10 Movies like Midsommar that Will Leave You Haunted

If you’re a fan of the unsettling and thought-provoking horror film Midsommar, then get ready to embark on a journey through a selection of movies that share a similar haunting and mesmerizing quality. These movies like Midsommar, delve into the depths of human nature, exploring themes of isolation, cult-like communities, and psychological torment.

From chilling atmospheric horror to mind-bending psychological thrillers, these movies are bound to leave you haunted and enthralled long after the credits roll.

Movies like Midsommar

In movies like Midsommar, you’ll find narratives that push the boundaries of traditional horror, immersing you in unsettling atmospheres and challenging your expectations. These films provoke a mix of emotions, from discomfort and unease to awe and fascination, as they explore the darkest corners of the human psyche.

Whether it’s the examination of cult dynamics, the exploration of grief and trauma, or the descent into madness, these cinematic experiences are designed to leave a lasting impression.

So, prepare yourself for a selection of films that share the unsettling allure of Midsommar, ready to captivate and disturb you in equal measure.

1. Hereditary (2018)

“Hereditary” is a remarkable debut horror film that redefines the genre, focusing on atmosphere and emotional horror rather than cheap scares. With a clear influence from classics like “The Shining,” it builds an intensifying sense of unease and dread, delivering haunting and unsettling images.

The film explores deep family struggles, grief, and the inheritance of trauma and mental illness. Toni Collette’s mesmerizing and unhinged performance adds to the film’s effectiveness. While it occasionally suffers from pacing issues and moments that feel slightly campy, “Hereditary” is a testament to the potential of the genre when treated seriously.

It is a must-watch for horror fans seeking movies like Midsommar that delve into the dark depths of human psychology.

2. Men (2022)

“Men” is a boundary-pushing film that defies expectations and leaves viewers in a state of shock. It is an unconventional and audacious ride that takes audiences to unpredictable places.

The film fearlessly explores themes and metaphors, inviting varied interpretations from different perspectives. While the movie’s shocking moments may lose some of their impact towards the end, the overall absurdity and lack of realism create a captivating experience.

“Men” is not a film for everyone, as it challenges traditional norms and pushes the limits of what is acceptable. However, for those seeking movies like Midsommar that delve into unconventional storytelling and provoke strong reactions, “Men” is a bold and recommended choice.

3. The Witch (2015)

“The Witch” is an incredible and gripping horror film that excels in creating a lingering atmosphere of tension and suspense.

From the very beginning, the combination of a tense score and extended periods of silence contribute to an unsettling experience. The film’s strong performances and unpredictable storytelling keep the audience guessing throughout, without relying on traditional twists.

The ending is particularly satisfying, as the movie takes a subtle approach, delving into the true nature of religious persecution. Drawing inspiration from historical documents adds another layer of grimness to the narrative.

Set in 1630 New England, the film expertly portrays the vulnerability and paranoia of a Puritan family facing inexplicable hardships.

With its focus on psychological terror rather than jump scares, “The Witch” is a psychological thriller that leaves a lasting impact.

4. Barbarian (2022)

“Barbarian” is a nerve-racking and thrilling cinematic experience that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats from the very beginning. Director Zach Cregger masterfully immerses the audience in a world of suspense and unpredictability, delivering twists and turns that will leave them guessing until the very end.

The film follows Georgina Campbell’s character, Tess, as she encounters a man named Keith, portrayed by Bill Skarsgård, who claims a simple mix-up led to their shared occupancy of an Airbnb rental. As the story unfolds, questions arise about Keith’s true intentions and the mysterious nature of the rental property.

With each passing second, “Barbarian” surprises and captivates, defying predictability and showcasing intelligent decision-making by the characters.

Enhanced by an effective soundtrack, skillful direction, and striking cinematography, this adrenaline-pumping thriller is a must-see for fans of movies similar to Midsommar.

5. Climax (2018)

In fifth place on our list of best movies like Midsommar is “Climax”. It is a visually striking and emotionally intense film that pushes boundaries and elicits strong reactions from viewers.

Directed by Gaspar Noé, it immerses audiences in a nihilistic and provocative journey that is both unsettling and captivating. The dance sequences are breathtaking, showcasing the raw talent and energy of the performers.

