By Charlie Kendellen
If you’re a self proclaimed homebody or a proud summer-hater, you’re not alone. Summer can be a steaming hellscape for those of us who despise the heat and humidity and patiently count the days until Autumn. This list compiles a hand-picked assortment of holidays from hell or generally feel-bad summer themed horror that will get you through the long humid weeks and make you glad you skipped out on travelling this year.
Wolf Creek (2005)
Dir. Greg McLean
Wolf Creek made a name for itself due to its relentless brutality and nonsensical violence, earning it a spot in the controversial subgenre of torture porn. The film follows a group of stranded backpackers in the outback of Australia that fall prey to a murderous local who holds them captive.
Downrange (2017)
Dir. Ryûhei Kitamura
Downrange is a hidden gem that goes overlooked by diehard fans of single location horror. Similar toWolf Creek, the film is packed with impressive special effects and plenty of brutal violence. The film follows a group of college students who find themselves stranded at the side of a road after a tire blowout, who become targets for an enigmatic sniper.
The Ruins (2008)
Dir. Carter Smith
The Ruins is based on a book of the same name, featuring glorious elements of body horror and especially mean spirited brutality. The film follows a group of young Americans on a holiday in Mexico, who get much more than they bargained for after visiting the site of an archeological dig in the jungle. This one features the tiresome trope of tourists sticking their noses in places they don’t belong, disrespecting and inciting rage from the locals. Delightful.
The Hills Have Eyes (2006)
Dir. Alexandre Aja
A beloved remake of the classic film of the same title by industry legend Wes Craven. Due to its graphic violence and pulpy suspense, this film has solidified its spot in the remake hall of fame. The film follows a family road trip that goes awry when they find themselves stranded in a government atomic zone.
Eden Lake (2008)
Dir. James Watkins
Eden Lake is a ballsy gem that gets under your skin and stays there long after the credits roll. The film follows a young couple that head to the remote English countryside for a romantic holiday, who become terrorised by aggressive local teenagers.
Infinity Pool (2023)
Dir. Brandon Cronenberg
As directed by the son of legendary filmmaker David Cronenberg, you know you’re in for a wild ride. This colosally overlooked film explores themes of class privilege, hedonism, and the death penalty. The film follows a couple who head to an island resort who find themselves in over their heads after a tragic accident occurs.
Long Weekend (1978)
Dir. Colin Eggleston
Long Weekend is an underrated gem that features a lingering sense of dread and themes of eco-horror — where nature bites back! The film follows an unlikeable couple who take off to a remote beach on a weekend trip, who discover that nature isn’t in an accommodating mood.
There is no shortage of holiday themed horror and depictions of doomed vacations that will comfort and/or disturb you during these humid final weeks of summer.