Craig Zobel’s The Hunt, which sparked significant debate upon its release in 2020, has intriguingly resurfaced in the collective consciousness after five years. This time, it’s gaining traction among horror enthusiasts in the United States. With the impending remake of The Running Man featuring Glen Powell, The Hunt offers a captivating alternative for those in search of action-packed social commentary.
The latest Blumhouse film, The Woman in the Yard, streaming as of 2025, reflects the production house’s penchant for releasing provocative and polarizing horror content. Blumhouse is renowned for its intense narratives that often ignite conversations, making its films both beloved and controversial.
According to a FlixPatrol report, The Hunt is currently in the top ten on Peacock in the U.S. The film also gained popularity on Netflix last year, indicating that its complex reputation continues to attract viewers who are eager to engage with its divisive themes.
What Being A Streaming Hit Means For The Hunt
The Movie Still Inspires Intrigue
Despite the years that have passed since its initial release, The Hunt‘s controversial foundation remains an enduring part of its identity. This inherent intrigue is tied intimately to the film’s underlying messages, proving that The Hunt maintains its relevance even five years later.
The Hunt‘s exploration of the toxicity of political discourse is especially pertinent now, six months post-American election, as political debates seep into every medium. Thus, the ripple effect of word-of-mouth excitement has played a pivotal role in reviving The Hunt’s streaming success.
While the likelihood of a sequel materializing seems slim amid lingering rumors, the film’s renewed interest underscores an age-old adage: no press is bad press. The convoluted history surrounding its release—from postponements and bans to a triumphant opening—has, ironically, only fueled viewer curiosity, reinforcing its timeless relevance.
Our Take On The Hunt‘s Popularity On Streaming
Its Controversy & Themes Are Making It A Cult Classic
The Hunt presents a chilling tale of a group of middle-class individuals who find themselves on an island, hunted for sport by the affluent elite. This brutal narrative is driven by political motivations, as each target embodies ideologies that infuriate the hunters. The film boldly satirizes the extreme polarization inherent in online political discourse across the U.S.
This provocative nature, however, led to its release being delayed following tragic events like the Dayton and El Paso mass shootings, prompting strong reactions against what some deemed divisive politics. Initially pulled from Blumhouse’s lineup, The Hunt only saw the light of day in 2020 due to the success of films like Joker.
Supported by standout performances from Betty Gilpin and Hilary Swank, The Hunt offers an enthralling mix of slasher thrills and satirical commentary. While the film’s humor may feel jarring to some, the tongue-in-cheek direction elevates its critique, suggesting that The Hunt may very well become a cult classic.
As the film continues to resonate with audiences and climb streaming charts, its controversial legacy may just be the key to its enduring fascination in the horror genre.