Published On: Wed, Dec 17th, 2025
Movies | 3,564 views

Netflix adds panned horror film fans call ‘truly terrifying’ | TV & Radio | Showbiz & TV

Netflix has recently added a new horror film to its roster that viewers can’t seem to get enough of.

Since its addition to the streaming giant on Monday, 15th December, it has rapidly climbed the ranks to become one of the most sought-after titles in Netflix’s extensive horror collection. It’s currently nestled in the fourth spot on Netflix’s top 10 films list.

Trailing closely behind the Christmas classic Love Actually, the newly released festive rom-com My Secret Santa holds the second position, while Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery reigns supreme at number one.

However, several holiday favourites are lagging behind, with Nativity!, That Christmas and The Christmas Chronicles all trailing in the chart. Some beloved seasonal films like The Holiday, Klaus and The Family Stone haven’t even made it into the top 10, despite being just a week away from Christmas, reports <a href=”https://www.mirror.co.uk/film/trashy-horror-movie-netflix-chart-36414752″ rel=”Follow” target=”_self”>the Mirror</a>.

In The Strangers: Chapter One, horror aficionado Madelaine Petsch takes on the role of Maya, a young woman who finds herself trapped overnight in a secluded cabin with her boyfriend, Ryan (portrayed by Froy Gutierrez). Their night turns into a nightmare when they are ambushed by three masked assailants without any apparent motive.

This film marks the beginning of a new trilogy inspired by the popular home invasion thriller The Strangers. Chapter 2 was unveiled earlier this year, and a third instalment is slated for release in 2026.

Despite lukewarm critical reception – garnering just 21 per cent on Rotten Tomatoes – countless horror enthusiasts have embraced it as their guilty pleasure, and it’s evidently resonated with Netflix viewers.

One Letterboxd reviewer awarded it five stars, quipping: “If this is trash, then girl call me a f***ing raccoon.”

Another glowing review declared: “round 2 cemented my belief that this is an amazing movie and all of y’all hate fun i don’t care. will be sat day one for chapter 2.”

A different supporter championed the film, stating: “I’m sorry but yall just don’t get it. The Strangers: Chapter One is a great start to this new trilogy. It just sent chills down my spine the whole time and i LOVED it.

“This movie was so creepy and truly insane. It holds up to the original. Seeing the masked Strangers is just truly terrifying to see. Madelaine Petsch I LOVE YOU. She is truly a true scream queen and final girl.”

A final admirer concluded: “This was fun! It’s a refreshing new entry to the franchise, and I’m excited to see the other two. This was the first thing I’ve ever watched Madelaine Petsch in, and she didn’t disappoint. I can’t wait to see her again.”

Those seeking respite from festive preparations should absolutely consider this underappreciated slasher during one of these lengthy, shadowy evenings.

The Strangers: Chapter 1 is available to stream on Netflix.