Letterboxd’s Top Rated Horror Films That Are Directed By Women

In a genre traditionally dominated by male directors, it's time to shine a spotlight on the terrifying talent of female filmmakers who have made high-rated horror films. 

We've scoured the depths of Letterboxd's user ratings to bring you a curated list of the top-rated horror films directed by women. From spine-chilling supernatural tales to pulse-pounding psychological thrillers, these films all deliver scares that will haunt your dreams at Halloween and beyond. 

Let us know how many of these top rated horror films from female directors you have seen.

Don’t Hug Me I’m Scared (2011) - Becky Sloan, Joseph Pelling

Directed by Becky Sloan and Joseph Pelling, Don't Hug Me I'm Scared is a unique horror short film that combines puppetry, animation, and live-action elements. The film follows a group of friendly puppets as they explore various educational themes, only to descend into a disturbing and surreal nightmare. Don't Hug Me I'm Scared is one of the top-rated horror films directed by women on Letterboxd due to its innovative approach to horror, subversion of children's programming tropes, and its ability to unsettle and disturb viewers with its dark and unexpected twists.

Face Like a Frog (1988) - Sally Cruikshank

Directed by Sally Cruikshank, Face Like a Frog is an animated horror short film that delves into a surreal and psychedelic world of vibrant colours and bizarre creatures. The film follows a young girl who encounters fantastical characters and embarks on a strange journey of self-discovery. Face Like a Frog is highly regarded as one of the top-rated horror films directed by women on Letterboxd for Cruikshank's unique animation style, its dreamlike atmosphere, and its ability to evoke a sense of unease and wonder through its imaginative visuals and whimsical storytelling.

Ghostwatch (1992) - Lesley Manning

Directed by Lesley Manning, Ghostwatch is a British television mockumentary that originally aired as a Halloween special. The film presents itself as a live investigation into a haunted house, featuring a popular television host and a team of paranormal experts. As the program unfolds, supernatural events escalate, blurring the line between fiction and reality. Ghostwatch is celebrated as one of the top-rated horror films directed by women on Letterboxd for Manning's skillful direction, its innovative use of the found footage format, and its ability to generate genuine scares and controversy with its realistic portrayal of a haunted house investigation.

Helter Skelter (2012) ‘ヘルタースケルター’ - Mika Ninagawa

Directed by Mika Ninagawa, Helter Skelter is a Japanese horror film based on a manga of the same name. The film explores the dark side of the entertainment industry through the story of a famous model whose pursuit of beauty leads to a series of horrifying consequences. Helter Skelter is regarded as one of the top-rated horror films directed by women on Letterboxd for Ninagawa's visually stunning direction, its examination of societal pressures and beauty standards, and its ability to blend psychological horror with social commentary. The film's stylish visuals, intense performances, and its exploration of identity and obsession contribute to its reputation as a standout in the horror genre.

A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night (2014) - Ana Lily Amirpour

Directed by Ana Lily Amirpour, A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night is an Iranian vampire film set in the fictional town of Bad City. The film follows a lonely vampire who preys on men who disrespect women. As she forms a connection with a young man, their lives become intertwined in unexpected ways. A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night is highly regarded as one of the top-rated horror films directed by women on Letterboxd for Amirpour's stylish direction, its atmospheric black-and-white cinematography, and its unique blend of genres, including horror, romance, and Western elements. The film's haunting atmosphere, its feminist undertones, and its subversion of vampire tropes make it a critically acclaimed and highly influential entry in the horror genre.

Beneath the Skin (1981) - Cecelia Condit

Directed by Cecelia Condit, Beneath the Skin is a short horror film that explores themes of identity, transformation, and the eerie nature of suburban life. The film centres around a young woman who discovers a hidden secret lurking beneath the surface of her seemingly normal existence. Beneath the Skin is celebrated as one of the top-rated horror films directed by women on Letterboxd for Condit's skillful storytelling, its haunting imagery, and its ability to create a sense of unease and mystery. The film's exploration of the uncanny, its examination of societal expectations, and its dreamlike visuals contribute to its reputation as a standout in the horror genre.

A Night on Bald Mountain (1933) ‘Une Nuit sur le Mont Chauve’ - Alexandre Alexeieff, Claire Parker

Directed by Alexandre Alexeieff and Claire Parker, A Night on Bald Mountain is a groundbreaking animated horror short film. Inspired by the music of Modest Mussorgsky, the film depicts a nightmarish vision of a gathering of supernatural creatures on a desolate mountaintop. A Night on Bald Mountain is highly regarded as one of the top-rated horror films directed by women on Letterboxd for Alexeieff and Parker's pioneering use of the pinscreen technique, its evocative and atmospheric visuals, and its ability to create a sense of dread and macabre beauty through its animation. The film's haunting imagery, its experimental approach to storytelling, and its influence on the horror genre make it a seminal work in the realm of animated horror.

