Why Did Netflix Remove Iconic Horror Movies Just in Time for Halloween?

As Halloween approaches, Netflix is set to remove a number of classic horror films from its streaming service, including the original Saw and its sequel. Fans of the genre will soon find themselves needing to act fast, as these films, along with several others, will no longer be available after September 30. The platform is also refreshing its library with new titles, ensuring there’s still plenty to watch this spooky season.

Last updated: 28 September 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

Iconic horror films like Saw and The Cabin In The Woods will be removed from Netflix soon.
Other titles leaving include Don’t Worry Darling and all seasons of Shameless.
New exciting films are set to join Netflix, including Cillian Murphy’s Steve.
Fans are encouraged to catch these films before they disappear from the platform.

Upcoming Changes to Netflix’s Horror Library

This October, Netflix is making significant adjustments to its content, particularly in the horror genre. As the chill of autumn sets in, horror enthusiasts will find themselves scrambling to catch some classic films before they vanish from the platform.

What Films Are Leaving?

Among the notable titles leaving Netflix are:

Saw (2004) - The original that started the notorious franchise.
Saw II (2005) - The sequel that continued the gruesome legacy.
The Cabin In The Woods (2011) - A unique spin on the horror genre starring Chris Hemsworth.
Don’t Worry Darling (2022) - A psychological thriller featuring Florence Pugh.
The Circle (2017) - A dystopian thriller exploring surveillance and privacy.
The Gore (2021) - A lesser-known horror title.
Possession (1981) - A psychological horror film that has gained a cult following.

These titles will be removed on various dates, with the majority disappearing by the end of September. September 30 is the last day to catch Saw and Possession, while The Circle will leave on October 15. This is a reminder for fans to binge-watch these films while they can.

Additional Content Being Removed

It's not just horror films that are disappearing. Netflix is also parting ways with several other popular series and films, including:

Celebrity Gogglebox - A fan favourite reality show.
Ray Winstone’s Sicily - A travel series hosted by the acclaimed actor.
Supernatural Academy - An animated series with a dedicated following.
RuPaul’s Drag Race: All Stars - A beloved competition series.
Shameless - All 11 seasons of this drama will be removed, leaving fans devastated.

What’s Coming to Netflix?

Despite the losses, Netflix is also welcoming new content. Among the upcoming titles are:

Steve - Featuring Cillian Murphy, detailing a gripping narrative.
Monster: The Ed Gein Story - A horror drama that explores the life of one of the most infamous murderers in history.
House of Guinness - A look into the iconic brewery and its legacy.

These new additions aim to keep viewers entertained and engaged during the Halloween season and beyond.

Recent Additions and Hits

Earlier this month, Netflix introduced Anyone but You, a romantic comedy that, despite mixed reviews, found success at the box office. Starring Sydney Sweeney and Glen Powell, the film is a modern retelling of Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing and follows the comedic entanglements of two characters in Boston. This addition showcases Netflix's commitment to diversifying its content offering.

Why This Matters

For avid movie watchers, especially horror fans, these changes can significantly alter viewing plans. The removal of classic titles is a common occurrence across streaming platforms, often prompting viewers to binge-watch before they disappear. It also reflects the shifting landscape of content availability, where licensing agreements and viewer demand dictate what remains accessible.

For shows like Shameless, which has built a loyal fanbase, its removal is particularly impactful. Viewers may need to seek alternative platforms to revisit their favourite episodes, highlighting the importance of knowing what to watch and when.

Conclusion

As Halloween nears, it's essential for Netflix subscribers to stay informed about the titles leaving the platform. While the removal of beloved horror films and series can be upsetting, the addition of new content promises to keep the streaming service fresh and engaging. Whether you prefer to indulge in spine-chilling horrors or light-hearted rom-coms, there's something for everyone this season. What films will you be watching before they leave Netflix? #Netflix #HorrorMovies #Streaming

FAQs

When will the films be removed from Netflix?

Many classic horror films, including Saw and The Cabin In The Woods, will be removed from Netflix on September 30. Other titles will leave on different dates, so it’s advisable to check the platform regularly.

Are there any new horror films coming to Netflix soon?

Yes, new horror films such as Monster: The Ed Gein Story are on the way, alongside other exciting titles. These additions aim to keep the content library fresh for viewers.

What should I watch before the films are removed?

Consider binge-watching iconic titles like Saw, The Cabin In The Woods, and Possession before they leave Netflix. These films are popular choices during the Halloween season.

Is Shameless being removed from Netflix?

Yes, all 11 seasons of Shameless are set to be removed from Netflix, leaving fans looking for alternative ways to view the series.

How often do titles get removed from Netflix?

Titles are regularly cycled on Netflix due to licensing agreements and viewer demand. It’s common for popular films and series to be removed periodically.