Recent Foreign Language Horror Movies For Your Watchlist
So much horror comes out every year in English-speaking countries that it’s easy to overlook the many terrific releases happening all over the world. With that in mind, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best foreign language horror films and TV shows of the last few years so you can broaden your horizons a bit and enjoy some real gems from the genre.
The Innocents (2021)
This Norwegian film focuses on children who develop supernatural powers that lead to disastrous results. Simple in its execution, though highly unsettling, the film explores what happens when the superhero adage “With great power comes great responsibility” isn’t adhered to.
Dark (2017 – 2020)
One of the best pieces of media you can find on Netflix is the modern classic Dark, the German time travel mystery show that features stellar acting and casting, an intricate narrative, a beautiful and haunting score, and striking visuals. Any horror or sci-fi fan will find plenty to enjoy within, as they follow along with the time jumps and mysterious deaths.
Lamb (2021)
Released in the United States by famed production company A24, this Icelandic film generated a solid bit of buzz among American horror fans. When a childless couple discovers a strange sheep/human hybrid on their farm and starts to raise it as their own, their lives are wholly upended, resulting in some devastating consequences.
One Cut of the Dead (2017)
This Japanese horror comedy follows a group of filmmakers shooting a film in a single take with real zombies as part of the affair. With so many zombie films, shows, and books emerging in recent decades, it’s hard to find a fresh take on the subgenre, but writer and director Shin’ichirō Ueda landed on a novel approach with very fun results.
Hatching (2022)
This Finnish movie is one of the stranger horror films you’re likely to see for a while. Part psychological horror, part body horror, the film focuses on a young girl who finds an egg and raises its hatched bird, a creature that slowly begins to take on more and more human characteristics. You won’t be able to shake some images from this one.
The Platform (2019)
This socially conscious Spanish film is sort of a vertical version of Bong Joon-ho’s Snowpiercer, illustrating wealth disparity via a prison setting with a lowering platform of food. Disturbing and thought-provoking, this just might turn your stomach for several reasons.
Squid Game (2021 – Present)
This global sensation from South Korea deserves every accolade it received, as it features relevant social commentary, tense and horrific set pieces, moving performances, and incredibly impressive visuals. Though how a second season will fare is still up for debate, the first season works so marvelously on its own that audiences will always be able to approach it as a one-season affair.
Train to Busan (2016)
This tense South Korean zombie film set a record for Korean theatergoers, and for good reason. It’s action-packed, thrilling, and one of the best pieces of zombie media in some time. Its success also led to an enjoyable sequel, Peninsula, in 2020.
1899 (2022)
Made by the same creative team as Dark, this German show airing on Netflix focuses on the mysterious disappearance of a steamship in 1899 and the horrors that befall a second ship that goes in search of it. Though currently only one season long, the creators have two additional seasons planned, much as they did for Dark.
Troll (2022)
Essentially a Scandinavian kaiju film – in the mold of Godzilla, Rodan, Mothra, etc. – this Norwegian movie centers on an ancient troll awakening from its slumber, heading toward Oslo, and leaving a path of destruction in its wake. A fun and unusual riff on a stock trope. Give it a look!
Thanks for viewing ‘Recent Foreign Language Horror You Need to Add to Your Watchlist’ written by Linton Lewis.
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