If you’re in search of spine-tingling thrills, you’ve landed in the perfect spot.
As we near the eeriest night of the year, horror enthusiasts are keen to uncover the creepiest films and television shows to satisfy their craving for all things spooky.
But what can anime lovers dive into? Fear not! There’s a rich selection of captivating anime ready to send chills down your spine. In honor of terror-filled October, our dedicated horror connoisseurs have curated a must-watch list just for you.
So, what’s holding you back? Just don’t say we didn’t warn you about the nightmares that might follow…
15. Ghost Hunt (2006-2007)
Directed by: Akira Mano
Voice Cast: Yuuki Tai, Kaori Nazuka, Kenji Hamada (Japanese) / Cherami Leigh, Todd Haberkorn, Travis Willingham (English)
Synopsis: The story centers on Mai, a sixteen-year-old girl who racked up debt after damaging valuable ghost-hunting gear owned by local investigator Kazuya Shibuya. To repay her debt, she becomes his interim assistant, embarking on several terrifying escapades.
Why it’s a favorite: Ghost Hunt perfectly balances humor and horror. Although Mai’s story consists of only eight adventures, each incorporates a diverse mix of supernatural phenomena. The show maintains suspense while delivering laughs, whether the antagonists are human, spectral, or occasionally monstrous.
IMDb Rating: 7.4
Written by Tulisha Srivastava
14. Corpse Party: Tortured Souls (2013)
Directed by: Akira Iwanaga
Voice Cast: Hiro Shimono, Rina Sato, Asami Imai (Japanese)
Synopsis: A group of friends performs a farewell ritual for their classmate Mayu Suzumoto, which accidentally transports them into a nightmarish realm filled with grotesque dangers.
Our take: Tortured Souls leans heavily into graphic violence, stepping away from the narrative complexity of the video game series. In its four episodes, we witness the gruesome fates that befall its youthful protagonists, making it an ideal choice for gore enthusiast fans.
IMDb Score: 6.3
Written by Anthony McGlynn
13. Another (2012)
Directed by: Tsutomu Mizushima
Voice Cast: Natsumi Takamori, Atsushi Abe, Madoka Yonezawa (Japanese) / Monica Rial, Greg Ayres, Jessica Boone (English)
Synopsis: When Kouichi Sakakibara transfers to Yomiyama North Junior High, he becomes intrigued by his classmate Mei Misaki, who seems invisible to everyone else. What unfolds next is a chilling series of events.
Why we appreciate it: Another captivates with its unpredictable plot twists and a haunting atmosphere. Expect some shockingly brutal deaths early on. This blend of horror and tension ensures viewers who delight in spine-chilling tales will have a thrilling experience.
IMDb Rating: 7.5
Written by Tulisha Srivastava
12. Shiki (2010-2011)
Directed by: Tetsurô Amino
Voice Cast: Tooru Ookawa, Kouki Uchiyama, Kazuyuki Okitsu (Japanese) / David Wald, Jerry Jewell, John Burgmeier (English)
Synopsis: In the close-knit town of Sotoba, Doctor Toshio Ozaki confronts a mystifying epidemic that is leading to the deaths of local residents.
Why it resonates: While not exactly groundbreaking, Shiki delivers an engaging tale, particularly as later episodes provide perspectives from the entities causing the illness. The series raises thought-provoking themes about the darker aspects of humanity.
IMDb Score: 7.6
Written by Tulisha Srivastava
11. Hell Girl (2005-2006)
Directed by: Takahiro Omori
Voice Cast: Mamiko Noto, Masaya Matsukaze, Takako Honda (Japanese) / Brina Palencia, Todd Haberkorn, Jennifer Seman (English)
Synopsis: This anthology series delves into a mysterious website known as “Hell Correspondence.” Those who use the site summon Ai Enma, the Hell Girl, who offers a lethal deal to the desperate.
Why we admire it: Hell Girl harnesses the storytelling potential of its anthology style, featuring some unenviable characters whose actions lead them to make grim choices. As the series progresses, Ai’s backstory unveils deeper complexities, enriching the narrative.
IMDb Rating: 7.4
Written by Tulisha Srivastava
10. Interviews With Monster Girls (2017)
Directed by: Ryō Andō
Voice Cast: Kaede Hondo, Minami Shinoda, Junichi Suwabe (Japanese) / Bryn April, Terri Doty, Cris George (English)
Synopsis: This light-hearted anime features three high school girls who are demi-humans—individuals endowed with special abilities living alongside ordinary humans.
Why it stands out: This series brings a refreshing twist to supernatural narratives. Featuring a vampire, snow woman, dullahan, and even a succubus, it portrays their daily lives among human peers. The show combines humor with serious themes, enabling viewers to empathize with the characters.
IMDb Score: 7.3
Written by Tulisha Srivastava
9. Gakkou Gurashi (2015)
Directed by: Masaomi Andō
Voice Cast: Inori Minase, Ari Ozawa, MAO (Japanese) / Brittney Karbowski, Juliet Simmons, Luci Christian (English)
Synopsis: A typical school life shifts into an entirely unexpected journey, pushing boundaries best experienced without prior knowledge.
Our view: I can’t reveal too much without spoiling a significant plot twist, but trust us—this anime is much darker than it first appears, as you’ll discover in the initial episode.
