The Body Horror King: The SubstanceA neon-soaked, visceral assault on the senses that examines the agony of aging. Demi Moore gives a career-best performance in a film that starts as a sleek satire and ends in a glorious, blood-drenched explosion of prosthetic mastery. It is loud, gross, and impossible to look away from.

When Evil Lurks: A brutal, rule-breaking possession film from Argentina.

The Midnight Favorite: Late Night with the DevilThis clever "found footage" experiment captures the grainy, desperate energy of 1970s variety television. David Dastmalchian is brilliant as a talk show host willing to sell his soul for ratings. The slow-burn build-up leads to a practical-effects finale that is as messy as it is terrifying.

The First Omen: A rare prequel that surpasses expectations with bold imagery.

This year proved that horror is at its best when it is uncompromising. Whether through the lens of a camera or the eyes of a monster, these films found new ways to make us afraid of the dark.