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There are numerous horror films available, but only a select few stand out as absolute must-see classics. These movies are considered the pinnacle of the genre, and no one, whether a dedicated film enthusiast or a casual viewer, should miss them. Each of these films has left a significant impact, whether due to their perfect timing, stellar cast, or exceptional direction. While they vary in style and theme, what binds them together is their undeniable quality. Ranging from zombie flicks to suspenseful thrillers with knife-wielding antagonists, these are the horror movies that everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime.
20 Horror Movies Everyone Should See Once
Psycho (1960)
Alfred Hitchcock revolutionized the horror genre with “Psycho,” a film that not only terrified audiences at the time of its release but continues to be effective even six decades later. Whether it’s the unexpected shift in the main character, Anthony Perkins’ outstanding performance, or the iconic shower scene, “Psycho” has left a lasting impact and has been imitated countless times since its debut.
To categorize “Psycho” as just another slasher film would be a disservice to its true significance. In reality, “Psycho” is a masterfully crafted thriller. While Robert Bloch’s novel provided a solid foundation, Hitchcock’s genius elevated the story not only in terms of its ability to frighten but also in terms of its narrative impact.
The Birds (1963)
Alfred Hitchcock’s film “The Birds” is undeniably peculiar, making its existence almost unbelievable. However, it’s a reality, and it’s difficult to imagine any director other than Hitchcock being able to make it not only terrifying but also avoiding it becoming laughable.
The success of “The Birds” owes much to the exceptional performances by Tippi Hedren and Rod Taylor, just as it does to its innovative concept. Set in a relatively isolated location where everything is tranquil, the sudden invasion of an unforeseen unnatural force disrupts everything. What truly distinguishes “The Birds” in this context is the fact that the birds’ aggressive attack remains unexplained.
Rosemary’s Baby (1968)
Roman Polanski is widely recognized as a prominent figure in the world of cinema, but his reputation is also marked by controversy. One of the key factors contributing to his acclaim is the film “Rosemary’s Baby,” which played a pivotal role in establishing his career. This occurred just a year before he and his wife, Sharon Tate, tragically gained notoriety in a different, much more sorrowful context.
For those who tend to underestimate the horror genre when compared to more traditional categories like drama or musicals, “Rosemary’s Baby” serves as a compelling counterargument. It can be viewed as a work of art, featuring outstanding performances from Hollywood icons such as Mia Farrow, John Cassavetes, Ruth Gordon, and Ralph Bellamy. What sets it apart is that it manages to be a genuinely terrifying film while also maintaining its artistic and cinematic quality.
The Exorcist (1973)
William Friedkin’s classic horror film, “The Exorcist,” remains just as powerful in the 2020s as it did in the early 1970s. Despite the development of new and specific narratives as well as advancements in special effects, nothing surpasses the overall quality of “The Exorcist.”
However, what truly sets the film apart isn’t its scary elements like the music and cinematography; it’s the fact that at its core, it portrays a mother helplessly witnessing her daughter’s gradual deterioration without being able to do anything about it. This is a profoundly unsettling experience, not only for young individuals but even more so for older, married parents, pushing the boundaries of what they can bear.
The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974)
Apart from “The Exorcist,” Tobe Hooper’s “The Texas Chain Saw Massacre” is considered one of the most frightening films ever made. What makes it truly terrifying is that everything depicted in the movie could actually happen in real life, and this fact alone is enough to send chills down anyone’s spine.
Every aspect of “The Texas Chain Saw Massacre” is precisely as it should be. From the subtle and controlled musical score to the extended shots of the main characters casually walking through Texan landscapes while engaging in conversation (which helps the audience connect with them), Hooper’s film demonstrates a profound understanding of pacing and the necessity for horror to feel natural and authentic within the context of real life.
Halloween (1978)
John Carpenter’s Halloween is undeniably one of the most renowned and highly regarded horror films ever made. It has received an abundance of praise, possibly more than the actual dialogue in the movie itself. From its eerie opening scene to Jamie Lee Curtis’ iconic “Boogeyman” line, it is often considered flawless.
The film’s audacity to begin with a young boy murdering his sister is a point worth emphasizing. Especially considering its release in 1978, audiences must have been shocked. Yet, this is precisely what makes the film’s storytelling so impactful: Michael Myers is devoid of any empathy or emotion; he simply exists, and so do you, as a viewer. However, by the film’s conclusion, that detachment from his character may no longer be the case.
Friday the 13th (1980)
After a lengthy legal battle, the Friday the 13th franchise is back with a Peacock limited series featuring Adrienne King from the original film. Critics have often criticized and made fun of the Friday the 13th series, much like they did with the Police Academy franchise. Throughout the 1980s, a new installment of Friday the 13th seemed to hit theaters almost every year.
