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The horror genre is often considered the most challenging to master, even more so than eliciting laughter in comedy films. Horror filmmakers must excel in pacing, tension-building, and find a unique element to distinguish their work. This uniqueness can take various forms, such as understanding their target audience’s preferences within the vast subgenres of horror, using allegory to explore the deep-seated fears and anxieties of humanity, or, perhaps most importantly, addressing contemporary sociopolitical issues and commentary, whether they are timeless or currently relevant. It is often this last aspect that elevates horror films to a level of significance.
Horror audiences, whether they prefer slasher, supernatural, psychological, or body horror films, are well-informed and tend to scrutinize the genre’s clichés. Additionally, culture, ethics, politics, and advancements in special effects technology are constantly evolving. As a result, horror has to continuously reinvent itself, both to cater to its audience and to stay up-to-date with the changing times. Some films have excelled in navigating this ever-shifting landscape and have not only been terrifying but also profoundly meaningful. Whether it’s their allegorical themes, cultural influence, or their ability to instill fear while being visually captivating, the following list comprises not only the best horror movies but also the most significant ones.
As of October 18th, 2023, this article has been updated with additional content to ensure that the discussion remains relevant and includes new entries.
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Best Horror Movies of All Time
The Amityville Horror (1979)
Stuart Rosenberg’s film “The Amityville Horror” may not be considered a great cinematic masterpiece, especially in the horror genre, but it holds significance. Despite its mostly negative reputation, this criticism is somewhat undeserved. The film’s shortcomings often stem from its budget limitations, preventing it from reaching classic status. For instance, while a young viewer might find the red-eyed window scene creepy, older audiences may perceive it as somewhat absurd.
Nevertheless, there are redeeming qualities in “The Amityville Horror.” James Brolin and Margot Kidder deliver solid performances, though not entirely convincing, and their peculiar chemistry effectively portrays a strained marriage. This becomes crucial when the narrative takes a darker turn. The Lutz family, at the center of the story, never truly feels like a cohesive unit in the film, and this lack of unity enhances the emotional impact of their shared experiences, eliciting empathy and fear from the audience.
The Evil Dead (1981)
Evil Dead II from 1987 can be objectively considered a significant improvement over 1981’s The Evil Dead, essentially refining what was originally more of a low-budget, student-like production. However, it’s hard to deny the impressive nature of The Evil Dead, which, despite its dated special effects, is an iconic horror film that redefined the possession subgenre and introduced an effective yet straightforward camera technique. This movie by Sam Raimi remains a classic in the horror genre, and there’s a certain charm in witnessing an earlier, simpler version of the character Ash Campbell, who has since become a beloved figure for fans.
My Bloody Valentine (1981)
A compelling argument can be presented that My Bloody Valentine is a highly effective slasher film, rivaling the original entries in the Texas Chainsaw Massacre, Halloween, and Friday the 13th series. Paul Kelman and Neil Affleck deliver outstanding performances as Jessie Hanniger and Axel Palmer, respectively.
The film keeps the audience engaged with these two characters, never giving any clear hints that either of them is the killer. However, one of them is revealed as the murderer, which comes as a genuine surprise. The movie also boasts a truly eerie atmosphere, inventive and gruesome kill scenes, and a well-crafted design for the antagonist, making My Bloody Valentine stand out as one of the finest slasher films ever created.
Scream 2 (1997)
It’s quite remarkable that Scream 2 managed to achieve the level of success it did, considering the incredibly short time frame for a sequel, which is a rarity in the film industry, especially in the horror genre. While some franchises like Saw and Friday the 13th have pulled it off with varying degrees of success, the rushed production often leads to a decline in quality.
Many fans actually prefer Scream 2 over the original Scream, and their perspective is justified. The movie is packed with unexpected twists, effectively continues the stories of Gail, Sydney, and Dewey, and leaves a lasting impact on the audience with the shocking death of Randy. Additionally, the outstanding performances of Timothy Olyphant and Laurie Metcalf, along with a memorable opening sequence that rivals the brilliance of the original film’s iconic first 10 minutes, make Scream 2 not only one of the best horror sequels ever created but also one of the finest sequels in cinematic history, regardless of genre.
