Asian horror at its best: Top 10 films you shouldn't miss on blu-ray this Halloween
Welcome, horror fans!
With Halloween just around the corner, it's the perfect time to indulge in some spine-tingling scares. And what better way to do that than with some Asian horror films on Blu-ray from the Terracotta store?
These top 10 picks are a must-watch for any fan of the genre, and with the crystal clear picture and sound quality of Blu-ray, you'll feel like you're right in the middle of the terrifying action.
So grab your Asian snacks, turn off the lights, and get ready for a thrilling movie night with these top 10 Asian horror films, all available on Blu-ray the Terracotta store (and some on DVDs).
From classic titles like Ringu and Mr. Vampire, to lesser-known gems like Hiruko the Goblin and Door, this list has something for every horror aficionado or newbie.
1. Hiruko the Goblin (1991)
The story follows a high school teacher and his students as they uncover a mysterious goblin that is wreaking havoc in their town. Filled with creepy visuals and unsettling moments, Hiruko the Goblin delivers a sense of unease that lingers long after the credits roll.
It's blend of supernatural elements and practical effects creates a truly haunting experience.
2. One Cut of the Dead (2017)
One Cut of the Dead is a Japanese zombie comedy that will leave you laughing and screaming in equal measure. This innovative film, directed by Shinichiro Ueda, is a love letter to both the horror genre and filmmaking itself. The story starts like a typical low-budget zombie film and what follows is a hilarious and unpredictable rollercoaster ride filled with meta-humour and unexpected twists.
One Cut of the Dead perfectly captures the essence of J-horror with its unique blend of horror and comedy. The performances are top-notch.
Don't miss the chance to add this gem to your collection of Asian horror films if you see a limited slipcase edition, but you can grab the standard edition One Cut of the Dead (HOLLYWOOD) on blu ray on the Terracotta store.
3. Human Lanterns (1982)
In the 60's and 70's the Shaw Brothers Studio dominated the Hong Kong box office with their innovative kung fu films and their romantic dramas. Entering a new decade of the 80's, they branched out and added more horror films into their film roster as well, often casting well known kung fu stars in leading roles.
This 1982 Hong Kong film, Human Lanterns directed by Sun Chung, takes viewers on a twisted journey and stars kung fu legends Lo Lieh, Chen Kuan Tai and Lo Mang. The story revolves around a bitter rivalry between two men, both desperate to win a lantern-making competition. As the competition escalates, the film delves into a nightmarish world of revenge, gruesome killings, and dark rituals.
4. Hausu (1977)
Hausu, also known as House, is a Japanese horror film that is truly unlike anything you've ever seen before. Directed by Nobuhiko Obayashi, this cult classic is a psychedelic blend of horror, comedy, and avant-garde storytelling.
Released in 1977, Hausu follows a group of seven schoolgirls who visit one of the girls' aunt in her creepy, haunted house. What unfolds is a bizarre and surreal series of events, filled with eccentric characters, supernatural occurrences, and imaginative visuals.
If you've not seen Hausu before, and if you want a truly unforgettable and surreal horror experience like no other, then this one is for you.
Existing fans of Obayashi's visually stunning style can also buy some of his later film, thanks to label Third Window Film for restoring and releasing boxsets of his later films like the Anti-War Trilogy of films and his 80's era work in the Kadokawa boxset.
5. The Seventh Curse (1986)
The Seventh Curse is a wonderful example of a simply bonkers film that has bits of everything thrown in, including good old fashioned 80's effects.
This 1986 Hong Kong film, directed by Ngai Choi Lam, follows an adventurer (played by Chow Yun Fat) who accidentally unleashes a curse upon himself and must embark on a dangerous quest to find the cure. Filled with lost tribes, supernatural elements, and explosion action set-pieces and a few bits of titillation thrown in, The Seventh Curse is just a mad ride from start to finish.
6. Ringu (1998)
You could probably credit Ringu for sparking the whole wave of J-horror around the world, with it's iconic imagery of a long-haired Sadako, and it's creepy every day realism.
This iconic Japanese film, directed by Hideo Nakata, was released in 1998 and is still every bit as eerie and scary today as it was back then.
Ringu follows a journalist investigating a cursed videotape that causes anyone who watches it to die within seven days. With its atmospheric cinematography, slow-building tension, and terrifying supernatural elements, Ringu keeps viewers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. Get the Ringu blu ray on the Terracotta store.
7. Mr Vampire (1985)
Mr. Vampire is an absolute classic of Hong Kong cinema.
Directed by Ricky Lau, the film combines horror, comedy, and martial arts to create a truly unique and entertaining experience. Released in 1985, Mr. Vampire follows a Taoist priest and his apprentice as they battle supernatural creatures, including hopping vampires, ghosts, and other malevolent spirits. With its fast-paced action, clever humour, and innovative use of practical effects, Mr. Vampire perfectly captures the blend of comedic-horror, comedic-action and pure entertainment. This film has had a significant influence on the genre and remains a beloved favourite among horror enthusiasts.
8. The Untold Story (1993)
The Untold Story is a chilling Hong Kong category III film based on gruesome true events, embellised for the big screen of course.
Directed by Herman Yau and starring Anthony Wong (TAXI HUNTER, EBOLA SYNDROME), this film delves into the dark depths of human depravity and the terrifying consequences of one man's actions.
The Untold Story follows an unhinged restaurant owner who commits a series of heinous murders and goes to great lengths to cover them up, Sweeney Todd style.
9. Door (1988)
If you're a fan of J-horror, then dive into the Directors Company's series from boutique label Third Window Films.
In the early 80s through to the early 90s, an indie film-making company Directors Company was set up for young up-coming directors like Kiyoshi Kurosawa and Banmei Takahashi to be creative outside of the major Japanese studio system.
This home invasion horror by Banmei Takahashi is available on blu ray along with sequel DOOR 2.
10. Erotic Ghost Story (1990)
Erotic Ghost Story is a mesmerising addition to the realm of Asian horror that will leave you spellbound. This Hong Kong film, released in 1990 and directed by Ngai Kai Lam, combines elements of horror, fantasy, and erotica to create a unique and captivating experience. The story follows a young scholar who becomes entangled with three seductive spirits, leading to a series of haunting and erotic encounters. With its beautiful cinematography and sensual visuals, Erotic Ghost Story captures the essence of erotic Hong Kong horror of that era. The success of Erotic Ghost Story led to sequels (Erotic Ghost Story II and Erotic Ghost Story III) being made as well as riffs off of this theme.