Horror Yearbook – February 2025’s best horrors are here, bringing a fresh wave of chills, thrills, and bloody good fun. This month, horror fans are in for a treat with a variety of films and books that promise to keep you on the edge of your seat. From heart-stopping slashers to haunting romances, February has something for every horror enthusiast. Welcome to Horror Explorer, your ultimate guide to the best spooky content this month. I’m William Earl, the editor of Variety.com, and I’m here to share the most thrilling and terrifying picks for February. If you’ve got any recommendations or suggestions for next month’s column, feel free to reach out to me at wearl@variety.com.
Debuting in theaters on February 7, Heart Eyes blends romance and slasher horror. This Valentine’s Day treat features Olivia Holt and Mason Gooding. Together, they face off against the notorious Heart Eyes Killer. This killer only targets couples, making for a suspense-filled battle. With a blend of romance, horror, and gory thrills, Heart Eyes delivers an 80s-inspired slasher. If you love a mix of horror and love, this movie is perfect for your date night. The movie offers a fun yet creepy ride that will keep you on edge.
Premiering on February 14 on Apple TV+, The Gorge combines action, horror, and romance. The film stars Miles Teller and Anya Taylor-Joy in this intense thriller. They play snipers tasked with protecting the world from an unknown monster. As they work together, sparks fly between them, adding romance to the tension. The film builds suspense as their situation becomes increasingly dangerous. Will they survive long enough to explore their feelings? The Gorge offers an exciting mix of horror and romance that is hard to ignore.
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The Monkey opens in theaters on February 21, bringing a blood-soaked adaptation of a Stephen King short story. Directed by Osgood Perkins, this film mixes dark humor with horror. Theo James, Tatiana Maslany, and Elijah Wood star as people haunted by a cursed toy monkey. This seemingly innocent toy brings death to those who encounter it. Perkins’ signature style adds a layer of intrigue and sophistication to the terrifying story. If you enjoy twisted, dark humor mixed with horror, this is a must-watch.
Available now on VOD, Bystanders is a chilling rape-revenge film. Directed by Mary Beth McAndrews, it tells the story of a group of young women. These women fight back after being abused by frat boys. A mysterious and violent couple helps them take their revenge. The film delivers shock and intensity, making it a powerful debut for McAndrews. Bystanders is bold, raw, and unapologetic, offering a unique perspective on horror. If you want something that will leave you thinking long after, this one is for you.
Y2K is now available on VOD, offering a blend of sci-fi, comedy, and horror. Directed by Kyle Mooney, the film explores a unique apocalyptic setting. Despite a soft theatrical release, it is sure to gain a following. This film mixes humor with dark elements, making for a fresh take on the genre. If you missed it in theaters, now is the time to catch up. Y2K may not have been a box-office hit, but it is destined for home audiences. Don’t let this quirky horror experience pass you by.
Red Rooms is now available on Shudder and VOD, offering a disturbing look at true crime culture. The story revolves around a mysterious young woman. She attends the trial of a man accused of running dark web “red rooms.” These rooms show the murder of young women. As the trial progresses, the woman’s motivations become darker. This twisty and unsettling thriller will leave you on the edge of your seat. Red Rooms is a must-watch for fans of psychological horror and courtroom dramas.
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Victorian Psycho by Virginia Feito is now available via Liveright. This novel is set in the Victorian era, offering a chilling psychological thriller. The plot centers around a young governess. She struggles to control her murderous impulses as she cares for her charges. This dark and twisted tale is already set to become a film. Margaret Qualley and Thomasin McKenzie will star in the A24 adaptation. If you enjoy period horror with psychological tension, Victorian Psycho is for you. The book’s disturbing themes make it an unforgettable read.
Susan Barker’s Old Soul is now available via G.P. Putnam’s Sons. This haunting novel tells the story of a woman linked to a series of mysterious deaths. People die after crossing paths with her, but who is she? Barker creates an atmosphere of dread throughout the book. The prose is both beautiful and chilling, keeping readers hooked. If you enjoy books that slowly build terror, Old Soul is a must-read. The novel’s eerie atmosphere will send chills down your spine.
February 2025 brings a fresh batch of horror, romance, and suspense. Whether you’re looking for a bloody slasher or a terrifying romance, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss these spine-tingling titles that will make your month even more thrilling.
