Must Watch Short Horror Films Written and Directed by Black Women

It’s time to pull out the candy, costumes, and scary stories! 

Halloween is one of my favorite holidays of the year. It’s not only an excuse for me to eat mountains of junk, but it is the prime season for an influx of new media. All of our horror classics are played and horror creatives bring something original to the table. While these tales are typically dominated by white creatives, Black women have brought fresh perspectives to shake up the scene, entertain, and raise awareness to important conversations. Here are some of my favorite chilling short films written and directed by Black women which will get you in the Halloween spirit.

Contamination” (2013)

“Contamination” was written and directed by Robin Shanea Williams. This horror short is a psychological piece both for the audience and the film’s main character Jade. Jade is a recluse who struggles with obsessive compulsive disorder and germaphobia, however she wasn’t always like this. Mental health, trauma, and their effects are explored within this film, raising questions on how a person becomes the way they are and how the individual and others can support them. This is a great film for those who are looking for a more lore-based horror.

Blood Runs Down“ (2018)

Written and directed by Zandashé Brown, “Blood Runs Down” is a heartbreaking and story-rich horror. A little girl named Ana is preparing for her fifth birthday. Her mother Elize wants everything to go perfectly as you only turn five once. But as the night progresses, Ana realizes that something is eating away at her mother which she cannot begin to fathom. This film has a nice balance of suspense and storytelling, making it a great pick for those who want the best of both worlds.

“Hair Wolf” (2018)

“Hair Wolf” is a hilarious yet informative horror film, balancing comedy and seriousness as it touches on the issue of cultural appropriation. It was written and directed by Mariama Diallo. Our main characters—Cami, Eve, and Damon—encounter a white woman intent on using elements of black culture for her own convenience. This is a perfect watch for those who aren’t into the typical ghost and jumpscare media.

“Suicide by Sunlight” (2018)

Nikyatu Jusu directed and co-wrote “Suicide by Sunlight.” The writer/director of “Contamination,” Robin Shanea Williams, is her co-writer. It depicts the story of Valentina, a vampire who struggles with her bloodlust, a major factor keeping her away from her twin daughters. It uses established elements of vampires then alters them in a unique way (e.g., Black vampires are protected from the sun by their melanin). This is great for those who don’t mind a little blood.

“Skintight” (2018)

Our final pick is “Skintight,” written and directed by Ciara Boniface. Suspense is alive and well established in this film. It centers around the main character Robyn, a woman who finds herself being followed by members of a strange and dangerous cult. There’s tension. There’s blood. There’s questions to be answered. This is a great film for those who like a little more mystery seasoned into their horror.

Takeaway

There are more Black-created horror films left to be discovered, but there could be more. The horror genre is in need of Black representation and original art. While watching them is fun, it’s also important to encourage and support our peers who are aspiring filmmakers. By doing this, we enrich film with unique perspectives and stories that resonate with our community.

Written By

Makaya Davis

Makaya is currently a senior studying English at Jackson State University. She aspires to become an author and editor upon graduating.