20 Best Horror Movies of 2012
The films listed below include 2012 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 2012
| Rank | Movie Title | Release Date | Opening | Total Gross |
| 1 | Hotel Transylvania (2012) | Sep 28, 2012 | $42,522,194 | $148,313,048 |
| 2 | Dark Shadows (2012) | May 11, 2012 | $29,685,274 | $79,727,149 |
| 3 | Underworld Awakening (2012) | Jan 20, 2012 | $25,306,725 | $62,321,039 |
| 4 | The Woman in Black (2012) | Feb 03, 2012 | $20,874,072 | $54,333,290 |
| 5 | Paranormal Activity 4 (2012) | Oct 19, 2012 | $29,003,866 | $53,885,000 |
| 6 | The Devil Inside (2012) | Jan 06, 2012 | $33,732,515 | $53,261,944 |
| 7 | The Possession (2012) | Aug 31, 2012 | $17,732,480 | $49,130,154 |
| 8 | Sinister (2012) | Oct 12, 2012 | $18,007,634 | $48,086,903 |
| 9 | Resident Evil Retribution (2012) | Sep 14, 2012 | $21,052,227 | $42,345,531 |
| 10 | Abraham Lincoln Vampire Hunter (2012) | Jun 22, 2012 | $16,306,974 | $37,519,139 |
Total Gross of All Movies $628,923,197
List of horror movies released in 2012 list sorted by popular, most voted, and alphabetical order. Check out which movie was the top grossing movie of 2012.
20 Best Horror Movies of 2012
20). The Collection (2012) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Exploring The Collection – Full Review
Director: Marcus Dunstan
Stars: Josh Stewart, Emma Fitzpatrick, Christopher McDonald, Lee Tergesen, Tim Griffin
19). Red Lights (2012) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
In-Depth Red Lights Review
Director: Rodrigo Cortés
Stars: Cillian Murphy, Sigourney Weaver, Robert De Niro, Toby Jones, Joely Richardson
18). The Battery (2012) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Exploring The Battery – Full Review
Director: Jeremy Gardner
Stars: Jeremy Gardner, Adam Cronheim, Niels Bolle, Alana O''Brien, Jamie Pantanella
17). The Conspiracy (2012) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Christopher MacBride
Stars: Aaron Poole, James Gilbert, Ian Anderson, Peter Apostolopoulos, Roger Beck
16). Berberian Sound Studio (2012) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Peter Strickland
Stars: Toby Jones, Cosimo Fusco, Antonio Mancino, Fatma Mohamed, Salvatore LI Causi
15). American Mary (2012) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Detailed Review: American Mary (2012)
Directors: Jen Soska, Sylvia Soska
Stars: Katharine Isabelle, Antonio Cupo, Tristan Risk, David Lovgren, Paula Lindberg
14). Dark Shadows (2012) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Detailed Review: Dark Shadows (2012)
Director: Tim Burton
Stars: Johnny Depp, Michelle Pfeiffer, Helena Bonham Carter, Eva Green, Jackie Earle Haley
13). Grabbers (2012) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
In-Depth Grabbers Review
Director: Jon Wright
Stars: Killian Coyle, Stuart Graham, Michael Hough, Richard Coyle, Ruth Bradley
12). Resolution (2012) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Read Our Resolution Review
Directors: Justin Benson, Aaron Moorhead
Stars: Peter Cilella, Vinny Curran, Emily Montague, Kurt David Anderson, Skyler Meacham
11). John Dies at the End (2012) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
In-Depth John Dies at the End Review
Director: Don Coscarelli
Stars: Chase Williamson, Rob Mayes, Paul Giamatti, Clancy Brown, Glynn Turman
Top 10 Horror Movies 2012
10). Underworld Awakening (2012) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Read Our Underworld Awakening Review
Directors: Måns Mårlind, Björn Stein
Stars: Kate Beckinsale, Stephen Rea, Michael Ealy, Theo James, India Eisley
9). Chained (2012) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Jennifer Lynch
Stars: Vincent D''Onofrio, Eamon Farren, Evan Bird, Julia Ormond, Conor Leslie
8). The Woman in Black (2012) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
The Woman in Black (2012) Review
Director: James Watkins
Stars: Emma Shorey, Molly Harmon, Ellisa Walker-Reid, Sophie Stuckey, Daniel Radcliffe
7). The Healing (2012) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Chito S. Roño
Stars: Vilma Santos, Kim Chiu, Janice de Belen, Pokwang, Robert Arevalo
6). Sightseers (2012) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Sightseers Horror Movie Review
Director: Ben Wheatley
Stars: Alice Lowe, Eileen Davies, Steve Oram, Roger Michael, Tony Way
5). Byzantium (2012) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Honest Review: Byzantium (2012)
