Best Horror Movies Of 2009: A Look Back

Hey horror fans! Let's take a terrifying trip down memory lane and revisit the best horror movies of 2009. 2009 was a pretty interesting year for horror, offering a mix of remakes, original stories, and some seriously creepy flicks that have stood the test of time. We're going to dive deep into the films that made us jump, scream, and maybe even lose a little sleep. So, grab your popcorn, turn off the lights, and let's get started!

The Remakes That Shook Us

In 2009, the remake trend was still going strong, and we saw some familiar titles get a fresh, or sometimes not-so-fresh, coat of paint. While remakes often get a bad rap, some of them managed to bring something new to the table. Let's discuss a couple of the most notable ones.

Friday the 13th

Okay, guys, let’s be real. The 2009 remake of Friday the 13th had a lot to live up to. The original series is iconic, and Jason Voorhees is a horror legend. This remake attempted to streamline the mythology and give us a more modern take on the story. Directed by Marcus Nispel, the film aimed for a grittier and more realistic feel. Jared Padalecki starred as Clay Miller, a guy searching for his missing sister, who stumbles upon Camp Crystal Lake and its infamous resident. While it didn't exactly reinvent the slasher wheel, the Friday the 13th remake delivered plenty of the gore and jump scares that fans expected. Derek Mears as Jason was imposing, and the film had some creative kills. However, it also suffered from some of the typical remake pitfalls, such as a predictable plot and characters that weren't as memorable as the originals. Despite its flaws, it was a box office success, proving that Jason's reign of terror was far from over. The remake reignited interest in the franchise for a new generation, even if it didn't quite capture the magic of the earlier films. The debate continues among fans about whether it did justice to the original, but one thing's for sure: it kept us talking about Camp Crystal Lake. So, was it a worthy addition to the Friday the 13th canon? That’s up for you to decide!

The Last House on the Left

The Last House on the Left remake is another one that stirred up quite a bit of controversy. The original 1972 film is notorious for its brutal and disturbing content, and the 2009 version didn't shy away from that. This remake tells the story of Mari Collingwood, who, along with her friend Paige, is kidnapped and terrorized by a group of escaped convicts led by the sadistic Krug. After being left for dead, Mari makes her way back to her parents' vacation home, only to discover that her attackers have unknowingly sought shelter there. What follows is a gruesome and violent tale of revenge as Mari's parents, John and Emma, exact their own brutal justice on the criminals. The film was directed by Dennis Iliadis and starred Tony Goldwyn and Monica Potter as the parents. What made this remake particularly unsettling was its unflinching depiction of violence and its exploration of the themes of revenge and morality. It forced viewers to confront uncomfortable questions about how far they would go to protect their loved ones. While it was definitely not an easy watch, The Last House on the Left remake was a powerful and disturbing film that left a lasting impact. It sparked discussions about the ethics of remaking such a controversial film and whether it added anything meaningful to the original's legacy. For those who could stomach it, it was a harrowing and thought-provoking experience.

Original Horror That Scared Us Silly

Of course, 2009 wasn't just about remakes. There were also some original horror movies that managed to scare us in new and creative ways. These films brought fresh ideas and unique perspectives to the genre, proving that there was still plenty of room for innovation.

Orphan

Orphan is a psychological horror film that really messed with our heads. The movie centers around Kate and John Coleman, a couple who decide to adopt a child after suffering a tragic loss. They choose Esther, a sweet and seemingly innocent nine-year-old girl from an orphanage. However, it soon becomes clear that Esther is not who she appears to be. As strange and disturbing events begin to unfold, Kate becomes convinced that Esther is hiding a dark secret. Vera Farmiga and Peter Sarsgaard deliver strong performances as the parents, but it's Isabelle Fuhrman as Esther who steals the show. She portrays the character with a chilling combination of innocence and malevolence, making her one of the most memorable horror villains of recent years. Orphan is a masterclass in building suspense and creating a sense of unease. The film keeps you guessing until the very end, with plenty of twists and turns along the way. It also explores themes of grief, family, and the secrets that can lurk beneath the surface of seemingly perfect lives. If you're looking for a horror movie that will keep you on the edge of your seat and make you question everything you think you know, Orphan is definitely worth a watch. Just be prepared to have your expectations turned upside down.

