7 underrated horror movies of the 1990s you might have missed

As someone who grew up in the heart of the ’90s, I can confidently say that the horror genre during this decade was nothing short of extraordinary. While many remember the era for its blockbuster hits like Scream and The Blair Witch Project, there’s a whole other side to the story – the hidden gems, the underrated masterpieces that didn’t quite get the attention they deserved.

The 1990s wasn’t just filled with popular horror movies, it was also the era when significant horror franchises emerged, shaping the genre for years to come. This time is often recalled for blockbuster horror movies such as Scream, I Know What You Did Last Summer, Candyman, Army of Darkness, The Blair Witch Project and more. However, there were several underrated horror films from this decade that haven’t gotten the recognition they deserve.

Discover these unsung heroes of the ’90s horror genre, brimming with exclusive frights, tension, and convoluted storylines that will transport you back to why this decade was a golden age for terror on screen. They may not have received as much attention as their more renowned counterparts from the era, but they are no less potent or memorable. It’s high time we delved into their underrated charm! Here’s our selection of seven underappreciated horror movies from the ’90s – you won’t want to miss these hidden gems!

Jacob’s Ladder (1990)

Cast: Tim Robbins, Elizabeth Peña, Danny Aiello
Where to watch: Prime Video, MGM+

Following his return from the Vietnam War, war veteran Jacob Singer is tormented by haunting hallucinations, recurring memories, and an intense feeling of mistrust. Despite the attempts of his loved ones to aid him, their efforts seem largely unsuccessful. As he battles with both his psychological and physical well-being, he becomes increasingly determined to uncover the truth. Yet, will he discover it before succumbing entirely to madness?

The People Under the Stairs (1991)

Cast: Brandon Adams, Everett McGill, Wendy Robie, A. J. Langer, Ving Rhames
Where to watch: Available to rent or buy on digital platforms

In an attempt to save his family from being evicted, a resourceful young man named Fool joins forces with two criminals to burglarize the residence of his deceitful and secluded landlords. But as they delve deeper into the house, they uncover sinister secrets that the mansion harbors. The landlords have been keeping and mistreating children, some of whom are hidden away in a concealed basement beneath the house. Instead of a straightforward burglary, what ensues is a struggle for survival as Fool strives to flee from the mansion, uncovering horrifying truths along the way.

The Craft (1996)

Cast: Fairuza Balk, Robin Tunney, Neve Campbell, Rachel True
Where to watch: Tubi for free, Peacock

Sarah is a timid, troubled teenager who transfers to a new school and becomes friends with three girls who are considered outcasts and seem to practice witchcraft. Once she joins their group, they start using their powers for selfish purposes and revenge. However, as time goes on, their friendship turns sour, and their actions become more careless, resulting in ominous and risky outcomes.

Tremors (1990)

Cast: Kevin Bacon, Fred Ward, Finn Carter, Michael Gross, Reba McEntire
Where to watch: Paramount+, MGM+

In a small desert community, repairmen Val McKee and Earl Bassett found themselves on the brink of departure, but an unexpected assault by enormous, beastly, serpent-esque entities abruptly disrupted their plans. Now, they are compelled to collaborate with other residents, using their wit to outmaneuver these creatures and ensure their survival.

The Addiction (1995)

Cast: Lili Taylor, Christopher Walken, Annabella Sciorra, Edie Falco, Paul Calderón, Fredro Starr
Where to watch: Plex for free

One night, Kathleen, a philosophy graduate student from New York University, is unexpectedly attacked and bitten by a creature resembling a vampire. As a result, she starts experiencing an unsettling metamorphosis into something similar. She grapples with accepting her strange transformation and the uncontrollable hunger for human blood that now consumes her.

Cube (1997)

Cast: Nicole de Boer, Nicky Guadagni, David Hewlett, Andrew Miller, Julian Richings, Wayne Robson, Maurice Dean Wint
Where to watch: Tubi or Freevee for free

As I come to, I find myself among a band of unknown individuals, ensnared within an interminable labyrinth of cube-structures, each teeming with life-threatening perils. To endure, we must unite our efforts, decipher the maze’s enigmatic layout, and discover a means to break free from this confinement.

The Faculty (1998)

Cast: Jordana Brewster, Clea DuVall, Laura Harris, Josh Hartnett, Shawn Hatosy, Famke Janssen, Elijah Wood
Where to watch: Paramount+

At Herrington High School, when strange extraterrestrial parasites invade their teachers, the students find themselves united in a battle to resist this alien menace.

2024-11-23 21:26

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