The Best Horror Movies to Watch This Halloween

Horror movies are a cornerstone of the Halloween-hunting experience. Whether it's the gripping suspense of a vintage horror movie or the heart-pounding shocks of a contemporary thriller, these films are an essential part of our Halloween tradition. So, turn down the lights, grab some popcorn and prepare to scream, because Halloween wouldn't be as spooky without them.

 

Unveiling the Classics - Top 10 Classic Horror Movies

Classic horror films hold a hallowed place in cinematic history, shaping the genre and leaving an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.

As we explore the history of classic horror, we'll journey deeper into the haunting realms of each era, celebrating the films that have continued to haunt our dreams. Join us on this spooky expedition through the mesmerising world of classic horror cinema.

 

1. Psycho (1960)

Directed by Alfred Hitchcock, "Psycho" is a psychological horror masterpiece that follows the unsettling events at the Bates Motel. When Marion Crane, a young woman, embezzles money and takes refuge at the motel, she encounters the mysterious owner, Norman Bates. The film delves into themes of obsession, duality, and madness, culminating in one of cinema's most iconic and terrifying shower scenes.

2. The Shining (1980)

Based on Stephen King's novel, Stanley Kubrick's "The Shining" is a haunting tale of isolation and supernatural terror. Jack Torrance, played by Jack Nicholson, becomes the winter caretaker of the eerie Overlook Hotel, where paranormal forces unravel his sanity. As the hotel's malevolent spirits exert their influence, his family's descent into madness takes a chilling turn.

3. The Exorcist (1973)

Loosely based on actual events, "The Exorcist" is a terrifying exploration of demonic possession. When young Regan MacNeil exhibits disturbing behaviour, her mother seeks the help of two priests to perform an exorcism. The film's intense and horrifying scenes shocked audiences and established itself as a classic of the horror genre.

4. Nosferatu (1922)

A silent classic, "Nosferatu" is one of the earliest vampire films. It tells the story of Count Orlok, a vampire who terrorises a small town. This unauthorised adaptation of Bram Stoker's "Dracula" introduced the world to a truly eerie and unforgettable vampire, setting a precedent for the horror genre.

5. Frankenstein (1931)

Directed by James Whale, "Frankenstein" is a pioneering film in the horror genre. It follows Dr. Henry Frankenstein's experiment to reanimate the dead, resulting in the creation of the iconic, yet misunderstood, Frankenstein's Monster. The film explores themes of science, morality, and the consequences of playing with life and death.

6. Dracula (1931)

Tod Browning's "Dracula" stars Bela Lugosi as the iconic vampire Count Dracula. The film introduces Dracula's arrival in England and his bloodthirsty encounters with the living. Lugosi's portrayal set the standard for future Dracula depictions and solidified the character's place in cinematic history.

7. The Bride of Frankenstein (1935)

James Whale's sequel to "Frankenstein" continues the tale of Dr. Frankenstein and his monstrous creation. The film explores themes of loneliness and acceptance as the Monster seeks a companion. "The Bride of Frankenstein" is celebrated for Boris Karloff's enduring performance as the Monster.

8. The Mummy (1932)

"The Mummy" explores the consequences of tampering with ancient Egyptian curses. Imhotep, played by Boris Karloff, is resurrected after a forbidden ritual. As he seeks to reunite with his lost love, the film blends supernatural elements with Egyptian mysticism, creating a timeless classic.

9. King Kong (1933)

"King Kong," is a groundbreaking monster film that combines adventure and horror. The film follows a filmmaker's expedition to Skull Island, where they encounter the colossal and awe-inspiring King Kong. The film's innovative special effects and iconic scenes have left an indelible mark on cinema.

10. The Wolf Man (1941)

"The Wolf Man," directed by George Waggner, delves into the lore of lycanthropy. Larry Talbot, portrayed by Lon Chaney Jr., returns to his ancestral home in Wales and is bitten by a werewolf. He grapples with his cursed fate as he transforms into a werewolf during full moons. The film is a classic exploration of man's struggle against his own dark nature.

