By CordCutting.com Team
Diving into the spine-chilling realm of horror films is like embarking on a rollercoaster ride through the dark corners of the human psyche. From the eerie shadows cast in the black-and-white classics to the blood-soaked scenes of contemporary cinema, the horror genre has woven itself into the fabric of storytelling, evolving like a shape-shifting entity over time.
As we curate this collection of horror films, we aim to capture the essence of fear in its various forms, from the supernatural to the psychologically twisted. Our selection is a careful dance between the eerie atmospheres of the past and the pulse-pounding terror of the present. We understand that the horror genre is not static; it's a living, breathing entity that morphs with societal fears and technological advances.
We’ll be updating this page regularly, ensuring that your journey through the macabre is always filled with fresh thrills and unexpected nightmares. Here are our top horror movies with ratings courtesy of Scary Meter.
50. ‘Poltergeist’ (1982)
Scary Meter Rating: 6.8
Creepy: 9.1 | Gory: 1.4 | Jumpy: 4.9
“‘Poltergeist’ is the perfect horror movie for beginners. It effectively builds tension and pays tribute to conventions of the genre while remaining a little too colored by Steven Spielberg’s hand to ever reach true terror levels. It’s great at fostering empathy for the film’s main family, zooming in on their emotional balance and thoughts about life and death as the spirit that terrorizes their household grows powerful enough to steal their little girl.
The film was a maverick of practical effects, with urban legends claiming the production was cursed following its use of real skeletons on set. The foreboding utterance of, ‘They’re here,’ by the film’s unsettling child protagonist Carol Anne (Heather O’Rourke) was nightmare fuel for children of the ’80s and its messages about technology inhibiting communication and the decay of suburbia are more relevant today than when it was made.” — Sarah Gottlieb, Staff Writer
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49. ‘Saw’ (2004)
Scary Meter Rating: 6.3
Creepy: 7.1 | Gory: 8.5 | Jumpy: 3.1
“The gleeful gore of the ‘Saw’ franchise may be an acquired taste for some, but once you’re hooked, there's no substitute. If you’re new to Jigsaw’s games, start with the original, which is still the least ridiculous and most competent.” — Stephen Lovely, Editor-in-Chief
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48. ‘Army of Darkness’ (1992)
Scary Meter Rating: 2.7
Creepy: 0.7 | Gory: 7.9 | Jumpy: 1.4
“If you thought ‘The Evil Dead’ and ‘The Evil Dead II’ were ridiculous, get ready for a whole new level of absurdity in the trilogy’s third installment. In “Army of Darkness,” our one-handed hero, Ash (Bruce Campbell), is transported to the Middle Ages, where he escapes execution by Lord Arthur’s men only to accidentally unleash a copy of his body that leads a Deadite army against him.
From the hilariously Monty Python–esque performances to the self-referential one-liners, surreal action choreography, and imaginative creature design, this is a ludicrously fun blockbuster full of homages to classic horror. It has been hugely influential on films ranging from director Sam Raimi’s later Spider-Man films to the Lord of the Rings trilogy, with pop-culture references that persist to this day and a cult following of Deadites who would have a bone to pick with anyone who disagreed that it’s one of the best horror movies of all time. Hail to the king, baby!” — Sarah Gottlieb, Staff Writer
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47. ‘Beau Is Afraid’ (2023)
Scary Meter Rating: 4.8
Creepy: 10 | Gory: 3.3 | Jumpy: 0
“The magic of filmmaking was not wasted on me as a child. Every gruesome slasher scene was as real and as plausible as the last, and it wouldn’t be long after my trip to the theater that I’d be experiencing grotesque death for myself. As a sensible adult, I came to the conclusion that I wasn’t likely to be hunted by a maniac for the foreseeable future (or at least as long as I continued to make sensible adult decisions), and before long the slashing grossed me out more than they did instill any kind of fear.
‘Beau Is Afraid’ completely reimagined the horror genre; tapping into the deep psyche of our most human fears and cranking the anxiety-inducement meter to 100 — rekindling a fear I’d long forgotten and reminding me how frightening a deep sense of paranoia could truly be.” — Octavio De La Cruz, Staff Writer
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46. ‘The Strangers’ (2008)
Scary Meter Rating: 7.7
Creepy: 9.3 | Gory: 2.6 | Jumpy: 7.8
“You could throw on ‘The Strangers’ for me anytime, and the jump scares would still get me. A secluded cabin, a couple hoping for a quiet night, three masked strangers with sinister intentions — it’s a checklist for a movie that’ll make you double-check your doors tonight.
