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Occasionally, a film emerges that doesn’t initially appeal to a wide audience but instead garners a dedicated following within a specific group of movie enthusiasts. Such films are often dubbed “cult classics.” One noteworthy aspect of cult classics is their ability to transcend various genres. These movies can be humorous, dramatic, or spine-chilling. Interestingly, the horror genre has given rise to some of the most iconic cult classic films.
Update as of October 30, 2023: In the spirit of Halloween, we’ve expanded this article with additional cult classic horror films to enjoy on the eerie evening, along with information on where to stream them.
The formula for a cult classic horror movie typically includes copious amounts of blood and gore, moments of humor, and a healthy dose of the bizarre. Some of these films may have been successful upon their initial release but eventually faded from the mainstream. Others might have disappointed critics and audiences at first but later found a renewed audience as viewers reconnected with them. Here, we present 15 enduring cult classic horror films.
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The 15 Best Cult Classic Horror Movies of All Time
An American Werewolf in London (1981)
“An American Werewolf in London can be categorized as a cult classic, although it differs in certain aspects. Unlike most cult classic horror films, this creation by John Landis received positive reviews from critics and performed well at the box office. It even earned several Academy Award nominations, primarily for the exceptional makeup effects by the renowned Rick Baker.
However, one of the reasons it’s referred to as a cult classic is that, aside from a mostly forgotten sequel, it didn’t evolve into a massive franchise like some other horror movies, causing it to fade from the public consciousness in many ways. The film’s unique atmosphere, its graphic and violent scenes, and the sense of mystery surrounding the project all contribute to making it not only one of the finest horror reimaginings but also a strong contender for the cult classic horror movie category.”
Dawn of the Dead (1978)
The sequel to the iconic 1968 macabre original film played a crucial role in shaping the modern zombie genre. Released a decade later, “Dawn of the Dead” utilized a local mall as its primary filming location, primarily during nighttime shoots, providing a backdrop that later became inhabited by actual early morning mall-goers, lending an eerie touch of reality to the film’s atmosphere. With the assistance of the talented makeup artist, stunt performer, and actor Tom Savini, George Romero contributed to the creation of one of the most beloved cult horror movies of all time.
While the undead creatures are at the forefront of the plot, it’s the flaws of human nature that are prominently on display by the film’s conclusion. “Dawn of the Dead” stands out as one of the most influential horror films ever made and was notably more financially successful than its predecessor. However, it didn’t achieve the same level of widespread recognition as other horror classics of its time, such as “Halloween,” “The Omen,” or “The Exorcist,” which contributed to its cult status.
Slither (2006)
Before James Gunn ventured into the realm of directing big-budget films like “Guardians of the Galaxy” and taking on the role of President at DC Studios, he gained recognition for helming some immensely entertaining cult favorites. Among these, his 2006 directorial debut, “Slither,” stands out prominently.
This particular body horror movie is replete with the familiar elements of B-movie traditions, unfolding the story of an extraterrestrial parasite that crash-lands on Earth, hitching a ride on a meteor, and proceeds to create chaos in a small town in South Carolina. “Slither” doesn’t skimp on the stomach-churning horror, relying heavily on practical effects to thoroughly unsettle the audience. It’s an exhilarating and unconventional cinematic experience that endures as a cult classic, even though it didn’t perform well at the box office.
Eraserhead (1977)
David Lynch is renowned for his distinctive and experimental approach to filmmaking, and his devoted fans continue to delve into the intricacies of his enigmatic and imaginative mind. Among his works, 1977’s “Eraserhead” stands out as one of his most exceptional creations.
Similar to other cult classic films, “Eraserhead” earned its reputation through multiple late-night screenings in theaters, perfectly encapsulating the eerie and unsettling atmosphere that can send shivers down your spine. With its portrayal of mutant babies, deformed singers, and a dark, foreboding ambiance, this David Lynch masterpiece exemplifies the epitome of cult horror cinema.