Director: Neil Jordan
Stars: Saoirse Ronan, Barry Cassin, Gemma Arterton, David Heap, Warren Brown
4). Lesson of the Evil (2012) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Takashi Miike
Stars: Takehiro Hira, Fumi Nikaidô, Hideaki Itô, Mayu Matsuoka, Takayuki Yamada
3). Sinister (2012) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Full Review of Sinister (2012)
Director: Scott Derrickson
Stars: Ethan Hawke, Juliet Rylance, Fred Thompson, James Ransone, Michael Hall D''Addario
2). Frankenweenie (2012) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Frankenweenie Horror Movie Review
Director: Tim Burton
Stars: Catherine O`Hara, Catherine O''Hara, Martin Short, Martin Landau, Charlie Tahan
1). Hotel Transylvania (2012) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Read Our Hotel Transylvania Review
Director: Genndy Tartakovsky
Stars: Adam Sandler, Andy Samberg, Selena Gomez, Kevin James, Fran Drescher
Horror Movies of 2012 List
1). Berberian Sound Studio (2012) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Peter Strickland
Stars: Toby Jones, Cosimo Fusco, Antonio Mancino, Fatma Mohamed, Salvatore LI Causi
2). Frankenweenie (2012) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Frankenweenie Horror Movie ReviewDirector: Tim Burton
Stars: Catherine O`Hara, Catherine O''Hara, Martin Short, Martin Landau, Charlie Tahan
3). The Conspiracy (2012) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Christopher MacBride
Stars: Aaron Poole, James Gilbert, Ian Anderson, Peter Apostolopoulos, Roger Beck
4). The Battery (2012) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Exploring The Battery – Full ReviewDirector: Jeremy Gardner
Stars: Jeremy Gardner, Adam Cronheim, Niels Bolle, Alana O''Brien, Jamie Pantanella
5). Excision (2012) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Richard Bates Jr.
Stars: AnnaLynne McCord, Roger Bart, Ariel Winter, Traci Lords, Matthew Gray Gubler
6). Resolution (2012) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Read Our Resolution ReviewDirectors: Justin Benson, Aaron Moorhead
Stars: Peter Cilella, Vinny Curran, Emily Montague, Kurt David Anderson, Skyler Meacham
7). Sightseers (2012) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Sightseers Horror Movie ReviewDirector: Ben Wheatley
Stars: Alice Lowe, Eileen Davies, Steve Oram, Roger Michael, Tony Way
8). Doomsday Book (2012) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Directors: Jee-woon Kim, Pil-sung Yim
Stars: Bae Doona, Doona Bae, Duk-moon Choi, Hyo-eun Hwang, Ji-hee Jin
9). Byzantium (2012) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Honest Review: Byzantium (2012)Director: Neil Jordan
Stars: Saoirse Ronan, Barry Cassin, Gemma Arterton, David Heap, Warren Brown
10). The Woman in Black (2012) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
The Woman in Black (2012) ReviewDirector: James Watkins
Stars: Emma Shorey, Molly Harmon, Ellisa Walker-Reid, Sophie Stuckey, Daniel Radcliffe
11). 100 Bloody Acres (2012) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
In-Depth 100 Bloody Acres Review
Directors: Cameron Cairnes, Colin Cairnes
Stars: Damon Herriman, Angus Sampson, Anna McGahan, Oliver Ackland, Jamie Kristian
12). The Bay (2012) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Full Review of The Bay (2012)
Director: Barry Levinson
Stars: Nansi Aluka, Christopher Denham, Stephen Kunken, Frank Deal, Kether Donohue
13). Errors of the Human Body (2012) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
Director: Eron Sheean
Stars: Michael Eklund, Karoline Herfurth, Tómas Lemarquis, Rik Mayall, Caroline Gerdolle
14). Grabbers (2012) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
In-Depth Grabbers ReviewDirector: Jon Wright
Stars: Killian Coyle, Stuart Graham, Michael Hough, Richard Coyle, Ruth Bradley
15). John Dies at the End (2012) (Movie Info + Poster + Trailer)
In-Depth John Dies at the End ReviewDirector: Don Coscarelli
Stars: Chase Williamson, Rob Mayes, Paul Giamatti, Clancy Brown, Glynn Turman
Most Terrifying Horror Movies of 2012
Get ready to be scared out of your wits with the most terrifying horror movies of 2012. From spine-chilling supernatural encounters to blood-curdling psychological suspense, this was a year that delivered some truly memorable frights. Whether you're a die-hard horror fan or someone who enjoys a good scare, these films are sure to leave you sleeping with the lights on.