IMDb: 7.1
Written by Anthony McGlynn
8. Flowers of Evil (2013)
Directed by: Hiroshi Nagahama
Synopsis: Three high school teens find themselves embroiled in a twisted love triangle, escalating tensions arising from one blackmailing another after witnessing a crime.
Our take: This emotional thriller, reminiscent of Cruel Intentions blended with The OC, dives into themes of obsession and teenage desires. The psychology behind the characters and their relationships shifts continuously, leading to a gripping climax.
IMDb: 7.6
Written by Anthony McGlynn
7. Higurashi When They Cry (2006)
Directed by: Chiaki Kon
Voice Cast: Souichiro Hoshi, Mai Nakahara, Yukari Tamura (Japanese) / Grant George, Mela Lee, Rebecca Forstadt (English)
Synopsis: Set in the tranquil village of Hinamizawa in 1983, the narrative follows Keiichi Maebara, who begins to uncover a wave of murders and disappearances coinciding with the village’s traditional festival.
Why we enjoy it: Higurashi When They Cry unfolds as a mesmerizing thriller filled with unexpected twists. The true magic of this series lies in its exploration of deep bonds and the sacrifices friends make for one another, making it an incredibly intense ride.
IMDb Score: 7.8
Written by Tulisha Srivastava
6. Death Parade (2015)
Directed by: Yuzuru Tachikawa
Voice Cast: Tomoaki Maeno, Asami Seto, Rumi Ookubo (Japanese) / Alex Organ, Jamie Marchi, Jad Saxton (English)
Synopsis: In the afterlife, instead of confronting judgment in heaven or hell, souls arrive at a bar where they must undergo tests to determine their fate.
Why it intrigues: This series delves into the essence of humanity itself. As individuals grapple with their imminent fates, they unveil their true selves to the bartenders. The narrative showcases a broader story arc with a central character whose emotional journey connects the standalone episodes.
IMDb Score: 7.8
Written by Tulisha Srivastava
5. Devilman Crybaby (2018)
Directed by: Masaki Yuasa
Voice Cast: Kōki Uchiyama, Ayumu Murase, Megumi Han (Japanese) / Griffin Burns, Kyle McCarley, Cristina Vee (English)
Our perspective: Devilman Crybaby reimagines the classic from the ’70s with intense body horror and existential themes. The transformation of the titular character triggers a cascade of events that reveal profound reflections on human nature and personal struggles, making it both unsettling and rewarding.
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 89%
Written by Anthony McGlynn
4. Elfen Lied (2004)
Directed by: Mamoru Kanbe
Voice Cast: N/A
Synopsis: Follow the harrowing journey of a teenage girl who possesses telekinetic powers as she escapes a laboratory that held her captive, leaving destruction in her path.
Why it captivates: Elfen Lied is a short yet impactful series that pulls no punches. The protagonist, Lucy, wields tremendous power, contrasting with her seemingly innocent demeanor. The mix of disarming cuteness with intense violence creates a gripping narrative, even if it veers into odd territory towards the finale.
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 100%
Written by Anthony McGlynn
3. Taste (2024)
Directed by: Fûga Yamashiro
Voice Cast: Shion Wakayama, Natsuki Hanae, Ayane Sakura (Japanese) / Abby Trott, AJ Beckles, Lisa Relmold (English)
Synopsis: Dandadan is an up-and-coming shonen anime revolving around Momo Ayase and her classmate Takakura. While Momo is a believer in ghosts, Takakura argues for the existence of aliens. Unsurprisingly, both sides have their truths as they confront supernatural challenges to return to normal life.
Why it’s exceptional: This vibrant anime features striking animation, staying true to its beautifully illustrated manga. While it has dark themes, comedy is blended seamlessly throughout. Character growth and a strong storyline make Dandadan a must-watch title you shouldn’t miss.
IMDb Rating: 8.6
Written by Tulisha Srivastava
2. Chainsaw Man (2022-present)
Directed by: Ryū Nakayama
Voice Cast: Kikunosuke Toya, Shiori Izawa, Kenjiro Tsuda (Japanese) / Ryan Colt Levy, Lindsay Seidel, Jason Douglas (English)
Synopsis: Denji, a destitute teenager, forges a pact with a devil, allowing him to transform into a monstrous entity with chainsaw limbs, using his newfound abilities to vanquish other monsters in a unique world influenced by alternate history.
Why it impresses: Chainsaw Man serves as both a vibrant action-packed journey featuring a hero with chainsaw arms and as a profound commentary on the cyclical nature of history. Expect stunning visuals, captivating animation, and thrilling sequences as you enjoy this standout experience. We anticipate remarkable things for the upcoming Chainsaw Man film.
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 97%
Written by Anthony McGlynn
1. Demon Slayer (2019-Present)
Directed by: Haruo Sotozaki
Voice Cast: Natsuki Hanae, Akari Kitō, Hiro Shimono (Japanese) / Zach Aguilar, Abby Trott, Aleks Le (English)
Synopsis: After a demon slaughters his family and attempts to turn his sister into a demon, Tanjiro becomes a Demon Slayer, joining a fierce combat against the deadliest of foes.
Why we adore it: Demon Slayer brilliantly mixes humor with horror, showcasing the naivety of Tanjiro and other new recruits within the Demon Slayer Corps as a counterbalance to the violent and grotesque monstrosities they face, including giant spiders and malevolent spirits.
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 87%
Written by Anthony McGlynn
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