What makes this movie a standout is its ability to turn the familiar setting of home into a heart-pounding battleground. There’s no escape, and the tension builds with each passing moment. ‘The Strangers’ is a relentless psychological assault that makes you question the safety of your own space, serving as a reminder that terror can lurk in the most ordinary places.” — Jordan Nishkian, Staff Writer
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45. ‘Aliens’ (1986)
Scary Meter Rating: 5.5
Creepy: 6.8 | Gory: 5.6 | Jumpy: 6.8
“‘Aliens’ (the Director’s Cut, of course) doesn’t fit as clearly into the horror genre as ‘Alien’ (1979), since it gets more of its scary elements from tense action and jump scares than body horror and gore. Like all of James Cameron’s work, this movie looked amazing for 1986 — from the mechanical loader suits to the terrifying alien queen — and was hugely influential on almost all the sci-fi that came after it. Sigourney Weaver’s realistic, understated performance and on-screen bond with child actress Carrie Henn have made her a strong contender for best female action hero of all time.” — Sarah Gottlieb, Staff Writer
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44. ‘House of Wax’ (2005)
Rated: R | Director: Jaume Collet-Serra
Scary Meter Rating: 6.8
Creepy: 8.9 | Gory: 8.9 | Jumpy: 6.1
“‘House of Wax’ revolves around a group of friends who stumble upon a house made entirely of wax, thinking they’ve hit the jackpot for quirky road trip stories. Little do they know, this seemingly innocent wax haven is a chamber of horrors, and the wax figures are disturbingly realistic.
The importance of ‘House of Wax’ lies in its ability to turn the ordinary into the stuff of nightmares. It takes the familiar and turns them into a terrifying spectacle, keeping you on the edge of your seat as you wonder just how real things can get. And who doesn’t want to watch Paris Hilton’s transformation from hotel heiress to scream queen?” — Jordan Nishkian, Staff Writer
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43. ‘Carrie’ (1976)
Scary Meter Rating: 7.6
Creepy: 8.6 | Gory: 7.2 | Jumpy: 4.5
“From the first moments of its memorable opening sequence, ‘Carrie’ sets the tone for an enduringly unique dreamy-teen-fairytale-turned-nightmare. Geeky, skittish Carrie White (Sissy Spacek) is the target of a bullying incident that gets the popular girls banned from prom, so everyone is confused when her crush — one of her enemies’ boyfriends — asks her to go with him.
The tension between Carrie’s seething, unspoken power and the oppressive forces of her evangelical mother and school environment simmer throughout the film’s surreal buildup to its iconic explosive payoff. It was a significant entry in the New Hollywood movement that specialized in unusual narrative structures and multilayered ambiguity. The movie’s nuanced and terrifying exploration of the monstrous outsider and suppression of female sexuality is burned into our minds forever, with the film acting as a precursor to the ’80s slasher boom.” — Sarah Gottlieb, Staff Writer
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42. ‘The Silence of the Lambs’ (1991)
Scary Meter Rating: 5.9
Creepy: 9.0| Gory: 5.8| Jumpy: 3.0
“Sink into the gripping world of ‘The Silence of the Lambs,’ a classic film that transcends conventional horror boundaries. From the ominous depths of the FBI Behavioral Science Unit to the chilling encounters with an incarcerated genius, this film weaves a narrative web that ensnares the audience from its opening scenes. Unlike traditional horror settings, the brilliance of ‘The Silence of the Lambs’ lies in its psychological intensity, with muted tones and the haunting dance between Jodie Foster’s portrayal of Clarice Starling and Anthony Hopkins’ iconic depiction of Dr. Hannibal Lecter.
The impact of this suspenseful tale reverberates beyond the screen, earning it five Academy Awards, including Best Picture — a feat rare for a horror-thriller. Decades after its release, this iconic production remains a testament to the enduring power of psychological horror and its ability to captivate audiences worldwide.” — Jordan Nishkian, Staff Writer
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41. ‘Let the Right One In’ (2008)
Scary Meter Rating: 5.9
Creepy: 8.3 | Gory: 7.2 | Jumpy: 1.0
“Despite an American remake and 2022 TV series, the original Swedish film adaptation of John Ajvide Lindqvist’s iconic vampire novel ‘Let the Right One In’ was the best of the bunch. The film is a suspenseful slow burn as we get to know bullied and revenge-obsessed 12-year-old Oskar (Kåre Hedebrant), growing up in a bleak Stockholm suburb. ‘Let the Right One In’ is like no other vampire romance you’ve seen. The feelings of loneliness, fear, and self-importance are part of an authentic and thoughtful exploration of what it would feel like to be a cursed immortal, and those universal experiences leave the film with a meaningful takeaway.” — Sarah Gottlieb, Staff Writer
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40. ‘Eraserhead’ (1977)
Scary Meter Rating: 5.2
Creepy: 9.5 | Gory: 4.3 | Jumpy: 0.0
“If director David Lynch had submitted ‘Eraserhead’ for a grade in a Performance Arts class, he would have aced it — and that’s not far from the truth about how the film was made. When he was a young painting student at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, he received a grant to bring this strange vision to life.
The directorial debut that made him a legend is about as weird as it gets: a black-and-white surrealist dreamscape straight from our unconscious fears. Henry’s (Jack Nance) visions and interactions create a highly disturbing montage that gives us a window into his fears about virility, ability to provide and protect, the decaying industrial world, and the fragility of his reality and sanity. This isn’t a beginner’s watch — it’s supposed to make you uncomfortable.” — Sarah Gottlieb, Staff Writer
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39. ‘The Evil Dead’ (1981)
Scary Meter Rating: 6.9
Creepy: 8.6 | Gory: 9.3 | Jumpy: 6.2
“As the first installment in an iconic franchise, ‘The Evil Dead’ was just finding its footing compared to later entries. It must be given its due, though, for sparking a cultural phenomenon that has influenced horror for decades. When a group of college friends rent a run-down cabin in the woods, they find a macabre book that unleashes body-snatching demonic forces bent on uniting them with the undead and ruining their getaway. The rough cuts, POV shots, horrifying makeup, piercing sound design, and practical gore were profoundly innovative for a low-budget production with first-time actors.