Similar to Police Academy, the films in the Friday the 13th series share a common formula, but each one has unique elements that make them stand out. This uniqueness also applies to the original film, which is arguably still the best in the series. The idea of a mother seeking revenge for her son’s death is a brilliant motive, and setting the film in a recently reopened summer camp adds to the suspense.
While it might have been more narratively cohesive to introduce Mrs. Voorhees earlier in the story, Betsy Palmer’s captivating and unhinged performance makes this less important. The film effectively disturbs viewers by showcasing the gruesome deaths of likable characters, including throat slitting, arrow impalement, axe attacks, and spear injuries to the groin and eye.
The Shining (1980)
Stanley Kubrick’s adaptation of Stephen King’s “The Shining” may diverge significantly from the source material, but it remains a chilling and powerful film. While Jack Nicholson’s portrayal of the emotionally detached writer Jack Torrance is undoubtedly a standout, there are numerous other aspects of the film that make it noteworthy.
The film’s score, composed by Wendy Carlos and Rachel Elkind, is exceptionally eerie and sets the tone for a nightmarish experience from the very beginning, well before the Torrance family even arrives at the Overlook Hotel. Kubrick’s signature meticulous camerawork is also on full display, with some arguing that this adaptation is one of his finest works. Additionally, Shelley Duvall delivers an underrated performance (although Kubrick’s treatment of her on set is unfortunately well-known). The iconic line “Redrum, Redrum, Redrum!” adds to the film’s unforgettable moments, ensuring that the audience will be haunted by it long after the credits roll.
The Evil Dead (1981)
It’s quite a challenge to determine whether Sam Raimi’s first two Evil Dead films, “The Evil Dead” and “Evil Dead II,” are more essential to watch because both are highly recommended. However, it makes sense to begin with the first one.
Raimi’s initial entry into the cabin-in-the-woods horror genre is consistently and genuinely terrifying. The limited budget actually works to the film’s advantage, and despite the passage of time, the special effects, though admittedly dated, still deliver a significant level of fear. Add to that the iconic scene involving a woman and an aggressive tree, and “The Evil Dead” firmly establishes itself as a timeless classic in the horror genre.
Poltergeist (1982)
Tobe Hooper and Steven Spielberg’s collaboration on “Poltergeist” is a brilliant exploration of the strain within a family and the presence of supernatural entities. Much like “The Exorcist,” the film’s effectiveness hinges on the fact that every character is affected by the ordeal, but the core of the distress revolves around the youngest family member.
Carol Anne’s vulnerability mirrors the helplessness felt by her parents and the audience alike. This vulnerability is chillingly portrayed, as it’s hard to fathom anyone not doing everything possible to rescue a young girl from malevolent spirits.
The Thing (1982)
John Carpenter, the renowned director, has two films in his repertoire that are widely considered flawless: “Halloween” and “The Thing.” These movies aren’t just perfect within the horror genre; they excel on a broader scale. Interestingly, “The Thing” initially received a lukewarm response both critically and commercially.
However, with the passage of time, it has emerged as one of the most terrifying alien-themed movies ever made. Furthermore, it serves as a brilliant commentary on the Cold War era, specifically reflecting the mindset of the United States during that period. “The Thing” is a cinematic masterpiece that invites repeated viewings, not only to unravel the identity of the shape-shifting creature but also to admire its intricately crafted plot and well-developed characters.
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A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
Wes Craven’s creation of Freddy Krueger revolutionized the slasher subgenre, and while Robert Englund’s exceptional performance as Krueger is a key factor, what truly sets “A Nightmare on Elm Street” apart are its innovative and terrifying kill sequences, as well as its constant manipulation of reality.
Despite being categorized as a slasher, “A Nightmare on Elm Street” challenges the notion that all slashers are lowbrow cinema. While many may fit that description, there are elevated examples within the genre, and this film stands at the pinnacle. Additionally, it marks Johnny Depp’s debut in film, making it a must-watch for his dedicated fanbase.
Fright Night (1985)
“Fright Night, with its John Hughes-esque charm, offers an enjoyable introduction to R-rated horror for burgeoning fans of the genre. Even the 2011 remake, featuring Colin Farrell and the late Anton Yelchin, holds its own.
However, despite the additional stylistic touches, the original Fright Night remains the ultimate favorite. It’s the kind of film that leaves viewers saying, ‘There’s an inexplicable quality to it.’ That quality can be summed up in one word: likability. At its essence, Fright Night is simply a coming-of-age tale… with a vampire.”