In 2012, horror aficionados were treated to a variety of nail-biting films that pushed the boundaries of fear. From the atmospheric horror of "Sinister" to the claustrophobic terror of "The Cabin in the Woods," the genre saw a range of new and innovative approaches. And let's not forget the chilling storytelling of "The Woman in Black" or the bone-chilling found footage thrills of "V/H/S."
If you're looking for a heart-pounding movie night, these terrifying films from 2012 will not disappoint. So grab your popcorn, turn down the lights, and prepare yourself for a rollercoaster ride of fear. But be warned, these movies are not for the faint of heart.
The popularity of horror movies in 2012
The year 2012 marked a significant moment in the landscape of horror cinema, where the genre experienced a resurgence in popularity. Audiences were not only drawn to the thrill of fear but also to the intricate storytelling and character development that many of these films offered. The combination of advanced filmmaking techniques and a growing appetite for horror ensured that this year delivered a rich variety of chilling experiences that appealed to both seasoned fans and casual viewers. With a blend of traditional tropes and innovative narratives, the horror genre established itself as a dominant force in the film industry.
One of the driving factors behind the popularity of horror movies in 2012 was the emergence of social media platforms. Fans took to Twitter, Facebook, and other platforms to share their reactions and recommendations, creating a buzz around new releases. This digital word-of-mouth marketing became essential for films like "Sinister" and "The Cabin in the Woods," which attracted significant attention through viral marketing campaigns. As viewers shared their fears and thrills online, they fostered a communal experience that made horror films not just a solitary endeavor but a shared event among friends and families.
Moreover, the horror genre in 2012 was characterized by a diverse range of sub-genres, from psychological thrillers to supernatural tales. This diversity allowed filmmakers to experiment with different styles, ensuring that there was something for everyone. Whether viewers preferred the tension of psychological horror or the adrenaline rush of slasher films, 2012 catered to all tastes. The rise of streaming services further facilitated access to horror films, enabling audiences to explore classics alongside new releases, ensuring that the genre remained in constant conversation and engagement throughout the year.
The psychological horror genre in 2012
Psychological horror in 2012 delved deep into the human psyche, often blurring the lines between reality and madness. One of the standout films in this category was "Sinister," which followed a true-crime writer who discovers a cache of home movies that depict horrific murders. The film's unsettling atmosphere and the protagonist's gradual descent into paranoia and fear made it a chilling exploration of how trauma can warp perception. The manipulation of sound and imagery kept viewers on edge, making them question what was real and what was merely a manifestation of the character's deteriorating mental state.
Another significant entry in this genre was "The Woman in Black," featuring Daniel Radcliffe as a young lawyer who confronts a vengeful spirit in a remote village. The film expertly combined elements of gothic horror with psychological tension, as the protagonist grapples with grief and loss while facing supernatural threats. The slow build-up of suspense, paired with haunting visuals, created a deeply immersive experience that kept audiences guessing until the very end. The film's ability to evoke fear without relying heavily on jump scares showcased the power of psychological horror in creating lasting unease.
The psychological horror genre also explored themes of isolation and the impact of past traumas. Films like "The Cabin in the Woods," while often categorized as a slasher, utilized psychological elements to deconstruct horror tropes and comment on the genre itself. By playing with audience expectations and intertwining meta-narratives, the film encouraged viewers to reflect on their own relationship with horror while simultaneously delivering thrills. This self-awareness became a hallmark of psychological horror in 2012, inviting audiences to engage with the material on a deeper level.
The supernatural horror genre in 2012
Supernatural horror films in 2012 captivated audiences with their eerie settings and otherworldly entities. One of the most notable releases was "The Possession," which drew inspiration from real-life events surrounding a cursed antique box. The film's exploration of demonic forces and the impact they have on a family struck a chord with viewers who are fascinated by the unknown. The blend of folklore and contemporary storytelling made the theme of possession both relatable and terrifying, as it tapped into primal fears of losing control over one's own mind and body.
