As the last wisps of winter’s chill dissipate, the darkness of March’s nights provides the perfect canvas for a different kind of frost to set in – the kind that sends shivers down your spine and makes you sleep with the lights on. It’s the ideal time to surrender to the allure of horror movies, and what better way to do so than from the comfort of your own home, courtesy of Netflix’s eerie offerings?
Horror Movie Recommendations
New Releases
Athena
Directed by Romain Gavras, Athena is a standout action thriller that made waves in 2022. The film centers around the uprising of a French banlieue following repeated police harassment and violence. Told through the eyes of three brothers with diverse perspectives on the conflict, Athena offers a powerful narrative. However, what truly sets this movie apart is its technical prowess. Gavras, known for his music video work, brings a breathtaking visual style to the film, featuring intricate tracking shots and perfectly choreographed blocking. The energy and intensity of Athena are unmatched, making it a memorable cinematic experience. Despite a somewhat contentious ending, the movie’s impact is undeniable. With Gavras’ direction, Athena transcends its genre and stands as a cinematic achievement.
Atlantics
Atlantics, directed by Mati Diop, is a haunting love story that transcends genre boundaries. The film beautifully explores themes of romance, grief, class, labor, and the enduring effects of oppression. Shot with stunning visuals by Diop and cinematographer Claire Mathon, Atlantics is a visual and emotional masterpiece. It made history as the first movie directed by a Black woman to compete in the Cannes Film Festival, winning the Grand Prix award. The film’s subtle narrative and powerful performances make it a must-watch for any cinephile.
Carol
Though Todd Haynes’ Carol was released in 2015, its recent return to Netflix makes it a fresh choice for March. Adapted from Patricia Highsmith’s The Price of Salt, Carol tells the story of an affair between two women from different walks of life. Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara deliver outstanding performances as Carol and Therese, respectively. The film’s lush visuals and beautifully crafted narrative earned it six Oscar nominations and solidified Haynes’ place in the New Queer Cinema movement. Despite being a period romance, Carol remains a relevant and impactful piece of 21st-century queer filmmaking.
Indie Horror Favorites
Resident Evil: Retribution
Paul W.S. Anderson’s Resident Evil: Retribution is often overlooked, but it deserves recognition as one of the franchise’s best entries. Set in a top-secret base in Russia, the film features Alice (Milla Jovovich) battling hordes of zombies in various city settings. The movie’s standout feature is its action sequences, which are meticulously crafted to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. Retribution showcases Anderson’s directorial skills, allowing him to fully realize his vision for the franchise. The film’s blend of horror and action makes it a must-watch for fans of the genre.
Power Rangers
Dean Israelite’s 2017 reboot of Power Rangers is a delightful surprise. Despite initial skepticism, the film delivers a fun, inventive, and often humorous blockbuster. The plot follows a group of kids who find magical coins that grant them the ability to transform into Power Rangers. Led by Bryan Cranston as Zordon and Elizabeth Banks as Rita Repulsa, the film’s cast brings a delightful energy to the story. The movie’s commitment to its source material and smart pacing make it a standout in the superhero genre.
Timeless Classics
Blade Runner: The Final Cut
Ridley Scott’s Blade Runner: The Final Cut is a timeless sci-fi classic that continues to captivate audiences decades after its release. The film’s neo-noir aesthetic and thought-provoking themes make it a cornerstone of the cyberpunk genre. Starring Harrison Ford and Rutger Hauer, Blade Runner explores a dystopian future where artificial humans, known as replicants, are hunted by a special division of police. The film’s impact on popular culture and its enduring relevance make it a must-watch for any sci-fi enthusiast. Whether you’re a seasoned viewer or a newcomer to the genre, Blade Runner offers a rich and immersive experience.
Unique Storytelling: Athena and Atlantics
Athena: An Intense Action Thriller
Athena stands out among Netflix’s offerings with its unique storytelling, particularly in the realm of action thrillers. Directed by Romain Gavras, Athena explores the tensions and uprising in French banlieues, focusing on three brothers with varying perspectives on the conflict. The film’s narrative is not only a compelling tale of rebellion but also a profound examination of societal fractures. Gavras’s direction is exceptional, with intricate cinematography and choreography, particularly in the action scenes, which are executed with a precision that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. The film’s premise is gripping, and the tension it builds is palpable, providing a unique and harrowing viewing experience.
Atlantics: A Haunting Love Story
Atlantics offers a haunting and visually stunning love story set against the backdrop of contemporary Dakar, Senegal. Directed by Mati Diop, this film is a dual narrative that intertwines a young couple’s love story with the haunting image of men who have disappeared at sea. Diop’s debut feature is a remarkable piece that captures the spirit of a community grappling with the harsh realities of migration and the lingering effects of colonialism. The film’s use of fantastical elements to explore themes of love, loss, and societal oppression is both innovative and deeply moving. It wins audiences over with its gorgeous visuals and an emotive storyline that never fails to leave a lasting impact.