Event Horizon (1990)
Event Horizon, an often overlooked cult horror film, is a cinematic gem. It’s based on a story penned by Phillip Eisner, and it was Paul W. S. Anderson who took the directorial helm, following his successful work on Mortal Kombat. The plot unfolds in the year 2047 when the rescue ship Lewis and Clark receives a distress signal from the supposedly lost vessel, The Event Horizon, missing for seven years. Once a team of rescuers boards the ship, they quickly realize that this encounter holds much darker and deadlier secrets, putting their lives in grave peril.
The film boasts a talented ensemble cast, with notable names such as Laurence Fishburne, Sam Neill, and Jason Isaacs, who bring this claustrophobic narrative imbued with Lovecraftian elements to life. As crew members meet grisly fates one by one, the survivors come to a horrifying revelation: the ship’s systems have gained sentience, and it’s using its advanced drive to traverse in and out of a nightmarish dimension akin to hell, each journey claiming more victims.
While the film had a production cost of $60 million and struggled to recoup even half of that at the box office, time has elevated Event Horizon’s status, now recognized as one of the finest horror tales set in the unforgiving expanse of space.
Jennifer’s Body (2009)
Jennifer’s Body, released in 2009, was a surprising disappointment despite having big-name stars like Megan Fox and a screenplay by Diablo Cody, who had previously won an Oscar for Juno. The film, centered around a young girl transforming into a monstrous demon after a ritual gone awry, didn’t resonate with mainstream audiences and faced criticism from reviewers.
However, those who did watch it found it quite enjoyable, and it later gained recognition as a feminist horror classic. Over the years, Jennifer’s Body has amassed a dedicated cult following, and both the film and Megan Fox have received more positive attention. Hopefully, this newfound appreciation will extend to Cody’s upcoming horror comedy, “Lisa Frankenstein,” slated for release in 2024.
Re-Animator (1985)
Re-Animator achieved its cult status during the home video release frenzy of the 1980s and became a highly sought-after VHS tape for anyone eager to witness the film’s growing notoriety.
Adapted from an H.P. Lovecraft tale, Re-Animator narrates the saga of Herbert West, who revives his deceased professor and proceeds to do the same with various other individuals, resulting in profoundly horrifying outcomes. Particularly infamous for a scene involving a vulnerable young woman and a severed head, Re-Animator unquestionably solidified its cult following.
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Suspiria (1977)
In 1977, the renowned Italian horror director Dario Argento unveiled one of his most iconic works, “Suspiria.” This film is considered a legendary Italian horror classic and is set in a German ballet academy, where a new American student discovers a series of gruesome murders unfolding, raising suspicions about the school’s dark secrets.
“Suspiria” is often recognized for its excessive blood and gore, as well as celebrated for its masterful use of vibrant colors and meticulously designed sets. It possesses all the elements of a quintessential cult horror movie. In 2018, there was a controversial remake of the film, which the original director vehemently disliked.
The Cabin in the Woods (2011)
“The Cabin in the Woods” is a sci-fi horror film with a screenplay by Joss Whedon and direction by Drew Goddard. It was originally filmed in 2009 but faced delays in its release due to MGM’s financial troubles. Eventually, Lionsgate acquired the rights and decided to release it in April 2012, just before the release of “The Avengers,” capitalizing on Chris Hemsworth’s rising popularity.
Although the film initially underperformed at the box office, it garnered strong reviews and started gaining popularity through word of mouth, especially after Joss Whedon’s success with “The Avengers.” “The Cabin in the Woods” has developed a devoted fanbase since its release, as it offers a unique and meta-commentary take on the horror genre. Revealing more about the plot would spoil the experience, but it has become a must-see for many horror enthusiasts.
Night of the Living Dead (1968)
Night of the Living Dead played a crucial role in launching the horror trend of the ’70s and ’80s, establishing itself as a pioneer in the modern zombie film genre and one of the greatest in that category. This movie also exemplifies the creative resourcefulness of filmmakers in the 1960s, as director George A. Romero managed to shoot the entire film in a Pittsburgh suburb with an initial budget of just $6,000.