Another standout was "V/H/S," an anthology film that utilized the found footage format to tell a series of spine-chilling stories. Each segment featured supernatural occurrences that blurred the lines between the seen and the unseen, immersing audiences in a world where technology becomes a conduit for horror. The film's gritty aesthetic and raw performances enhanced its authenticity, making the supernatural elements feel all the more real. This innovative approach reinvigorated the genre, showcasing how supernatural horror could effectively engage a modern audience.
The genre also saw the reimagining of classic horror elements, as films like "The Devil Inside" explored themes of exorcism and spiritual warfare. While the film received mixed reviews, it demonstrated the enduring fascination with supernatural narratives that challenge the laws of nature. The blending of traditional horror elements with contemporary fears about faith and morality provided a fresh perspective on age-old themes. The supernatural horror genre in 2012 served as a reminder of how deeply ingrained these stories are in our culture and how they continue to evolve, capturing our imaginations in new and terrifying ways.
The slasher horror genre in 2012
The slasher genre made a notable impact in 2012, delivering films that both honored and subverted traditional conventions. "The Cabin in the Woods" stood out not just as a slasher, but as a clever deconstruction of the genre itself. By presenting familiar tropes—such as a group of young friends heading to a remote cabin—and then turning them on their head, the film offered a fresh take on the slasher formula. The blend of horror, humor, and meta-commentary created a unique viewing experience that resonated with fans and critics alike, breathing new life into a somewhat formulaic genre.
Additionally, "Texas Chainsaw 3D" attempted to revive the iconic franchise, bringing the notorious Leatherface back to the screen. Although it faced criticism for its reliance on familiar plot devices, it still managed to capture the essence of the original films while introducing a new generation to the terror of the chainsaw-wielding maniac. The film's blend of nostalgia and contemporary elements aimed to balance the expectations of long-time fans while appealing to newcomers, demonstrating the ongoing relevance of slasher films in the horror landscape.
Moreover, 2012 also saw the emergence of indie slasher films that put a fresh spin on the genre. Projects like "The Collection" explored the relationship between killer and victim, providing a deeper narrative than simply showcasing gore. The film's focus on character development helped elevate it above typical slasher fare, allowing audiences to invest emotionally in the characters' fates. This shift toward more complex narratives within the slasher genre indicated a growing trend toward depth and substance, proving that horror can effectively engage viewers on multiple levels.
The found footage horror genre in 2012
The found footage genre continued to make waves in 2012, with filmmakers pushing the boundaries of realism and immersion. "V/H/S," a found footage anthology, demonstrated how this style could be used to create a deeply unsettling atmosphere. By presenting a series of short films within a frame narrative, it provided a diverse range of horror experiences, from supernatural encounters to psychological terror. The gritty aesthetic and handheld camera work made each segment feel raw and authentic, immersing the audience in the characters' experiences and heightening the overall sense of dread.
Another notable found footage film was "The Devil Inside," which followed a woman as she investigates her mother's involvement in a demonic possession. Despite mixed reviews, the film's approach to found footage tapped into the public's fascination with exorcisms and supernatural phenomena. The use of real-life documentation and interviews added a layer of credibility, effectively blurring the lines between fiction and reality. This trend reflected a broader cultural interest in true crime and the macabre, as audiences became more intrigued by the darker aspects of human experience.
The found footage genre in 2012 also showcased the versatility of its storytelling potential. Films like "Cloverfield" and "Paranormal Activity" had already established a solid foundation, and new entries continued to innovate within this framework. By incorporating various techniques such as social media and modern technology, filmmakers managed to keep the genre fresh while maintaining its core essence. This evolution highlighted the adaptability of found footage, ensuring its continued relevance in the horror landscape. As audiences craved more immersive and visceral experiences, found footage provided a unique avenue for exploring fear in a relatable and contemporary context.
Critically acclaimed horror movies of 2012
Several horror films released in 2012 garnered critical acclaim, showcasing the genre's ability to deliver not only scares but also compelling narratives and performances. "Sinister" emerged as a standout, praised for its chilling atmosphere and Ethan Hawke's captivating performance as a troubled writer. Critics lauded the film's ability to create a pervasive sense of dread through its cinematography and sound design, making it a benchmark in psychological horror. The blend of supernatural elements with a deeply personal story about family and loss resonated with both audiences and critics, solidifying its status as a modern classic.
"The Cabin in the Woods" also received widespread acclaim for its innovative take on horror conventions. Critics applauded its clever script and the way it subverted traditional tropes while still delivering genuine scares. The film's meta-narrative and self-awareness made it a favorite among horror aficionados, as it cleverly commented on the genre's clichés while simultaneously embracing them. This unique approach ensured that it stood out in a crowded field, earning a place among the most talked-about films of the year.
