Are you ready to transform your Halloween into a spine-chilling marathon of terror? While scary movies have their place, the rise of streaming has unleashed a new era of horror—one that unfolds over hours, not just minutes. Netflix, in particular, has become a treasure trove for horror enthusiasts, offering shows that dive deep into the genre in ways a movie simply can’t. This Halloween, if you’re craving something truly spooky and immersive, here are five Netflix horror shows that will keep you on the edge of your seat—each clocking in at well over two hours. And here’s the twist: you’ll notice a recurring mastermind behind several of these picks. But here’s where it gets controversial... Is Mike Flanagan the undisputed king of modern horror, or is there room for debate? Let’s dive in and find out.
1. The Haunting of Hill House (93% Rotten Tomatoes Score)
Kicking off our list is Mike Flanagan’s masterpiece, The Haunting of Hill House. Often hailed as one of the best shows in Netflix history, this series is more than just a horror story—it’s a gut-wrenching exploration of a fractured family haunted by their past. While it delivers plenty of scares, it’s the emotional depth that truly sets it apart. Think of it as a drama with ghosts, and you’re on the right track. And this is the part most people miss... It’s not just about the jumpscares; it’s about the lingering dread and the raw, human pain that makes it unforgettable.
2. The Haunting of Bly Manor (88% Rotten Tomatoes Score)
Flanagan strikes again with The Haunting of Bly Manor, a standalone story that shares no direct connection to Hill House—despite featuring some familiar faces. Set against the backdrop of a mysterious au pair’s death, this series weaves a tale of love, loss, and the supernatural. It’s less about outright terror and more about atmospheric tension, proving Flanagan’s versatility in the genre. But here’s the question... Does reusing actors break the immersion, or does it add a layer of familiarity that enhances the experience?
3. Midnight Mass (87% Rotten Tomatoes Score)
If you’re not a Flanagan fan yet, Midnight Mass might just convert you. This eerie tale follows a small island community shaken by the arrival of a new resident, whose presence sparks miracles—and something far more sinister. I won’t spoil the twist, but trust me when I say it’s one of the most jaw-dropping reveals in horror TV. And this is the part most people miss... It’s not just a horror story; it’s a profound exploration of faith, doubt, and the human condition.
4. The Fall of the House of Usher (91% Rotten Tomatoes Score)
Flanagan takes on the iconic works of Edgar Allan Poe in The Fall of the House of Usher, blending multiple stories into a chilling narrative about a family undone by their own greed and cruelty. It’s a dark, gothic tale that feels both timeless and utterly modern. But here’s where it gets controversial... Is this adaptation too faithful to Poe, or does it bring something entirely new to the table?
5. Kingdom (98% Rotten Tomatoes Score)
Stepping away from Flanagan’s dominance, Kingdom is a Korean zombie epic that deserves every bit of its near-perfect Rotten Tomatoes score. Set in 17th-century Korea, this series blends political intrigue with a relentless zombie plague, creating a unique and utterly gripping experience. It’s not just a horror show; it’s a historical drama, a thriller, and a masterpiece of world-building. And this is the part most people miss... It’s a reminder that horror knows no cultural boundaries—and when done right, it transcends genres.
So, there you have it—five Netflix horror shows guaranteed to make your Halloween unforgettable. While Mike Flanagan’s name dominates this list, it’s clear why: he’s a master of crafting stories that linger long after the credits roll. But as he moves on to new projects, like a Carrie series for Amazon and a Dark Tower adaptation, the question remains: Who will step up to fill his shoes?
If you’re craving more of Flanagan’s work, check out his films like Doctor Sleep, Gerald’s Game, and Hush (though you’ll have to hunt down Hush outside of Netflix). And if you’re ready to debate whether Flanagan is the greatest horror creator of our time—or if there’s someone else who deserves that title—let’s hear it in the comments. What’s your take?
Oh, and before you go, don’t forget to follow me on Twitter, YouTube, Bluesky, and Instagram for more recommendations and rants. And if you’re in the mood for some sci-fi, pick up my novels, the Herokiller series (https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08G1MRFTM?ref=dbsdprwtsbtkin&binding=kindleedition) and The Earthborn Trilogy (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08KYDGG73?binding=paperback&ref=dbsdprwtsbpc_tpbk). Happy haunting!
