50 Greatest Horror Movies Of The 21st Century

Plot: In 17th century New England, a family fall apart thanks to black magic - and the paranoia that comes with it.

This folk horror film introduced the world to the great Robert Eggers, and his debut feature was very much a sign of things to come. Eggers did recently say that he can't stand The Witch at this point, but he's in the minority there.

While its story of descending into madness is, on the surface, a familiar one, The Witch more than stands out nonetheless, for two key reasons. Firstly, it sets itself apart thanks to its rich folkloric influences and its admirable historical accuracy and authentic period detail. Secondly... it's outstanding.

This is an exemplary psychological horror film that's absolutely overflowing with beautiful imagery and an overwhelming sense of dread, while the cast do an absolutely fantastic job as well. Eggers got together a very impressive round-up of young actors - led by a debuting Anya Taylor-Joy - and as the parents of the family, Game of Thrones alums Ralph Inneson and Kate Dickie are both outstanding.