The COVID-19 pandemic has forced movie theaters to close, and blockbusters to hit pause. However, that does not stop the film industry from delivering hard-hitting and extremely unsettling movies to drive-in moviegoers and home viewers.

Many Americans are holed up in their homes due to the threat of the virus. Some may have gone through a long list of movies to stave off boredom. While new movies are coming out every weekend, this week's roundup may offer a different experience.

Three new films came out this week. Two films attempt to put a new spin on old conventions in horror movies. One has been branded as one of the best films of the year.

Amulet

The word "disturbing" is not enough to fully describe this horror film. Written and directed by Romola Garai, this bold directional debut focuses on the traumas that we have locked up inside our bodies and minds.

The story revolves around Tomaz, a former soldier who is living homeless in London. He meets a nun who helps him find a job in a house owned by a young woman and her sick mother. Amulet will take viewers on a twist-filled experience that delves into a creepy, bloody, and weird world.

Who is in it: Alec Secareanu (Gheorghe Ionescu, God's Own Country), Imelda Staunton (Maud Bagshaw, Downton Abbey), and Carla Juri (Dr. Ana Stelline, Blade Runner 2049)

Where can I watch it: Amulet is playing in selected theaters and drive-ins. A digital copy is available for rent or purchase on iTunes and Amazon.

The Rental

The Rental follows two couples who head to a fancy vacation home in an isolated location for a weekend of relaxation. The movie, which serves as Dave Franco's directorial debut, follows a familiar plot and story beats. But it excels in how well-paced and deliberate each scene is.

The movie is set to make vacationers do a double-take on whether that summer cabin rental is really worth the trip.

Who is in it: Dan Stevens (Matthew Crawley, Downtown Abbey), Allison Brie (Diane Nguyen, BoJack Horseman), and Sheila Vand (The Girl, A Girl Walks Home Alone At Night).

Where can I watch it: The Rental is playing at drive-in theaters and can be rented or purchased on Amazon and Apple TV.

The Maid

This Thai-language horror movie written and directed by Lee Thongkhan tells the tale of a teenager who is newly-hired to work as a maid at the mansion. She is haunted by the ghost of the previous maid who forces the teenager to uncover the secrets behind her death.

The Maid offers viewers an engaging story packed with lots of good scares. Unlike other horror movies, this Thai film transforms itself into a bloodbath and provides an unexpected twist to keep viewers hooked.

Who is in it: Savika Chaiyadej (Rahtree, Train of the Dead), Ploy Sornarin (Sroy, Reside) and Kannaporn Puangtong (Oun, Charming Deception)

Where can I watch it: The Maid is available for streaming and download on Netflix.

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