Why Netflix's Horror Movies Fail to Terrify

Netflix's horror movie offerings have yet to produce a breakout hit that truly captivates its audience. Although the streaming service has made strides in the genre with standouts such as the Fear Street franchise and Eli, there have also been several misses. For instance, the forgettable Choose Or Die and the lackluster The Open House failed to impress viewers with their lack of character development and proper endings. With the potential to create better horror movies at a cost-effective price, it's clear that Netflix should prioritize its horror content.

Horror Movies Are Hugely Popular

With the 1980s hailed as a golden age for both slasher and supernatural films, classics such as Poltergeist, A Nightmare on Elm Street, Friday the 13th, and The Shining continue to endure. However, as the horror genre experiences a surge in popularity, 2022 has proven to be a remarkable year for horror fans. Given the insatiable appetite for horror movies, Netflix has the opportunity to create more original and imaginative films that cater to this thriving demand. While legacy horror still holds a special place in the hearts of audiences, there is always a hunger for fresh and innovative storytelling. Netflix, in particular, is an ideal platform to showcase such content. The success of Scream IV, with its plethora of kills and unexpected twists, is yet another indication that the horror genre is here to stay.

Horror Movies Can Be Made On The Cheap

Producing more horror movies could be a cost-effective strategy for Netflix, as the genre often requires minimal production costs. The success of Hush, a Netflix original horror film co-written by Mike Flanagan and his wife Kate Siegal and directed by Flanagan, is a prime example of this. Despite having a budget of just $1 million, the movie was well-received by audiences and critics alike. This demonstrates that bigger budgets don't necessarily lead to more creativity or better results, as many horror franchises have shown. Additionally, horror films often require filming in only a few locations, which further reduces production costs.

Audiences Like An At-Home Horror Experience

Audiences clearly enjoy watching horror movies on Netflix, as evidenced by the popularity of many titles. Unlike the movie theater, watching at home can actually enhance the fear factor, as the viewer is in a familiar and comfortable space where it's easier to imagine something sinister lurking nearby. Netflix has the added advantage of having a large user base who are willing to watch a variety of films, including horror. One example of a successful horror movie on Netflix is Hush, which has a high Rotten Tomatoes rating and tells the chilling story of a deaf writer who is terrorized by an intruder in her own home, making it even more terrifying to watch in the comfort of one's own home.

Netflix's Horror Successes Prove It Can Be Done

Fragment 9: With a successful track record in the horror genre, Netflix has the potential to expand beyond TV series and venture into movie production. The Fear Street franchise, in particular, offers a thrilling and enjoyable experience with its charming love story between Samantha Frasier and Deena Johnson, and nostalgic references to classic horror films like Scream in the first movie.

Netflix's announcement of a fourth Fear Street movie has horror fans excited for what's to come. With this successful franchise under their belt, it would be wise for Netflix to explore other subgenres of horror and deliver fresh and terrifying stories. From classic slashers to haunting tales of demonic possession, there are endless possibilities for Netflix to showcase their creativity and scare audiences in new and unexpected ways. Even the often-overlooked found footage subgenre could be revitalized with the right stories and approach. Here's hoping Netflix continues to push the boundaries of horror and deliver more thrilling content for fans to enjoy.