Despite its dark and subversive nature, the film manages to avoid exploitation, demonstrating Noé’s skill in portraying brutality while finding moments of unexpected beauty. It is not a movie for everyone, as it delves into disturbing themes and evokes visceral responses. Watching it requires a sober mindset and a readiness for the challenging experience it offers.

“Climax” is a powerful and thought-provoking work of cinema, resonating with those who appreciate audacious and unapologetic filmmaking.

6. Beau Is Afraid (2023)

“Beau is Afraid” is an indescribably weird and darkly comedic film that pushes the boundaries of absurdity and creativity.

Directed by Ari Aster, it is a hypnotizing and imaginative experience that leaves viewers questioning what they are witnessing. The movie combines different genres seamlessly, creating a captivating and engaging narrative.

The directing, cinematography, and music work together to create a unique atmosphere that keeps audiences fully engaged. Despite its unconventional approach, “Beau is Afraid” manages to stand out in a sea of films and leaves a lasting impact.

It may not be suitable for everyone, but for those who appreciate Ari Aster’s previous movies like Midsommar and Hereditary, this film is another reminder of the power of exceptional storytelling.

7. The Ritual (2017)

“The Ritual” excels in delivering relatable and flawed characters, a key element often overlooked in horror films. Based on a novel, the depth of the characters shines through, allowing the audience to understand their choices and decisions.

The film’s setting is visually striking, simultaneously creepy and beautiful, adding to its atmospheric appeal. Most impressively, “The Ritual” manages to be genuinely scary, a rarity in modern horror. The mystery, suspense, and horror build up masterfully in the first three-quarters of the film, captivating viewers and keeping them on the edge of their seats.

While the final quarter falters slightly, losing some steam and ending abruptly, the overall experience is highly recommended. “The Ritual” stands out as an example of the best that contemporary horror has to offer.

8. The Invitation (2022)

“The Invitation” takes viewers on a thrilling journey as Evie, a struggling ceramicist, discovers her English relatives and attends a family reunion at a creepy mansion in Whitby.

The film effectively creates an eerie atmosphere, with the juxtaposition of gloomy interiors and gleaming exteriors adding to the sense of unease. As waitresses mysteriously disappear, the mansion’s cobweb-covered wine cellars and dark library become ominous locations for attacks.

While the nature of the attacker becomes clearer as the narrative unfolds, the film avoids excessive gore, instead focusing on suspenseful and explicit horror scenes. Additionally, the mansion itself becomes a character, and the overhead shots of dancing add visual flair.

“The Invitation” offers a fresh take on the horror genre, incorporating elements of romance, making it a captivating watch for people looking for more movies like Midsommar.

9. The Lodge (2019)

“The Lodge” is a slow-burn horror film that has generated mixed reactions among audiences and critics. It delves into themes of trauma and religious extremism, presenting a character-driven narrative rather than catering to mass horror audiences.

The eerie atmosphere is skillfully crafted, with the lodge itself becoming a character through its minimal lighting and foreboding surroundings. The film effectively conveys emotions through the characters, from the opening act’s funeral to the growing sense of unease and eventual terror. It tackles heavy themes of grief and religion, exploring the distorted interpretations of well-meaning doctrines.

While the movie may not appeal to everyone due to its slow pacing and limited dialogue, it creates a haunting experience through its minimalist aesthetics and thought-provoking narrative.

10. Apostle (2018)

Rounding off our list of the best horror movies like Midsommar is “Apostle”. It is an enchanting and thrilling period horror film from Gareth Evans, known for his work in “The Raid” franchise. Reminiscent of films like “The Wicker Man” and “The Witch,” Evans presents a story of violence, revenge, and love’s tragic fate within a mysterious religious cult.

The film’s violence may be intense and unsettling for some, but it is integral to the core of the story. Alongside the well-constructed plot, “Apostle” features memorable characters brought to life by a strong cast.

Dan Stevens delivers a standout performance, comparable to Nicolas Cage in “Mandy,” while Michael Sheen impresses as the prophet. The film’s runtime could have been trimmed, but overall, it is a well-directed, well-acted, and engaging horror experience that ranks among the best of its genre of the last few years.