 

10 Must-Watch Modern Scares

The horror genre has undergone a fascinating evolution over the years, continually reinventing itself to terrify and captivate audiences. While classic horror films from the past, like "Psycho" and "The Shining," set the foundation for the genre, the modern horror landscape showcases remarkable diversity.

Sub-genres such as psychological horror, found footage and supernatural horror have emerged, each offering unique thrills.

 

Found Footage Horror Movies

Found footage horror immerses viewers in a realistic experience where events are captured by the characters themselves, adding authenticity. Shaky camera work and amateur cinematography intensify the dread, convincing you that you're witnessing terrifying events. Titles like "The Blair Witch Project" and "Paranormal Activity" set the standard. These films thrive on suspense, eerie silence, and sudden shocks, blurring the line between fiction and reality.

Psychological Horror Movies

Going beyond jump scares, psychological horror delves into the human psyche, exploring insanity, paranoia, and existential dread. Classics like "The Shining" and "Psycho" masterfully manipulate reality, leaving you questioning the characters' sanity and your own. The fear in psychological horror lingers, making it a genre that toys with your thoughts and emotions.

Supernatural Horror Movies

Supernatural horror taps into fear of the unknown, blending elements of the paranormal, ghosts, and otherworldly entities. Films like "The Conjuring" and "The Exorcist" depict chilling portrayals of supernatural forces. They build suspense through eerie visuals, ominous sounds, and well-crafted jump scares, exploiting our primal fears of the unexplainable.

 

Here are our top 10 modern horror films:

1. Get Out (2017)

Get Out blends horror with social commentary as it follows Chris Washington, an African-American man, who visits his white girlfriend's family estate. What begins as an attempt to bridge racial divides soon takes a terrifying turn as Chris uncovers disturbing secrets about the family and their sinister practices.

2. A Quiet Place (2018)

In a world overrun by blind, sound-sensitive creatures, a family must live in silence to survive. A Quiet Place is a nerve-wracking tale of survival as the family navigates a post-apocalyptic landscape, striving to avoid making the slightest noise that could attract deadly attention.

3. Hereditary (2018)

Hereditary delves into a family's dark and supernatural legacy. After the death of her secretive mother, Annie Graham's family begins to unravel as eerie and unsettling events plague their lives. Annie must confront terrifying ancestral forces that threaten her family's sanity and lives.

4. The Babadook (2014)

The Babadook explores the psychological horrors of grief and motherhood. A widowed mother and her young son face a sinister presence that emerges from a mysterious children's book. The film brilliantly combines supernatural elements with deeply personal and chilling psychological themes.

5. The Witch (2015)

Set in colonial New England, The Witch tells the haunting tale of a Puritan family exiled to the wilderness. As they attempt to build a new life, malevolent forces lurking in the woods begin to torment them, testing their faith and driving them to madness.

6. It Follows (2014)

In It Follows, a supernatural entity relentlessly pursues its victims after a cursed sexual encounter. The film offers a fresh take on the horror genre, blending suspense, tension, and an eerie atmosphere to create an unsettling experience.

7. The Conjuring (2013)

Based on real-life paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren, The Conjuring explores their chilling investigation of a haunted farmhouse. The film delivers a classic haunted house narrative, filled with spine-tingling scares and a sense of dread.

8. The Descent (2005)

A group of adventurous women explores an uncharted cave system in The Descent. What begins as a thrilling expedition turns into a fight for survival when they encounter predatory creatures lurking in the dark.

9. The Sixth Sense (1999)

The Sixth Sense is a psychological thriller with a supernatural twist. Child psychologist Dr. Malcolm Crowe treats a young boy who claims to see and communicate with the dead. As he delves deeper into the boy's world, Crowe discovers chilling secrets and an unexpected connection.

10. Don't Breathe (2016)

In Don't Breathe, a group of burglars targets the home of a blind war veteran, thinking it will be an easy score. However, they soon find themselves trapped in a deadly game of cat and mouse as the blind man reveals his own sinister secrets and resourcefulness.

