Western horror films have followed various trends over the decades. One of their strategies in the 2000s was importing horror movies from international markets, with Japanese horror, or J-horror, being a frequent choice.

This time, the writer is excited to discuss the best J-horror films you must watch! Curious about the list? Let’s dive into the full discussion together.

1. Tag

Sion Sono is a visionary filmmaker who fearlessly tackles every genre, making his works a must-watch. One of his creations is Tag (2015), a dark serial killer drama.

Tag explores fate and identity through the story of Mitsuko, a high school girl whose mundane life takes a shocking turn. It’s both a thrilling and entertaining experience for horror fans.

2. Kairo

One of horror’s most intriguing aspects is its ability to incorporate societal and technological changes into classic supernatural themes like ghosts. Kairo, also known as Pulse, is Kiyoshi Kurosawa’s 2001 horror film that portrays the Internet as a prison for dark spirits that haven’t properly crossed over.

The film’s special effects enhance this theme, seamlessly blending the paranormal with the digital world.

3. Hausu

Nobuhiko Obayashi is an unconventional filmmaker, and Hausu is proof of that. The film follows Gorgeous, a young girl who spends time at her aunt’s eerie house with a group of friends.

Although this premise seems familiar, Obayashi’s Hausu stands out as a unique masterpiece. It may not be terrifying to everyone, but its overall quality is undeniable.

4. Noroi: The Curse

Noroi: The Curse is a horror film whose quality speaks for itself. Often compared to The Blair Witch Project for its strong found-footage characteristics, the film blurs the line between art and reality, making it a must-watch for horror enthusiasts.

5. Exte: Hair Extensions

Horror is a genre with no limits—sometimes, its themes are downright bizarre. One example is Exte: Hair Extensions, directed by Sion Sono. The film tells the story of a morgue worker who sells hair taken from corpses, unknowingly unleashing a deadly curse on buyers.

The premise may seem absurd, but Sion Sono manages to create genuinely chilling visuals from it.

6. One Missed Call

One Missed Call is often compared to Ringu, but instead of a cursed videotape, it features eerie voicemail messages. Directed by Takashi Miike, who is known for his psychological horror works, this film brings a fresh and thrilling take on J-horror.

If you enjoy psychological horror with a suspenseful twist, One Missed Call is a must-watch.

7. Ringu

Hideo Nakata’s Ringu is the most iconic J-horror film of all time. Its American remake, The Ring, was also a massive success. Ringu introduced many signature J-horror elements, such as the pale, long-haired ghost girl, which have since become genre staples.

The Ringu franchise has spawned numerous sequels, prequels, spin-offs, and crossovers, but the 1998 original remains the best.

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