Effective Use of Atmosphere: Resident Evil: Retribution and Power Rangers
Resident Evil: Retribution
Resident Evil: Retribution, directed by Paul W.S. Anderson, is a prime example of how atmosphere can be used to create a sense of horror and urgency. The film is known for its action-packed sequences that not only entertain but also contribute significantly to the overall atmosphere. The movie’s setting within Umbrella Corporation’s base, designed to simulate various cities, provides a rich backdrop for Anderson to stage intense, visually striking action scenes. The dystopian setting enhances the horror, adding layers of tension and fear, making it a deeply atmospheric film that resonates with horror enthusiasts and action fans alike.
Power Rangers
Dean Israelite’s Power Rangers is a surprising entry in the list of horror-themed films, thanks to its nostalgic value and thematic depth. While it might not fit the typical horror genre, its use of nostalgia and the retro-futuristic setting of the original series provides a unique and eerie atmosphere. The movie is a blend of action, comedy, and horror, with the latter coming from the menacing villains and the mysterious Zordon. The cast, including Elizabeth Banks as Rita Repulsa and Bryan Cranston as Zordon, brings a level of gravitas that adds to the film’s eerie and dramatic atmosphere, making it a standout entry in the genre.
Social Commentary: Carol and Blade Runner: The Final Cut
Carol: Queer Relationship and Social Commentary
Todd Haynes’s Carol is not only a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film but also a profound piece of social commentary. Set in the 1950s, the film explores the complex relationship between Carol Aird (Cate Blanchett) and Therese Belivet (Rooney Mara), two women navigating a society hostile to their romance. Haynes uses the film’s period setting to highlight the societal pressures and expectations placed on queer relationships, thereby painting a nuanced picture of the challenges faced by its characters. Carol’s narrative is a poignant exploration of love and acceptance, making it a significant film in the context of queer cinema.
Blade Runner: The Final Cut
Blade Runner: The Final Cut, directed by Ridley Scott, is a classic sci-fi film that resonates with audiences through its exploration of dystopian society and the existential questions it raises. The movie’s portrayal of a future dominated by corporate control, synthetic beings, and existential crises provides a rich ground for social commentary. Through its characters, particularly Rick Deckard (Harrison Ford) and the replicants he hunts, the film delves into themes of humanity, identity, and the consequences of technological advancement. Blade Runner: The Final Cut remains a masterpiece, not only in its storytelling and visual design but also in its deep, timeless themes that continue to provoke thought and discussion.
Why You Should Watch These Movies
Impressive Cinematography
The visual craftsmanship of these films is one of the strongest aspects of each. Athena, directed by Romain Gavras, is celebrated for its breathtaking tracking shots and dynamic camera movements that enhance the film’s energetic narrative. The cinematography in Athena captures the claustrophobia and chaos of the urban uprising with a visceral intensity that few films achieve. Similarly, Atlantics, directed by Mati Diop, is noted for its stunning visuals and use of color, which imbues the film with a dreamlike quality. The cinematography and visuals are integral to the film’s storytelling, making both movies visually captivating.
Strong Performances
A strong cast and their performances are crucial to the success of these films. In Resident Evil: Retribution, Milla Jovovich’s performance as Alice is a cornerstone of the film, with her action sequences showcasing both technical prowess and emotional depth. The cast of Power Rangers, including Dacre Montgomery, Naomi Scott, and RJ Cyler, brings a fresh energy to their roles, with the performances driving the film’s nostalgic charm and its action sequences. These performances are instrumental in delivering the films’ emotional core and engaging viewers on a personal level.
Timeless Themes
The enduring appeal of these films is often found in their timeless themes that transcend the period in which they were made. Blade Runner: The Final Cut delves into the exploration of humanity and identity, making it a timeless piece that continues to resonate with audiences. Similarly, Carol’s portrayal of a queer relationship in the 1950s is a commentary on societal norms and expectations that still feels relevant today. These themes are explored through rich storytelling, creating a sense of universality that makes these films not just enjoyable, but thought-provoking as well.
Conclusion
As we wrap up our exploration of the best horror movies to watch on Netflix this March, it’s clear that the platform has curated a selection of films that will send shivers down your spine. From the eerie atmosphere of “The Haunting of Bly Manor” to the unsettling tension of “The Babadook,” these movies offer a masterclass in crafting fear and unease. By highlighting the standout films in this genre, we’ve emphasized the significance of horror as a medium for exploring the human condition, allowing us to confront our deepest fears and anxieties in a controlled environment.
The implications of this topic are far-reaching, as horror movies have the power to bring people together, sparking conversations and debates about the nature of fear and the human psyche. As we move forward, it will be interesting to see how Netflix continues to evolve its horror offerings, perhaps experimenting with new formats and storytelling techniques to keep audiences on the edge of their seats. One thing is certain, however: the best horror movies on Netflix this March will continue to captivate and terrify us, leaving a lasting impact on the world of horror cinema.
So, as the lights go out and the shadows grow long, remember that the best horror movies on Netflix this March are not just mere entertainment – they’re a reflection of our darkest fears and deepest anxieties. But it’s in confronting these fears that we find a strange sort of comfort, a reminder that we’re not alone in our terror. And so, as you settle in to watch these films, ask yourself: what’s lurking in the darkness, waiting to pounce?