 

The 10 Scariest Horror Movies of All Time

The art of crafting the scariest horror movie lies in a delicate balance of suspense, jump scares, and psychological horror. Suspense is the backbone of the genre, building tension and anticipation as the audience's fears slowly materialise. It keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, waiting for the next frightful revelation. Jump scares provide those heart-pounding moments that jolt the audience from their comfort zones, delivering unexpected shocks that linger long after the credits roll.

 

1. The Conjuring (2013)

The Conjuring stands out for its spine-tingling atmosphere and inspired by real events tagline. Paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren tackle one of their most chilling cases, as they help a family terrorised by a malevolent presence in their farmhouse. The film's terrifying moments are amplified by the feeling of helplessness in the face of the supernatural.

2. Insidious (2010)

Insidious skillfully weaves psychological horror with paranormal elements. When a family moves into a new home, they discover their son has inexplicably entered a comatose state, trapped in a perilous astral realm. The film's expertly crafted jump scares and eerie suspense make it a standout in modern horror.

3. Sinister (2012)

Sinister excels at building an atmosphere of dread through its found footage style. A true-crime writer discovers a series of disturbing home movies that unveil a malevolent deity, Bagul, linked to a series of gruesome murders. The film's unsettling visuals and the enigmatic, relentless villain make it a chilling experience.

4. Hereditary (2018)

Hereditary delves into the depths of psychological horror and family trauma. After the death of her secretive mother, Annie Graham's family unravels as they confront their dark ancestry. The film's slow-burning tension and shocking revelations culminate in a horrifying climax, leaving audiences with lingering unease.

5. The Babadook (2014)

The Babadook explores the psychological toll of grief and motherhood. A single mother and her young son are tormented by a sinister pop-up book character, the Babadook, which threatens to consume them both. The film's unsettling portrayal of maternal stress and the eerie presence of the titular character combine for a harrowing experience.

6. The Witch (2015)

The Witch immerses viewers in the supernatural paranoia of 17th-century New England. A Puritan family's banishment from their community leads to encounters with malevolent forces in the woods. The film's slow-burning dread and historical authenticity create a truly unsettling ambience.

7. The Exorcist (1973)

The Exorcist remains a horror classic due to its chilling tale of demonic possession. A young girl, Regan, becomes possessed by a malevolent entity, and her mother seeks the help of two priests to perform an exorcism. The film's iconic moments of horror, including the head-spinning and levitation scenes, still terrify audiences.

8. A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)

A Nightmare on Elm Street introduces Freddy Krueger, a vengeful spirit who haunts the dreams of teenagers. Krueger's ability to kill them in their sleep adds a unique layer of terror, blending dreams and reality. The film's surreal, nightmarish sequences are both disturbing and innovative.

9. The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974)

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre is infamous for its raw, gritty, and relentless terror. A group of friends encounters a family of deranged cannibals in rural Texas, resulting in a relentless pursuit that showcases the brutality of human nature. The film's documentary-like style and visceral horror set it apart.

10. The Shining (1980)

The Shining combines psychological horror with supernatural elements. Jack Torrance, a writer, takes his family to an isolated hotel for the winter, but as the hotel becomes snowed in, his sanity deteriorates, leading to terrifying consequences. The film's eerie atmosphere, iconic visuals, and Jack Nicholson's unhinged performance make it an enduring masterpiece of horror cinema.

 

The 10 Best New Horror Movies of 2023

Although 2023 is far from over, this year has already delivered groundbreaking and spine-chilling horror films that have left audiences captivated. Here’s a rundown of what we’ve seen so far, making up the best new horror movies 2023:

 

1. Saw X

In search of a life-altering cure, John Kramer embarks on a journey to Mexico. However, what he finds there shakes him to the core - the entire operation is a malicious ruse designed to exploit the most vulnerable individuals. This discovery ignites a transformation in John, leading the notorious serial killer to employ his twisted ingenuity. Armed with deranged contraptions and traps, he sets out to exact his own form of justice on the deceitful con artists, forever altering the course of their lives.