Raw (2016) ‘Grave’ - Julia Ducournau

Directed by Julia Ducournau, Raw is a French-Belgian horror film that follows a young vegetarian named Justine (Garance Marillier) as she enters veterinary school, only to develop a taste for human flesh. As Justine's cravings become uncontrollable, she grapples with her newfound desires and the consequences they bring. Raw is regarded as one of the top-rated horror films directed by women on Letterboxd for Ducournau's bold and provocative storytelling, its exploration of female sexuality and identity, and its visceral and disturbing portrayal of body horror. The film's raw and unflinching approach to its subject matter, coupled with its strong performances and rich thematic depth, have solidified its place as a critically acclaimed and boundary-pushing horror film.

Cloud Shadows (2014) ‘Wolkenschatten’ - Anja Dornieden, Juan David González Monroy

Directed by Anja Dornieden and Juan David González Monroy, Cloud Shadows is an experimental horror film that combines found footage, animation, and archival material. The film presents a fragmented narrative that explores themes of memory, history, and the supernatural. Cloud Shadows is highly regarded as one of the top-rated horror films directed by women on Letterboxd for Dornieden and Monroy's innovative and visually striking approach to storytelling, its evocative use of imagery, and its ability to create an eerie and otherworldly atmosphere. The film's experimental nature, its exploration of the uncanny, and its unique blend of genres contribute to its reputation as a standout in the horror genre.

Kitchen Sink (1989) - Alison Maclean

Directed by Alison Maclean, Kitchen Sink is a New Zealand horror-comedy film that follows a group of suburban housewives who, after being exposed to toxic waste, develop a thirst for human blood. As they embark on a killing spree, their suburban neighbourhood becomes a battleground. Kitchen Sink is celebrated as one of the top-rated horror films directed by women on Letterboxd for Maclean's darkly humorous and satirical approach, its sharp commentary on gender roles and suburban conformity, and its ability to blend horror and comedy seamlessly. The film's subversive take on traditional horror tropes, its witty dialogue, and its portrayal of female empowerment within a genre context make it a cult favourite and a standout entry in the horror-comedy genre.

The Other Side of the Underneath (1972) - Jane Arden

Directed by Jane Arden, The Other Side of the Underneath is a British avant-garde horror film that delves into the psyche of a mentally disturbed woman named "Patient X." The film explores themes of patriarchy, identity, and mental health through a fragmented narrative and surreal visuals. The Other Side of the Underneath is highly regarded as one of the top-rated horror films directed by women on Letterboxd for Arden's daring and challenging approach to storytelling, its examination of gender politics and social norms, and its exploration of female subjectivity and agency. The film's experimental structure, its powerful performances, and its unflinching critique of societal conventions contribute to its reputation as a groundbreaking and thought-provoking work of horror.

Titane (2021) - Julia Ducournau

Directed by Julia Ducournau, Titane is a French body horror film that follows a young woman named Alexia (Agathe Rousselle) who, after a car accident, develops a bizarre and dangerous bond with automobiles. As Alexia's desires and actions become increasingly extreme, the film takes a dark and unpredictable turn. Titane is celebrated as one of the top-rated horror films directed by women on Letterboxd for Ducournau's audacious and provocative storytelling, its exploration of gender identity and sexuality, and its unflinching portrayal of body horror. The film's shocking and visceral imagery, its powerful performances, and its ability to challenge societal norms and expectations have solidified its place as a critically acclaimed and boundary-pushing horror film.

Tigers Are Not Afraid (2017) ‘Vuelven’ - Issa López

Directed by Issa López, Tigers Are Not Afraid is a Mexican dark fantasy horror film that tells the story of a group of orphaned children who must navigate the violent and supernatural world of drug cartels. Blending elements of horror, fantasy, and social commentary, the film explores the effects of Mexico's drug war on the most vulnerable members of society. Tigers Are Not Afraid is highly regarded as one of the top-rated horror films directed by women on Letterboxd for López's poignant and heartfelt storytelling, its emotionally resonant performances, and its ability to merge real-world horrors with supernatural elements. The film's unique blend of genres, its social relevance, and its powerful portrayal of childhood resilience and imagination contribute to its reputation as a standout in the horror genre.