Both incredibly disturbing and burst-out-laughing preposterous, the team doubled down on their creative abandon in the later installments, riffing on their own shortcomings in the tongue-in-cheek remake sequel, ‘Evil Dead II’ only six years later. The cult following of Deadites remains loyal decades on, driving many sequels, including 2023’s ‘Evil Dead Rise.’” — Sarah Gottlieb, Staff Writer
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38. ‘Train to Busan’ (2016)
Scary Meter Rating: 6.0
Creepy: 4.4 | Gory: 8.2 | Jumpy: 4.1
“When I saw that one of my favorite Korean actors, Gong Yoo, stars in this film, I had to watch it — even though I’m not a fan of zombie thrillers. Luckily, it didn’t focus so much on the gore, but rather weaved a story of a father mending his relationship with his daughter as they try to survive a zombie outbreak. I thought I’d steeled myself for the emotional trainwreck (pun intended) at the end as a K-drama veteran, but I bawled.
Whether you know Gong Yoo from his brief appearance in ‘Squid Game’ or from his older projects such as ‘Coffee Prince,’ he cemented himself as one of the greatest Korean actors to ever grace the big screen. His ability to take on diverse roles throughout his career shaped him into a jack of all trades. I’ve seen him be goofy in rom-coms, but his performance in this movie was definitely one of his career highlights.” — Deanna Nguyen, Streaming Editor
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37. ‘The Cabin in the Woods’ (2011)
Scary Meter Rating: 5.5
Creepy: 4.9 | Gory: 8.1 | Jumpy: 6.5
“This rollercoaster of a horror film drops you right into the heart of a seemingly typical scary scenario: a group of friends heading to a cabin for a getaway. Despite the uninventive setting, the movie flips the script on horror cliches. The writers behind this film, Joss Whedon and Drew Goddard, throw in every spooky trope you can imagine, but not just for kicks. There’s a purpose — a mind-bending, industry-redefining one.
As the story unfolds, you’re taken on a wild ride that not only messes with your expectations, but also throws a curveball at the entire horror genre. It’s not just a movie; it’s a game-changer, a nod to horror fans, and a cheeky wink at the conventions we’ve grown accustomed to.” — Jordan Nishkian, Staff Writer
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36. ‘The Sixth Sense’ (1999)
Scary Meter Rating: 5.8
Creepy: 8.6 | Gory: 2.5 | Jumpy: 5.9
“The famous ending of M. Night Shyamalan’s most famous work sometimes overshadows the movie itself. But those who watch the film for the first time already knowing how it ends — as I did — will find that it takes remarkably little away from the experience. Some movies are too well made to be spoiled.” — Stephen Lovely, Editor-in-Chief
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35. ‘Jennifer’s Body’ (2009)
Scary Meter Rating: 5.4
Creepy: 5.0 | Gory: 8.0 | Jumpy: 5.5
“If you didn't know ‘Jennifer’s Body’ was doing something artistic, it would be easy to write it off as terrible, with lines such as, ‘You’re such a player-hater,’ and, ‘Nice insult, Hannah Montana.’ That’s exactly what a lot of critics did when it was released, but the cult following it has garnered since proves it was ahead of its time. Despite its over-the-top premise, ‘Jennifer’s Body’ taps into the complexities, obsessions, and jealousies of female friendship, exploring how objectification and forced competition among young women can create a pressure cooker of anxieties. Both Megan Fox and Amanda Seyfried have called this dark comedy horror their favorite project, and it feels like a victory that it eventually got the recognition it deserves.” — Sarah Gottlieb, Staff Writer
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34. ‘A Quiet Place’ (2018)
Scary Meter Rating: 6.5
Creepy: 7.1 | Gory: 1.3 | Jumpy: 8.1
“The only horror movies I can stomach are ones with monsters, and ‘A Quiet Place’ checks that box. I didn’t watch it until recently, and I’m glad I was late to the party because I wouldn’t have had the patience to wait for the sequel or the upcoming spinoff, ‘A Quiet Place: Day One.’ What makes this movie stand out for me is that it includes disability representation, with deaf actress Millicent Simmonds. It’s not only authentic, but also a clever way to provide a way to fight back against the alien creatures that can’t see but can hear a pin drop.
The plot of ‘A Quiet Place’ is more grounded in drama than action, which you wouldn’t expect from a horror movie with monsters. There’s little spoken dialogue, but the movie manages to capture the interpersonal conflicts of the Abbott family while they try to survive in a bleak world ravaged by aliens. It proves that you don’t need to go out guns blazing to do a horror movie, especially when monsters are involved. The fact that John Krasinski and Emily Blunt — a real-life couple — are husband and wife in the movie makes it all the more authentic and relatable.” — Deanna Nguyen, Streaming Editor
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33. ‘Paranormal Activity’ (2007)
Scary Meter Rating: 7.7
Creepy: 8.8 | Gory: 0.1 | Jumpy: 8.9
“Every two years or so, out of all of my favorite horror films I return to the Paranormal Activity franchise the most. The original ‘Paranormal Activity’ tells the story of Micah (Micah Sloat), a day trader, and his girlfriend, Katie (Katie Featherston), a student. The movie begins with Micah taping his everyday life with Katie with the hope of documenting creepy happenings around their home at night to prove that Katie is haunted. What at first seems like a harmless task begins to aggravate the demonic presence that has, indeed, latched itself to Katie her whole life with harrowing results.
