Horror is a diverse genre, pushing the boundaries of budgets and props. From the paranormal to serial killers, here are the top twenty films of all time.
When it comes to horror movies, there are a few that stand out as genre-defining. These are the movies that have struck their audiences with pure fear, leaving a lasting impact and setting the standard for what a good horror movie should be. From classics to modern masterpieces, here are the top 20 horror films of all time, in no particular order.
1. The Exorcist (1973)
Often hailed as the best horror movie of all time, The Exorcist remains a benchmark in the genre. The story of a possessed young girl and the priests who try to save her is a terrifying and compelling tale that has stood the test of time.
2. The Shining (1980)
Based on the Stephen King novel, The Shining is a psychological horror masterpiece. Director Stanley Kubrick’s meticulous attention to detail and Jack Nicholson’s iconic performance make this film a must-watch for any horror fan.
3. Halloween (1978)
John Carpenter’s Halloween introduced the world to one of the most iconic horror villains of all time, Michael Myers. The film’s simple but effective storytelling and suspenseful atmosphere have solidified its place in horror history.
4. A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
This slasher film introduced audiences to Freddy Krueger, a dream-stalking killer with a signature razor glove. A Nightmare on Elm Street has spawned multiple sequels and a remake, but the original remains a horror classic.
5. The Silence of the Lambs (1991)
Combining elements of horror, thriller, and crime, The Silence of the Lambs tells the chilling story of FBI trainee Clarice Starling (Jodie Foster) and her encounters with the infamous cannibalistic serial killer, Hannibal Lecter (Andy Hopkins).
6. The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974)
This low-budget horror film from director Tobe Hooper explored the depravity of humanity through the Sawyers (later renamed the Hewitts), a family of cannibals. Its gritty, intense tone and disturbing imagery have set the stage for the slasher subgenre.
7. Psycho (1960)
Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho has been praised as a masterpiece, arguably one of his best and most famous works. Its shocking twists and turns, along with the iconic shower scene, have cemented its place in pop culture.
8. The Ring (2002)
This American remake of the Japanese horror film Ringu revitalized the genre of J-horror. The Ring tells the story of a cursed videotape that kills whoever watches it within seven days, and it remains a staple in the horror genre.
9. The Haunting (1963)
Considered by many to be one of the scariest ghost stories ever told, The Haunting follows a group of individuals who investigate a haunted house. Its use of suspense and psychological terror are incredibly effective in terrifying its audience.
10. Hellraiser (1987)
Clive Barker’s directorial debut, Hellraiser, brought a new level of gore and terror to the horror genre. The Cenobites – a group of extra-dimensional, sadomasochistic beings who can’t differentiate between pain and pleasure – make for a nightmarish threat.
11. Poltergeist (1982)
Directed by Tobe Hooper and produced by Steven Spielberg, Poltergeist tells the story of a family terrorized by malevolent spirits in their new home. Its blend of family drama and supernatural horror has made it a beloved classic.
12. Scream (1996)
Scream not only revitalised the slasher genre but also satirised it with its self-aware humor. Directed by Wes Craven, this film is a modern horror masterpiece that continues to influence and inspire new horror films.
13. The Blair Witch Project (1999)
This found-footage horror film, directed by Daniel Myrick and Eduardo Sánchez, took the world by storm with its unique style, realistic characters, and terrifying premise. It remains a cult classic and a pioneer in the found footage subgenre.
14. Alien (1979)
Ridley Scott’s sci-fi horror film, Alien, introduced audiences to one of the most feared extraterrestrial creatures in cinema history. Its intense, claustrophobic atmosphere and iconic chestburster scene have solidified its entry into the horror zeitgeist.
15. The Babadook (2014)
This Australian horror film has received critical acclaim for its psychological themes and terrifying depiction of a mother’s descent into madness. With its spine-chilling imagery and heartfelt performances, The Babadook should be on the watch list of every lover of horror.
16. It (2017)
Based on the Stephen King novel, It follows a group of kids in a small town who are terrorised by a shapeshifting being that takes the form of their worst fears. The film’s blend of horror and coming-of-age elements, along with a standout performance by Bill Skarsgård as Pennywise the Clown, has led to the film’s overwhelming popularity.
17. The Conjuring (2013)
Based on a true story, The Conjuring tells the tale of paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren and their encounter with a malevolent entity in a farmhouse. The Conjuring opened the gates for a creepy universe of possessed items and terrifying beings – such as the doll Annabelle.
18. Get Out (2017)
This groundbreaking horror film from director Jordan Peele has been praised for its social commentary and blending of horror and satire. With its unique premise and thought-provoking themes, Get Out surprised and delighted fans in the horror scene.
19. Rosemary’s Baby (1968)
Directed by Roman Polanski, this psychological horror film tells the story of a young mother who begins to suspect that her husband and neighbors are part of a satanic cult. Its unsettling atmosphere and themes of paranoia and isolation have made it a timeless movie.
20. Hereditary (2018)
This modern horror film follows a family mourning the loss of their grandmother and facing supernatural occurrences that may be linked to their family’s dark history. Its visceral scares and standout performances have made Hereditary a compelling watch.
Whether you prefer the classic or new arrivals, each of these horror films has left a lasting impact on audiences. Paranormal or serial killer, all these entries promise spooky atmospheres and terrifying sequences. Grab some popcorn, turn out the lights, and prepare to be entertained.