February often evokes thoughts of romance, yet major streaming platforms deliver a thrilling lineup of horror films this month. This selection features horror-romance blends, timeless classics, and fresh releases, particularly on Shudder, the premier destination for horror enthusiasts. Explore these seven standout horror movies available throughout February.
Heart Eyes
Where to Watch: Paramount+ (worldwide)
Availability: Streaming now
Heart Eyes arrives on Paramount+ and merits inclusion in February’s highlights due to its Valentine’s Day setting. Directed by Josh Ruben, the film tracks the Heart Eyes Killer, who preys on couples nationwide on the romantic holiday. This slasher rom-com delivers entertainment through a clever mix of humor, scares, and awkward moments, appealing to viewers who enjoy genre mashups.
Insidious: Chapter 3
Where to Watch: HBO Max (US); rent or buy (UK); Netflix (Australia)
Availability: February 1
The Insidious series, a standout collaboration between directors James Wan and Leigh Whannell, offers gripping supernatural tales. With Insidious: The Bleeding World slated for release later this year, revisiting earlier entries proves timely. This prequel explores a new family’s plight, centering on Quinn, a teenager who consults a psychic to connect with her late mother. The ritual unleashes a malevolent spirit that possesses Quinn, building intense suspense and serving as an ideal franchise introduction.
Birdeater
Where to Watch: Shudder (worldwide)
Availability: February 9
Australian horror continues to impress, following successes like Talk to Me and Bring Her Back. Birdeater, crafted by newcomers Jack Clark and Jim Weir, debuts on Shudder after earning a solid 74% on Rotten Tomatoes from festival screenings. The story unfolds as a bride-to-be attends her fiancé’s bachelor party in the isolated Australian Outback, where tensions erupt into mayhem.
The Black Phone
Where to Watch: Netflix (US); rent or buy (UK); Prime Video (Australia)
Availability: February 11
Adapted from a short story by Joe Hill, son of Stephen King, The Black Phone infuses family legacy into its chilling narrative. Ethan Hawke portrays The Grabber, a menacing serial killer, in one of his most unsettling performances. The plot follows Finney, a kidnapped teen who fights for survival. In captivity, he discovers a mysterious disconnected phone that connects him to the killer’s previous victims, offering clues for escape. For extended viewing, the sequel streams on Peacock.
The Pope’s Exorcist
Where to Watch: Max (US); rent or buy (UK); Netflix (Australia)
Availability: February 11
Russell Crowe embodies Father Gabriele Amorth, the Vatican’s renowned chief exorcist, in this gripping supernatural thriller. The film delves into the priest’s extraordinary career, marked by over 100,000 exorcisms. Regardless of personal beliefs in the paranormal, the story captivates with its detailed exploration of faith and fear, making it essential for fans of atmospheric horror.
Life After Beth
Where to Watch: Netflix (US); MGM+ (UK); Prime Video (Australia)
Availability: February 19
Drawing inspiration from the myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, Life After Beth combines grief with undead twists. The narrative tracks Zach, a young man mourning his girlfriend Beth’s sudden death—until she reanimates as a zombie. As Beth deteriorates, Zach grapples with loss and attempts to preserve their bond. This quirky, darkly comedic horror provides a lighter yet bizarre take on romance and resurrection.
History of Evil
Where to Watch: Shudder (worldwide)
Availability: February 23
Shudder rounds out the month with History of Evil, a film that has sparked varied reactions from audiences. In a dystopian America gripped by war and authoritarian rule, resistance fighter Alegre Dyer escapes political imprisonment to reunite with her family. Seeking shelter in a haunted safe house, they confront horrifying events tied to its sinister history.