Upon its initial release, the film generated significant controversy due to its subject matter and the explicit portrayal of horror, which was considered quite shocking for the time. This notoriety turned it into a cult classic, as it became a must-see for many, capitalizing on its taboo reputation. Additionally, the film challenged numerous societal norms of the era and served as a direct commentary on the racially charged atmosphere of the 1960s.
The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974)
Tobe Hooper’s 1974 classic, “The Texas Chain Saw Massacre,” had a similar impact on slasher films and the horror genre as “Night of the Living Dead” did for zombie films. Despite containing minimal graphic violence, the film gained notoriety as one of the most controversial movies of its era. Its effectiveness lies in its use of implied violence and terror, contributing to its reputation as one of the all-time great horror films. Although it enjoys widespread popularity today, during the ’70s and ’80s, it had a small yet dedicated fanbase, a status it rightfully earned.
The Thing (1982)
In the 1980s, John Carpenter emerged as a prominent figure in the horror genre, although not all of his films were instant successes. When “The Thing” was initially released, it didn’t achieve widespread acclaim, but it gained a strong following after becoming available on home video. Over time, it has attained cult status and even inspired a prequel in 2011. Today, it is widely recognized as one of the greatest horror movies ever made.
Starring Kurt Russell and Keith David, the film opens with a scene where a man in a helicopter attempts to shoot a sled dog. After the situation is resolved, Clark, the dog handler, takes the dog and places it with the others. It is later revealed that the dog is actually an extraterrestrial creature capable of imitating the appearance of any living organism. This revelation leads to paranoia and suspicion among the members of a research center as they try to determine who might be a host for the shape-shifting alien.
The Evil Dead (1981)
The movie “The Evil Dead” started as a low-budget and relatively unknown horror film but eventually became a significant part of pop culture over the years. While this might seem like it diminishes its status as a cult classic, it gained a cult following early on and became a staple of the VHS era.
What continues to make the original film special is the genuine dedication and commitment shown by everyone involved in its production. “The Evil Dead” also shares a place with other films as one of the most budget-conscious horror movies ever created. Its impact on a whole generation of filmmakers is unquestionable, and the movie still features prominently in horror movie marathons around the world.
Trick ‘r Treat (2009)
“Trick ‘r Treat” is a small-budget film that faced numerous delays and ended up with a direct-to-DVD release in 2007. Typically, such a release suggests a low-quality movie, but “Trick ‘r Treat” surprised viewers with its quality. It’s a Halloween-themed anthology film that beautifully captures the spirit of the holiday, featuring various iconic characters like serial killers, werewolves, ghosts, demons, and zombies. The film quickly gained a dedicated following, earning cult classic status. Over the years, it had limited theatrical runs, and its main character, Sam, became an iconic Halloween figure. Universal Studios Hollywood even created a haunted maze based on the film for their Halloween Horror Nights event. Discussions about a sequel have been ongoing for some time. If you haven’t seen “Trick ‘r Treat,” it’s a must-watch during the Halloween season, as no other film captures the holiday’s essence quite like this one.
The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975)
Arguably the quintessential example of a cult classic is the 1975 horror-comedy-musical, “The Rocky Horror Picture Show.” Much like other films in this category, it gained popularity through midnight showings, where attendees were encouraged to dress up, bring props, and engage in interactive banter with the movie and each other. Even today, this iconic film can be enjoyed at midnight screenings in theaters worldwide. Disney, despite their acquisition of 20th Century Fox, continues to allow this film to be re-released in theaters because they recognize the deep attachment fans have to it, ensuring it remains a cherished tradition.
The story kicks off in a seemingly innocuous manner, with a couple experiencing a flat tire. However, it takes a rapid plunge into the bizarre when they become ensnared in the mansion of Dr. Frank-N-Furter, an eccentric scientist known for his crossdressing tendencies. This role remains one of Tim Curry’s most defining and memorable performances.
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