelchin, Colin Farrell, Toni Collette, David Tennant, Imogen Poots
11). You're Next (2011) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
In-Depth You're Next ReviewDirector: Adam Wingard
Stars: Sharni Vinson, Nicholas Tucci, Wendy Glenn, AJ Bowen, Joe Swanberg
12). The Grey (2011) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Detailed Review: The Grey (2011)Director: Joe Carnahan
Stars: Liam Neeson, Frank Grillo, Dermot Mulroney, Dallas Roberts, Joe Anderson
13). The Lost Home aka Ladda Land aka The Lost Land (2011) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
The Lost Home aka Ladda Land aka The Lost Land Horror Movie ReviewDirector: Sophon Sakdaphisit
Stars: Saharat Sangkapreecha, Piyathida Woramusik, Sutatta Udomsilp, Athipich Chutiwatkajornchai, Deuntem Salitul
14). Husk (2011) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Brett Simmons
Stars: Devon Graye, Wes Chatham, C.J. Thomason, Tammin Sursok, Ben Easter
15). Kill List (2011) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Exploring Kill List – Full ReviewDirector: Ben Wheatley
Stars: Neil Maskell, MyAnna Buring, Harry Simpson, Michael Smiley, Emma Fryer
Unearthing the Top Horror Movies of 2011
In 2011, the horror movie genre reached new heights of terror, delivering spine-chilling experiences that haunted audiences long after the credits rolled. From psychological thrillers to supernatural nightmares, this article unearths the top horror movies that left us cowering in fear. With heart-pounding suspense and shocking twists, these films had us on the edge of our seats, anxiously awaiting what would happen next. Whether you're a horror movie aficionado or seeking a good scare, these intense and captivating films are a must-watch.
Immerse yourself in the psychological horrors of "Insidious," where a family battles malevolent spirits in a terrifying haunted house. Experience the supernatural terrors of "The Conjuring," based on a true story of paranormal investigators facing off against a malevolent entity. And prepare to be unnerved by the found-footage horror of "Paranormal Activity 3," as a young girl's invisible friend takes a sinister turn.
Discover the nightmares that plagued the big screen in 2011 and get ready for a rollercoaster of fear. These top horror movies will leave you trembling and questioning what lurks in the dark.
The significance of 2011 in the horror movie landscape
The year 2011 marked a significant turning point in the horror movie landscape, with a slate of films that pushed the boundaries of the genre and captivated audiences worldwide. In a year that saw the release of blockbuster superhero movies and the continued dominance of big-budget franchises, the horror genre managed to carve out a space for itself, delivering some of the most intense, thought-provoking, and memorable cinematic experiences of the decade.
The success of these horror movies, both commercially and critically, underscored the enduring appeal of the genre and its ability to tap into the deepest fears and anxieties of the human psyche. From the psychological terrors of "Insidious" to the supernatural chills of "The Conjuring," these films demonstrated the versatility and resilience of horror, proving that the genre could still deliver fresh, innovative, and genuinely terrifying stories.
The impact of these top horror movies of 2011 extended beyond the confines of the genre, as they sparked conversations about the nature of fear, the power of the paranormal, and the complexities of the human condition. These films challenged audiences to confront their own deepest fears, to question the boundaries between the natural and the supernatural, and to grapple with the unsettling realities that lurked beneath the surface of everyday life. In doing so, they cemented the horror genre's status as a vital and enduring force in the world of cinema.
Box office hits and critical acclaim in 2011
The top horror movies of 2011 not only captivated audiences but also earned critical acclaim, solidifying their status as some of the most significant and influential works in the genre. From box office smashes to critical darlings, these films showcased the breadth and depth of the horror genre, proving that it could deliver both commercial success and artistic merit.
One of the standout box office hits of 2011 was "Insidious," a psychological thriller that tapped into the universal fear of the unknown. Directed by James Wan and starring Patrick Wilson and Rose Byrne, the film quickly became a sensation, earning over $97 million at the global box office and spawning a successful franchise. The film's combination of atmospheric tension, jump scares, and a compelling narrative earned it widespread critical praise, with many hailing it as one of the most effective and intelligent horror films of the year.
Another box office success was "The Conjuring," a supernatural horror film based on the real-life investigations of paranormal researchers Ed and Lorraine Warren. Directed by James Wan and starring Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson, the film captivated audiences with its chilling atmosphere, strong performances, and gripping storytelling. With a global box office haul of over $319 million, "The Conjuring" became one of the highest-grossing horror movies of the year and cemented its place as a modern horror classic.
Iconic horror movies released in 2011
The top horror movies of 2011 have become iconic within the genre, each offering a unique and unforgettable cinematic experience. From the psychological terrors of "Insidious" to the supernatural thrills of "The Conjuring," these films have left an indelible mark on the horror landscape.
"Insidious" is a prime example of a horror movie that has achieved iconic status. Directed by James Wan and written by Leigh Whannell, the film follows the Lambert family as they battle against a malevolent entity that has taken possession of their son. With its atmospheric tension, jump scares, and compelling performances, "Insidious" quickly became a fan favorite, spawning three sequels and cementing its place as a modern horror classic.