Though later franchises failed to capture the glimmering core of the ‘Paranormal Activity’ story, the original installment reached astronomical heights of dread, terror, and curiosity to put all of the puzzle pieces of a haunting together.” — Karen Fischer, Staff Writer
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32. ‘Ju-On: The Grudge’ (2002)
Scary Meter Rating: 7.0
Creepy: 9.1 | Gory: 0.9 | Jumpy: 7.3
“Skip the 2004 American version — and the 2020 reboot, for that matter — and head straight for the original Japanese ‘Ju-On: The Grudge,’ which packs some quality scares into a tight 92-minute runtime.” — Stephen Lovely, Editor-in-Chief
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31. ‘The Birds’ (1963)
Scary Meter Rating: 3.6
Creepy: 5.4 | Gory: 3.8 | Jumpy: 2.9
“This iconic pinnacle of Alfred Hitchcock cinema is one of the most notable horror films of all time. Inspired by a Daphne du Maurier short story and the true events of birds terrorizing a California town, ‘The Birds’ weaves the uprising of nature into its characters’ romantic tension and psychological entanglement. Using deliberate pacing and montage editing to build suspense, it maintains a slick major-studio-produced look that exemplifies what big-budget horror could be to generations of filmmakers.
The film draws audiences into its romantic storyline before upping the pitch of the disturbing occurrences until we are trapped in an utter nightmare symbolizing human corruption, environmental destruction, female wrath, and apocalyptic global forces like communism. The ambiguous ending implying the intelligent design of the events has left viewers debating its implications for decades.” — Sarah Gottlieb, Staff Writer
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30. ‘The Conjuring’ (2013)
Scary Meter Rating: 7.8
Creepy: 9.2 | Gory: 1.3 | Jumpy: 9.1
“James Wan was already a horror legend for ‘Saw’ by the time he directed ‘The Conjuring,’ and the 2013 film cements him as one of the true horror greats. Tight camerawork highlights both the deep character work driving the plot and just the right amount of jump scares that propel the horror forward. As the start of an iconic horror universe, ‘The Conjuring’ has earned its place in horror lore.” — Gabriel Aikins, Staff Writer
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29. 'Us' (2019)
Scary Meter Rating: 6.7
Creepy: 9.4 | Gory: 4.5 | Jumpy: 3.2
“Jordan Peele, the mastermind behind this film, doesn’t just serve up your typical horror flick — his work is all about leaving you with more questions than answers, embedding the movie’s themes and images deep inside your mind. In ‘Us,’ the Wilson family decides to kick back and enjoy a sunny vacation at their beach house, but that peaceful getaway takes a twisted turn when creepy doppelgängers show up with a bone-chilling agenda.
It’s not your run-of-the-mill fright fest; it’s a psychological rollercoaster that messes with your head. The scares aren’t just in the shadows; they’re right there, front and center, hidden in plain sight. As always, Peele crafts a horror masterpiece that’s both thought-provoking and downright terrifying, leaving you questioning reality long after the credits roll.” — Jordan Nishkian, Staff Writer
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28. ‘A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night’ (2014)
Scary Meter Rating: 5.2
Creepy: 10.0 | Gory: 3.3 | Jumpy: 0.0
“Stylish, brutal, and contemplative, ‘A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night’ is unlike anything you’ve seen before. Ana Lily Amirpour combines her Iranian heritage, vampire mythos, and skate culture to create a dizzying, dream-like masterpiece. Stunningly shot in black and white and asking questions about love, justice, and familial obligation, ‘A Girl Walks Home Alone At Night’ will leave viewers thinking long after the credits roll.” — Gabriel Aikins, Staff Writer
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27. 'Midsommar' (2019)
Scary Meter Rating: 6.7
Creepy: 8.8 | Gory: 8.2 | Jumpy: 1.2
“Honestly, you could put any A24 movie on for me, and I’d be fully invested from start to finish, but they really know how to do horror. They’re the production company behind so many great scary movies, like ‘The Witch,’ ‘Hereditary,’ and ‘Talk to Me,’ but my absolute favorite has to be ‘Midsommar.’ It’s brutal, it’s beautiful, and it preys on the audience’s attention from the very beginning.
Unlike most scares that go bump in the night, the setting in ‘Midsommar’ is bright and disarming — and rather than putting you at ease, this serene landscape will put you on the edge of your seat, unable to predict what will go wrong or when it will happen.” — Jordan Nishkian, Staff Writer
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26. ‘The Descent’ (2005)
Scary Meter Rating: 7.8
Creepy: 8.5 | Gory: 7.4 | Jumpy: 9.2
“‘The Descent’ is a truly scary film, doing what horror does best by physically manifesting our most primal fears of the unknown. A woman coping with the aftermath of a tragic accident joins her daredevil girlfriends for a trekking excursion into a cave system, where they find that besides the dark, thin air, and unstable tunnels, they’re facing unthinkable danger from what lives in the cave — and from each other.
