Halloween is just around the corner, bringing with it a wave of excitement for horror fans. Alongside iconic titles such as Insidious, The Conjuring, and Don’t Breathe, many viewers are eager to uncover new chilling experiences in the horror genre: a gripping narrative that drags them into deeper, darker mysteries. To this end, only a select few horror series this year can truly deliver.
This article will introduce you to the 8 most notable, hottest, and highly acclaimed titles in horror series this year. Are you ready?
American Horror Story
It’s no surprise that American Horror Story is often regarded as the king of horror series. With six seasons under its belt, it has cemented its place as a staple in the genre.
Structured as an anthology, each season of American Horror Story presents a unique story, featuring entirely different characters and settings (haunted houses, cults, freak shows, hotels, and more). One constant element is the outstanding cast, which has garnered numerous prestigious awards.
While each season may seem distinct, they are intricately connected through recurring themes and subtle references, inviting devoted fans to explore their depths.
Salem
Set in 17th-century Salem, the series resurrects the infamous witch trials, showcasing supernatural elements and deep, dark corners of the human psyche that lurked in this haunted land.
Debuting quietly in 2014, Salem quickly garnered attention with its gothic style and darkly intricate plots. If you’re a fan of supernatural rituals, ghostly hauntings, or simply seeking a chilling experience after each episode, this series is a perfect choice for you.
Channel Zero
Have you ever encountered a creepypasta that stuck with you? Can a television series based on such tales evoke the terrifying feelings they inspire in their audience?
Channel Zero is an anthology mini-series comprised of six episodes, with the first season focusing on a psychological horror story about a man returning to his hometown to investigate the mysterious disappearance of his twin brother, discovering connections to a horrifying children’s show called Candle Cove.
Following its successful first season, Channel Zero received very positive reviews and is currently producing its second season based on the creepypasta “The No-End House.”
The Exorcist
Drawing inspiration from the iconic 1973 film The Exorcist, the 2016 adaptation is a television series focusing on a family grappling with the possession of their teenage daughter. Two priests are called to help, but they are unaware of the horrifying truths that await them.
This latest series maintains the essence of what made the 1973 film so successful. It’s not just a story about possession; it delves into the psychological horror that people face when confronting their deepest fears and vulnerabilities.
With an IMDb score of 8.3/10, it’s clear that The Exorcist 2016 has garnered significant acclaim this fall.
Penny Dreadful
Often considered the British counterpart to American Horror Story, although not strictly an anthology, Penny Dreadful has successfully established itself as a unique series over three seasons, weaving together classic horror characters like Frankenstein, werewolves, and vampires into a haunting narrative.
If you are a fan of Eva Green, you should definitely dive into Penny Dreadful, where you can immerse yourself in her captivating performance amidst a whirlwind of horror elements.
Outcast
From the creator of The Walking Dead, Outcast is a title you should pay attention to right from its inception. The series follows a boy haunted by his past as he seeks to understand the source of the supernatural horrors that plague his life.
True to the essence of a horror series, Outcast provides viewers with a chilling experience from the very first episode to the final moments of the season, delving deep into the thoughts and torments of a boy facing supernatural threats.
Robert Kirkman has demonstrated his talent for exploring the human psyche through The Walking Dead, and he has once again succeeded with Outcast, where the safety of our loved ones hangs in the balance.
Scream Queens
Do you love Mean Girls? Are you also a fan of American Horror Story? Perhaps you have a soft spot for Glee? If so, Scream Queens is here to cater to your tastes.
As a comedic horror series, Scream Queens features the main character, Chanel, and her fashion-forward peers navigating through gruesome murders and the horror that ensues. Their journey is filled with humor and stylish flair, yet they must confront the deadly antics of a masked killer.
Scream Queens is essentially a parody that plays on the “screaming” tropes of the genre. The series dives deep into themes of superficiality, vanity, and the importance of self-identity, all while delivering thrilling entertainment.
Ash vs Evil Dead
Blood, gore, horror, and humor are the main ingredients of Ash vs Evil Dead. This series is a continuation of the Evil Dead film trilogy, following Ash as he inadvertently unleashes evil forces that have been trapped for centuries.
Certainly, Ash has to face daunting challenges as he battles the evil forces while trying to maintain his sanity. Together with new allies, he embarks on an unprecedented journey filled with blood, chaos, and horror.
If you are looking for a horror series that combines humor, chills, and a unique storyline, Ash vs Evil Dead is a top choice that has received high praise since its release.