Drag Me to Hell

Sam Raimi, the master of horror-comedy, returned in 2009 with Drag Me to Hell, a film that perfectly blends scares and laughs. The story follows Christine Brown, a loan officer who evicts an elderly woman from her home. In retaliation, the woman places a curse on Christine, condemning her to be tormented by a demonic force before being dragged to hell. Alison Lohman stars as Christine, and she does a fantastic job of portraying the character's descent into terror. Raimi's signature style is on full display in Drag Me to Hell, with plenty of over-the-top gore, slapstick humor, and inventive camera work. The film is a rollercoaster ride of scares and laughs, never taking itself too seriously. It's a refreshing take on the horror genre, proving that you can be both terrifying and hilarious at the same time. What makes Drag Me to Hell so effective is its ability to balance the supernatural with the very real fears of everyday life. Christine's struggle to break the curse is relatable, and the film taps into our anxieties about money, job security, and the consequences of our actions. If you're a fan of Sam Raimi's earlier work, or if you're just looking for a fun and scary movie, Drag Me to Hell is a must-see. Just be prepared for some seriously wild and over-the-top moments.

Underrated Gems You Might Have Missed

Now, let's shine a spotlight on some of the lesser-known horror movies from 2009 that deserve more love. These films may not have been box office hits, but they offered unique and interesting takes on the genre.

The Unborn

The Unborn is a supernatural horror film directed by David Goyer, starring Odette Yustman as a young woman named Casey Beldon who is haunted by a dybbuk, a malicious spirit from Jewish folklore. Casey begins to experience increasingly disturbing visions and nightmares, and she soon discovers that she is connected to a dark family secret. With the help of her friend Romy and a spiritual advisor named Sendak, Casey must unravel the mystery of her past and find a way to stop the dybbuk before it destroys her. The Unborn blends elements of Jewish mythology with classic horror tropes to create a creepy and suspenseful atmosphere. While it may not be the most original film, it delivers plenty of scares and features some memorable imagery. Odette Yustman is compelling as the tormented Casey, and the supporting cast includes Gary Oldman and Idris Elba, who add some gravitas to the proceedings. If you're interested in Jewish folklore or just looking for a solid supernatural horror movie, The Unborn is worth checking out. It may not be a masterpiece, but it's a fun and spooky ride.

Triangle

Triangle is a mind-bending psychological horror film directed by Christopher Smith. The story follows Jess, a single mother who joins a group of friends on a yacht trip. When a storm hits, they are forced to abandon ship and climb aboard a mysterious ocean liner. However, they soon realize that they are not alone on the ship, and they are trapped in a terrifying time loop. Melissa George gives a standout performance as Jess, portraying her character's confusion and desperation with great intensity. Triangle is a film that requires multiple viewings to fully appreciate its complexities. It's a puzzle box of a movie that keeps you guessing until the very end. The film explores themes of guilt, regret, and the cyclical nature of violence. It's a thought-provoking and unsettling horror film that will stay with you long after you've seen it. If you're looking for a horror movie that's a bit more intelligent and challenging, Triangle is a great choice. Just be prepared to have your mind twisted.

Conclusion: Why 2009 Still Matters for Horror

So, there you have it, a look back at some of the best horror movies of 2009. From remakes to original stories, this year had something for every horror fan. While some films were more successful than others, they all contributed to the rich tapestry of the genre. Whether you're a fan of slashers, psychological thrillers, or supernatural horror, 2009 had something to offer. So, next time you're looking for a good scare, why not revisit some of these films? You might be surprised at what you discover. Keep the lights on, guys!