The widescreen shots and dark lighting capture both the claustrophobia and endlessness of the allegorical cave setting, while the female-driven Freudian psychological thriller elements drive disturbing parallels about the descent into madness. The film is cleverly crafted to make audiences exhausted by the terror of the caves before the monsters ever show up, doing what few horror films have accomplished by making the humans the scariest thing in the movie and haunting audiences with a resonating sense of existential dread long afterward.” — Sarah Gottlieb, Staff Writer
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Scary Meter Rating: 7.7
Creepy: 8.8 | Gory: 0.8 | Jumpy: 9.3
“The first act of this film is as terrifying as anything on this list. Journeyman director and horror specialist James Wan is a master of straightforward studio scares, and this may be his finest work. What might be most impressive, though, is the unusual way Wan handles the turn into act three. A lesser film may have lost its edge as the cause and logic of the haunting is revealed, and a more abstract one might have avoided explaining anything in the first place. ‘Insidious,’ on the other hand, embraces the implied rules of its own strange world-building and veers unexpectedly into a fast and fun fantasy-horror conclusion.” — Stephen Lovely, Editor-in-Chief
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24. ‘Suspiria’ (1977)
Scary Meter Rating: 7.6
Creepy: 9.5 | Gory: 8.8 | Jumpy: 3.6
“Dive into ‘Suspiria,’ a cinematic masterpiece that forever changed the landscape of horror. This film, directed by Dario Argento, unfolds with an intensity that grabs you from the first frame and refuses to let go. As you step into the eerie halls of a prestigious dance academy, the vibrant colors and haunting soundtrack create an otherworldly atmosphere. ‘Suspiria’ is a sensory experience — a visual and auditory journey that sends chills down your spine.
The impact of this film on the industry is undeniable, as Argento weaves together suspense, supernatural elements, and a touch of surrealism, setting a new standard for horror aesthetics. The use of vivid hues and avant-garde techniques pioneered by Argento has inspired countless filmmakers, leaving an indelible mark on the genre and cementing ‘Suspiria’ as a timeless classic that continues to resonate with horror aficionados.” — Jordan Nishkian, Staff Writer
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23. ‘Jaws’ (1975)
Scary Meter Rating: 4.8
Creepy: 5.0 | Gory: 5.1 | Jumpy: 4.5
“In a genre full of cold, dark nights and shadowy interiors, Steven Spielberg’s summer classic stands out. ‘Jaws’ has the power to scare us senseless even on the sunniest and warmest days of the year. Helped along by an unforgettable musical score and superb cinematography (including iconic use of the dolly zoom), ‘Jaws’ is as scary as things can get when the sun is still out — and maybe as scary as things can get, period.” — Stephen Lovely, Editor-in-Chief
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22. 'The Witch' (2015)
Scary Meter Rating: 6.7
Creepy: 9.4 | Gory: 3.2 | Jumpy: 1.0
“A24 hit the horror sweet spot with this one. ‘The Witch’ is like a cinematic spell that enchanted audiences right from the start. Set in the eerie 1630s New England, this masterclass in atmospheric horror follows a Puritan family that’s been banished from their community and forced to confront something wicked lurking in the woods beyond their new homestead.
Forget jump scares; this film weaves a slow-burning, unsettling narrative that feels like a descent into the dark depths of superstition, choice, and paranoia. The writing is as sharp as a witch's cackle, and the cinematography is a macabre painting come to life.” — Jordan Nishkian, Staff Writer
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21. ‘House’ (1977)
Scary Meter Rating: 3.8
Creepy: 7.5 | Gory: 2.5 | Jumpy: 0.0
“Where is the line between cheesy cult classic and genuine experimental film? Wherever it is, the 1977 Japanese horror classic ‘House’ is there: funny and self-aware, but too creative and visionary to be dismissed as some B-movie oddity. ‘House’ is gleefully gruesome, bewilderingly surreal, and, at times, even beautiful. Consider it mandatory viewing for horror fans.” — Stephen Lovely, Editor-in-Chief
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20. 'The Babadook' (2014)
Scary Meter Rating: 7.6
Creepy: 9.0 | Gory: 0.4 | Jumpy: 4.6
“While a grieving mother is haunted by the violent death of her husband and tries to navigate the complexities of raising her son, a mysterious pop-up book titled ‘Mister Babadook’ appears on their shelf, serving as a sinister catalyst that unleashes a malevolent force to prey on their fears and vulnerabilities.
As the ominous figure of the Babadook infiltrates their home, this film proves that the horror here is not just in the shadows but in the emotional depths, especially as the mother-son duo grapples with their own demons amidst the encroaching terror. ‘The Babadook’ masterfully creates horror within the stark light of day, questioning the very fabric of maternal love and the thin line between grief and the supernatural.” — Jordan Nishkian, Staff Writer
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19. ‘Godzilla’ (1954)
Scary Meter Rating: 1.7
Creepy: 3.3 | Gory: 3.3 | Jumpy: 3.3
“Before Godzilla was duking it out with Mothra and raising his adorable son, he was a film monster unlike any seen before. The original ‘Godzilla’ is more than a cult classic — it’s a genuine masterpiece of horror cinema that makes clever use of techniques that would become the series’ hallmark, syncing special-effects footage using miniatures with regular live-action footage.
