Creepy New Horror Films Unleash Southern Gothic Terror at FrightFest!

Creepy New Horror Films Unleash Southern Gothic Terror at FrightFest!

As the buzz around the horror genre continues to grow, two recent films screened at this year’s FrightFest London offer a blend of chills and social commentary that’s hard to ignore. „Noseeums,“ a Southern horror-thriller making its debut on August 23, 2025, at the ODEON Luxe Leicester Square, is particularly noteworthy. Directed by Raven Carter and co-written by Jason-Michael Anthony and Hendreck Joseph, this film takes a deep dive into themes of land rights and cultural appropriation, all while delivering a gripping narrative that explores the darker sides of human nature.

At the heart of „Noseeums“ is Ember, a college student portrayed by Aleigha Burt, who embarks on a seemingly idyllic getaway at the countryside home of her wealthy friend Abigail (played by Tabby Getsy). However, the serene setting becomes unsettling as Ember is drawn to a neglected grave in the woods, only to be bedeviled by swarms of biting bugs known as noseeums. These tiny creatures are more than a nuisance; they symbolize the lurking horrors tied to the land’s past, including restless spirits seeking justice for historical wrongs. The film weaves supernatural elements with a potent social message, shedding light on issues of racial injustice and illegal land grabs post-Civil War, echoing sentiments found in classic Southern Gothic narratives, like those seen in „The Skeleton Key“ (2005).

A Tinge of Southern Gothic

Unlike your typical horror fare, „Noseeums“ does a good deal in addressing serious topics while keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. Raven Carter, only 26, aims to highlight overlooked injustices through her work, creating a dialogue around what it means to return to one’s roots—both figuratively and literally. This Southern Gothic approach—marked by its focus on racial conflict, a connection between past and present, and a unique aesthetic—adds layers to the story, where each character embodies the haunting legacy of the South.

Meanwhile, the film „Pig Hill,“ also screened at FrightFest, offers a different flavor of horror. Set in Meadville, Pennsylvania, it follows Carrie (Rainey Qualley) as she investigates a series of unexplained disappearances tied to local legends of “pig people.” This film leans heavily into graphic violence, making it targeted at fans of darker, more brutal horror narratives. It features strong performances and character development, though critics note that it reveals its villain early on, leading to a somewhat predictable path. Directed by Kevin Lewis and penned by Jarrod Burris, „Pig Hill“ is aimed squarely at those who relish a deep dive into horror’s more macabre corners.

FrightFest: A Platform for New Voices

Both films screened from August 21 to August 25, 2025, showcasing a new generation of filmmakers eager to tackle difficult subjects through the lens of horror. With „Noseeums“ garnering particular attention not just for its plot but also for its thematic depth, audiences are witnessing the emergence of a fresh wave in the horror genre. Torchlight Studios and Florida State University’s College of Motion Picture Arts stand behind this project, showing that local talent can lead to compelling narratives that engage with serious cultural issues.

As we dive into the chilling tales presented in these films, it’s clear that the horror genre is evolving. It’s not just about scares anymore; there’s a good hand at work here, with storytelling that resonates deeply with social realities. Whether it’s the biting insects of „Noseeums“ or the grim legends surrounding „Pig Hill,“ audiences are challenged to reflect on their own histories and the ghosts that may linger among us.