25 Movies Like The Hills Have Eyes
Are you on the hunt for movies like The Hills Have Eyes that will keep you on the edge of your seat? Look no further!
In the world of horror cinema, few films manage to leave an indelible mark quite like Wes Craven’s iconic masterpiece, The Hills Have Eyes. This film has not only captivated audiences with its chilling narrative but has also set a high bar for the genre.
If you’re itching for that same adrenaline rush, you’re in luck. Our curated list dives into the depths of horror, exploring films that share the same spine-tingling essence. From the desolate landscapes to the heart-pounding suspense, each movie we’ve selected promises to deliver a thrilling experience.
So, buckle up as we embark on this terrifying journey through movies like The Hills Have Eyes, ensuring you get your fix of horror and suspense.
Movies Like The Hills Have Eyes
1. Wrong Turn (2003)
Directed by Rob Schmidt, Wrong Turn is a gripping horror film that plunges a group of friends into the nightmarish depths of West Virginia’s backwoods. They find themselves hunted by a horrifying family of cannibalistic mountain men, grotesquely disfigured through generations of inbreeding.
Fans of The Hills Have Eyes will appreciate the similar themes of isolation, survival, and the gruesome nature of the antagonists. The film’s intense atmosphere and shocking makeup effects contribute to its status as a horror favorite, spawning numerous sequels and a reboot.
Its blend of terror and suspense makes it a standout in the genre.
2. Alien (1979)
Ridley Scott’s Alien is a masterpiece of sci-fi horror that follows the crew of the spaceship Nostromo, who encounter a lethal alien creature after investigating a distress call. This film is a thrilling journey into fear and the unknown, much like The Hills Have Eyes.
The claustrophobic setting aboard the Nostromo, combined with the constant threat of the alien, creates a palpable tension similar to the desert isolation in The Hills Have Eyes. Alien is celebrated for its groundbreaking special effects, atmospheric tension, and the iconic design of the Xenomorph by H.R. Giger, making it a seminal work in both horror and science fiction.
3. The Blair Witch Project (1999)
The Blair Witch Project revolutionized the horror genre with its found-footage style. The story follows three film students who venture into the Black Hills near Burkittsville, Maryland, to document the local Blair Witch legend and mysteriously disappear.
The realism and immersive nature of the film, achieved through its unique filming style, create an intense experience reminiscent of The Hills Have Eyes. The fear of being lost and pursued in an unfamiliar, hostile environment is a shared theme. The film’s innovative marketing campaign, which suggested the events were real, and its massive box office success, mark it as a landmark in horror cinema.
4. The Cabin in the Woods (2012)
The Cabin in the Woods is a unique meta-horror film that cleverly deconstructs typical horror tropes. It follows a group of college friends who visit a remote cabin and become part of a bizarre, controlled scenario.
Fans of The Hills Have Eyes will enjoy the subversion of expectations and the exploration of horror clichés, including the theme of isolation. The film is known for its witty script, creative plot twists, and numerous references to classic horror films, making it a refreshing and entertaining take on the genre.
5. Deliverance (1972)
John Boorman’s Deliverance, based on James Dickey’s novel, is a harrowing survival thriller that explores the journey of four friends on a canoe trip in the Georgia wilderness. They encounter menacing backwoods locals, leading to a desperate fight for survival.
This film shares with The Hills Have Eyes the themes of civilization versus nature and the brutality of survival in a remote setting. Deliverance is renowned for its stark portrayal of survival, moral ambiguity, and the unforgettable “Dueling Banjos” scene. Its impact on the thriller genre is significant, and it remains a powerful and unsettling cinematic experience.
6. Eden Lake (2008)
James Watkins’ Eden Lake is a British horror film that delivers a chilling narrative about a young couple’s harrowing ordeal at the hands of a gang of local youths while camping at a remote lake. The film’s relentless tension and the theme of a peaceful getaway turning into a nightmare echo the experiences in The Hills Have Eyes.
Eden Lake stands out for its gritty realism, social commentary, and strong performances, particularly by Michael Fassbender and Kelly Reilly. Its portrayal of human savagery and the breakdown of societal norms make it a disturbing yet compelling watch for horror enthusiasts.
7. Frontier(s) (2007)
Frontier(s) is a French horror film that delves into the terrifying ordeal of a group of friends who, after a political riot, find themselves at a bed and breakfast run by a cannibalistic, neo-Nazi family.
This film is part of the New French Extremity movement, known for pushing the boundaries of horror cinema with extreme gore and intense themes. Like “=The Hills Have Eyes, Frontier(s) explores the horror of being hunted by deranged individuals in a remote location.
The film’s extreme violence and disturbing themes led to an NC-17 rating in the United States, underscoring its status as a cult horror favorite.
8. The Grudge (2004)
The Grudge is a supernatural horror film directed by Takashi Shimizu, a remake of his own Japanese film Ju-On: The Grudge. The story revolves around a curse that, once triggered, dooms its victims to a violent death. This curse is born from a person dying in extreme sorrow or rage.