The first ‘Godzilla’ was actually realized in two versions: The original Japanese version from 1954 (often called “Gojira”) and the 1956 version for U.S. release, which was retitled “Godzilla: King of the Monsters.” The Americanized version was dubbed and re-edited to add an American character and was the only version widely available Stateside until the 2000s. Both have their merits, but real Godzilla fans nearly universally prefer the 1954 Japanese original.” — Stephen Lovely, Editor-in-Chief
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18. 'Scream' (1996)
Scary Meter Rating: 5.2
Creepy: 4.7 | Gory: 6.9 | Jumpy: 6.2
“‘Scream’ is a timeless classic that is a must-watch for me every Halloween season. The film cleverly deconstructs the slasher genre by blending self-aware humor with genuine suspense and relatable, well-developed characters. All these years later, the franchise is still alive and well because fans care so deeply about these unique characters. Neve Campbell’s portrayal of Sidney Prescott is iconic, and the masked villain, Ghostface, offers intrigue and fright that’s truly captivating. It’s the type of horror movie that's oddly comforting and definitely helps me get into the seasonal Halloween vibes.” — Kate Fann, Staff Writer
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17. ‘The Omen’ (1976)
Scary Meter Rating: 7.8
Creepy: 9.3 | Gory: 1.2 | Jumpy: 1.9
“After accepting a swap of an orphaned child for his stillborn baby, an American diplomat (Gregory Peck) and his wife (Lee Remnick) find their lives filled by unexplained incidents as the boy grows up, receiving disturbing indications that he may be the antichrist who will destroy everyone in his orbit. Director Richard Donner, who went on to direct the legendary ‘Superman’ two years later, pushes character over gore and peppers the film with his signature flourishes of action that make for shots like the memorable impalement scene.
The building tension is released in short, horrific bursts throughout the film, and the audience’s belief is constantly called into question through the ambiguity of Damien’s (Harvey Stephens) role as the antichrist. The film spurred a successful franchise of sequels and remakes, the most recent of which is the brand-new blockbuster ‘The First Omen.’” — Sarah Gottlieb, Staff Writer
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16. 'Get Out' (2017)
Scary Meter Rating: 5.7
Creepy: 9.0 | Gory: 2.2 | Jumpy: 3.0
“When a young man visits his girlfriend’s family estate for a weekend getaway, he finds himself trapped in a disturbingly sinister reality. Jordan Peele skillfully blends social commentary with bone-chilling thrills.
The film takes a sledgehammer to racial tensions, unraveling a tale where hypnotism and cultural appropriation intertwine in a nightmarish dance. From the ‘sunken place’ to the eerie tea cup stirring, every frame is charged with symbolism. The impact of ‘Get Out’ transcends the screen, sparking conversations on race, privilege, and horror’s potential to be a vehicle for meaningful discourse.” — Jordan Nishkian, Staff Writer
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15. ‘It Follows’ (2014)
Scary Meter Rating: 7.5
Creepy: 9.1 | Gory: 1.8 | Jumpy: 5.1
“The fact that ‘It Follows’ plays cleverly with horror tropes and movie-world morality makes it more interesting, conceptually speaking, than the typical horror flick — but it’s worth noting that David Robert Mitchell’s slick style and quality scares would have made it a good time at the movies even if it were a good deal dumber. Happily, it’s the rare horror movie that manages to fulfill the promise of the genre while also messing with its tropes.” — Stephen Lovely, Editor-in-Chief
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14. ‘Evil Dead II’ (1987)
Scary Meter Rating: 4.7
Creepy: 3.8 | Gory: 9.0 | Jumpy: 4.8
“Forget the traditional scares that go bump in the night — ‘Evil Dead II’ throws you into a chaotic blend of gore and gut-busting comedy, resulting in the perfect horror-comedy cocktail where Ash (Bruce Campbell) finds himself in a cabin deep in the woods to battle those relentless, possessed forces once again.
As a sequel, what sets ‘Evil Dead II’ apart? Well, it cranks everything up a notch. The special effects are gorier, the humor is darker, and the sheer insanity is dialed up to 11. It’s a twisted dance between terror and absurdity, with Ash literally losing his hand but gaining a chainsaw in return. The film’s relentless energy and over-the-top antics make it not just a sequel, but a horror experience that outshines its predecessor, cementing its status as a cult classic.” — Jordan Nishkian, Staff Writer
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13. ‘Nosferatu’ (1922)
Scary Meter Rating: 4.0
Creepy: 8.8| Gory: 0.0| Jumpy: 0.6
“Diving into the shadowy realms of classic cinema, ‘Nosferatu’ emerges as a timeless masterpiece that casts an eternal spell on its audience. This cinematic gem, directed by the visionary F. W. Murnau, is an eerie dance with the macabre as it brings Bram Stoker’s ‘Dracula’ to life with an avant-garde twist — and an off-screen lawsuit for its unauthorized adaptation.
