Horror Is Saving the Box Office—Whether Hollywood Likes It or Not

Let’s face it: horror movies almost never win Oscars. In fact, they’re the black sheep of the film industry—looked down on, snubbed by critics, and ignored during awards season. But here’s the twist: vampires, zombies, and masked killers might just be keeping Hollywood alive.

According to Reuters, horror is crushing it at the box office. In fact, horror films now account for 17% of North American ticket sales, up from 11% in 2024 and just 4% a decade ago. That’s a massive leap—especially at a time when even Marvel movies are losing their sparkle and blockbusters are struggling to find footing.

Sure, horror flicks might only enjoy a week or two of dominance before fading from the marquee—but they bring in money. Real money. Just look at the numbers: even modestly budgeted horror films like M3GAN and its upcoming sequel rake in returns. And now, with Five Nights at Freddy’s II on the horizon, Blumhouse is reportedly betting big on another hit to rescue their financial year.

Let’s not forget: horror has always been the genre the so-called “serious” critics roll their eyes at. But those same critics might owe their careers—and their fancy premieres—to the very genre they dismiss. Without horror keeping theaters afloat, where would people even go to watch those “Oscar-worthy” art films?

So here’s to horror: the genre that fills seats, pays the bills, and keeps the popcorn popping.

Long live the monsters.
Let the vampires bite.
And may the zombies keep on rolling.