10 Great Horror Movies You Can't Stream Anywhere
3. The Ugly (1997)
Don't let the unimaginative moniker fool you; 1997's The Ugly is one of horror's more obscure hidden gems.
Scott Reynolds' straight-to-video cult classic depicts a psychiatrist treating serial killer Simon Cartwright. The doctor is attempting to establish whether Simon's murderous desires have been sated by a long incarceration in an asylum that would put American Horror Story's Briarcliff Manor to shame.
As she delves deeper into Cartwright's bloody past, Rebecca Hobbs' Dr. Shumaker eventually discovers that her patient has a terrifying alternate personality. This alter-ego takes the form of a sinister voice in Simon's head, dictating his murderous acts. Referred to only as "the Ugly", this horrific dissociative identity also happens to possess psychic powers.
Effortlessly blurring the lines between reality and Simon's twisted perceptions, The Ugly is a gripping watch. It's a legitimately frightening horror movie in many instances, utilising creative direction and scriptwriting along with some harrowingly violent kill sequences. The film's use of black blood is another inspired touch, lending an ineffably dreamlike nature to proceedings that mirror the surrealistic nature of the narrative.
It's an absolute travesty that this haunting diamond in the rough currently isn't streaming anywhere.