As the silent screen unfolds, Max Schreck’s portrayal of Count Orlok stands as an iconic embodiment of horror, his elongated silhouette haunting the screen with an otherworldly malevolence. Shot against eerie landscapes and foreboding architecture, the film’s visual aesthetic has left an indelible mark on the horror genre, shaping the very essence of cinematic fear.” — Jordan Nishkian, Staff Writer
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12. ‘Dawn of the Dead’ (1978)
Scary Meter Rating: 5.8
Creepy: 7.3 | Gory: 9.1 | Jumpy: 1.8
“A decade after his nearly perfect zombie flick, ‘Night of the Living Dead’ (1968), director George A. Romero returned with this daring sequel. Gruesome and quite scary at times, ‘Dawn of the Dead’ is also capable of being quite funny — it’s full satire that is gleeful, fearless, and pretty unsubtle. (For most of the film, our heroic survivors are hiding out in a stereotypical suburban shopping mall — it’s wall-to-wall guns, gore, and capitalism, folks.)” — Stephen Lovely, Editor-in-Chief
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11. 'Halloween' (1978)
Scary Meter Rating: 6.8
Creepy: 8.0 | Gory: 4.1 | Jumpy: 7.4
“If you’re looking for the OG horror masterpiece, John Carpenter‘s ‘Halloween’ is where the terrifying journey begins. While a masked Michael Myers (Nick Castle) stalks the peaceful suburban streets of Haddonfield, an eerie quiet falls upon the screen as Laurie Strode (Jamie Lee Curtis), the unsuspecting babysitter, becomes the embodiment of the ‘final girl’ trope.
What’s remarkable is the film’s simplicity; the suspense is in every calculated step Myers takes. The impact of ‘Halloween’ on the horror genre is immeasurable. It birthed the slasher sub-genre and influenced countless filmmakers who followed, carving a path for other iconic horror franchises.” — Jordan Nishkian, Staff Writer
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Scary Meter Rating: 6.9
Creepy: 7.6 | Gory: 8.3 | Jumpy: 7.0
“The original ‘A Nightmare on Elm Street’ from 1984 is one of the OG horror mind-benders that shook the genre to its core. The story follows a group of small-town teens who are hunted by a razor-fingered Freddy Krueger (Robert Englund) in their dreams, but those dream deaths have real consequences in the waking world.
The impact of ‘A Nightmare on Elm Street’ on the horror scene was massive. Wes Craven unleashed a horror icon with Freddy, giving nightmares a whole new level of terror. It’s a haunted dreamland where reality and nightmare blur to birth a franchise that plays with our deepest fears — proving that the scariest things are the ones you can’t escape, not even in your sleep.” — Jordan Nishkian, Staff Writer
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9. ‘The Blair Witch Project’ (1999)
Scary Meter Rating: 7.3
Creepy: 9.0 | Gory: 0.3 | Jumpy: 2.2
“‘The Blair Witch Project’ is a movie that always has me hiding behind a blanket saying, ‘Nope.’ Filmed in a chilling documentary style, the story follows three filmmakers as they embark on a quest to unravel the mysteries of the eerie Black Hills Forest. Armed with handheld cameras and a gripping sense of fear, they become entangled in a web of supernatural terror.
What makes this 1999 classic truly hair-raising is an innovative approach that blurs the lines between fiction and reality, leaving you questioning the thin veil between the tangible and the supernatural. Fun fact: The actors were intentionally kept in the dark about the plot twists, adding an extra layer of authenticity to their raw performances.” — Jordan Nishkian, Staff Writer
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8. ‘The Thing’ (1982)
Scary Meter Rating: 7.7
Creepy: 8.5 | Gory: 9.4 | Jumpy: 6.2
“Set in the desolate Antarctic, ‘The Thing’ kicks off with a shape-shifting extraterrestrial wreaking havoc among a group of isolated researchers. You’re on the edge of your seat from the get-go as the characters’ trust crumbles faster than the Antarctic snow, complemented by the frozen, claustrophobic environment.
John Carpenter, the maestro behind this frozen nightmare, crafts an atmospheric and suspenseful experience that stands the test of time alongside Ennio Morricone’s haunting score and Rob Bottin’s groundbreaking practical effects, which brought the grotesque transformations to life, and contributes to the film's status as a sci-fi horror legend.” — Jordan Nishkian, Staff Writer
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7. ‘Night of the Living Dead’ (1968)
Scary Meter Rating: 6.0
Creepy: 8.6 | Gory: 6.2 | Jumpy: 2.7
“‘Night of the Living Dead’ is a cult classic and spine-tingling symphony of horror that laid the foundation for the zombie genre we know today. Directed by George A. Romero on a shoestring budget, the film takes you on a harrowing ride as a disparate group of people barricade themselves in a farmhouse to survive a zombie apocalypse. The simplicity of the production adds to the raw and unsettling atmosphere, proving that sometimes less is more when it comes to horror.
