Since 2020, vampire enthusiasts have been spoiled with a renaissance of inventive and thrilling takes on the genre. While Ryan Coogler's Sinners has rightfully earned critical acclaim—even scoring four Academy Awards, including Best Actor for Michael B. Jordan—there's another blood-soaked gem that's quietly making waves on streaming platforms. Melissa Barrera's Abigail has officially become a massive global hit on Netflix, proving that the undead still have plenty of bite.
Released in 2024, Abigail is a twisted horror-comedy that blends gore, humor, and a surprisingly emotional core. Directed by the Radio Silence duo, Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett, the film stars the ever-talented Melissa Barrera, who continues to solidify her status as the modern scream queen. The story centers on a group of criminals who kidnap a 12-year-old ballerina, only to discover she's actually a centuries-old vampire with a taste for chaos. Alisha Weir delivers a breakout performance as the titular Abigail, earning a Critics' Choice nomination for Best Young Performer.
Now, two years after its initial release, Abigail has found a new life on Netflix. As of September 2026, it ranks among the top ten most-streamed movies on the platform globally. This resurgence is a testament to the film's enduring appeal and the growing appetite for smart, character-driven horror. If you haven't yet experienced this bloody ballet, now is the perfect time to dive in.
Why 'Abigail' Stands Out in the Crowded Vampire Genre
What sets Abigail apart from other vampire flicks is its unique blend of dark comedy and genuine scares. The Radio Silence team, known for their work on Ready or Not and the recent Scream installments, bring their signature style—gory, fast-paced, and unexpectedly fun. The script, penned by Stephen Shields and Guy Busick, keeps audiences guessing with clever twists and a surprisingly poignant exploration of loneliness and family, albeit a very dysfunctional one.
The film also boasts an impressive ensemble cast, including Dan Stevens, Kathryn Newton, and Giancarlo Esposito, each adding their own flavor to this chaotic heist-gone-wrong. But it's Barrera who anchors the story with her fierce and vulnerable performance, proving she can carry a film with both action and heart.
A Streaming Success Story
The movie's streaming success is part of a larger trend of horror films finding new audiences on digital platforms. Just as Neve Campbell's Scream 7 became a sleeper hit on Paramount+, Abigail is now enjoying a similar resurgence on Netflix. This pattern highlights how streaming services can breathe new life into theatrical releases, allowing them to reach viewers who may have missed them in cinemas.
For fans of the genre, this is a win. Abigail is a reminder that vampire stories can still be fresh and exciting, especially when they're willing to take risks. And with the Radio Silence duo currently riding high on the success of Ready or Not 2: Here I Come, which has already grossed $43 million worldwide, their brand of horror is clearly resonating with audiences.
If you're looking for a movie that's equal parts terrifying and hilarious, Abigail is a must-watch. And with its current Netflix presence, there's no better time to join the millions of viewers who've already discovered this hidden gem. For more on the best in horror and streaming, stay tuned to ShowtimeSpot.
