Since launching her film career, Anya Taylor-Joy has made a remarkable mark in the horror genre, appearing in eight horror films. Her journey commenced with a standout role in Robert Eggers’ acclaimed film, The Witch. It initially seemed that Taylor-Joy might be confined to horror roles, with her early career largely dominated by scary films. Yet, she successfully transitioned into different genres with leading roles in adaptations like Jane Austen’s Emma and the Netflix hit The Queen’s Gambit.
Despite her ventures into mainstream acclaim, Taylor-Joy’s passion for horror has remained unwavering. She continues to embrace thrilling projects that showcase a mix of horror elements—from sci-fi horror to playful psychological thrillers and gripping historical dramas. This dedication has allowed Anya Taylor-Joy to secure her status in the annals of horror cinema, although not every film has received equal praise.
8 Morgan (2016)
Morgan
Following her breakout in The Witch, Anya Taylor-Joy starred in 2016’s Morgan, a sci-fi horror film that marked a slight downturn in her film career. In it, she portrays an artificially created being who evolves quickly with human-like emotions and decision-making abilities. After just five years of existence, Morgan becomes a perilous force as she increasingly lashes out violently when provoked.
This film features Kate Mara’s character, Lee Weathers, who is tasked with neutralizing Morgan’s escalating threat. Although Morgan struggled critically, often described as a generic thriller lacking the depth of films like Ex Machina or the entertainment of M3GAN, Anya Taylor-Joy’s compelling performance remains a highlight.
7 Marrowbone (2017)
Allie
2017 brought us Marrowbone, a grim and atmospheric horror film featuring a talented young ensemble cast that includes Charlie Heaton, Mia Goth, and George MacKay. Set in 1968, the story unfolds as a mother and her four children return to her childhood home in Maine. Once there, Allie, played by Anya Taylor-Joy, enters their lives. Following their mother’s death, the siblings choose to conceal the truth, holding onto a promise until they can ensure Jack, played by MacKay, is ready to be their guardian.
Though praised for its haunting atmosphere, Marrowbone garnered mixed reviews due to its predictable twist and underdeveloped characters. Nonetheless, the cast, especially Taylor-Joy’s performance, was positively received.
6 The New Mutants (2020)
Illyana Rasputin / Magik
The New Mutants, released in 2020, faced significant criticism upon its release. Positioned as the final installment in the Fox X-Men franchise, it struggled to gain traction with audiences disillusioned by franchise fatigue. This adaptation of a Marvel Comics series features young mutants in training who confront their fears while trapped in a sinister facility.
Anya Taylor-Joy shines as Magik, a character who grapples with her dark past and powers. Her vibrant and campy performance stands out amidst the film’s challenges, leading her fellow mutants as they battle against their internal and external demons. Unfortunately, despite its intriguing premise, the film failed to resonate with a broader audience.
5 The Gorge (2025)
Drasa
Set to release in 2025, The Gorge is directed by horror aficionado Scott Derrickson, known for acclaimed titles like Sinister and Doctor Strange. This film, featuring both Anya Taylor-Joy and Miles Teller in leading roles, follows two elite snipers assigned to guard a secretive gorge for an entire year, isolated from the outside world.
As they discover the presence of dangerous creatures, the film evolves into a tension-filled narrative driven by their attempts to communicate and survive. With a fresh 63% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, critics noted its genre-blending elements, alongside compliments for the chemistry between Taylor-Joy and Teller.
4 Split (2016)
Casey Cooke
In 2016, M. Night Shyamalan’s Split reestablished his reputation in the horror realm. The film features James McAvoy, who delivers a standout performance as a serial killer with Dissociative Identity Disorder. But it is Anya Taylor-Joy who subtly steals the spotlight with her portrayal of Casey, a resilient young woman whose character depth adds a rich layer to the narrative.
Her compelling performance transforms the cat-and-mouse dynamic of the film, leading to a thrilling experience that continues into the sequel, Glass, where the characters return in a crossover of horror and superhero genres.
3 The Menu (2022)
Margot / Erin
In 2022, Taylor-Joy featured in the dark comedy horror film The Menu, where she stars alongside Nicholas Hoult. The plot unfolds on a remote island as guests at an exclusive restaurant, led by celebrity chef Julian Slowik, find themselves trapped in a sinister game. As the chef reveals his intentions to harm the guests, Margot, played by Taylor-Joy, emerges as an unexpected contender for survival amidst the chaos.
With an 88% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, the film was not only a box office success but also garnered critical acclaim, leading to Golden Globe nominations for both Taylor-Joy and Fiennes, showcasing their standout performances.
2 Last Night In Soho (2021)
Sandie
Edgar Wright’s 2021 film Last Night In Soho pays homage to Giallo while featuring Anya Taylor-Joy in a pivotal role as Sandie in 1960s London. The film’s atmosphere carries a predictable tone for its first two acts, but a dramatic twist catapults it into one of Taylor-Joy’s standout performances. The film transitions from a narrative about a young woman struggling to find her place in modern society to a captivating exploration of the dangers of the past with Sandie’s character.
The storyline’s complexity, underscored by Taylor-Joy’s exceptional skills, elevates it above conventional horror fare, establishing it as one of her most acclaimed entries in the genre.
1 The Witch (2015)
Thomasin
Undoubtedly, Anya Taylor-Joy’s breakout role in The Witch remains her strongest work. Set in a hauntingly authentic depiction of a 17th-century New England farm, the film is a chilling tale of family unraveling amidst malevolent forces. The striking dialogue and atmosphere emphasize themes of obsession and madness.
Taylor-Joy’s portrayal of Thomasin features a compelling mix of innocence and burgeoning darkness as her character faces insurmountable tragedies. This gothic horror masterpiece is a testament to her acting prowess, establishing Anya Taylor-Joy as a pivotal figure in contemporary horror cinema.