Cult films, while not always the most universally loved or most financially successful, are some of the most influential films of all time. Despite the fact that a cult film may not have attracted the widest of audiences, they certainly attract some of the most intense.
Films like the Rocky Horror Picture Show, Akira, and The Big Lebowski have some of the most dedicated and intense fan bases. It is because of this intense following that the films are referred to as cult films. This article will list 10 cult films that influenced the 2010s.
Scott Pilgrim Vs The World (2010)
Based on the graphic novel of the same name and directed by the iconic Edgar Wright, Scott Pilgrim vs the World is one of the most visually stunning and engrossing films of the past few decades. The film follows Scott as he must defeat the evil exes of his crush, Ramona Flowers.
The film received positive feedback from critics, who praised it for its inventive visuals, humor, and a strong cast. In addition to Michael Cera as Scott Pilgrim, the film also starred Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Anna Kendrick, and pre-Marvel Chris Evans and Brie Larson.
The Babadook (2014)
The Babadook is one of the most inventive horror movies of the past few decades. Filmed in Adelaide, South Australia, the Babadook tells the story of a single mother who most come to terms with the loss of her husband and the troubles that single-parenthood brings, while also trying to fight off a demonic presence known as the Babadook.
Breaking away from the modern horror trend of jump scares and loud sounds, the Babadook tells a psychological story that leaves you intrigued and disturbed; for horror fans, it truly is a must-watch.
Sharknado (2013)
Sharknado is often given the moniker of ‘the worst movie ever’, and while it may be quite hard to argue with this, it is also what makes Sharknado such a popular and well-loved film. The film tells the story of a group of friends who must survive a mega-storm that has brought countless sharks into Los Angeles.
The film is proudly terrible and certainly does not shy away from its more insane elements. Sharknado is one of those movies that is so bad and insane that it is impossible to watch it and not enjoy it.
Cabin In The Woods (2011)
Cabin in the Woods tells the story of five friends who take a vacation in a secluded, woodland cabin. While the film starts by following the typical trend of a horror movie about young people in the woods, the film slowly starts breaking away from these cliches and subverting our expectations in the process.
The film was praised by critics for its ability to craft a story that was intriguing, scary, and hilarious without diminishing the overall theme or flow of the film.
It Follows (2015)
Much like the Babadook, It Follows was one of the few horror movies of the past decade that was a true masterpiece. The film tells the story of a sexually transmitted curse; once someone has been cursed, an entity will follow that person and eventually kill them. Passing on the curse to another will not cure you of the curse, it will simply move you down a place on the creature’s hit-list.
The film was heavily inspired by horror films of the 80s, taking direct inspiration in its cinematography and its memorable soundtrack. Rather than relying on cheap jump scares, the film builds a heavy, terrifying atmosphere that will have you looking over your shoulder for some time.
What We Do In The Shadows (2014)
From the minds of Taika Waititi and Jermaine Clement, What We Do in the Shadows tells the story of four vampires trying to fit into the modern world. Taking inspiration from mockumentaries like The Office and Spinal Tap, What We Do in the Shadows explores four vampires of various ages as they go about their everyday lives, detailing the trials and tribulations they face on a daily basis.
The film is one of the most original vampire movies of the last few decades, offering a smart and funny take on the vampire mythology.
Attack The Block (2011)
Starring pre-Star Wars John Boyega and pre-Doctor Who Jodie Whittaker, Attack the Block tells the story of a gang of young Londoners who defend their apartment block from some alien invaders. The film is a science fiction thriller with some London charm and some laugh out loud moments.
While the film may not have received the widest audience, critics praised it for its ability to combine terror, thrills, and comedy without breaking the flow of the movie.
The Witch (2015)
The third horror film on this list, The Witch is one of the most unnerving and disturbing films of the last decade. Directed by Robert Eggers and starring Anya Taylor-Joy, The Witch tells of the story of a family that have left Britain to take up life in New England in 1630. Strange and disturbing events begin to occur to the family, as crops begin to fail and animals begin to die, suspicion of witchcraft emerges among the family.
The film is truly unsettling, allowing its scares to slowly build up as the film progresses, masterfully blending genuine supernatural horror with the scares of human fanaticism.
20,000 Days On Earth (2014)
20,000 Days on Earth is a musical documentary movie that follows the legendary singer/ songwriter Nick Cave. The film combines the real and the fictional, showing the audience insights into his songwriting process and his views and thoughts on life in general.
The movie is a must-see for any fan of Nick Cave, or even for those who are interesting in the artistic process in general. In addition to starring Nick Cave, the film also features cameos from his friends and collaborators, including Kylie Minogue, Ray Winstone, and Warren Ellis.
V/H/S (2012)
V/H/S is a horror anthology series based around a group of petty criminals who have been tasked with burgling a house to find a specific videotape. The group watches several different videotapes, each one telling a different horrifying tale, some focussing on human evil and others on supernatural horror.
Due to its nature as an anthology, there was a varying degree in quality of the horror shorts and, even though many of these stories were inventive and original, it is due to this that the film received mixed reviews from critics.
