5 Feminist Horror Movies to Stream on Netflix

Horror movies are not just about scares and gore; they can also tell powerful stories about women. Feminist horror movies show women as strong, smart, and brave. They break the usual rules and give us new ways to see female characters. Here are five feminist horror movies you can stream on Netflix right now.

Key Takeaways

• The Awakening is a ghost story with a strong female lead who challenges the norms of her time.
• Jennifer's Body flips the script on typical horror tropes, showing a female friendship with a dark twist.
• A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night combines horror with social commentary, featuring a female vampire in a unique setting.
• The Witch explores themes of female empowerment and societal expectations in a historical setting.
• XX is an anthology of horror stories directed by women, highlighting different female perspectives in the genre.

1. The Awakening

"The Awakening" is a chilling tale that delves into the supernatural while exploring deeper societal themes. Set in post-World War I England, the story follows Florence Cathcart, a skeptical woman who debunks supernatural occurrences. However, her beliefs are challenged when she is called to investigate a haunting at a boys' boarding school.

As Florence digs deeper into the mystery, she uncovers secrets that force her to confront her own past. The film masterfully blends horror with a poignant narrative about grief, loss, and the search for truth. Florence's journey is both terrifying and enlightening, making "The Awakening" a standout in feminist horror cinema.

The film's atmospheric setting and strong performances, particularly by Rebecca Hall as Florence, add to its eerie and compelling nature. "The Awakening" is not just a ghost story; it is a reflection on the human condition and the societal expectations placed on women.

2. Jennifer's Body

Jennifer's Body is a 2009 horror film that, despite its initial marketing towards teenage boys, holds a significant place in feminist horror cinema. The story revolves around Jennifer, a high school cheerleader portrayed by Megan Fox, who becomes the victim of a satanic ritual conducted by a local indie band. The band aims to sacrifice a virgin to Satan to gain fame, but their plan backfires when Jennifer, who is not a virgin, awakens with a craving for male flesh.

This film highlights the exploitation of women by men for personal gain, a theme that resonates deeply within feminist discourse. Jennifer's transformation into a predator serves as a metaphor for reclaiming power in a male-dominated society. The movie cleverly subverts the typical horror trope of the helpless female victim, presenting Jennifer as a complex character who navigates her newfound identity with a mix of vengeance and vulnerability.

For those interested in exploring feminist themes in horror, Jennifer's Body is a must-watch. It challenges the audience to rethink traditional gender roles and offers a unique perspective on the genre. While it may not be perfect, its contribution to feminist horror is undeniable. And for viewers who appreciate period underwear for women, this film's bold take on female empowerment might just resonate on a deeper level.

3. A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night

A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night is a unique film directed by Ana Lily Amirpour. Set in the fictional Iranian town of Bad City, the movie explores themes of loneliness, vengeance, and unexpected connections. The story revolves around a nameless girl who is a vampire. She spends her nights listening to music, skateboarding, and preying on the city's worst men, like Saeed, a cruel drug dealer. However, her routine changes when she meets Arash, a young man who shows her kindness. This encounter makes her question her violent ways. The film stands out for its blend of horror and feminist themes, making it a must-watch for those interested in genre-bending cinema.

4. The Witch

Directed by Robert Eggers, The Witch is a chilling tale set in the New England wilderness during the early 1600s. The story follows a family that has been banished from their community and now lives in isolation. One day, the eldest daughter, Thomasin, takes her baby brother Samuel for a walk, and he mysteriously vanishes. What follows is a descent into hysteria and accusations of witchcraft. The family believes Thomasin is responsible for Samuel's disappearance and may be possessed. The film offers a gripping look at puritan culture through the lens of horror. You can stream it on Netflix.

5. XX

Created to address the lack of opportunities for female directors in horror, XX is an anthology film that features four chilling stories, each directed by a woman. This collection includes a segment written and scored by Annie Clark, also known as St. Vincent, and another by Karyn Kusama, the director of Jennifer's Body and The Invitation. The film stands out for its unique approach to storytelling and its commitment to showcasing female talent in a genre traditionally dominated by men.

Conclusion

In conclusion, feminist horror movies on Netflix offer a unique blend of thrills and progressive storytelling. These films not only entertain but also challenge traditional gender roles, showcasing strong, complex female characters who defy stereotypes. By exploring themes of empowerment and resilience, these movies provide a fresh perspective on the horror genre. Whether you're a horror enthusiast or new to the genre, these feminist horror films are a must-watch for their ability to combine suspense with meaningful social commentary. So, grab some popcorn, dim the lights, and dive into these captivating stories that celebrate women's strength and agency.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is 'The Awakening' about?

'The Awakening' is a spooky movie about a woman who investigates ghost stories in post-World War I England. She doesn't believe in ghosts until strange things start happening.

Is 'Jennifer's Body' a feminist horror film?

Yes, 'Jennifer's Body' is considered a feminist horror film. It focuses on female friendships and has strong themes about revenge and empowerment.

What makes 'A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night' unique?

This film is unique because it's a black-and-white Iranian vampire movie. It blends horror with a Western vibe and has a strong female lead.

Why is 'The Witch' considered a feminist movie?

'The Witch' is seen as a feminist movie because it explores themes of female independence and the struggles of a young girl in a strict religious family.

What is 'XX' about?

'XX' is an anthology of horror stories, all directed by women. Each story has its own unique twist and showcases different aspects of fear.

Are these movies available on Netflix?

Yes, all the movies mentioned are available to stream on Netflix. Make sure to check your region's availability as it might differ.