Scream
One of the first true classics on this list, the 1996 slasher film Scream is truly one of a kind due to its satirical take on the classic horror film. It’s a must-watch for those of us who want to say we watched a horror movie without the nightmares that come from some of the other big names.
IT
You might have already seen or heard of IT or its recent sequel IT 2 but if you haven’t (where have you been?), it’s a strong suggestion for some spooky season shivers. Anything having to do with crazy clowns mixed with a serial killer plot is a shoe-in to make this list.
A Quiet Place
A Quiet Place is one of the most terrifying movies I’ve ever seen. Given the title, I’m sure most of you can guess that most of the movie is silent. The jury is still out on if that’s what makes this movie so terrifying or if the amazingly written story is enough to make you cover your eyes for most of the movie.
The Shining
The Shining is another classic to grace this list. I would classify it as the perfect crossover between a psychological thriller and a slasher flick, making for another great choice for those who have trouble choosing the best scary movie to watch.
I wish I could say more, but the plot is too good to spoil.
Psycho
Hitchcock’s Psycho is the OG of scary movies. With a few spinoffs since its release in 1960 such as Bates Motel, it has inspired numerous psychological thrillers.
The Blair Witch Project
The Blair Witch Project came out in 1999 and the movie scene has not been the same. With the entire premise of the movie resting on the fact that it was “found footage” from a teenage project is enough to send shivers down your spine, let alone that the project was learning about a local serial killer. Good luck to you, movie-watchers.
Insidious
Insidious is a cult classic amongst horror movies. It was my beginning to watching haunting movies and I truly hope it’s yours as well.
Sinister
OK, so if you remember me saying The Quiet Place was one of the most terrifying movies I’ve ever seen, it actually comes second to Sinister. If you love horror movies that involve murder-mysteries with the anxiety turned alllll the way up, this movie is for you.
Children of the Corn
Children of the Corn took the cuteness of children and decided to throw it out the window. Seriously, you never know what children are capable of.
Again, I’d love to tell you more, but the plot is too good to spoil.
The Woman in Black
If you enjoy Harry Potter and a good horror movie, The Woman in Black is for you. It does technically follow the typical haunted house plot line but the twists and turns of it. Also, to reiterate, it’s Harry Potter (well, Daniel Radcliffe). In a horror movie. What else could you need?
I also figured it best to include five Halloween movies for those of us who don’t always need to be scared out of our socks.
Halloweentown (The entire series because is one ever really enough?)
Beetlejuice
The Addams Family
The Haunted Mansion
Nightmare before Christmas