Unexpected Chills: 10 Scary Movies That Surprised and Delighted

1. The Empty Man 2020，IMDB Rating: ，Douban Rating: 5.7，ID: tt5867314
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The story follows a former police officer who, while probing a series of mysterious suicides, uncovers a chilling conspiracy linked to a supernatural entity known as “The Empty Man.” The film blends elements of suspense, horror, and mystery, crafting a tense and thrilling atmosphere. Its distinctive plot and the establishment of a horror ambiance have garnered notable attention within the horror film genre.
2. Climax 2018，IMDB Rating: 7.1，Douban Rating: 6.4，ID: tt8359848
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The movie starts off as a dance musical, showcasing the talents of a diverse troupe of dancers. However, it quickly descends into a nightmarish scenario when the dancers consume sangria laced with drugs. The film is praised for its direction, cinematography, soundtrack, choreography, and performances. It’s a film that was not expected to be as impactful as it turned out to be, making it a fitting entry in the list of ’10 Scary Movies That People Loved After Expecting Nothing’.
3. The Perfection 2018，IMDB Rating: 6.1，Douban Rating: 5.7，ID: tt7772580
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“The Perfection” is a captivating thriller. It follows Charlotte and Elizabeth, both musical talents. Jealousy prompts Charlotte to give Elizabeth a dangerous drug mix, resulting in a horrific incident. As the story unfolds, hidden truths about the academy emerge.The plot is full of unexpected turns. The acting is compelling. It explores dark themes with intensity. Though disturbing at times, it’s a must-see for thriller lovers.
4. Alien: Covenant 2017，IMDB Rating: 6.4，Douban Rating: 7.4，ID: tt2316204
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The film’s ability to subvert expectations while delivering intense scares makes it a standout in the realm of horror cinema. Its narrative ties to ‘Prometheus’ and the original ‘Alien’ add depth to the story, making it not just a horror film, but a thought-provoking exploration of creation and destruction. ‘Alien: Covenant’ is a film that offers more than just scares – it invites viewers to ponder the nature of humanity and our place in the universe.
5. The Cabin in the Woods 2011，IMDB Rating: 7.0，Douban Rating: 7.5，ID: tt1259521
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This movie breaks the traditional pattern of horror films and is full of twists and surprises. A group of college students go on vacation to a cabin in the woods but encounter a series of terrifying events. However, as the plot progresses, the audience discovers a huge conspiracy behind it.The film combines various horror elements such as zombies, werewolves, ghosts, etc. At the same time, it satirizes and subverts the common tropes of horror movies.
6. The Final Girls 2015，IMDB Rating: 6.6，Douban Rating: 6.7，ID: tt2118624
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The story follows a young woman who is transported into a classic slasher movie along with her friends. They must navigate the terrifying world of the film and try to survive.The movie cleverly combines elements of horror and comedy, creating a unique and entertaining viewing experience. It pays homage to the slasher genre while adding a fresh and modern twist.
7. The Babadook 2014，IMDB Rating: 6.8，Douban Rating: 6.5，ID: tt2321549
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The story follows Amelia, a single mother still haunted by the trauma of her husband’s death, and her increasingly erratic son, Samuel. After Samuel discovers a mysterious pop-up book, the Babadook, strange and terrifying things start to happen. The film expertly builds tension without relying on cheap jump scares. Essie Davis gives a powerful performance as Amelia, transforming from a caring mother to a tormented soul.
8. The Conjuring 2013，IMDB Rating: 7.5，Douban Rating: 7.9，ID: tt1457767
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The movie is a terrifying horror gem. It tells the story of the Perron family moving into a haunted farmhouse. Strange phenomena occur, like strange noises and objects moving on their own. The Warrens, paranormal experts, are called in to help them. The film builds tension masterfully, with creepy scenes and unexpected scares.
9. The Mist 2007，IMDB Rating: 7.1，Douban Rating: 8.0，ID: tt0884328
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The film tells the story of a small town being suddenly shrouded in a thick mist, with various mysterious and dangerous creatures lurking within. The protagonist, David, and a group of people trapped in a supermarket not only have to face terrifying monsters but also deal with the tests of human nature and internal conflicts. This movie has received attention for its tense rhythm, excellent special effects, and profound exploration of the dark side of human nature.
10. The Blair Witch Project 1999，IMDB Rating: 6.5，Douban Rating: 6.4，ID: tt0185937
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Presented in a documentary style, it tells the story of three film students who travel to the small town of Blair in Maryland to shoot a documentary about the local legend of the Blair Witch. However, they mysteriously disappear during the filming process. The movie recreates the events through the footage they left behind, creating an authentic and terrifying atmosphere. This film attracted much attention due to its unique shooting technique and marketing approach, and has become a classic in the history of horror movies.