Having finished Season 2 of The Last of Us on Max, viewers who appreciate its post-apocalyptic horror vibe might be intrigued by Max’s extensive collection of scary movies. From the acclaimed The Silence of the Lambs to contemporary picks like Hugh Grant’s Heretic, the streaming service offers a rotating selection of chilling films. With subscription plans starting at $10 a month or $100 annually, plus a free option for Doordash DashPass subscribers, Max caters to various tastes in horror. For those seeking a good scare, here are eleven compelling titles to explore.
One standout recommendation is Heretic, featuring Hugh Grant in a chilling role as Mr. Reed. The movie delves into the unnerving tension between a pair of young missionaries and their ominous captor, showcasing the creepiest facets of faith-driven horror. Moving on to Companion, this clever and unsettling film, headlined by Sophie Thatcher and Jack Quaid, is not to be preceded by too much research. The film offers a thrilling ride, promising to set high standards for upcoming horror releases.
A24’s Pearl serves as a prequel to the slasher film X, portraying a younger version of its malevolent protagonist. While Max has both X and the upcoming MaXXXine, Pearl is hailed as a must-watch for its captivating storytelling and intense performances. Conversely, the classic The Silence of the Lambs remains an unparalleled psychological horror experience, featuring Jodie Foster and Anthony Hopkins in a chilling hunt for a serial killer, earning accolades that include the Best Picture Oscar.
For those in search of atmospheric terror, Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining delivers with Jack Nicholson’s haunting performance as a writer spiraling into madness while isolated in a remote hotel. Equally unsettling is the 2017 adaptation of Stephen King’s It, which reinvigorated fears of clowns through its captivating narrative centered on a group of brave children facing supernatural horrors. Additionally, the upcoming Beetlejuice sequel, featuring Michael Keaton, brings a nostalgic spooky comedy atmosphere while newer horrors await the discerning viewer.
Stephen King’s influence continues with Carrie, portraying Sissy Spacek as the tormented prom queen in a film that remains a classic. David Lynch’s Eraserhead, a surreal nightmare wrapped in bizarre imagery and sound, prompts deep contemplation regarding themes of fatherhood and societal expectations. Finally, George Romero’s Night of the Living Dead serves as the archetype of modern zombie cinema, drawing viewers into its character-driven narrative and provoking thoughts of survival in apocalyptic scenarios.
Lastly, the legacy of Evil Dead is carried forward in its latest installment, highlighting a family’s accidental confrontation with ancient evils in a gruesomely entertaining manner. Collectively, these films not only cater to diverse horror tastes but also serve as an invitation to revisit the genre, ensuring there’s something for every viewer on Max, even beyond The Last of Us.
