Why wait for Halloween? Horror movies are for every time of the year, and if you’re a huge fan of horror, you must have already heard about all the movies on this list. But for all the newbies out there, there are some horror movies that inflicted sheer terror on seasoned horror fans. These films have had a significant cultural impact and even shaped the horror genre as a whole. The convincing performances sold the horror aspect.
Here are the top 5 scariest horror movies ranked by horror fans
The Exorcist (1973, 122 minutes)
Director: William Friedkin
Based on William Peter Blatty’s novel, The Exorcist is hailed as the scariest horror film ever made. The story of a young girl, Regan, possessed by a malevolent entity. The ensuing exorcism performed by two priests has left a mark on the genre. The film’s use of unsettling imagery, realistic special effects, and a haunting score by Mike Oldfield creates an atmosphere of dread. The practical effects, such as Regan’s head spinning 360 degrees and her levitation, combined with the intense performances, especially by Linda Blair and Max von Sydow, make The Exorcist a horrifying experience. It continues to terrify fans to this day.
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Hereditary (2018, 127 minutes)
Director: Ari Aster (Directorial Debut)
Hereditary is a modern masterpiece of horror. It explores themes of family trauma, grief, and the supernatural. We follow the Graham family, who begin to unravel dark secrets after the death of their grandmother. Toni Collette’s portrayal of the grieving mother, Annie, is intense and raw, adding depth to the film’s disturbing narrative. She has been praised even to this day for her performance. Hereditary is known for its disturbing imagery and the horrifying climax. The detailed direction and unsettling atmosphere make it a standout in contemporary horror. There’s a scene that would even make the biggest gore fans flinch. It was even referenced in Scream 5 (2022) as a favourite horror film of one of the main characters.
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The Shining (1980, 144 minutes)
Director: Stanley Kubrick
Stephen King’s novel, The Shining, is a seminal work in the horror genre. The descent of Jack Torrance into madness while caretaking the isolated Overlook Hotel is terrifying. The scene “Here’s Johnny!” is one of the most iconic memes. But aside from that, Kubrick’s direction, the eerie setting, and Nicholson’s iconic performance contribute to the film’s terrifying impact. The use of long tracking shots and the ominous score by Wendy Carlos and Rachel Elkind adds so much to the atmosphere. The way the film explores isolation and insanity is what makes The Shining a deeply unsettling experience. The long-awaited sequel, Doctor Sleep, directed by Mike Flanagan, is also incredible and worth the watch.
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Ringu (1998, 95 minutes) – Japan
Director: Hideo Nakata
East Asian horror is the pinnacle of horror. Ringu is one of the most influential horror films of the 1990s and a fundamental watch for Japanese horror. The film tells the story of a cursed videotape that causes anyone who watches it to die within seven days. The creepy atmosphere, the unsettling visuals of Sadako crawling out of a television, and the film’s ability to build tension through minimalistic storytelling make Ringu a chilling experience. It will probably make you hesitate to turn on the television ever again. Its success led to numerous remakes and adaptations, including the popular American version, The Ring.
The Wailing (2016, 156 minutes) – South Korea
Director: Na Hong-jin
The Wailing is a South Korean horror-thriller that blends supernatural elements with detective noir. The film follows a policeman investigating a series of mysterious deaths and illnesses in a rural village. As the story unfolds, it delves into shamanism, possession, and the clash between modern and traditional beliefs. The film’s careful pacing and complex narrative make it a disturbing and thought-provoking horror film. The performances, especially by the lead actor Kwak Do-won, add to the film’s intensity.
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