Fright Night (1985)
Tom Holland’s easily accessible and captivating film, “Fright Night,” is a timeless horror classic. With Chris Sarandon perfectly cast as the vampire in the story, it’s a well-executed cinematic gem. However, the real draw of “Fright Night” isn’t just the presence of vampires; it’s the tale of an ordinary person’s struggle to prove the existence of at least one vampire. Even though he risks losing everything, the protagonist delves deeper into his quest, fully aware of the regret he’ll feel if he doesn’t act when the body count begins to rise.
William Ragsdale delivers a fantastic performance as Charley Brewster, portraying a character with wide-eyed innocence reminiscent of Zach Galligan in “Gremlins.” His on-screen chemistry with Amanda Bearse’s Amy Peterson and the complex friendship he shares with Stephen Geoffrey’s iconic ‘Evil’ Ed Thompson make sure that there’s never a dull moment in this version of “Fright Night” (the 2011 remake is also highly recommended).
Christine (1983)
After the successes of John Carpenter’s films like “Halloween” in 1978, “The Fog” in 1980, “Escape from New York” in 1981, and despite the lack of initial critical and commercial acclaim, “The Thing” in 1982, it might have seemed like Carpenter could do no wrong. However, adapting Stephen King’s novel “Christine,” which is about a murderous car, was a significant challenge.
Fortunately, the seemingly absurd concept translated exceptionally well to the screen, making “Christine” a compelling film just like the novel. A key reason for this success was Carpenter’s faithfulness to King’s intricate teenage characters. Additionally, Carpenter’s remarkable musical score and a talented cast perfectly suited for their roles played a crucial role in the film’s excellence. Keith Gordon’s outstanding portrayal of the transformation of the shy Arnie Cunningham into a sinister character, in particular, deserves special mention.
Day of the Dead (1985)
The classic horror films “Night of the Living Dead” and “Dawn of the Dead” are highly regarded and remain relevant today, much like they were in the 1960s and ’70s. However, the third installment in the trilogy, “Day of the Dead,” doesn’t receive the same level of recognition, which is unfortunate because it explores themes of paranoia and internal conflicts that still resonate in the modern world, similar to how racism and consumerism are prevalent in the first two films.
“Day of the Dead” begins and ends with an excellent dream sequence, which can sometimes feel like a storytelling shortcut but is very effective in this case. Moreover, the film benefits from a cast of likable characters, such as Lori Cardille’s Sarah, Jarlath Conroy’s Bill, and Terry Alexander’s John, making the audience genuinely care about their fate. Additionally, some argue that Joseph Pilato’s performance as Rhodes is one of the standout performances in the entire Dead franchise.
Child’s Play (1988)
Killer dolls have been a popular element in horror for a long time, and Don Mancini’s Chucky from the Child’s Play franchise is a significant reason for this. The franchise has gone through several changes to remain relevant and successful, which is unique compared to many other top-tier horror series. While opinions differ on which film is the best in the series, some fans argue that 1988’s Child’s Play holds that title. However, others have strong affection for 1990’s Child’s Play 2, 1998’s Bride of Chucky, and Syfy’s Chucky. The original movie is often regarded as the scariest, as it maintains a somewhat serious tone that becomes less intense in later installments of the franchise.
Creepshow (1982)
Creepshow, a collaborative effort between George A. Romero and Stephen King, reflects their shared passion for classic EC Comics and stands out as a clever, humorous, and spine-tingling horror film from the 1980s, if not any era. Packed with emerging talent, impressive practical effects by Tom Savini, and a notable segment featuring Stephen King himself, this movie holds special appeal for fans of King’s work. Savini’s skill in translating a comic book aesthetic onto the screen enhances the overall experience as much as the writing and performances do.
Friday the 13th (1980)
Friday the 13th, with its 12 films and an upcoming prequel series, stands out as a horror franchise known for its remarkable longevity. While it initially faced criticism from reviewers (though their opinions have softened over time, especially regarding the first four films), it has consistently found favor with audiences. Sean S. Cunningham’s classic seems to have achieved remarkable success almost by chance.
While some may criticize the acting, it’s worth noting that many of the original film’s performances, including Kevin Bacon’s, come from theater actors, which lends an organic quality to their work. This authenticity can make it even more difficult to witness their characters meet grisly fates. Additionally, the film is marked by eerie cinematography, effective music, and several genuinely tense scenes. Examples of these tension-filled moments include Annie’s attempt to evade Mrs. Voorhees, Ned’s entry into the cabin, Jack’s demise, and Alice’s discovery of Bill.