Shot in rural Pennsylvania, the film captures the dread of the unknown, utilizing stark contrasts and shadows to create a chilling ambiance. As the characters grapple with fear, paranoia, and the flesh-eating undead, ‘Night of the Living Dead’ becomes an iconic piece of cinema history — not just for its scares, but for its groundbreaking approach to horror filmmaking.” — Jordan Nishkian, Staff Writer
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6. ‘The Texas Chainsaw Massacre’ (1974)
Scary Meter Rating: 7.6
Creepy: 8.3 | Gory: 7.5 | Jumpy: 5.7
“Rightly considered one of the greatest slasher films ever made, ‘The Texas Chainsaw Massacre’ changed horror forever. Its documentary-style camera work gave the film a disturbing sense of immediacy and influenced countless low-budget horror flicks that followed.” — Stephen Lovely, Editor-in-Chief
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5. ‘Rosemary’s Baby’ (1968)
Scary Meter Rating: 6.1
Creepy: 9.5 | Gory: 0.3 | Jumpy: 1.3
“Weaving horror into the fabric of everyday life, the narrative of ‘Rosemary’s Baby’ unfolds as Rosemary (Mia Farrow) and her husband move into a grand but eerie apartment building in New York City. As the couple befriends peculiar neighbors and Rosemary becomes pregnant, an unsettling aura descends upon their lives.
What sets this film apart is its ability to exploit the seemingly mundane, turning domesticity into a breeding ground for dread. Director Roman Polanski crafts an atmosphere of psychological terror, with Farrow’s nuanced performance capturing the gradual unraveling of Rosemary’s reality. ‘Rosemary’s Baby’ doesn't rely on traditional horror tropes; instead, it delves into the horror of the mind and the insidious nature of those closest to us. Its enduring importance lies in its pioneering approach to psychological horror, setting a benchmark for the genre and influencing generations of filmmakers to come.” — Jordan Nishkian, Staff Writer
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4. ‘Psycho’ (1960)
Scary Meter Rating: 5.8
Creepy: 8.9 | Gory: 1.6 | Jumpy: 4.3
“Every scene in this cinematic classic is a puzzle piece, and just when you think you’ve got it figured out, Alfred Hitchcock flips the script. ‘Psycho’ is a master class in suspense, and it’s got that Hitchcock touch that leaves you questioning what’s real and what's just a brilliantly crafted illusion.
The iconic shower scene might be what everyone talks about, but the whole movie is a rollercoaster of suspense. The twisted dance between the characters perches you on the edge of your seat, trying to figure out who's really in control. The Bates Motel is this eerie, isolated place, but instead of a dark and stormy night, Hitchcock throws you off by setting the stage in broad daylight. It’s not your typical horror backdrop, but that’s what makes it genius.” — Jordan Nishkian, Staff Writer
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3. ‘Alien’ (1979)
Scary Meter Rating: 7.6
Creepy: 8.5 | Gory: 7.4 | Jumpy: 8.1
“Ridley Scott‘s ‘Alien’ is a relentless dance between fear and fascination. The setting is claustrophobic, and the tension builds with each creak of the ship’s metal hull. The titular alien, a nightmarish creature born of unknown origins, lurks in the shadows, turning the vastness of space into a haunting, atmospheric nightmare.
The film goes beyond a sci-fi horror; it’s a groundbreaking exploration of fear and survival, forever imprinting the horror genre and solidifying its impact on cinematic history. The legacy of ‘Alien’ is stitched into the fabric of pop culture, influencing countless films and leaving an indelible mark on how we perceive the unknown of the cosmos.” — Jordan Nishkian, Staff Writer
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2. ‘The Shining’ (1980)
Scary Meter Rating: 7.7
Creepy: 9.4 | Gory: 2.2 | Jumpy: 3.6
“Directed by the master of suspense, Stanley Kubrick, this iconic horror tale based on Stephen King’s book, follows Jack Torrance (Jack Nicholson) as he takes on the role of the winter caretaker for the ominous Overlook Hotel. Joined by his family, including his wife Wendy (Shelley Duvall) and son Danny (Danny Lloyd), Jack hopes to find inspiration for his writing. However, the Overlook Hotel has more than empty halls and ghostly echoes — it possesses a malevolent force that begins to unravel Jack's sanity.
The psychological torment that unfolds within the movie famously leaks beyond the screen, making the production of ‘The Shining’ as famous as its storyline. Kubrick’s meticulous attention to detail and numerous takes, especially in the iconic ‘Here's Johnny!’ scene, became legendary in the world of filmmaking, making ‘The Shining’ a timeless masterpiece in the horror genre.” — Jordan Nishkian, Staff Writer
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1. ‘The Exorcist’ (1973)
Scary Meter Rating: 8.4
Creepy: 9.1 | Gory: 5.8 | Jumpy: 4.8
“‘The Exorcist’ is a cinematic masterpiece that, for me, stands as a timeless pinnacle in the realm of horror. Released in 1973, this spine-chilling classic directed by William Friedkin explores the eerie and supernatural in a way that was never seen before. The story unfolds when a young girl begins exhibiting bizarre and disturbing behaviors that defy any rational explanation. The atmosphere is thick with tension, and unlike traditional horror settings, the film delves into the unsuspecting territory of a seemingly ordinary household. As the girl’s possession intensifies, the struggle to reclaim her soul ensues, drawing audiences into a nightmarish journey.
What sets ‘The Exorcist’ apart is its ability to tap into the psychological fears of its viewers, transcending mere jump scares. It’s a cinematic experience that lingers, leaving an indelible mark on the horror genre and solidifying its status as a true classic.” — Jordan Nishkian, Staff Writer
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