In an era where cinemas are dominated by action-packed blockbusters, big-budget superhero franchises, and classic remakes, A24 has made a name for itself by creating intriguing, original and oftentimes terrifying films. Now, seeing the simple black and white logo of ‘A24’ in the opening credits of a movie means that you’re about to embark on an experience that would momentarily alter your perception on everything until the end credits roll.
If there was one word to describe A24 films, it would be ‘odd’. One of the reasons why popularity surrounding A24 has skyrocketed in recent years is because many audiences are starting to see the value in authenticity, and stories that don’t necessarily fit the “blockbuster” standards. Whether it’s a story about a human/sheep hybrid, or turning a human into a walrus, the studio excels in crafting films with weird yet engaging plot points and inventive cinematography. But, if you’re just getting into A24, here are 8 of their most disturbing films to get you started!
The Killing Of A Sacred Deer (2017)
The Killing Of A Sacred Deer follows cardiovascular surgeon, Dr. Steven Murphy and his idyllic life with his wife and two children. Things take a sinister turn when he takes Martin, a fatherless teenager, under his wing. Soon, the full scope of Martin’s intent becomes clear when he confronts Steven with a past transgression that will shatter his life forever. The film starts slow but gradually builds up the tension, with many unpredictable twists and turns that will keep your eyes glued to the screen. Brace yourself to be pushed into an incredibly uncomfortable zone, with some dark humour sprinkled throughout.
Watch the trailer here:
X (2022)
X is one of THE most disturbing films to ever grace the big screen. Who knew you could make a horror film out of a porno? The film is set in 1979, where a group of young filmmakers sets out to make an adult film in a farmhouse occupied by an elderly couple in rural Texas. However, as the aspiring director RJ starts shooting steamy sequences, the creepy owners Howard and Pearl find out what they were actually doing in their farmhouse. Soon, the crew realises that they are not safe, and they find themselves fighting for their lives. To say this film was wild would be an understatement. It’s pretty much an erotic thriller mashed with jumpscares, (very) gruesome horror, unexpected twists with creative filmmaking. Don’t watch this if you’re scared of creepy old people.
Watch the trailer here:
Men (2022)
This film follows a young woman who goes on a solo vacation to the English countryside after the horrifying loss of her ex-husband. However, she realises that someone or something from the surrounding woods may be stalking her. Haunted by painful memories and guilt, her peaceful solace soon turns into a nightmare. There are two ways to explain this film, one would be a straightforward home invasion thriller that becomes increasingly suspenseful, almost to the point where it starts to feel suffocating; another would be a horror film exploring trauma and PTSD with grotesque scenes that will make you squirm. Either way, it’s a visually stunning film that makes you feel all the uncomfortable feels.
Watch the trailer here:
Beau Is Afraid (2023)
Regardless of whether you’re an avid watcher of A24’s output, you’ve likely heard of one of these trauma-filled horror films, “Hereditary” and “Midsommar”, from the brilliant Ari Aster. While both of those films are definitely worthy of a mention in this list, his recent film, “Beau Is Afraid”, is unlike anything you’ve seen before. The film follows Beau, a mild-mannered and anxiety-ridden man who recently lost his mother. He embarks on a surreal odyssey to get home to his mother, confronting his greatest fears along the way. It’s long, it’s confusing, but definitely NOT boring. Like many other A24 films, whether you love it or hate it, you gotta watch it at least once.
Watch the trailer here:
Lamb (2021)
Yep, we’re at the human/sheep hybrid section of the article. Lamb takes place in Iceland, on a remote, mountainous landscape, where a childless and visibly unhappy couple go about their day attending to their sheep barn. One day, a pregnant ewe gives birth to a half-human, half-sheep being, which turns their life around… for better or worse. Since there is very little dialogue in the film, the story relies on its visuals and the excellent performances of the actors to convey the story and emotion. It’s best to go into the film cold, so you can fully experience it as it brings you through a twisted and mind-bending journey.
Watch the trailer here:
Pearl (2022)
Pearl is a prequel to the previously mentioned film, X. It serves as an origin story for the main villain, Pearl (the creepy woman from X). The film is set in 1918, and follows young and ambitious Pearl, trapped in her family’s isolated farm. She’s obsessed with the dancing and movie industries, and can’t wait to make a name for herself. On the brink of madness, Pearl’s ambition for a movielike life clashes with her mother’s disapproval of her dream, and her pent-up emotions pour forth. This film is wildly, and wonderfully discomforting, painting a brilliant picture of the villain we see in X. If there’s anything you can look forward to in the film, it’s Mia Goth’s amazing performance, as she perfectly embodies the character, showing just how unhinged Pearl really is.
Watch the trailer here:
The Lighthouse (2019)
This film is more confusing than it is disturbing, and that may be a good thing for some! Set in 1890s New England, the plot follows a young man trying to keep his sanity whilst working a four week shift with his superior at a mysterious lighthouse. The dark and haunting visuals are contrasted with the hilarious, and sometimes juvenile nature of the characters. A slow burn, the film gets more and more surreal (and disturbing), blurring the lines between reality and delusion. You might have to watch this film a couple of times (and a few ‘The Lighthouse Explained’ videos online) to really understand it.
Watch the trailer here:
Tusk (2014)
For those looking for a body horror flick, this one takes the cake. Directed by Kevin Smith, Tusk was inspired by an episode of his podcast, and it follows podcaster Wallace Bryton, who interviews an eccentric man named Howard Howe, who is obsessed with walruses (you can guess where it’s gonna go from there). Tusk is… disgusting, to say the least. But it’s also a fun, ridiculous, fascinating horror-comedy that’s perversely entertaining. While the film does look a bit goofy at some points, the end result is absolutely terrifying.
Watch the trailer here:
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