Jigoku (1960)
Jigoku is a masterful display of horror that delves deep into the theme of unredeemed malevolence and confronts it with a form of poetic retribution. Directed by Nobuo Nakagawa, the film vividly portrays the nightmarish manifestations of our darkest desires, which often entice us during our earthly lives and exact a harrowing toll in the torments of the afterlife.
The storyline revolves around a young student who, in a moment of recklessness, causes the death of a yakuza member in a car accident and opts to flee the scene rather than rendering aid. Consumed by guilt and the erosion of his conscience, the young man begins to experience disturbing and unsettling occurrences, coupled with the emergence of a malevolent doppelgänger, all seemingly determined to pull him back into the depths of hell.
Cure (1997)
Kiyoshi Kurosawa’s exploration of the darker aspects of the human mind combines both an atmospheric and philosophical approach. Grounded in a twisted premise, the film unfolds as a mysterious story with a haunting element of the supernatural that defies scientific, logical, or rational explanation.
The story of “Cure” delves into a series of gruesome murders that have shaken Tokyo, leaving everyone puzzled. The only common thread among the victims is a bloody X carved into their necks, and the perpetrators are discovered near the crime scenes, with no memory of their actions. Detective Takabe and psychologist Sakuma join forces to unravel this enigmatic case, only to confront horrors that surpass their understanding.
The Lighthouse (2019)
Taking place on a remote island in the 1890s, “The Lighthouse” depicts the gradual descent into madness of two lighthouse keepers, Thomas Wake (portrayed by Willem Dafoe) and Thomas Howard (played by Robert Pattinson). They are plagued by strange visions and eerie occurrences. Directed by Robert Eggers, a prominent figure in gothic horror, the film is renowned for its visually striking elements.
Filmed in black and white, the movie effectively captures the vast, desolate landscape of an isolated lighthouse at the mercy of a tumultuous ocean. In addition to its impressive visuals and a compelling script, the film represents a pivotal moment in the careers of Willem Dafoe and Robert Pattinson, as they deliver powerful performances as two men teetering on the edge of insanity.
Rec (2007)
Rec stands out as an often overlooked Spanish horror film, especially in the realm of found footage. It’s considered a cult classic in the genre because it doesn’t just rely on jump scares to terrify viewers but effectively incorporates those genre tropes into its storytelling.
Directed by Paco Plaza and Jaume Balagueró, Rec excels in creating tension as it follows a TV host and her cameraperson accompanying firefighters on an emergency call. Once they arrive at the location and enter an apartment building, they are confronted by a horde of ferocious, superhuman creatures. Trapped with no means of escape, the crew is thrust into a life-or-death battle against these monsters.
The Omen (1976)
In Richard Donner’s 1976 classic film, when US diplomat Robert Thorn and his wife experience a tragic miscarriage, Thorn makes the decision to secretly adopt a newborn son. As time passes, unsettling occurrences surround their new child, eventually leading them to the chilling realization that their adopted son is, in fact, the offspring of the devil. This movie showcases one of the most unsettling portrayals of a seemingly innocent child concealing a malevolent presence. While it may not reach the same levels of terror as “The Exorcist” or the same tension as “Rosemary’s Baby,” “The Omen” still stands as a profoundly sinister horror film that emerged from the 1970s.
The Blob (1958)
“The Blob” stands as the quintessential example of teenage horror B-movies, even though its lead actor, Steve McQueen, is nearly 30 years old. The film is a vividly colorful portrayal of rebellious youth with a penchant for hot rods and a town plagued by an alien blob that continually expands as it engulfs everything in its path.
In all its charmingly campy splendor, “The Blob” offers a tremendous amount of fun, while also serving as a surprisingly effective allegory for the fears of Communism in America during the Cold War or, perhaps, as a commentary on consumerist society. Regardless of its underlying themes, the movie remains a sticky, well-paced, and delightfully over-the-top treat. The 1988 remake is also highly commendable.
The Conjuring (2013)
Inspired by the real-life paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren, The Conjuring tells a gripping story of demonic possession. The Warrens are faced with their most challenging case yet as they confront a sinister presence that has taken over a remote farmhouse. They must uncover the hidden secrets within the haunted house and protect the innocent from a malevolent force.
With every spine-chilling encounter, the movie builds tension, immersing viewers in a world of unrelenting fear. The film’s narrative reminds us that sometimes the most terrifying threats are the ones that remain hidden from sight. The Conjuring captures the essence of supernatural horror, leaving the audience on the edge of their seats with anticipation and occasionally making them jump out of them.