Fans of The Hills Have Eyes will appreciate the relentless, creeping dread and the theme of an inescapable curse. The film’s non-linear storytelling and the chilling atmosphere make it a standout in supernatural horror. Its success led to a series of sequels and a reboot, cementing its status in horror cinema.
9. House of 1000 Corpses (2003)
Directed by Rob Zombie, House of 1000 Corpses is a horror film that follows a group of travelers who encounter a bizarre and murderous family of psychopaths in rural America.
This film is a throwback to 1970s horror, with its gritty aesthetic and extreme violence. Fans of The Hills Have Eyes will find the similar theme of travelers stumbling upon unspeakable horror appealing. The film is known for its surreal and disturbing imagery, dark humor, and the introduction of iconic horror character Captain Spaulding.
It has gained a cult following and spawned two sequels, The Devil’s Rejects and 3 From Hell.
10. I Spit on Your Grave (1978)
I Spit on Your Grave is a controversial revenge horror film directed by Meir Zarchi. The story centers on a young woman who is brutally assaulted and left for dead, only to survive and seek revenge on her attackers. This film is notorious for its graphic depiction of violence and rape, and it has been both condemned and celebrated for its unflinching portrayal of vengeance.
Fans of The Hills Have Eyes might appreciate the raw, unfiltered approach to the themes of survival and retribution. The film has become a cult classic and sparked discussions about violence in cinema, leading to a 2010 remake and several sequels.
11. Jeepers Creepers (2001)
Directed by Victor Salva, Jeepers Creepers is a horror film about a brother and sister who, while driving home from college, encounter a terrifying creature known as the Creeper. The film combines elements of road horror and monster horror, creating an atmosphere of suspense and dread.
Fans of The Hills Have Eyes will enjoy the tension and the theme of being hunted by an unstoppable force. The Creeper became an iconic horror villain, known for its unique design and horrifying method of choosing victims. The film’s success led to sequels, expanding the lore of the Creeper.
12. Killer Klowns from Outer Space (1988)
Killer Klowns from Outer Space” is a unique blend of horror and comedy, directed by Stephen Chiodo. The film features alien clowns who land on Earth and terrorize a small town using bizarre, circus-themed methods. This movie stands out for its campy, over-the-top style and creative special effects.
While tonally different from The Hills Have Eyes, fans may appreciate its cult status and the inventive ways it plays with horror tropes. The film has garnered a devoted fan base and is celebrated for its originality and whimsical approach to the horror genre.
13. The Last House on the Left (1972)
Directed by Wes Craven, The Last House on the Left is a brutal and disturbing film about the abduction and assault of two young women, and the subsequent revenge taken by their parents.
This film is known for its graphic violence and unflinching portrayal of human savagery. And fans will recognize Craven’s signature style and themes of revenge and the capacity for violence in ordinary people.
The film’s raw and realistic approach to horror was groundbreaking at the time and has influenced many subsequent horror films. It was remade in 2009, reflecting its enduring impact.
14. Motel Hell (1980)
Motel Hell is a horror-comedy directed by Kevin Connor.
The film follows a farmer who, along with his sister, traps travelers and harvests them as meat for their roadside motel. This film blends horror with dark humor and satirical elements, making it a unique entry in the genre.
It has a similar setup of travelers encountering danger in a remote location, though Motel Hell takes a more comedic approach then The Hills Have Eyes.
The film is known for its memorable tagline, “It takes all kinds of critters to make Farmer Vincent’s fritters,” and has gained a cult following.
15. The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)
Directed by Tobe Hooper, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre”is a groundbreaking slasher film featuring a family of cannibals in rural Texas, including the iconic Leatherface.
The film’s raw and gritty presentation, along with its intense scenes of terror and violence, set a new standard for horror movies. Fans of The Hills Have Eyes will appreciate the similar themes of isolation, the breakdown of social norms, and the confrontation with primal human fears.
The film’s use of a desolate Texas backdrop and its impact on the slasher genre make it a classic. It spawned numerous sequels, a remake, and prequels, solidifying its status in horror cinema.
16. The Descent (2005)
The Descent is a horror film that follows a group of women who embark on a caving expedition, only to find themselves trapped underground and hunted by a race of predators. This film is celebrated for its claustrophobic atmosphere, intense suspense, and strong character development.
The themes of survival, the fear of the unknown, and the visceral horror elements will likely appeal to fans of The Hills Have Eyes. It’s notable for its predominantly female cast and the psychological depth it brings to the horror genre.
17. Wolf Creek (2005)
Directed by Greg McLean, Wolf Creek is an Australian horror film that draws its terror from the story of three backpackers who become the prey of a sadistic serial killer in the Australian Outback.
he film is known for its gritty realism and disturbing portrayal of violence, reminiscent of The Hills Have Eyes”in its depiction of an isolated and brutal struggle for survival. The antagonist, Mick Taylor, is a character who combines charm with chilling malevolence, making him a memorable horror villain.