Hellraiser (1987)
Clive Barker’s Hellraiser stands out with its eerie visuals and outstanding performances by the cast, making it a captivating horror film. The movie is further enhanced by its exceptional production design and the brilliant acting of Ashley Laurence, Clare Higgins, Andrew Robinson, and, notably, Doug Bradley in the role of Pinhead.
However, viewers seeking a substantial amount of screen time for Pinhead might find Hellbound: Hellraiser II more satisfying. Luckily, this sequel serves as a perfect companion to the original, reuniting Bradley, Laurence, and Higgins. For those who enjoy stories about tempting fate, Hellraiser (and Hellbound) offer the ultimate experience. Nonetheless, it’s worth noting that perhaps it shouldn’t have led to an extensive franchise.
The Lost Boys (1987)
Joel Schumacher’s late masterpiece, “The Lost Boys,” stands out as a captivating vampire film infused with moodiness and a pulsating soundtrack. It boasts a star-studded cast featuring beloved actors from the 1980s, such as the unforgettable duo of Corey Feldman and Corey Haim, Kiefer Sutherland, Jami Gertz (known for “Twister”), Jason Patric, and Alex Winter from “Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure.”
For budding horror enthusiasts, “The Lost Boys” serves as an ideal entry point. It strikes a balance, avoiding excessive vulgarity or excessive gore while delivering on the vampire genre’s darker aspects. The film maintains a fantastic pace throughout, thanks to the cast’s evident passion for the material and the film’s captivating setting. Schumacher’s work proves highly enjoyable, even for those who don’t typically gravitate towards vampire-themed narratives.
The Silence of the Lambs (1991)
Jonathan Demme’s The Silence of the Lambs is not just a chilling horror-thriller but also a standout murder mystery film based on Thomas Harris’ book. It excels in creating tension and maintaining a well-paced narrative. It’s even fair to say that the film surpasses the book in terms of quality.
The movie hits all the right notes, but its greatest strengths lie in the casting choices. Jodie Foster and Anthony Hopkins deliver impeccable performances, with Foster portraying Clarice Starling as a realistically fearless character and Hopkins capturing Hannibal Lecter’s smarmy and consistently condescending demeanor perfectly. Additionally, Ted Levine’s portrayal of Buffalo Bill, the film’s true antagonist, is so terrifying that it’s hard to imagine anyone else in the role, especially considering Levine’s kind real-life personality. The Silence of the Lambs is a timeless classic that should be watched by even those who aren’t typically fans of the horror or thriller genres.
Candyman (1992)
Bernard Rose’s film adaptation of Clive Barker’s “The Forbidden” is a brilliant and well-crafted horror movie that pairs perfectly with Barker’s “Hellraiser.” Furthermore, if someone watches the 1992 version of Candyman, they should follow it up with the 2021 reboot.
The original Candyman film deserves significant recognition for its courageous exploration of race relations in 1992, much like “Night of the Living Dead.” It’s a horror film that goes beyond scares to delve into deeper themes. What makes it exceptional is not only its intelligence but also the outstanding performances, particularly from Virginia Madsen and Tony Todd, who portrays Daniel Robitaille, also known as the Candyman.
Scream (1996)
Wes Craven’s Scream, widely regarded as one of the finest horror films of the 1990s, demonstrated that the seasoned horror maestro could still deliver a timeless masterpiece even in the later stages of his career. If you’re looking for a quintessential ’90s cinematic experience, Scream is it.
With its flawless casting and the unexpected two-killer revelation, the movie keeps viewers engaged from start to finish, never allowing a dull moment. Moreover, some might argue that Scream boasts one of the most gripping opening sequences in cinematic history, possibly even surpassing the iconic Jaws.
Trick ‘R Treat (2007)
Michael Dougherty has helmed three films to date, each offering its own unique level of enjoyment. “Godzilla: King of the Monsters” is a commendable but somewhat overcrowded endeavor, while “Krampus” serves as a darkly humorous holiday-themed nightmare.
However, it’s his debut film, “Trick ‘r Treat,” that presents a formidable challenge to surpass. With the exception of “Creepshow,” Dougherty’s movie stands as the finest anthology film available, making it genuinely surprising that it didn’t receive a theatrical release, at least initially.
The Conjuring (2013)
James Wan’s “The Conjuring” is often hailed as one of the finest religious horror films ever made. It distinguishes itself by prominently featuring the theme of family at its core.
Much like “Poltergeist,” “The Conjuring” revolves around a tranquil family that suddenly finds their peaceful existence shattered in a profound manner. The audience is deeply connected to the Perron family’s anguish as they endure the harrowing possession, thanks to the authentic and convincing performances of the actors and the gripping, close-quarters cinematography.
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