2. The Exorcist: Believer

When his daughter, Angela, and her friend, Katherine, begin to display unsettling signs of demonic possession, a chilling sequence of events is set into motion. This compels Victor Fielding, a devoted single father, to confront the most sinister realms of malevolence. Consumed by fear and desperation, he embarks on a harrowing journey in search of Chris MacNeil, the only living soul who has previously confronted such unspeakable evil.

3. No One Will Save You

Emmy-nominated actress Kaitlyn Dever takes the lead role in this unique film, portraying Brynn, a young woman living in isolation. Brynn's life takes a surreal turn when her home is unexpectedly invaded by extraterrestrial beings. What makes this movie truly stand out is its remarkable use of minimal dialogue, with only five spoken words throughout the entire film.

4. The Nun II

Following the events of the initial film, this relentless evil begins its ominous expansion in 1956, terrorising a town in France, after news of the priest's violent death circulates. Sister Irene takes it upon herself to delve into the murder investigation, only to unearth the truth—an unholy demon, Valak, the very entity that once haunted her as a nun, awaits her once more.

5. A Haunting in Venice

In his retirement, residing in self-imposed seclusion, Poirot reluctantly accepts an invitation to a seance held at a haunted palazzo. His peaceful life takes a sudden turn as he becomes embroiled in a realm of enigmatic figures and concealed truths following a shocking murder among the assembled guests.

6. Five Nights at Freddie’s

The story centres on Mike, a troubled young man who has taken on the responsibility of caring for his 10-year-old sister, Abby. Mike's life is overshadowed by the haunting mystery of his younger brother's unsolved disappearance, which occurred over a decade ago. Struggling with unemployment and desperately needing to secure a job to retain custody of Abby, Mike seizes an opportunity to work as a night security guard at the long-abandoned Freddy Fazbear's Pizzeria. However, Mike's decision will soon prove to be much more than he bargained for. With the assistance of Vanessa, a local police officer, Mike's nights at Freddy's will take a chilling turn as he delves into inexplicable supernatural encounters, plunging him into the heart of an unspeakable nightmare.

7. Totally Killer

Over three decades have passed since the harrowing events that claimed the lives of three teenagers on a fateful Halloween night. Now, the notorious killer resurfaces, thirsting for another victim on this ominous date. Enter Jamie, a 17-year-old girl who finds herself confronting the masked maniac. Their eerie encounter takes a bizarre twist as Jamie is inadvertently transported back in time to the year 1987. Jamie is not alone in her quest to thwart the psychopathic killer; she joins forces with her teenage mother in a determined effort to bring this reign of terror to an end once and for all.

8. Knock at the Cabin

Amidst their idyllic vacation at a secluded cabin nestled deep within the woods, a young girl and her parents find themselves plunged into a nightmarish ordeal. Suddenly, their peaceful retreat is shattered when four armed strangers infiltrate their haven, presenting them with a chilling ultimatum that could prevent an impending apocalypse. Stricken with confusion and fear, cut off from the outside world, the family grapples with an agonizing decision that could shape their destiny and determine the fate of all.

9. Scream VI

Four resilient survivors of the Ghostface murders decide to leave the haunting memories of Woodsboro behind and seek a fresh start in the vibrant backdrop of New York City. Their hope for a brighter future, though, quickly morphs into a harrowing battle for survival as a relentless new killer, embarks on a ruthless rampage. Against the relentless onslaught of terror, they must stand united to unmask the new masked menace and put an end to the reign of terror before it consumes their lives once more.

10. M3GAN

M3GAN represents an astonishing breakthrough in artificial intelligence, a lifelike doll meticulously engineered to serve as the ultimate childhood companion and a parent's trusted assistant. Gemma, a gifted roboticist, created M3GAN with the ability to listen, observe, and adapt while seamlessly transitioning between the roles of friend, mentor, playmate, and guardian. However, when unforeseen circumstances make Gemma the unexpected guardian of her 8-year-old niece, she makes the life-altering choice to introduce the young girl to a prototype of M3GAN. Little does she know, this decision will set in motion a chain of events that no one could have anticipated, with consequences beyond imagination.

