Heebie-Jeebies: The 10 Best Horror Films From The Past Decade

4) Under The Skin (2013)

While many might point out that Under the Skin is a science fiction film, it also is a movie that embodies many of the traits of a classic horror movie, while also reimagining them in refreshing ways.

Based on Michel Faber’s novel of the same name, Under the Skin is a haunting experience that leaves one reeling with unease. With a mesmerizing visualization, goosebumps-inducing score and a surprisingly spellbinding performance from Scarlett Johansson (as well as the adroitly poignant improvisations between the actress and the non-actors whom she drugs), Jonathan Glazer’s third feature film is his best work yet.

Having taken a nine-year hiatus from his last effort, not only is this Glazer’s best movie to date, but it’s a wonderful visual homage to Stanley Kubrick’s 2001: Space Odyssey. Beyond the profilmic though, Under the Skin works to relay powerful messages regarding rape culture, gender identity and male centric social culture. Taking an interesting narrative spin, the film seldom contains much dialogue. Instead, the kaleidoscope of stylized visuals enraptures the audience to perceive worldly pleasures in the same way an alien would living in the skin of another.

It’s strange, bizarre and yet beautiful and intoxicating—all at the same time. If you wanted to see how Kubrick might have imagined remaking his seminal 1968 film in the new millennium, then look no further than the unnerving stalker narrative and abstract artistic expression of Under the Skin.