Celia (1989) - Ann Turner

Directed by Ann Turner, Celia is an Australian supernatural horror film set in the 1950s. The film follows a young girl named Celia (Rebecca Smart) who develops a fascination with the natural world and discovers the ability to communicate with animals. As her innocence clashes with the harsh realities of the adult world, Celia's imagination takes a darker turn. Celia is celebrated as one of the top-rated horror films directed by women on Letterboxd for Turner's atmospheric direction, its exploration of childhood and loss of innocence, and its ability to blend supernatural elements with social and political themes. The film's evocative cinematography, its poignant storytelling, and its portrayal of a young girl navigating a world filled with secrets and hidden dangers make it a critically acclaimed and emotionally resonant entry in the horror genre.

Dorian Gray in the Mirror of the Yellow Press (1984) ‘Dorian Gray im Spiegel der Boulevardpresse’ - Ulrike Ottinger

Directed by Ulrike Ottinger, Dorian Gray in the Mirror of the Yellow Press is a German horror film that offers a unique take on Oscar Wilde's classic novel, The Picture of Dorian Gray. The film follows a young woman who stumbles upon a portrait of Dorian Gray and becomes obsessed with its beauty and the dark allure it represents. Dorian Gray in the Mirror of the Yellow Press is regarded as one of the top-rated horror films directed by women on Letterboxd for Ottinger's bold and imaginative reinterpretation of the source material, its exploration of celebrity culture and media obsession, and its stunning visuals that capture the decadence and decay of the protagonist's world. The film's thought-provoking themes, its visually striking cinematography, and its subversion of traditional horror conventions contribute to its reputation as a standout in the genre.

Fry Day (2017) - Laura Moss

Directed by Laura Moss, Fry Day is a chilling short film that takes place in the aftermath of the infamous Gainesville Ripper murders. The film follows a young girl who sells lemonade on the day that the murderer is apprehended, exploring themes of fear, curiosity, and the darkness that can linger in even the most ordinary moments. Fry Day is highly regarded as one of the top-rated horror films directed by women on Letterboxd for Moss's atmospheric direction, its nuanced exploration of the aftermath of tragedy, and its ability to create tension and unease through the lens of childhood innocence. The film's evocative cinematography, its emotional resonance, and its subtle portrayal of horror lurking beneath the surface make it a critically acclaimed and haunting entry in the horror genre.

Ravenous (1999) - Antonia Bird

Directed by Antonia Bird, Ravenous is a horror-comedy film set in the mid-19th century during the Mexican-American War. The film follows a captain at a remote military outpost who encounters a stranger with a dark secret: an insatiable hunger for human flesh. Ravenous is celebrated as one of the top-rated horror films directed by women on Letterboxd for Bird's deft blend of horror and dark humour, its subversion of the cannibalism trope, and its exploration of themes such as survival, colonialism, and the primal instincts of humanity. The film's engaging performances, its mix of gruesome violence and witty dialogue, and its examination of human nature under extreme circumstances contribute to its reputation as a cult favourite and a standout in the horror-comedy genre.

The Long Walk (2019) ‘ບໍ່ມີວັນຈາກ’ - Mattie Do

Directed by Mattie Do, The Long Walk is a Laotian horror film that follows an elderly man living in a remote village who begins to receive visitations from the spirits of the people he has wronged in his past. As he confronts his guilt and faces his impending mortality, the line between the supernatural and the psychological blurs. The Long Walk is highly regarded as one of the top-rated horror films directed by women on Letterboxd for Do's atmospheric direction, its exploration of guilt, regret, and cultural beliefs, and its ability to blend supernatural horror with poignant human drama. The film's haunting visuals, its contemplative pace, and its cultural specificity contribute to its reputation as a critically acclaimed and emotionally resonant entry in the horror genre.

Hair Wolf (2018) - Mariama Diallo

Directed by Mariama Diallo, Hair Wolf is a horror-comedy short film that satirises cultural appropriation and gentrification. The film is set in a black hair salon where a supernatural threat emerges in the form of a white woman stealing black women's hair. Hair Wolf is celebrated as one of the top-rated horror films directed by women on Letterboxd for Diallo's sharp social commentary, its witty humour, and its ability to tackle serious issues through the lens of the horror genre. The film's biting satire, its engaging performances, and its exploration of racial dynamics and identity make it a standout entry in the horror-comedy genre.

Cerulia (2017) - Sofìa Carrillo

Directed by Sofía Carrillo, Cerulia is a Mexican horror short film that blends elements of fantasy and horror. The film follows a young girl who embarks on a journey through a strange and unsettling world as she searches for her lost teddy bear. Cerulia is highly regarded as one of the top-rated horror films directed by women on Letterboxd for Carrillo's hauntingly beautiful stop-motion animation, its dreamlike atmosphere, and its exploration of childhood fears and the blurred boundaries between reality and imagination. The film's stunning visuals, its emotionally resonant storytelling, and its ability to capture the surreal and uncanny aspects of childhood make it a critically acclaimed and visually captivating entry in the horror genre.