Train to Busan (2016)
This remarkable South Korean film takes viewers on a thrilling and intense journey as it unravels a harrowing story of survival. The plot revolves around a group of passengers, with a father and son at the core, who become trapped on a speeding train in the midst of a brutal zombie outbreak. Amid the ensuing chaos, these passengers must come together to fight for their lives while navigating through perilous train compartments filled with tension.
Train to Busan effectively capitalizes on its confined setting, turning each train car into a battleground for survival. The movie delivers heart-pounding chase scenes, intense zombie encounters, and poignant moments of self-sacrifice, providing audiences with a rollercoaster of emotions.
Masque of the Red Death (1964)
Among the eight Edgar Allan Poe adaptations directed by the renowned Roger Corman, and of the seven in which Vincent Price starred, “Masque of the Red Death” is often considered the standout. It is arguably the most visually striking and artistic of the bunch, using a striking and vivid color scheme in a series of lavishly decorated rooms within a castle where a grand party is taking place.
Vincent Price portrays the character of Prince Prospero, a Satanist who orchestrates an extravagant gathering within his estate, even as the deadly bubonic plague ravages the world outside. This film, while surprisingly somber in its tone, is set apart by its remarkable production design. “Masque of the Red Death” remains a highly underappreciated gem within the horror genre.
The Wailing (2016)
Taking place in a small South Korean village, The Wailing tells the story of a disturbing sequence of events triggered by a mysterious illness that afflicts the community. This illness leads to suspicion and paranoia among the villagers, culminating in a series of gruesome murders that plunge the village into chaos and tighten the grip of malevolent forces.
The Wailing adeptly constructs an atmosphere of discomfort and bewilderment, blurring the boundaries between reality and the supernatural. It challenges the audience’s perceptions and consistently keeps them in a state of tension. The film expertly melds elements of horror, mystery, and psychological thriller, delivering an experience that haunts the viewer long after the closing credits.
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Host (2020)
One of the standout horror films to emerge in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic was “Host,” which happened to be one of the earliest films created during the post-pandemic period. This film’s timing was impeccable, serving as a prime example of being in the right place at the right time. “Host” is a tightly constructed and efficient horror movie that tapped into the collective fears of society and effectively translated them into genuinely perfect jump scares.
The story of “Host” revolves around a group of friends who decide to conduct a séance over a Zoom call. Despite its modest budget and the constraints of being a screen life film with just gallery and speaker view, director Rob Savage manages to deliver a level of fear and tension that surpasses many other horror films of this decade. In essence, “Host” represents a prime example of COVID-themed horror at its best.
Gonjiam: The Haunted Asylum (2018)
Gonjiam: The Haunted Asylum is a movie where a group of amateur YouTubers embarks on a thrilling adventure to investigate the real-life haunted asylum of the same name. Their plan involves a live broadcast to verify the haunting rumors, and they soon discover that these rumors are indeed frighteningly accurate.
The film captivates its audience from the very beginning with its eerie atmosphere and well-executed scares, maintaining a tight grip throughout. Despite the found footage style being somewhat overused in the history of cinema, this movie employs it effectively, delivering authentic jump scares and a steadily intensifying sense of horror.
It (2017)
In the rare event of a student surpassing the teacher, the 2017 remake of Stephen King’s “It” revitalized a beloved classic, complete with the eerie clown Pennywise. A new group of outsiders confronted the terrifying Pennywise, who returned from the depths, portrayed by Bill Skarsgård. While filling Tim Curry’s iconic shoes was no small feat, Skarsgård’s portrayal of The Dancing Clown proved unmatched. This homage to the 1990 original was exceptionally chilling, effectively putting the fictional town of Derry, Maine, back in the spotlight and inspiring numerous cosplayers. The film’s enormous success catapulted it to the status of the highest-grossing horror movie in history.
The Witch (2015)
Robert Eggers’ film “The Witch” stands out as a remarkable early American period piece and one of the most unsettling movies in recent years. The story revolves around a Puritan family banished from their early American settlement due to an unspecified religious deviation, forcing them to live in a secluded, untamed wilderness where they soon discover the presence of witches in the surrounding woods.
