The Best Horror Short Films You Need to Watch
Horror short films have become a popular form of entertainment, offering a quick dose of scares and thrills in just a few minutes. With the rise of the internet, we have been fortunate to have access to a plethora of these short films, and their popularity shows no signs of slowing down. In fact, some of these terrifying shorts have even caught the attention of Hollywood, leading to feature film adaptations and exciting opportunities for the creators. As a horror enthusiast, one aspect I particularly enjoy about these shorts is the infusion of comedy, which adds a delightful twist to the overall experience. In this article, we have handpicked five of the very best horror short films that you absolutely must watch.
1. Selfie from Hell by Erdal Ceylan and Meelah Adams
Despite its simplicity, “Selfie from Hell” has garnered widespread acclaim and is now set to be adapted into a full-length feature film. This short film masterfully combines horror elements with a straightforward storyline, captivating the audience’s attention from start to finish.
2. Lights Out by David F. Sandberg and Lotta Losten
“Lights Out” is another excellent example of how simple plots can be executed brilliantly. Its success has led to a feature film adaptation produced by renowned horror-master James Wan. Set to release soon, this film promises to be just as terrifying as the short that captivated audiences across the globe.
3. Face Swap by “No Sleep” [YouTube channel]
While “Face Swap” shares similarities with “Selfie from Hell,” it still manages to deliver an impactful punch. With a slight adjustment in timing, this short film could have been even more effective, but it still succeeds in delivering the intended scares.
4. Coffer by David F. Sandberg and Lotta Losten
David F. Sandberg and Lotta Losten strike again with “Coffer,” a dialogue-free short film that showcases their unique style. By relying solely on visuals and atmosphere, this film creates an engaging and relatable experience for viewers. It’s worth noting that the protagonist of “Lights Out” makes an appearance, and it seems she still hasn’t escaped her haunted apartment!
5. 2AM: The Smiling Man by Michael Evans
Prepare to be creeped out after watching “2AM: The Smiling Man.” This short film, based on a Reddit story, leaves a lasting impression and will make you think twice about walking alone in the dark. The combination of a creepy smiling figure and an unsettling atmosphere makes this a must-watch for horror lovers.
Bonus Entries
In addition to the top five horror short films, we have a couple of highly recommended bonus entries that are sure to give you chills:
Bonus 1: Demon’s Dawn by Erdal Ceylan and Meelah Adams
The talented duo behind “Selfie from Hell” returns with “Demon’s Dawn,” a new horror short film that promises to deliver another spine-tingling experience. Additionally, they have a future project called “Devil’s Lullaby” in the works, along with the feature film adaptation of “Selfie from Hell.” Fans of their work will have plenty to look forward to.
Bonus 2: Polaroid by Lars Klevberg
Norwegian director Lars Klevberg brings us “Polaroid,” a chilling horror short film that has also been adapted into a feature-length movie. If you enjoy the short film, you’ll definitely want to check out the full-length version for a more immersive experience.
We hope you enjoy this curated collection of the best horror short films! Stay tuned for more of our top 5 lists by signing up for our Newsletter and following us on Facebook and Twitter. Remember to share these terrifying tales with fellow horror enthusiasts, because sharing is caring… and scaring!
Conclusion
Horror short films have become a popular medium for delivering quick and impactful scares. With the ability to capture attention in just a few minutes, these films have gained widespread popularity on the internet. Our selection highlights some of the best horror short films, ranging from simple yet effective plots to those that are being adapted into feature films. The infusion of comedy in many of these films adds an extra layer of enjoyment, creating a unique and captivating viewing experience. Expand your horror horizons and delve into these top-rated horror short films for a thrilling ride.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are these horror short films suitable for viewers with a high school education?
Yes, these horror short films are generally suitable for viewers with a high school education. However, some scenes may be intense or contain jump scares, so viewer discretion is advised.
2. Can I find these horror short films online?
Yes, many of these horror short films can be found on popular video sharing platforms such as YouTube. Additionally, some may be available for streaming on various horror-themed websites.
3. What makes horror short films effective in delivering scares?
Horror short films often rely on concise storytelling, atmospheric visuals, and well-executed jump scares to deliver an intense and memorable experience. The limited runtime forces filmmakers to be creative in building tension and delivering impactful scares within a short span of time.
4. Are there any other notable horror short films worth watching?
Absolutely! The horror genre is filled with incredible short films that offer unique and terrifying experiences. Do some research online, and you’ll find countless recommendations to further satisfy your horror cravings.
5. Can I expect more feature film adaptations of these horror short films in the future?
Given the success of several horror short film adaptations in recent years, it’s highly likely that we’ll see more of these shorts being developed into full-length feature films. The popularity and positive reception of these shorts often catch the attention of industry professionals, leading to exciting opportunities for talented filmmakers.