Horror hits its stride: what’s coming in H2 for Australia’s most thrilling genre.
Horror has emerged as the breakout genre of 2025, captivating Aussie audiences and dominating the box office with admissions up a staggering 97% YOY. Initially driven by the thrill-seeking P14–24 demographic, the genre’s appeal has broadened significantly, with 68% of horror-goers now aged 18-39, up from 58% in 2024.
With standout titles like Sinners, Final Destination: Bloodlines, 28 Years Later and Bring Her Back all receiving critics' scores of 88% and above on Rotten Tomatoes, horror continues to prove its growing influence and storytelling power. The genre’s mix of critical acclaim and fan-fuelled momentum is setting the stage for a massive second half of the year.
For brands in education, retail, SVOD and tech, this presents a golden opportunity to tap into the momentum and connect with highly engaged youth audiences who are showing up in droves for the genre they love.
The Conjuring: Last Rites
Releases in cinemas September 4.
The Conjuring: Last Rites marks the terrifying conclusion to one of the most iconic horror franchises in cinema history. With the Conjuring Universe responsible for 40% of the top 10 highest-grossing horror films of all time, anticipation is sky-high for this final chapter. Drawing from the chilling case files of Ed and Lorraine Warren, Last Rites promises to deliver one last unforgettable scare for its fiercely loyal, cross-generational fanbase.
The Strangers: Chapter 2
Releases in cinemas September 25.
Madelaine Petsch returns for the next gripping chapter in this chilling reboot trilogy that revives the iconic Strangers legacy for a new generation. Chapter 2 builds on the dread-filled atmosphere of the first film, leaning into psychological horror and grounded realism to create a slow-burning, nerve-shredding experience. Blending nostalgic callbacks with a modern edge, this sequel is set to deliver the kind of relentless fear that made the original a cult classic.
Black Phone 2
Releases in cinemas October 16.
Following the success of the 2022 original, which delivered 340,000 Aussie admissions, The Black Phone 2 continues its blend of supernatural scares and 1970s grit. Ethan Hawke returns as the terrifying Grabber, bringing back the sinister presence that left audiences shaken. With Mason Thames also reprising his role, the sequel dives deeper into the eerie world of the first film, amplifying its emotional intensity, haunting visuals and spine-tingling suspense.
Five Nights at Freddy’s 2
Releases in cinemas December 4.
The animatronic nightmare is back for more. Five Nights at Freddy’s 2 follows the blockbuster adaptation that became the third highest-grossing horror film of all time and a breakout favourite among P14–24 audiences. Fueled by gaming nostalgia and a massive online following, the sequel is set to unleash another wave of youth-driven chaos and pop culture buzz.
*Source: CineTAM 2025