Folk horror has become an increasingly popular subgenre of horror films in recent years. These movies often blend elements of rural settings, ancient traditions, and supernatural forces to create a unique and unsettling atmosphere. As we look back at the genre’s history in 2025, let’s explore the 10 most-watched folk horror movies of all time.
1. The Witch (2015)
Robert Eggers’ debut film “The Witch” has become a modern classic in the folk horror genre. Set in 1630s New England, the movie follows a Puritan family banished from their settlement. They build a farm near a spooky forest, where strange and terrifying things start to happen.
The film’s strength lies in its attention to historical detail and its slow-building sense of dread. Anya Taylor-Joy gives a breakthrough performance as Thomasin, the eldest daughter of the family. The movie’s dark and oppressive atmosphere, combined with its exploration of religious fanaticism and the supernatural, has made it a favorite among horror fans.
2. The Wicker Man (1973)
Often considered the quintessential folk horror film, “The Wicker Man” has stood the test of time. The story follows a police sergeant who travels to a remote Scottish island to investigate a missing girl. What he finds is a community deeply rooted in pagan traditions, leading to a shocking and unforgettable conclusion.
Christopher Lee’s performance as Lord Summerisle is particularly memorable. The film’s exploration of the clash between Christianity and paganism, along with its eerie folk music soundtrack, has influenced countless horror movies since its release.
3. Midsommar (2019)
Ari Aster’s “Midsommar” took the folk horror genre to new heights with its bright, sun-drenched setting. The movie follows a group of American students who travel to Sweden for a midsummer festival. What starts as a seemingly idyllic vacation quickly turns into a nightmarish experience.
The film’s striking visuals and unsettling atmosphere have made it a standout in the genre. Florence Pugh’s powerful performance as Dani, a young woman dealing with grief and trauma, adds emotional depth to the horror elements.
4. The Blair Witch Project (1999)
While not a traditional folk horror movie, “The Blair Witch Project” incorporates many elements of the genre. The found-footage film follows three student filmmakers as they investigate the legend of the Blair Witch in the Black Hills Forest of Maryland.
The movie’s low-budget, documentary-style approach created a sense of realism that terrified audiences. Its exploration of local legends and the power of unseen threats has secured its place in the folk horror canon.
5. The Ritual (2017)
Based on Adam Nevill’s novel, “The Ritual” follows a group of friends on a hiking trip in the Swedish wilderness. As they venture deeper into the forest, they encounter a malevolent presence tied to ancient Norse mythology.
The movie’s strength lies in its atmospheric build-up and the growing tension between the characters. The blend of psychological horror and folk elements, along with the stunning forest scenery, has made it a favorite among genre fans.
6. Hereditary (2018)
While not strictly a folk horror film, Ari Aster’s “Hereditary” incorporates many elements of the genre. The movie follows the Graham family as they uncover dark secrets about their ancestry following the death of their secretive grandmother.
Toni Collette’s intense performance as Annie Graham is a highlight of the film. The movie’s exploration of family curses, occult rituals, and generational trauma has resonated with audiences, making it one of the most watched horror films of recent years.
7. The Wailing (2016)
This South Korean film has gained a strong following for its unique blend of folk horror and police procedural elements. Set in a small village, the movie follows a police officer investigating a series of mysterious deaths and illnesses linked to the arrival of a stranger.
“The Wailing” stands out for its complex plot, atmospheric tension, and its exploration of Korean folklore and shamanic traditions. The film’s ability to keep viewers guessing until the very end has made it a favorite among horror enthusiasts.
8. A Field in England (2013)
Ben Wheatley’s black-and-white film “A Field in England” is set during the English Civil War. It follows a group of deserters who are captured by an alchemist and forced to search for buried treasure in a mushroom-filled field.
The movie’s surreal and psychedelic elements, combined with its historical setting, create a unique folk horror experience. While not as widely known as some other entries on this list, it has gained a strong cult following for its experimental approach to the genre.
9. The Blood on Satan’s Claw (1971)
This classic British folk horror film is set in 17th century England. After a farmer unearths a deformed skull, a series of strange events unfold in the village, with the local children falling under the influence of a demonic force.
“The Blood on Satan’s Claw” is notable for its atmospheric portrayal of rural superstition and its unflinching depiction of violence. Along with “The Wicker Man,” it helped establish many of the tropes that would come to define the folk horror genre.
10. Apostle (2018)
Directed by Gareth Evans, “Apostle” follows a man who infiltrates a remote Welsh island community in search of his missing sister. He discovers a sinister cult with ties to ancient pagan beliefs.
The film’s period setting, exploration of religious fanaticism, and gruesome violence have made it a standout in the modern folk horror landscape. Its blend of thriller elements with folk horror tropes has helped it reach a wide audience.
Bottom Line
Folk horror continues to captivate audiences with its unique blend of rural settings, ancient traditions, and supernatural elements. These 10 films represent some of the most watched and influential entries in the genre as of 2025. From classic films that helped establish the genre to modern interpretations that push its boundaries, folk horror remains a rich and diverse subgenre of horror cinema.