Found-footage horror is a genre that continues to captivate audiences, especially with the ongoing V/H/S anthology series, which creatively reinterprets this format. Since its debut in 2012, the franchise has delivered seven chilling entries, with the much-anticipated eighth installment, V/H/S/Halloween, set to arrive on October 3. Each film presents an unsettling glimpse into the supernatural, often showcasing horrifying scenarios captured by unlucky characters holding cameras.
If your favorite V/H/S segment isn’t on this list, don’t hesitate to share it in the comments! Below, we’ll highlight our top picks in chronological order.
1. “10/31/98” – V/H/S (2012)
This thrilling segment is directed by the rising talent Radio Silence, well-known for its work on films like Ready or Not. Set on Halloween night, a bunch of costumed friends inadvertently crashes a sinister ritual instead of a party, leading to a terrifying escape filled with unexpected horrors. “10/31/98” serves as the last segment of the original film, providing an electrifying conclusion to an otherwise lengthy runtime.
2. “A Ride in the Park” – V/H/S/2 (2013)
Certainly, V/H/S owes its existence to The Blair Witch Project, which brought found-footage horror into the limelight. This sequel features contributions from Blair Witch‘s director Eduardo Sánchez. The story follows a mountain biker who encounters an unhinged woman during a zombie outbreak, leading to a blood-soaked spectacle that blends horror and poignancy.
3. “Parallel Monsters” – V/H/S: Viral (2014)
From the uneven V/H/S: Viral, “Parallel Monsters” stands out as a highlight. This Spanish-language short, directed by Nacho Vigalondo, follows a man who opens a portal to a parallel universe, only to meet his doppelgänger. Their 15-minute exchange results in catastrophic differences, leading to a twisty tale that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
4. “Terror” – V/H/S/94 (2021)
Reinvigorating the franchise, V/H/S/94 explores themes of cult extremism through “Terror.” Following a militia planning an attack, the plot thickens as they use a vampire as part of their sinister arsenal. This blend of horror and dark humor creates a uniquely engaging narrative, exemplifying the series’ knack for the bizarre.
5. “To Hell and Back” – V/H/S/99 (2022)
This installment features filmmakers hired by a group of witches to document a New Year’s Eve ritual, only to find themselves unexpectedly transported to hell. The effective combination of horror and humor in “To Hell and Back” is reminiscent of the creators’ earlier works, capturing the audience’s attention from start to finish.
6. “No Wake” and “Ambrosia” – V/H/S/85 (2023)
Returning to the ’80s, V/H/S/85 may be one of the anthology’s strongest entries. These two linked segments reveal a deeper connection between stories that enhances the overall narrative, giving viewers an innovative and engaging experience. The unique twist creates a fresh but familiar sense of dread in both “No Wake” and “Ambrosia.”
7. “Dreamkill” – V/H/S/85 (2023)
Directed by Scott Derrickson, “Dreamkill” captivates with its blend of mystery and horror. This segment tackles the idea of psychic abilities through the lens of two cops who receive foreboding videotapes of future murders. It’s a clever, chilling play that pairs an intriguing premise with a distinctly horror aesthetic.
8. “Live and Let Dive” – V/H/S/Beyond (2024)
V/H/S/Beyond injects sci-fi into the horror mix, particularly in the segment “Live and Let Dive.” Here, a skydiving trip takes a disastrous turn as the friends encounter a UFO mid-air. The chaos of this alien invasion in such a high-stakes situation provides a gripping twist to the traditional horror narrative.
9. “Stowaway” – V/H/S/Beyond (2024)
Directed by Kate Segal, “Stowaway” offers intense psychological horror intertwined with elements of alien encounters. A woman pursuing UFO sightings encounters a terrifying reality that pushes her to the brink. The unsettling visuals and narrative depth elevate it to one of the standout segments of the anthology.
Found-footage horror continues to evolve, and the V/H/S series remains a vital component of that journey. Each installment brings fresh ideas and terrifying narratives that ensure both longtime fans and newcomers are captivated.
What really stands out about these films is how they mesh different themes and storytelling techniques, making each segment memorable. If you’re intrigued by horror in its most inventive forms, diving deeper into the series is highly encouraged!
For those interested in exploring more about the evolving world of horror cinema, check out Moyens I/O for the latest insights and content recommendations.