Weekends are for chilling… and what better way to do that than by diving into the world of horror? So, we dug up the YouTube goldmine of Horror Short Films and got you some of the spookiest selections.
Let’s get into the details.
Lights Out – Directed by David F. Sandberg
Fear of the dark is universal. “Lights Out” taps into this primal dread. A woman faces a ghastly figure that appears only when the lights go off. Sandberg’s mastery in building tension with minimal elements is brilliant. This short’s success led to a full-length movie, proving its impact. It has also won 2 awards, for “Best Short” and “Best Director”.
The Smiling Man – A Twisted Tale of Joy and Terror
A little girl meets a figure in her home, one that smiles in the face of fear. The contrast between innocence and the macabre creates an unforgettable atmosphere. It’s a visual and emotional rollercoaster that questions the nature of fear itself.
Don’t Move – A “Bloody Cuts” Anthology Gem
Among the awarded Horror Short Films there’s “Bloody Cuts“! Imagine being frozen in terror, where movement means death. “Don’t Move” captures this nightmare scenario as six friends face a demonic force during a séance. The tension is palpable, making it a standout in the horror anthology series “Bloody Cuts.”
2AM: The Smiling Man – Creepypasta Come to Life
Inspired by a viral creepypasta, this film follows a man’s eerie encounter on a deserted street. The unsettling joy of the stranger he meets is contagious… in the worst way. It’s a testament to the power of internet folklore in modern horror.
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Bedfellows – Directed by Drew Daywalt
Quick and terrifying, “Bedfellows” features a woman receiving a nightmarish call from her husband, only to discover a horrifying truth. Daywalt’s ability to deliver a scare in under two minutes is unmatched. It’s a masterclass in suspense.
Tuck Me In – Simplicity Meets Terror
A father’s bedtime routine turns into a scene of horror. “Tuck Me In” is minimalistic yet effective, proving that sometimes, less is more. The chilling twist at the end will stay with you long after the film is over.
The Birch – A Story of Revenge and Protection
When a bullied teen calls upon an ancient force, the line between protector and avenger blurs. “The Birch” melds folklore with contemporary issues, creating a narrative that’s both fantastical and deeply human.
Play Time – Horror Meets Virtual Reality
“Play Time” brings a new dimension to horror with its VR setting. It’s visually captivating, and the blend of technology and terror is executed flawlessly. The line between game and reality has never been so blurred.
Close Your Eyes – A Creepy Roommate
“Close Your Eyes” is an enthralling short film that captures the essence of horror through the lens of an ordinary evening gone terrifyingly awry. When a musician witnesses his roommate’s sleepwalking, the night spirals into an abyss of fear and suspense. Awarded the 2023 FANGORIA CHAINSAW AWARD for Best Short Film, this masterpiece skillfully blends the mundane with the macabre, turning a common sleep disorder into the conduit for an unforgettable nightmare.
We Got a Dog – Is it a dog?
After a long night shift, Morgan returns home to discover that her boyfriend, Mason, has unexpectedly brought home a new pet. However, Mason’s demeanor and the pet’s presence immediately strike Morgan as peculiar. Her instincts tell her something is amiss with this latest addition to their household. This chilling narrative earned the title of Best Short Film at the Popcorn Frights Film Festival in 2022, captivating audiences with its eerie undertones. “Hey… that’s… not a dog,” becomes a haunting realization in this award-winning horror short by Ryan Valdez, celebrated for its ability to weave suspense and unease into every frame.
So, grab some popcorn, turn off the lights, and prepare for a weekend filled with scares with these Horror Short Films. Now if you want to enhance your weekend spooks, check out the most Haunted Places you can visit from your couch.
