2026 has been a banner year for horror fans, with a slew of terrifying and inventive films hitting theaters. From Sam Raimi's long-awaited return to the genre with Send Help to Adam Scott's chilling Hokum and Nia DaCosta's brutally clever 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple, there's been no shortage of scares. But one film has just risen above them all, snatching the crown from the year's previous horror darling.
Focus Features' Obsession, the breakout hit from YouTuber Curry Barker, had been the undisputed champion of 2026 horror. With a 94% Rotten Tomatoes score and a staggering $488 million worldwide gross on a sub-$1 million budget, it seemed untouchable. Critics and audiences alike praised its fresh take on the genre, and Inde Navarrette's performance was already generating awards buzz.
Now, however, a new contender has officially dethroned Obsession as the highest-rated horror movie of the year. Jane Schoenbrun's Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma has arrived with a near-perfect 98% on Rotten Tomatoes, making it the new critical darling of the genre. The film marks Schoenbrun's third feature, following the acclaimed We're All Going to the World's Fair and the hugely popular I Saw the TV Glow.
Starring Hacks alum Hannah Einbinder and the legendary Gillian Anderson, Camp Miasma is a meta-horror experience that's clearly struck a chord with reviewers. It's a slasher with a brain, blending genre thrills with a sharp commentary on identity, sexuality, and the very nature of horror itself. The film's success is a testament to Schoenbrun's unique vision and the power of a well-crafted scare.
What Critics Are Saying About 'Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma'
The praise for Camp Miasma has been nearly unanimous. Collider's Emma Kiely gave it an 8/10, calling it a film that "cements Schoenbrun as one of the preeminent queer filmmakers of today, one who continues to bring clear vision and nuance to themes of identity, sex, and selfhood." ScreenRant's Alex Harrison went even higher with a 9/10, describing it as a "slasher reboot made with love." Other critics have used words like "fantastic," "dreamlike," and "good gory fun that defies easy explanation." It's clear this is more than just a bloody good time—it's a thought-provoking piece of cinema.
For those who love the intersection of horror and comedy, Camp Miasma is a must-see. It joins the ranks of other genre-blending gems like the ones featured in our list of horror-comedy series that nail the mix. And if you're looking for more scares, check out our rundown of the best horror movies since 2010.
Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma is currently playing in theaters. If you're a horror fan, this is one you won't want to miss. And with its near-perfect score, it's already a strong contender for the year's best.