Another iconic horror movie from 2011 is "The Conjuring," a supernatural thriller based on the real-life investigations of paranormal researchers Ed and Lorraine Warren. Directed by James Wan and starring Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson, the film captivates audiences with its chilling atmosphere, strong performances, and gripping storytelling. The Conjuring has since become a beloved franchise, with several sequels and spin-offs that have further solidified its status as an iconic horror movie.
Notable performances in horror movies of 2011
The top horror movies of 2011 not only delivered thrilling and suspenseful narratives but also featured standout performances that elevated the films to new heights. From seasoned actors to rising stars, these performers brought depth, nuance, and emotional weight to their roles, leaving a lasting impression on audiences.
In "Insidious," Patrick Wilson and Rose Byrne delivered powerful performances as Josh and Renai Lambert, a couple forced to confront the supernatural forces that have taken hold of their family. Wilson's portrayal of a father struggling to protect his loved ones was both heartbreaking and terrifying, while Byrne's emotional range as a mother fighting to save her child was truly captivating. Their on-screen chemistry and the authenticity of their performances were crucial in making the film's supernatural elements feel grounded and believable.
Similarly, in "The Conjuring," Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson shone as real-life paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren. Farmiga, in particular, delivered a nuanced and powerful performance as Lorraine, a clairvoyant medium who must confront her own fears and doubts as she and her husband investigate a terrifying case. Wilson's portrayal of Ed, the more skeptical of the two, added an additional layer of complexity to the film's narrative, as the audience was drawn into the Warrens' personal struggles and the high-stakes nature of their work.
Cult classics and underrated gems from 2011
While the top horror movies of 2011 have received widespread acclaim and recognition, there were also several underrated gems and cult classics that deserve to be celebrated. These films, though perhaps not as commercially successful or critically lauded as their more prominent counterparts, have nonetheless carved out a special place in the hearts of horror fans.
One such underrated gem is "Absentia," a psychological thriller directed by Mike Flanagan. The film follows a woman whose husband has been missing for seven years, only to reappear under mysterious and unsettling circumstances. With its atmospheric tension, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes, "Absentia" has developed a dedicated cult following among horror enthusiasts who appreciate its cerebral approach to the genre.
Another cult classic from 2011 is "You're Next," a home invasion thriller that subverts audience expectations with its clever plot twists and memorable characters. Directed by Adam Wingard, the film follows a family reunion that turns deadly when a group of masked killers attack the family's secluded country home. With its sharp wit, intense action sequences, and unexpected moments of dark humor, "You're Next" has become a beloved staple of the horror genre, celebrated for its innovative approach to the home invasion trope.
Revisiting the horror movies of 2011: Are they still scary?
As time has passed since the release of the top horror movies of 2011, the question remains: are these films still as scary and effective as they were when they first hit the big screen? The answer, it seems, is a resounding yes. These horror classics have stood the test of time, continuing to captivate and terrify audiences with their enduring power.
Take "Insidious," for instance. Even a decade after its release, the film's supernatural elements and atmospheric tension remain just as chilling and unsettling. The jump scares that once had audiences jumping out of their seats still manage to elicit a visceral reaction, while the film's exploration of the afterlife and the nature of evil continues to haunt viewers long after the credits have rolled. The Lambert family's struggle to protect their son from the malevolent entity that has taken hold of him remains a powerful and relatable narrative that resonates with audiences of all ages.
Similarly, "The Conjuring" has retained its ability to terrify and unsettle. The film's grounded approach to the paranormal, coupled with the strong performances of Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson, lend an air of authenticity to the proceedings that makes the supernatural events all the more unsettling. The Conjuring's depiction of the Warrens' investigation into the Perron family's haunted farmhouse remains a masterclass in building tension and dread, with the film's climactic showdown with the demonic entity Bathsheba still capable of sending shivers down the spine of even the most seasoned horror fan.
Themes and motifs explored in horror movies of 2011
The top horror movies of 2011 not only delivered thrilling and suspenseful narratives but also explored a range of compelling themes and motifs that have continued to resonate with audiences. From the nature of fear and the power of the paranormal to the complexities of the human condition, these films delved deep into the darker aspects of the human experience, challenging viewers to confront their own deepest fears and anxieties.
One of the central themes explored in these horror movies was the concept of the unknown and the unseen. Films like "Insidious" and "The Conjuring" played on the audience's fear of the supernatural, of the entities that lurk in the shadows and the realms beyond our understanding. These movies tapped into the primal human fear of the unknown, of the forces that lie just beyond the veil of our everyday existence. By presenting the supernatural as a tangible and threatening presence, these films forced viewers to confront the limitations of their own understanding and the fragility of their perceived control over the world around them.