In addition to these major titles, "The Woman in Black" gained recognition for its atmospheric storytelling and strong performances, particularly from Daniel Radcliffe. Critics praised the film's ability to create tension without relying on excessive gore, opting instead for a more nuanced approach to horror. The gothic setting and haunting visuals added to the film's impact, making it a memorable entry in the supernatural genre. Collectively, these critically acclaimed films demonstrated that horror in 2012 was not just about scares; it was about storytelling, character depth, and the exploration of complex themes.
Box office hits and audience favorites of 2012
2012 was a banner year for horror at the box office, with several films achieving significant commercial success. "The Possession," which drew on the growing fascination with demonic possession narratives, became a surprise hit, grossing over $50 million domestically. Its ability to tap into a current cultural trend while delivering a chilling story made it resonate with audiences, proving that horror films could perform well commercially while also exploring deeper themes of family and fear.
Another box office success was "The Devil Inside," which generated considerable buzz prior to its release. The film's marketing campaign focused on its connection to real-life events, drawing audiences eager to witness the portrayal of exorcisms and demonic forces. Despite its mixed critical reception, it managed to gross over $100 million worldwide, highlighting the enduring appeal of found footage horror. The financial success of such films indicated a strong appetite for the genre, encouraging studios to invest in more horror projects.
Additionally, "The Cabin in the Woods" found a dedicated audience, becoming a cult favorite despite its more niche appeal. Its clever narrative and genre-savvy humor attracted viewers who appreciated its meta-commentary on horror tropes. The film's ability to blend comedy and horror, along with its unexpected twists, made it a standout among audience favorites. These box office hits illustrated the diverse interests of horror fans in 2012, showcasing a range of styles and themes that captured the zeitgeist of the time.
Conclusion: The legacy of horror movies in 2012
The horror movies of 2012 left an indelible mark on the genre, influencing subsequent films and trends for years to come. The year showcased a diverse array of storytelling techniques, from psychological and supernatural horror to innovative found footage formats. Each film contributed to a broader conversation about fear, trauma, and the human experience, ensuring that horror remained a vital and relevant part of cinematic culture. As audiences continued to crave new and engaging horror narratives, 2012 proved that the genre is capable of both thrilling and provoking thought.
The legacy of 2012's horror films can be seen in the ongoing evolution of the genre. Filmmakers have since embraced the lessons learned from this year, experimenting with narrative structures and themes that challenge traditional boundaries. The resurgence of psychological horror and the continued popularity of found footage are just a few examples of how the innovations of 2012 have influenced contemporary horror. This legacy is evident not only in the films themselves but also in the ways they engage with audiences, creating communal experiences around fear and excitement.
As we look back on the horror landscape of 2012, it is clear that the year was a pivotal moment for the genre. It set the stage for future explorations of fear, encouraging filmmakers to push the envelope and explore new depths of storytelling. For horror enthusiasts, 2012 remains a standout year that exemplified the genre's potential to entertain, provoke, and frighten, ensuring that its legacy will continue to resonate for years to come.
24 List of 2012 Horror Films Worth Watching!
Looking for the best 2012 horror movies? Included in our best horror movies of 2012 list are "Berberian Sound Studio (2012), Frankenweenie (2012), The Conspiracy (2012), The Battery (2012), and Excision (2012)." 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 2012 is Berberian Sound Studio (2012) scoring 7.57/10 stars with our combined scores. IMDB already has over 18,070 votes for this movie. Starring in Berberian Sound Studio (2012) is Toby Jones, Cosimo Fusco, Antonio Mancino, Fatma Mohamed, and Salvatore LI Causi. Director Peter Strickland did a phenomenal job treating us with this 2012 best horror film which was remarkable.Berberian Sound Studio (2012) is in Horror, Thriller, and Drama movie genres.
The next best 2012 horror movie is Frankenweenie (2012) with a score of 7.43/10 stars.
Catherine O`Hara, Catherine O''Hara, Martin Short, Martin Landau, and Charlie Tahan star in "Frankenweenie (2012)". Frankenweenie (2012) is directed by Tim Burton and has over 122,720 IMDB votes. You can find Frankenweenie (2012) in Horror, Thriller, Drama, Sci-Fi, Comedy, Animation, and Family movie genres.
These are the best horror films of 2012, and we hope you enjoy the 175 movies on our list of good 2012 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.