The film begins with an exceptionally eerie opening scene and progressively descends into madness as it leads to an exceptionally chilling conclusion. “The Witch” offers a thought-provoking exploration of how women posed a threat to religious and patriarchal norms, and it emphasizes that even in early America, starting afresh was not without its challenges, nearly 400 years ago. If you’re seeking a blend of horror and historical context, “The Witch” is a movie that should particularly pique your interest.
The Nightmare (2015)
Certainly, “The Nightmare” is a unique and genuinely terrifying entry in the horror documentary genre. While many documentaries focus on topics like aliens and Bigfoot, often relying on questionable evidence and lacking cinematic quality, “The Nightmare” stands out by delving into the unsettling realm of sleep paralysis. With its visually stunning and disturbing dramatic reenactments, as well as moody, dread-filled interviews, director Rodney Ascher, known for his insightful analysis of “The Shining” in the documentary “Room 237,” successfully delivers an informative and emotionally charged documentary that effectively doubles as an exceptional horror film.
The Ring (1998)
The Ring, also known as Ringu, is a Japanese supernatural horror movie adapted from Koji Suzuki’s novel. It’s important to distinguish it from the 2002 American remake featuring Naomi Watts. This Japanese version starred Nanako Matsushima, Miki Nakatani, and Hiroyuki Sanada and played a significant role in sparking the trend of remaking Japanese horror films in the United States.
The Ring, and technically its remakes, had a unique impact by instilling fear even before viewers watched it, thanks to a clever viral marketing campaign. The premise was straightforward: watching a cursed film would lead to the viewer being cursed as well, with a grim fate of dying within a week. This raised the question of whether merely witnessing this haunted VHS tape, even indirectly, would bring death to its audience. Fortunately, the answer was a resounding no. Nonetheless, this marketing approach introduced a new generation to the horror genre and served as an iconic way to usher in the technological changes of the new century.
Antichrist (2009)
Lars Von Trier, the renowned director, has gone through various creative phases in his career, but it was his later Depression Trilogy that showcased his distinctive and unsettling style. “Antichrist” stands out as a visually stunning, deliberately paced film featuring exceptional performances from its two sole actors, Willem Dafoe and Charlotte Gainsbourg. The movie portrays a therapist and his wife who are grappling with the loss of their young child.
In an ill-fated decision to seek solace, they retreat to a remote cabin in the woods, a classic horror trope. However, the therapist’s attempt to heal his wife uncovers something sinister within both the cabin and potentially within her. “Antichrist” is not for those with a weak stomach, as its grim ambiance gradually builds to a shocking crescendo of visceral violence that rivals the intensity of the most powerful works in the realm of art-house cinema.
Re-Animator (1985)
Stuart Gordon dedicated his career to bringing H.P. Lovecraft’s cosmic horror tales to the silver screen, and he achieved his greatest success with the outrageously grotesque and over-the-top film, “Re-Animator.” Featuring Jeffrey Combs in an exceptionally frenzied performance as Herbert West, this gruesome interpretation of the mad scientist genre delves into the doctor’s macabre experiments in reviving the deceased, resulting in both horrifying and comical outcomes. Don’t forget to explore the eccentric sequel, “Bride of Re-Animator,” as well.
Evil Dead 2 (1987)
Stuart Gordon dedicated his career to bringing H.P. Lovecraft’s cosmic horror tales to the silver screen, and he achieved his greatest success with the outrageously grotesque and over-the-top film, “Re-Animator.” Featuring Jeffrey Combs in an exceptionally frenzied performance as Herbert West, this gruesome interpretation of the mad scientist genre delves into the doctor’s macabre experiments in reviving the deceased, resulting in both horrifying and comical outcomes. Don’t forget to explore the eccentric sequel, “Bride of Re-Animator,” as well.
Cat People (1942)
Cat People, often considered the pioneer of feminist horror cinema, delves into themes of female desire and societal norms that may appear surprising given its early 1940s backdrop. With the captivating Simone Simon in a remarkable performance, the movie follows a newlywed woman who believes she has inherited an unusual trait – the fear of transforming into a black panther when aroused.
While this premise could easily be turned into a humorous or cheesy affair, Cat People, like many of producer Val Lewton’s horror films, takes itself seriously and showcases a high level of sophistication. The skilled director, Jacques Tourneur, employs film noir elements and employs inventive techniques to convey sensuality, arousal, and fear. While it may not be a truly terrifying film, it possesses a unique and compelling atmosphere. The later remake by Paul Schrader, released 40 years after the original, may not attain the same cinematic excellence but remains a commendable effort.
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