Halloween is well known for its eerie atmospheres, scares and horror movies. Whether you are looking for scream fests or bone-chilling classics, here we give you a list of the top 10 horror movies to watch this Halloween!
1. The Exorcist (1972)
Director: William Friedkin
Why Should You Watch?
It's no lie that any Halloween movie list is incomplete unless you add The Exorcist to your list! This horror movie will be sure to frighten you as it sees a young girl possessed by a demonic entity. This movie shocked audiences when it was released and is still considered one of the scariest movies ever made to this day.
The unsettling special effects, creepy atmosphere, and unforgettable performances make this movie a must-see this Halloween.
Top Fright?
The infamous head-spinning scene in the movie has been haunting viewers of the exorcist for decades.
2. Halloween (1978)
Director: John Carpenter
Why Should You Watch?
Halloween is the film that defined the slasher genre which introduced the relentless Michael Myers, a masked killer stalking teenagers. With tension-building direction and its minimalist score, this movie will have you jumping out of your seat at every shadow.
Top Fright?
The slow menacing approach of Michael Myers as he stalks his prey.
3. Hereditary (2018)
Director: Ari Aster
Why Should You Watch?
Hereditary is a modern masterpiece which combines family drama with supernatural horror. The movie unravels like a nightmare with a terrifying blend of psychological horror and shocking imagery. The move is deeply unsettling and offers a slow-burn intensity.
Top Fright?
The disturbing realization of a family curse builds to a shocking conclusion that lingers in the mind long after the movie ends.
4. The Shining (1980)
Director: Stanley Kubrick
Why You Should Watch?
Based on the novel by Stephen King, The Shining follows Jack Torrance's descent into madness whilst he is caring for the isolated Overlook Hotel. The iconic performance from Jack Nicholson and Kubrick's unsettling direction creates a sense of doom that builds into sheer terror.
Top Fright?
The moment we see young Danny ride his tricycle into the hallway, encountering the ghostly Grady twins.
5. The Conjuring (2013)
Director: James Wan
Why You Should Watch?
This movie is based on the real-life paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren, The Conjuring set the stage for a universe of horror films. The Conjuring's combination of well-executed jump scares and classic haunted house scares will make you rethink spending time alone in dark rooms.
Top Fright?
The scene with the clapping hands which is a perfect example of how timing and tension can create spine-tingling terror.
6. A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
Director: Was Craven
Why You Should Watch?
Freddy Krueger, with his razor-sharp glove and scarred face, has been haunting dreams for generations. Wes Craven's A Nightmare on Elm Street introduces the concept of a killer who attacks his victims whilst they sleep. This movie blends surreal horror with slasher elements.
Top Fright?
Freddy emerging from the walls or even worse, entering your dreams!
7. Get Out (2017)
Director: Jordan Peele
Why You Should Watch?
The movie Get Out blends psychological horror with social commentary in an utterly unique way. The story of Chris, an African American man who visits his white girlfriend's family, slowly unravels into a terrifying exploration of identity and control. The sharp direction and suspenseful pacing from Jordan Peele make this a modern-day horror essential.
Top Fright?
The moment that Chris is sent into the "Sunken Place," a metaphorical void that visualizes his helplessness.
8. Follows (2014)
Director: David Robert Mitchell
Why You Should Watch?
The movie It Follows has an unsettling concept. A curse passed through sexual contact that results in a relentless, and slow pursuer. During the movie, the feel of constant dread, along with its indie aesthetic, creates a terrifying and unique experience.
Top Fright?
The slow-moving entity that always walks towards its victims, appearing randomly in the background, adds layers of paranoia.
9. The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)
Director: Tobe Hooper
Why You Should Watch?
A gritty and brutal classic, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre is a horrifying tale of a group of friends who fall victim to a family of cannibals. The low-budget production and documentary-like style add to the realism, making The Texas Chainsaw Massacre one of the most disturbing films of its era.
Top Fright?
The sudden appearance of Leatherface and the deafening sound of his chainsaw remain the iconic horror moments of this movie.
10. The Witch (2015)
Director: Robert Eggers
Why You Should Watch?
The Witch, set in 17th century New England uses historical accuracy to create a sense of isolation and unease. The story of a family torn apart by paranoia and suspicions, believing that their youngest daughter is a witch is very unsettling. This movie is a slow-burn horror with atmospheric dread.
Top Fright?
The eerie presence of the family's goat, Black Phillip and the eventual reveal of his true nature which is horrifying.
Whether you are into newer psychological thrillers or you prefer classic horror, these top 10 horror movies are sure to make your Halloween night terrifyingly entertaining.
