10 More Criminally Underrated Monster Movies You Need To See
You really missed out if you didn't catch these monster flicks.
For many, the first concept that we find frightening is a monster. But when we learn there's no beasties lurking under the bed (probably), we should outgrow this baseless fear.
And yet, some of the most successful and outright terrifying movies in history are monster flicks. Even though we know The Thing, Jurassic Park, and The Fly are pure fantasy, they still scared us stiff. Because monsters tap into a primal fear we all harbour, films which centre around aliens, kaijus, and man-eating beasts never seem to go out of fashion.
Although we're all familiar with The Blob, Jaws, and An American Werewolf in London, there are other monster movies which deserve more attention. For one reason or the other, some creature features don't get the love they should've, despite being innovative, clever, and petrifying.
Even though we've covered this subject before - which you can find at 10 Criminally Underrated Monster Movies - there's still a lot of unappreciated gems which horror fans should be aware of. If you're on the lookout for a lesser-known but utterly chilling monster flick, look no further.
With that in mind, then, here are ten more criminally underrated monster movies you need to see.
10. C.H.U.D.
C.H.U.D. opens with a series of mysterious murders on the streets of New York City. Suspecting the killers live in underground, an eccentric group band together to uncover the truth. To their horror, they discover the government has been illegally dumping toxic waste in New York's sewers for years, transforming the homeless denizens into killer mutants.
Because the C.H.U.D. (Cannibalistic Humanoid Underground Dwellers) don't appear for over an hour, the film could be really boring. But due to stellar performances from John Heard and Daniel Stern (who starred together years later in Home Alone), viewers are left utterly captivated as they learn more about these creatures and the conspiracy behind what created them.
Even though the mutants' design is simple, it's highly effective. With their glowing eyes, melted faces, and pained expressions, you feel uncomfortable every time they're on-screen.
Although C.H.U.D. could've been a brainless B-movie, it has a surprisingly effective social commentary about how homeless are constantly mistreated and dehumanised. Because this message it still relevant in today's world, modern viewers still find themselves gravitating towards C.H.U.D., even after nearly 40 years.