Jason Momoa Reveals the Horror Film That Gave Him Chills—and Why He Still Recommends It Today
OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author's opinion.
Known for his towering presence and fierce roles in Aquaman and Game of Thrones, Jason Momoa might not be the first name that comes to mind when thinking of horror aficionados. But behind the action-star persona lies a genuine fan of the genre—especially when it’s done right. And for Momoa, few films capture horror as effectively as 2010’s Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark.
In a 2011 interview, Momoa singled out the film as one that left a lasting impression on him, praising its haunting atmosphere, deliberate pacing, and psychological dread.
“It really gets under your skin,” Momoa noted. “There’s something about the mood, the way the story unfolds—it sticks with you.”
Directed by Troy Nixey and produced by horror maestro Guillermo del Toro, Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark follows a young girl who moves into a gothic mansion, only to discover that it’s infested with ancient, malevolent creatures. As the eerie presence begins to unravel her world, the film’s tension escalates—something that Momoa clearly appreciated for its classic approach to fear.
🎬 A New Wave of Psychological Terror
While Momoa has not starred in many horror films himself, his admiration for the genre is evident in his endorsements. His love for Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark underscores his appreciation for horror that relies more on atmosphere and storytelling than gore.
In a genre that often leans on shock value, this kind of psychological horror has been making a comeback. A recent example is Bring Her Back (2025), the latest from YouTube horror duo Danny and Michael Philippou. The film has been praised for its raw depiction of grief and trauma, using the supernatural not just for scares, but as a vehicle for emotional storytelling. It’s the kind of horror that resonates with the very elements Momoa praised years earlier—mood, meaning, and lasting impact.
🐺 Momoa in the World of Monsters: Wolves
For those curious about Momoa’s own venture into horror, look no further than Wolves (2014), a supernatural thriller where he plays the brooding, feral antagonist in a world plagued by werewolves. While the film leans more into action-horror territory, it showcases Momoa’s ability to morph into the monstrous, and hints at a deeper interest in genre-bending performances.
👻 The Actor with a Taste for Terror
Momoa’s endorsement of Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark may come as a surprise to fans who associate him with high-octane action, but it adds a new layer to his persona. It’s a reminder that horror isn’t just about the jump scares—it’s about storytelling that lingers, that crawls under your skin and stays there.
Whether he’s playing a mythic superhero or quietly appreciating the unnerving whispers of a well-made horror film, Jason Momoa proves that even the toughest heroes can enjoy a good scare.