The film’s atmospheric tension, combined with the stark, desolate setting of the Australian wilderness, creates a sense of dread that fans of survival horror will appreciate. Wolf Creek spawned a series of sequels and a television series, cementing its status in the horror genre.
18. You’re Next (2011)
Directed by Adam Wingard, You’re Next is a home invasion horror film with a unique twist.
The story revolves around a family gathering that turns deadly when they are attacked by masked assailants. What sets this film apart is the unexpected resourcefulness and resilience of one of the victims, adding a refreshing dynamic to the typical home invasion narrative.
Fans of The Hills Have Eyes will enjoy the film’s intense suspense, clever subversion of horror tropes, and the theme of an ordinary situation turning into a horrifying ordeal. The film is noted for its dark humor, inventive kills, and a strong lead performance, making it a standout in the genre.
19. Vacancy (2007)
Directed by Nimród Antal, Vacancy is a thriller that taps into the fear of being trapped in a remote, sinister location.
The film follows a couple whose car breaks down, leading them to check into a secluded motel. They soon discover that the motel is the setting for snuff films, and they must fight to survive the night. Like The Hills Have Eyes, Vacancy plays on the fear of isolation and the unknown, with the added terror of being watched and hunted.
The claustrophobic setting and the intense, suspenseful plot make it a gripping watch for fans of survival horror.
20. Hush (2016)
Hush, directed by Mike Flanagan, is a unique home invasion thriller that features a deaf protagonist. The film follows a deaf and mute writer who lives alone in the woods and must fight for her life when a masked killer appears at her window.
The use of silence and the protagonist’s disability adds a layer of tension and innovation to the home invasion genre. Fans of The Hills Have Eyes will appreciate the film’s intense suspense, the protagonist’s resourcefulness, and the theme of an individual facing extreme adversity in an isolated setting.
Hush is celebrated for its clever use of sound design and its tight, focused narrative.
21. Green Room (2015)
Directed by Jeremy Saulnier, Green Room is a gritty and intense film about a punk band that witnesses a murder at a remote neo-Nazi bar and must fight for survival against the bar’s owners and patrons.
The film is known for its raw, unflinching violence and the claustrophobic tension of being trapped in a hostile environment. Fans of The Hills Have Eyes will find the themes of entrapment and the brutal struggle for survival resonating.
Green Room features strong performances, particularly by Patrick Stewart and the late Anton Yelchin, and is noted for its realistic portrayal of violence and suspense.
22. The Ritual (2017)
The Ritual is a psychological horror film that follows a group of friends hiking in the Scandinavian wilderness who encounter an ancient, malevolent force. The film blends elements of Norse mythology with the psychological trauma of the characters, creating a deeply unsettling atmosphere.
Those who enjoy The Hills Have Eyes will appreciate the film’s exploration of primal fears, the sense of being hunted, and the interplay of human psychology with supernatural elements. The Ritual is praised for its eerie forest setting, effective use of folklore, and its ability to maintain a sense of dread throughout.
23. A Quiet Place (2018)
A Quiet Place is a post-apocalyptic thriller where silence is survival. The story centers on a family forced to live in silence while hiding from creatures that hunt by sound.
The film’s unique premise and the execution of its sound design create a tense and immersive experience. Fans of The Hills Have Eyes”will be drawn to the themes of family survival in a hostile environment and the constant, lurking threat.
A Quiet Place is notable for its minimal dialogue, strong performances, particularly by Emily Blunt, and its innovative approach to the horror genre.
24. The Ruins (2008)
The Ruins is a horror film based on the novel by Scott Smith. It follows a group of friends who encounter malevolent forces in the form of carnivorous plants at an archaeological dig in the Mexican jungle. The film combines elements of body horror and psychological terror.
Fans of The Hills Have Eyes will appreciate the theme of tourists facing unexpected and gruesome horrors in a remote location. The Ruins is known for its unsettling atmosphere, gruesome special effects, and the exploration of the characters’ psychological deterioration under extreme stress.
25. Bone Tomahawk (2015)
Directed by S. Craig Zahler, Bone Tomahawk is a horror western that blends genres to deliver a story of cannibalistic troglodytes kidnapping settlers in the Old West.
The film follows a sheriff, his deputy, a gunslinger, and a civilian on a rescue mission. This film stands out for its slow-burn tension, brutal violence, and unique blend of western and horror elements. The themes of survival, the clash of civilizations, and the graphic depiction of violence compelling will likely be appealing to fans.
Bone Tomahawk is praised for its strong performances, particularly by Kurt Russell, and its unflinching approach to genre fusion.
Final Thoughts: Movies Like The Hills Have Eyes
The Hills Have Eyes is a gory, gritty film and there are PLENTY of great options if you want to watch something like it. Personally, I usually opt for something like Wrong Turn which follows a very similar vibe, but there are some great modern choices if you like those too. Whatever you’re looking to get out of it, there pare plenty of movies like The Hills Have Eyes that you can pick from.
