A24 has carved out a formidable reputation in the world of independent cinema, particularly within the horror genre, delivering films that have become modern touchstones. Among the studio’s top five highest-grossing releases, two standouts are horror masterpieces: Hereditary and Talk to Me. These films not only raked in impressive box office numbers but also solidified A24’s knack for nurturing visionary talent.
Ari Aster, for instance, emerged as a horror auteur under A24’s wing, with his debut Hereditary chilling audiences worldwide and his follow-up, Midsommar, cementing his status as a bold storyteller. Both films have become iconic entries in A24’s catalog, blending unsettling narratives with arthouse flair. More recently, 2024’s Heretic continued this winning streak, grossing over $58 million globally and earning widespread critical praise.
Yet, despite these successes, A24’s horror slate has hit a rocky patch in recent months, revealing a stark contrast between its highs and lows. For every Heretic that resonates with audiences and critics alike, there are releases like The Front Room and Y2K, which have stumbled out of the gate. Neither film managed to find footing commercially or critically, leaving fans and analysts questioning the studio’s once-unerring instincts.
The struggles continued into March 2025 with Opus, a horror comedy starring Ayo Edebiri that promised a fresh twist on the genre. Unfortunately, the film has floundered, pulling in a mere $2.1 million worldwide against a reported $10 million budget—a far cry from recouping its costs. Critics, too, have been lukewarm, handing Opus a middling 41% on Rotten Tomatoes, reflecting a divided response to its ambitious blend of laughs and scares.
A24’s latest horror endeavor, still in the early stages of its release as of March 31, 2025, appears to be following a similar trajectory, struggling to recapture the magic of the studio’s earlier triumphs. This string of disappointments marks a challenging chapter for A24, a company long celebrated for its ability to turn niche horror into cultural phenomena.
While the studio’s track record boasts undeniable gems, its recent output suggests that even a powerhouse like A24 isn’t immune to the unpredictable tides of the box office and critical reception. As fans await the next move, the question lingers: can A24’s horror legacy rebound, or is this a sign of a broader shift for the indie darling? Only time—and the next chilling release—will tell.