Asheville, NC, October 27, 2025
News Summary
As Halloween approaches, movie lovers are exploring various streaming options for horror films. From nostalgic slasher tributes like ‘Hell of a Summer’ to reboots like ‘The Strangers: Chapter 2’, viewers can find a mix of new releases and beloved classics. While some films offer suspense and thrills, others have faced criticism for weaker storytelling and character development. Independent horror filmmaking is also thriving in Asheville, contributing to the diversity of choices available to horror fans this season.
Asheville, NC – With Halloween just around the corner, movie enthusiasts are on the lookout for the perfect horror flick to complement their spooky celebrations. This year’s streaming options feature a mix of new releases and reboots for fans of the genre.
“Hell of a Summer”, directed by Billy Bryck and Finn Wolfhard, is a tribute to 80s camp slashers, currently available on Hulu. Unfortunately, despite its nostalgic appeal, the film falls short of providing genuine horror thrills and effective humor.
In theaters, “The Strangers: Chapter 2” offers a fresh take on the 2008 classic, diving into the backstory of its masked antagonists. Starring Madelaine Petsch, the film shifts focus from the original’s frightening randomness to explore the origins of the killers.
Another streaming option is “Fear Street: Prom Queen.” As a continuation of the Fear Street trilogy, this installment is available on Netflix but is criticized for weak character development and ineffective performances. Likewise, “Until Dawn”, also on Netflix, presents a unique take on horror through a time loop narrative, but fails to connect crucial plot elements, leading to a muddled viewer experience.
For those seeking found-footage films, “House on Eden” is currently streaming on AMC+. This film, directed by TikTok personalities, disappoints with its lack of excitement and a coherent plot.
The theaters are also playing “Weapons,” directed by Zach Cregger. This film discusses the mysterious disappearance of children and serves as a metaphor for broader issues such as school shootings.
Asheville has also emerged as a hub for independent horror filmmaking, producing several notable titles:
- “As It Is In Heaven,” directed by James Suttles and written by Jennifer Trudrung, examines themes of paranoia and motherhood. Available on Prime Video, Tubi, and YouTube TV.
- A 2014 film about a man leading a religious sect after a prophet’s death, directed by Joshua Overbay, has received praise for its suspense. Available on Prime Video.
- A short psychological thriller directed by Kira Bursky and Robert Gowan, focusing on a man’s increasingly paranormal reality, is accessible on YouTube.
- The acclaimed 2001 film “Hannibal,” partially filmed in Asheville and featuring Anthony Hopkins, is available on HBO Max, Prime Video, and Hulu Premium.
- A 2019 short film written by Jennifer Trudrung explores a mother haunted by visions related to her missing daughter, available on YouTube.
With an array of horror films available, both old and new, viewers can find something to fit their Halloween mood, whether it be a chilling thriller or a nostalgic slasher. As the season progresses, audiences are encouraged to dive into these selections and embrace the spirit of the season with spine-tingling cinematic experiences.
FAQ
What is “Hell of a Summer”?
“Hell of a Summer,” directed by Billy Bryck and Finn Wolfhard, is an homage to 80s camp slashers, but it lacks effective horror thrills and humor. It is now streaming on Hulu.
What can you tell me about “The Strangers: Chapter 2”?
“The Strangers: Chapter 2” is a reboot of the 2008 film that explores the backstory of the masked killers. It features Madelaine Petsch and is currently in theaters.
Is “Fear Street: Prom Queen” worth watching?
“Fear Street: Prom Queen” continues the Fear Street trilogy, but it suffers from weak characters and ineffective performances. It is now streaming on Netflix.
What is “Weapons” about?
“Weapons,” directed by Zach Cregger, features a narrative about the mysterious disappearance of children and presents a metaphor for school shootings. The film is currently playing in theaters.
Key Features of Halloween Horror Films
| Film Title | Director | Streaming/Availability | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hell of a Summer | Billy Bryck, Finn Wolfhard | Hulu | 80s camp slasher homage, lacks horror thrills |
| The Strangers: Chapter 2 | Unknown | Theaters | Backstory of masked killers |
| Fear Street: Prom Queen | Unknown | Netflix | Weak characters, ineffective performances |
| Until Dawn | Unknown | Netflix | Time loop narrative, skips key plot elements |
| House on Eden | Unknown | AMC+ | Boring, lacks coherent plot |
| Weapons | Zach Cregger | Theaters | Mysterious disappearance of children, metaphor for school shootings |
| As It Is In Heaven | James Suttles | Prime Video, Tubi, YouTube TV | Paranoia and motherhood themes |
| Hannibal | Unknown | HBO Max, Prime Video, Hulu Premium | Partially filmed in Asheville |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Asheville to Host Inaugural Film Festival
Additional Resources
- 828 News Now: Scream Scraps the 5 Worst Horror Movies of 2025
- AVL Today: Summer Film Series in Asheville
- AVL Today: Horror Movies Made in Asheville, NC
- Charlotte Observer: Things to Do This October
- 828 News Now: ‘Weapons’ – A Scary Horror Epic
- Wikipedia: Horror Film
- Britannica: Horror
- Google Search: Horror Films
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