 

Halloween Movies for Kids

Children can delight in the spooky fun of kids' horror movies while ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. These films can offer an age-appropriate introduction to the horror genre; kids can revel in the thrill of friendly ghosts, wacky monsters, and whimsical adventures that ignite their creativity. Watching these Halloween movies for kids is the perfect way to spend the spookiest night of the year.

 

1. Hocus Pocus (1993)

In the bewitching town of Salem, Massachusetts, a teenager inadvertently brings a trio of resurrected witches back to life on Halloween night. With the help of his sister and a friendly zombie, they must thwart the witches' sinister plans.

2. Casper (1995)

When a friendly young ghost named Casper befriends a living girl named Kat, their adventures in a haunted mansion uncover family secrets and a quest to bring Casper's ghostly uncles back to life.

3. Monster House (2006)

Three kids suspect their neighbour's eerie house is alive and devouring anyone who crosses its path. They embark on a spine-tingling adventure to stop the malevolent house.

4. Hotel Transylvania (2012)

Dracula operates a resort for monsters seeking a break from the human world. However, his carefully controlled world turns topsy-turvy when a human stumbles upon the hotel.

5. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, discovers the magic of Christmas and attempts to bring it to his spooky realm, leading to whimsical chaos.

6. Coraline (2009)

In a new home, Coraline finds a secret door that leads to an alternate world where her "Other" parents seem perfect. But as she unravels the eerie truth, she must confront a sinister entity.

7. Corpse Bride (2005)

Victor, a nervous groom, accidentally proposes to a deceased bride while rehearsing his vows. He's whisked away to the Land of the Dead, caught in a love triangle between the living and the deceased.

8. ParaNorman (2012)

Norman has the ability to see and speak to ghosts, which leads him to uncover a centuries-old curse that threatens his town. He must break the curse with the help of his quirky companions.

9. Frankenweenie (2012)

Young Victor brings his beloved pet dog Sparky back to life, but unintended consequences follow. Victor must protect Sparky from the town's fearful reaction.

10. The Addams Family (1991)

The eccentric Addams family must adjust to life in the "normal" world when a grifter infiltrates their lives and plots to steal their vast fortune.

 

Creating a Halloween Movie Marathon

When it comes to curating the perfect Halloween movie marathon, it's all about striking a balance between timeless classics, recent releases that offer fresh scares, and the most spine-tingling films ever made. By including a diverse selection, you can cater to various tastes, from fans of vintage horror to those who crave modern suspense.

Themed Marathons

Elevate your Halloween movie marathon experience by embracing themed marathons that add an extra layer of spookiness. Dive into the eerie world of "Haunted Houses," where you'll explore the most chilling abodes in horror history. Venture into the realm of "Supernatural Spirits" and witness the most malevolent ghosts, demons, and otherworldly entities in cinematic history. These themed marathons not only enhance the Halloween fun but also provide a cohesive and immersive viewing experience that will keep everyone on the edge of their seats.

 

Where to Watch The Best Horror Movies

Streaming Services

If you're eager to dive into the best horror movies of 2023, streaming services are your go-to destination. You can easily find these spine-chilling titles on popular platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and HBO Max. These streaming giants offer an extensive library of horror films, both new and classic, available at your fingertips. Whether you prefer supernatural scares or psychological thrillers, you'll find something to satisfy your appetite for fear.

Physical DVDs

For die-hard horror enthusiasts, there's something special about owning physical copies of your favourite films. Use Amazon, HMV or your local supermarket to buy DVDs, Blu-rays, or even limited-edition box sets for a tangible connection to the world of horror cinema. Physical copies often come with bonus features, director's commentary, and exclusive artwork that enhances the overall experience. Plus, they make for a fantastic display in your home theatre or movie collection.

 

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