Pizzaman (2021) - Rosalie Kicks, Katie McBrown

Directed by Rosalie Kicks and Katie McBrown, Pizzaman is a horror-comedy short film that revolves around a mysterious pizza delivery driver who brings more than just pizza to a couple's doorstep. As their evening takes an unexpected turn, chaos ensues. Pizzaman is celebrated as one of the top-rated horror films directed by women on Letterboxd for Kicks and McBrown's humorous and offbeat storytelling, its clever blend of horror and comedy, and its ability to deliver unexpected twists and laughs. The film's entertaining performances, its witty dialogue, and its ability to balance scares with humour contribute to its reputation as a standout in the horror-comedy genre.

Red (2017) - Del Kathryn Barton

Directed by Del Kathryn Barton, Red is a mesmerising experimental horror film that delves into the realms of symbolism, mythology, and the female experience. The film explores the inner journey of a young girl as she confronts her fears and desires in a surreal and dreamlike landscape. Red is highly regarded as one of the top-rated horror films directed by women on Letterboxd for Barton's stunning visual style, its exploration of themes such as identity and transformation, and its ability to create an unsettling and immersive atmosphere. The film's evocative imagery, its powerful use of colour and texture, and its poetic storytelling contribute to its reputation as a standout in the genre.

Peggy and Fred in Hell: The Complete Cycle (2002) - Leslie Thornton

The Complete Cycle (2002) - Directed by Leslie Thornton, Peggy and Fred in Hell: The Complete Cycle is an avant-garde horror film presented as a series of episodes. The film follows two children, Peggy and Fred, as they navigate a post-apocalyptic world filled with surreal and nightmarish scenarios. Peggy and Fred in Hell: The Complete Cycle is celebrated as one of the top-rated horror films directed by women on Letterboxd for Thornton's audacious and challenging approach to storytelling, its innovative use of found footage and archival material, and its exploration of themes such as trauma, media saturation, and the fragmentation of identity. The film's hypnotic visuals, its unconventional narrative structure, and its thought-provoking commentary on society contribute to its reputation as a groundbreaking and highly regarded work in the horror genre.

Witch’s Cradle (1944) - Maya Deren

Directed by Maya Deren, Witch's Cradle is a short experimental horror film that delves into the world of witchcraft and ritualistic practices. The film explores themes of power, transformation, and the intersection between the physical and the spiritual. Witch's Cradle is highly regarded as one of the top-rated horror films directed by women on Letterboxd for Deren's groundbreaking contribution to avant-garde cinema, its surreal and hypnotic visuals, and its exploration of female archetypes and the subconscious mind. The film's innovative techniques, its poetic and symbolic storytelling, and its influence on experimental filmmaking contribute to its reputation as a standout in the horror genre.

Doppelgänger (2012) ‘O Duplo’ - Juliana Rojas

Directed by Juliana Rojas, Doppelgänger is a Brazilian horror film that follows a young woman named Rosa who starts to suspect that her neighbour, a mirror image of herself, may not be as benevolent as she seems. As Rosa's life intertwines with her doppelgänger, the film explores themes of identity, duality, and the nature of evil. Doppelgänger is celebrated as one of the top-rated horror films directed by women on Letterboxd for Rojas's atmospheric direction, its psychological depth, and its examination of themes such as self-discovery and the darker aspects of human nature. The film's intriguing premise, its thought-provoking exploration of identity and the supernatural, and its strong performances contribute to its reputation as a standout in the horror genre.

Junior (2011) - Julia Ducournau

Directed by Julia Ducournau, Junior is a disturbing and visceral horror short film that centres around a young girl who develops an insatiable appetite for inedible objects. As her cravings escalate, she embarks on a dangerous journey of self-discovery and transformation. Junior is highly regarded as one of the top-rated horror films directed by women on Letterboxd for Ducournau's unflinching and provocative storytelling, its exploration of female desire and societal expectations, and its ability to create a sense of discomfort and unease. The film's striking visuals, its powerful performances, and its ability to challenge conventional notions of femininity contribute to its reputation as a critically acclaimed and boundary-pushing work in the horror genre.

As the credits roll on our exploration of the top-rated horror films directed by women, we hope you've discovered some new favourites that will send shivers down your spine and keep you on the edge of your seat. 

These talented directors have fearlessly carved their names into the annals of horror history, proving that the genre knows no gender boundaries. So the next time you plan a fright-filled movie night, be sure to include these gems in your lineup - some of them are truly disturbing!

Thanks for reading "Letterboxd’s Top Rated Horror Films That Are Directed By Women" on January Media.