The Best Horror Movies of 2008

Horror Around Every Turn

JM Van Horn
When it comes to horror movies making an impact on its viewers, those released in 2008 did not disappoint. Whether you are looking for a true gore fest or a psychological thriller that will keep you guessing until the end, the following list of horror movies from 2008 will not disappoint you in the least even though they were not at the top grossing movies of the year.

Pathology

The premise of this dark and believable movie centers on Dr. Ted Grey, skillfully played by Milo Ventimiglia, who starts a new job working in a hospital morgue along side of a group of talented pathologists. Grey soon finds out that the pathologists are enthralled in a game of being able to commit the perfect murder. Eventually Grey finds himself caught up in the twisted game and is stuck trying to find his way out of the world filled with drugs, sex, and dead bodies.

Keep an eye on the performance of Michael Weston, who plays the role of Dr. Jack Gallo, the leader of the killer pathologists. Weston's unexpected solid performance as an insane killer helps draw you in and keep your attention on what is going to happen next in Pathology.

What makes this the ideal horror movie is the potential reality of it. Viewers get to witness the internal battle we see when Grey begins to realize the game and those participating in it have gone too far. Without a doubt the last twenty minutes of Pathology is what helps it land on this list of the top horror movies in 2008.

Teeth

If you are looking for a truly unforgettable horror movie, then you need to make sure to add the movie, Teeth, to your viewing list. The premise of the movie is simple enough. It focuses on a young girl, Dawn, played by Jess Weixler, who is dealing with her sexual coming of age. While Dawn tries her best to keep it under control, she eventually discovers that is a living example of the myth, vagina dentate. Basically Dawn's vagina grows teeth for protection when she becomes the focal point of violence.

The viewers get to witness how Dawn deals with this unique trait and how it reacts with the daily ups and downs of her life. What makes this movie truly enjoyable is the surprisingly well-written script and solid narratives. There are even times when you can not help but let out a small chuckle. Though the movie can be a bit disturbing to those of the male gender, Teeth is a movie that should not be missed.

The Cottage

If you enjoy your horror movies mixed in with some serious laughs, then The Cottage, released in 2008 is right up your alley. The movie follows two blundering petty criminals, who decided to kidnap the daughter of a mafia boss with the hopes of a big payoff. Instead of paying the ransom demands, the mafia boss decides to hire assassins to rectify the situation.

The plan backfires thanks to the involvement of a crazed deformed farmer who does not like people trespassing on his land. Now the duo has to steer clear of the mafia but the psycho killer who is intent on killing them. If you enjoyed other British horror comedy movies, like Shaun of the Dead, then this will become a favorite of yours. It is a perfect combination of gruesome horror moments mixed in with British humor.

Splinter

If you were a fan of creature feature horror moves, you need to make sure to add the science fiction horror movie, Splinter to your collection. Essentially the movie involves a hideous parasitic porcupine looking nasty that corners a handful of people at a gas station. The three main characters, a couple and a would-be carjacker need to find a way to work together while making sure they avoid the deadly spikes thrown at them from the shadows.

This low budget film stands out among the horror movies from 2008 because even with a low budget, the acting and visual effects are top notch and keep you on the edge of your seat through this fast paced horror movie. Make sure to spend the time to sit down with Splinter and you won't regret it.

The Signal

If you are one of those conspiracy theorists who places aluminum foil on your head to protect you from the mind altering signals the government is using, I would recommend skipping the horror movie, The Signal. The movie focuses around a signal that invades the minds of everybody, compelling them to either kill or be killed. Another little zombie side effect of the signal is how some people refuse to believe they are dead, even when they are.

What makes this horror movie unique is that the single narrative is split segments, with each one being written and directed by a different individual. It is even more rewarding because it actually works. Though the film had a low budget, the cast and crew deliver a solid horror movie that will keep you enthralled from the gory beginning to the bloody end.

Published by JM Van Horn

I have spent the last several years writing for various outlets, from newspaper print to online sports sites. Though I may not be right all the time, I enjoy sharing my thoughts on a variety of subjects for...   View profile

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  • Ryan Christopher DeVault 10/9/2008

    Great list. I have not seen them all yet, but you have added a few to my list. :)

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