The upcoming serial killer movies of 2024 promise audiences a cocktail of fear, morbid curiosity, and weird fascination.
One look at the upcoming serial killer movies, and it becomes clear that audiences are in for a cocktail of fear, morbid curiosity and weird fascination. From a horror retelling of a famous children’s story to a psychological cop hunt, these movies straddle multiple gritty genres at the same time while keeping murder as the nucleus of the story.
Serial killer movies have evolved over time, often blurring the lines between good and evil. From classic black-and-white thrillers like M (1931) to modern psychological explorations like Se7en (1995), they explore the darkness lurking within humanity through a deranged pivotal character.
There is suspense, and there are body counts. Tension reigns supreme as the story progresses, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. Societal lessons are also at times shared through such films, like the perception of good and evil through the serial killer Hannibal Lecter in Silence of the Lambs (1991) or a scathing social commentary about psychology and consumerism like American Psycho (2000).
Though there are scares, it is important to note that serial killer movies are different from those of pure horror, the latter example of which would also include supernatural, fantasy or even comedy films as co-genres.
Must-watch upcoming serial killer movies
Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey 2
Directed by: Rhys Frake-Waterfield
Cast: Scott Chambers, Ryan Oliva, Eddy MacKenzie, Lewis Santer, Simon Callow
Release date: Early 2024
Synopsis: Following the events of the previous film, Winnie-the-Pooh (Oliva) and his feral friends go on a serial killing spree through the town of Ashdown, seeking revenge on Christopher Robin (Chambers).
More about the film: Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey 2 is a sequel to Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey (2023), the British independent slasher film, which was a re-imagining of the characters created by A. A. Milne and E. H. Shepard in the Winnie-the-Pooh books.
The original film was a surprise hit at the worldwide box office despite critics panning it severely. Made on a budget of less than USD 100,000, the film earned around USD 6 million. The sequel has reportedly cost the makers around USD 1 million.
The sequel is one of the most significant upcoming movies which straddles multiple horror genres, including serial killer and thriller. It marks the first appearance of Tigger in the franchise after the character entered the public domain along with Mickey Mouse on 1 January 2024.
Originally scheduled for release on 14 February 2024, the film’s exact release date is now unclear. Some reports suggest that it might hit the screens in March.
The Strangers: Chapter 1
Directed by: Renny Harlin
Cast: Madelaine Petsch, Froy Gutierrez, Rachel Shenton, Gabriel Basso
Release date: 17 May 2024
Synopsis: Maya (Petsch) and her longtime boyfriend, Ryan (Gutierrez), head for the Pacific Northwest by road to start a new life. Their car breaks down in a sparsely populated area in Venus, Oregon, and they take shelter in an isolated Airbnb home. The couple then face the most terrifying night of their lives when three murderous masked strangers arrive.
More about the film: The Strangers: Chapter 1 is part of The Strangers franchise, which started with the first film in 2008. According to Deadline, Chapter 1 is a remake of the original film and is the first in a trilogy.
The original film throws ample hints that the three strangers are actually serial killers who have been murdering gullible people in the isolated area. Makers Lionsgate intends to expand the story in a new form for the sequel. But given the story of the original, The Strangers: Chapter 1 is certainly one of the most-awaited serial killer movies.
Speak No Evil
Directed by: James Watkins
Cast: James McAvoy, Mackenzie Davis, Scoot McNairy, Alix West Lefler
Release date: 13 September 2024
Synopsis: A family vacation turns into a deadly nightmare for a couple when they visit an idyllic country house on the invitation of another family they recently befriended.
More about the film: Speak No Evil is the English-language remake of the Danish psychological horror thriller Gaesterne (2022). The Danish film, which is about a serial killer family, was directed by Christian Tafdrup. It was nominated for 11 Danish Film Awards, which is Denmark’s equivalent to the Oscars.
Longlegs
Directed by: Osgood Perkins
Cast: Maika Monroe, Nicolas Cage, Alicia Witt, Blair Underwood
Release date: 12 July 2024
Synopsis: In the 1970s America, Lee Harker (Monroe), an FBI agent, is investigating a cold case connected to the crimes committed by a serial killer (Cage). During her probe, she uncovers occult evidence and a personal connection to the killer.
More about the film: Osgood “Oz” Perkins is the son of Anthony Perkins, renowned universally for playing Norman Bates in Alfred Hitchcock’s suspense thriller Psycho (1960). The younger Perkins has made a name for himself as a director of horror movies such as The Blackcoat’s Daughter (2015), I Am the Pretty Thing That Lives in the House (2016) and Greta and Hansel (2020).
(Hero and Featured images: Lionsgate)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
– Which is the best serial killer movie?
Numerous serial killer movies are counted among the best. Chief of them are Psycho (1960), Se7en (1995) and Zodiac (2007).
– Why is Psycho movie famous?
Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho (1960) is considered a landmark film across the genres and sub-genres of psychological, thriller, crime, suspense and serial killer. It is credited for laying the benchmark for all similar films that followed. It is universally praised for its direction, camerawork, atmospheric effects and performances.
Manas Sen Gupta writes at the intersection of tech, entertainment and history. His works have appeared in publications such as The Statesman, Myanmar Matters, Hindustan Times and News18/ETV. In his spare time, Manas loves studying interactive charts and topographic maps. When not doing either, he prefers reading detective fiction. Spring is his favourite season and he can happily eat a bowl of noodles any time of the day.
