Normally, I try to limit myself to around 5 titles for these articles. However, as is apparent by my lack of reading over on Storygraph, I watched a ton of films and shorts that I really enjoyed. The silent horror isn’t much of a surprise to anyone at this point, but there were three documentaries that made the list this month! I also included some shorts and didn’t want y’all to feel like I wasn’t delivering.
March 2026 Recs
- The Bride! (2026)- This reimagining of 1931’s Bride of Frankenstein is easily going to be in my top three films this year. In fact, it will likely end up as my favorite horror film for 2026. It’s a fresh retelling of a story we’re familiar with. If you’re interested in my full thoughts on The Bride!, check out my review!
- Hearts of Darkness: The Making of the Final Friday (2025)- If you’ve known me for any length of time, you’ll know that I’m a staunch supporter of Jason Goes to Hell: The Final Friday. I backed this documentary immediately upon its announcement. When I finally got my copy this year, I was beyond excited. I did hold off until Friday the 13th to watch it, and I can safely say it was worth the wait. Adam Marcus is one of the kindest people in the industry, and Michael Felsher’s documentary really shows how much heart Adam puts into his work, as well as how he connects with those he works with.
- Witchboard (2024)- Admittedly, I’m not a huge fan of the original Witchboard. I don’t dislike it, but it’s just not one that comes to mind when discussing films I like. Fortunately, Chuck Russell’s take on it fares far better for me. I’d even go as far as to say it was totally my brand of vodka. The combination of gastro horror, witchcraft, and late 90s-early aughts vibes makes this a great time! I have some planned writing about this film, so stay tuned!
- Salomé (1922)- For this one, it’s really just easier if I reshare my Letterboxd review: “There are a lot of fascinating things going on in this film. A friend described it as Lynchian, and I can definitely see that. Its set pieces and costuming are stunning! Also worth noting is that several sources have stated that the cast was composed entirely of gay and bisexual actors as an homage to Oscar Wilde. It’s also regarded as a queer cult classic, which I didn’t know. It has horror tags on Letterboxd and on IMDb, but I think it’s maybe more horror adjacent. If you’re expecting big
scares or traditional horror elements, this may not work for you. The horror of it lies in the constant tension of the film. That said, it’s worth checking out for sure!” - The Last Sacrifice (2024)- I recently hosted an impromptu watch party for this film with my Discord server. The documentary covers the 1945 witchcraft killing of Charles Walton, which served as the inspiration for The Wicker Man (1973) and helped to birth the folk horror genre. While the topic itself is interesting, the way this doc is edited really enhances its watchability. As someone who isn’t especially interested in true crime, the use of folk horror movie clips really made the subject matter pop. Also, stay through the end for a wild theory about Teletubbies, you won’t regret it.
- Meshes of the Afternoon (1943)- When doing some research for my article about gastro horror directed by female directors last month, I came across this short. I realize that I’m very late to the party in my discovery. Similar to Salomé, this short isn’t overtly horror, but it’s full of tension and eerie moments. It really made me want to explore more of Maya Deren’s work.
- Suspense. (1913)- Another short where my Letterboxd review says it best: “one of the earliest surviving horror films directed by (or in this case co-directed by) a woman. This features hallmarks of modern horror: home invasion, classism (the invader is an unhoused person), tension, etc. The triangular split shots were super cool. As a gastro horror lover, I appreciate that “the tramp” stops in the kitchen for a sandwich before continuing his home invasion. Horrors caused by hunger and desperation are still as true today as in 1913.”
- 1000 Women in Horror (2025)- I did mention that there were several docs on this list, didn’t I? 1000 Women in Horror is based on Alexandra Heller-Nicholas’ book by the same title. It discusses how women have shaped the horror genre. Honestly, I could have handled another 90 minutes on the topic because it was so engaging. Donna Davies did a fantastic job, and the women they had discussing the topic were all folks whom I’ve admired for a long time. This is a must-watch for all horror fans.
- The Little Shop of Horrors (1986)- This was a film on my personal gap list. Somehow, I managed to get to 41 years old without seeing it. I’m
glad to have finally remedied this because what a fun movie! I will admit that the baby version of Audrey II was so precious that I probably would have also fed it my blood. If you’re looking for something to pair with this, I recommend Adela Has Not Had Supper Yet! - Ataraxia (2025)- This is the second film directed by Joe Meredith that I’ve watched, and his work really melts my butter! There is just something about the way he makes SOV films that appeals to me. I wish I could put it into words better, but his work is just such a vibe. This particular film was like a cross between SOV horror, ASMR, and a ’90s PC survival horror video game. Somebody really needs to do a nice physical collection of Joe’s work. In the meantime, you can watch Ataraxia on YouTube.
I wish I could say I was sorry for giving y’all so many recommendations, but I’m not. I watched a lot of really fantastic stuff last month, and I hope you benefit from my viewing! What movies and/or shorts did you watch last month that you enjoyed? Let me know in the comments below! I’m also looking for new things to watch!