Another key theme explored in the horror movies of 2011 was the nature of family and the ways in which the bonds of kinship can be tested and strained by the forces of darkness. Films like "Insidious" and "The Conjuring" centered on families facing extraordinary challenges, as they fought to protect their loved ones from the malevolent entities that threatened to tear them apart. These narratives tapped into the universal fears of parents and the deep-rooted desire to safeguard one's own, underscoring the ways in which the horror genre can be used to explore the complexities of human relationships and the emotional toll of confronting the unknown.
Impact and influence of horror movies from 2011 on the genre
The top horror movies of 2011 have had a lasting impact on the genre, influencing the direction of horror cinema in the years that followed. These films have become touchstones for a new generation of horror enthusiasts, inspiring filmmakers to push the boundaries of the genre and explore new avenues of terror.
One of the most significant impacts of the horror movies of 2011 has been their influence on the rise of the "supernatural horror" subgenre. Films like "Insidious" and "The Conjuring" demonstrated the enduring appeal of stories that delve into the realm of the paranormal, tapping into the audience's fascination with the unseen and the unexplained. These movies have paved the way for a wave of supernatural horror films that have continued to captivate and terrify audiences, from the "Conjuring" cinematic universe to the recent surge in paranormal-themed horror franchises.
The horror movies of 2011 have also had a profound impact on the way the genre is approached from a stylistic and narrative perspective. Films like "Insidious" and "The Conjuring" demonstrated the power of atmospheric tension and slow-burn storytelling, eschewing the reliance on excessive gore or jump scares in favor of a more nuanced and psychological approach to fear. This has influenced a new generation of horror filmmakers to focus on building suspense, crafting complex characters, and exploring the deeper themes and motifs that underpin the genre.
Additional Horror Movie Recommendations from 2011
While the top horror movies of 2011 have rightfully received widespread acclaim and attention, there were several other notable horror films released that year that are worth exploring. These additional recommendations offer a diverse range of perspectives and styles within the genre, showcasing the breadth and depth of horror cinema in 2011.
One such film is "Hatchet III," the third installment in the cult classic "Hatchet" slasher franchise. Directed by BJ McDonnell, the film continues the gory adventures of Victor Crowley, the vengeful and unstoppable killer who has become a beloved icon of the horror genre. With its over-the-top kills, dark humor, and unapologetic embrace of the slasher formula, "Hatchet III" is a must-watch for fans of classic horror tropes.
Another underrated gem from 2011 is "Kill List," a psychological thriller directed by Ben Wheatley. The film follows a former soldier-turned-hitman who is drawn into a sinister and mysterious contract, leading him and his family down a dark and unsettling path. With its blend of crime drama and occult horror, "Kill List" is a tense and unnerving exploration of the human capacity for violence and the consequences of uncovering the unknown.
Conclusion: The lasting legacy of the top horror movies of 2011
The top horror movies of 2011 have left an indelible mark on the genre, cementing their place in the annals of cinematic history. These films have transcended their initial theatrical runs and continue to captivate audiences, sparking discussions and inspiring a new generation of horror enthusiasts.
The enduring impact of these movies can be seen in their enduring popularity, with fans revisiting them time and time again, seeking out the thrills and chills that made them so unforgettable. From the chilling atmosphere of "Insidious" to the bone-chilling revelations of "The Conjuring," these films have become touchstones of the horror genre, influencing and inspiring countless other works that have followed in their footsteps.
As the years have passed, the legacy of these horror movies has only grown stronger, with their themes, characters, and scares resonating with audiences across generations. They have become a part of the cultural fabric, referenced and celebrated by fans and filmmakers alike, solidifying their status as true classics of the genre. The lasting impact of these top horror movies of 2011 is a testament to the power of the medium to captivate, terrify, and leave a lasting impression on those who dare to venture into the darkened theaters.
24 List of 2011 Horror Films Worth Watching!
Looking for the best 2011 horror movies? Included in our best horror movies of 2011 list are "The Cabin in the Woods (2011), Midnight Son (2011), The Whisperer in Darkness (2011), Sleep Tight (2011), and Juan of the Dead (2011)." 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 2011 is The Cabin in the Woods (2011) scoring 7.87/10 stars with our combined scores. IMDB already has over 475,510 votes for this movie. Starring in The Cabin in the Woods (2011) is Kristen Connolly, Chris Hemsworth, Anna Hutchison, Fran Kranz, and Jesse Williams. Director Drew Goddard did a phenomenal job treating us with this 2011 best horror film which was remarkable.The Cabin in the Woods (2011) is in Horror, Thriller, Mystery, Fantasy, and Comedy movie genres.
The next best 2011 horror movie is Midnight Son (2011) with a score of 7.65/10 stars.
Zak Kilberg, Maya Parish, Jo D. Jonz, Larry Cedar, and Arlen Escarpeta star in "Midnight Son (2011)". Midnight Son (2011) is directed by Scott Leberecht and has over 1,950 IMDB votes. You can find Midnight Son (2011) in Horror movie genres.
These are the best horror films of 2011, and we hope you enjoy the 132 movies on our list of good 2011 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.