Dive into Terror: 9 Must-See Middle Eastern Horror Gems!

Explore the chilling world of Middle Eastern horror films available on Amazon Prime that promise to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Frights from the East: Uncover Horror on Amazon Prime!

1. Under the Shadow

IMDb Score: 6.8
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 99%

Set in post-revolutionary Iran during the 1980s, Under the Shadow tells the story of a mother and her young daughter who struggle to survive in a Tehran apartment haunted by a malevolent spirit. As they confront the supernatural, they also face the harsh realities of oppression and fear, making for a gripping psychological horror experience.

2. The Wailing

IMDb Score: 7.5
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 99%

Blending folklore with psychological horror, The Wailing unfolds in a small village in South Korea. After a mysterious illness strikes the town, a police officer investigates the source, leading him down a dark path filled with superstition and terror. The film expertly weaves tension and dread, making it a haunting watch that lingers long after the credits roll.

3. Zahra’s Paradise

IMDb Score: 7.1
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 100%

Combining elements of horror with political commentary, Zahra’s Paradise follows the harrowing journey of a mother’s search for her missing son during the tumultuous events following the Iranian elections. As she delves deeper into the underbelly of a repressive regime, the film captures the emotional turmoil and horror experienced by those caught in a web of injustice.

4. The Eyes of My Mother

IMDb Score: 6.2
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 93%

A chilling exploration of isolation and madness, The Eyes of My Mother follows a young woman raised on a secluded farm by her mother, a former surgeon. After a traumatic event, her life spirals into a dark and twisted reality, showcasing the fragility of the human psyche. The film’s stark black-and-white cinematography adds to its eerie atmosphere.

5. A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night

IMDb Score: 7.0
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 96%

This unique Iranian vampire western follows a lonesome female vampire who prowls the streets of a desolate Iranian town at night. With a beautifully crafted aesthetic, the film combines horror with romance, offering a fresh take on the vampire genre while exploring themes of loneliness and empowerment.

6. I Believe in Unicorns

IMDb Score: 6.0
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 80%

A mesmerizing blend of fantasy and horror, I Believe in Unicorns follows a teenager who becomes enchanted by a mysterious boy in a surreal landscape. However, the film takes a darker turn as reality bends and secrets are revealed, creating an unsettling atmosphere that lingers and captivates.

7. Demon

IMDb Score: 6.1
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 86%

Drawing from Jewish folklore, Demon follows a bride-to-be who becomes possessed during her wedding. As chaotic events unfold, the film examines themes of cultural traditions and the supernatural, blending horror with dark humor. The tension builds masterfully throughout, leading to a haunting conclusion.

8. The Night Comes for Us

IMDb Score: 7.0
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 76%

A brutal action-horror film, The Night Comes for Us features a former triad enforcer who must fight against his former allies to protect a young girl. While primarily an action film, it incorporates elements of horror that elevate the stakes and create a relentless atmosphere of dread and violence.

9. Baba Yaga: Terror of the Dark Forest

IMDb Score: 5.5
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 70%

This film reimagines the Slavic folklore figure Baba Yaga, exploring the haunting tale of a family that encounters the legendary witch in the depths of a dark forest. Blending horror with myth, it showcases the terror of the unknown and the consequences of awakening ancient evils. The chilling atmosphere and rich cinematography make it a unique addition to the genre.

These nine Middle Eastern horror films available on Amazon Prime each offer a distinct perspective on terror, weaving cultural elements into their narratives and leaving viewers with a lingering sense of unease. Whether you’re a fan of psychological thrillers or supernatural tales, these films provide a captivating glimpse into the darker side of storytelling from the region.