There are so many amazing horror films that it's hard to put them on a list and nearly impossible to put them into some kind of chronological order. At the same time one person's idea of a great horror film might differ from others. Someone who enjoys the gory and more violent side of horror films might be inclined to watch a film like Saw or Hostel, while someone who likes the psychological side of horror film making might be into The Shining, Misery or Blue Velvet.
Some younger movie fans might want to get into these horror films but is clueless on where to start. There are so many out there and so many sub genres that it's hard to know where to begin. There are several horror films that are classic and ones that even transcend genres and those are the films that are mandatory if one is going to consider themselves a fan of horror. These movies have earned their place in horror history by pushing the envelope, making people scared or even starting their own sub genre. In no particular order, here are 30 must see horror films.
30) Don't Be Afraid of the Dark (1973) – A film that uses suspense and primal fear to fuel its story, Don’t Be Afraid of the Dark truly is a rarely talked about gem well worth watching.
29) Duel (1971) – Steven Spielberg’s first horror film and it proves to be a good one. Following only two characters, the film doesn’t lose focus and builds tension exponentially as it progresses. It’s a fun ride of a film.
28) When a Stranger Calls (1979) – This film needs to be watched if only for the first 20 minutes. The beginning is so iconic and so well done that its reputation is legendary. It’s creepy, dark and realistic and has all the makings of a true horror film.
27) Suspiria (1977) – An Italian horror film, Suspiria can get a bit odd at times. But because of its stunning visuals and creepy, haunted house type atmosphere it is worthy of a spot on this list.
26) Nosferatu (1922) – One of the truly scary silent films which put an interesting spin on the story of Dracula. Some even say the actor who played Nosferatu was a real vampire and for all we know, it could be true.
25) Dracula (1931) – This film has the most classic and lasting representation of Dracula ever put to film. Even if this film is being watched for the first time, it all seems so familiar – and that’s the charm of it. Its story has become second nature but the film is still a classic.
24) Creature from the Black Lagoon (1954) – An important film in horror that made room for films like Jaws, Piranha and Shark Attack. Although its not exactly scary these days, its really interesting to peer into the culture and some of the special effects are quite good
23) The Invisible Man (1933) – One of the funniest horror films from the Universal age. This film is full of dark humor and amazing effects. The dialogue is excellent and the acting is top notch.
22) Scream (1996) – One of the most interesting plots of a horror film, Scream is a very self aware and self deprecating kind of film. It doesn’t take itself to seriously but still manages to have some creepy and truly effortless scares.
21) The Orphanage (2007) – The atmosphere of this film is unrivaled. The creepy setting, the understated characters and pacing make for a thrill ride of a horror film.
20) Hellraiser (1987) – Like Freddy and Jason, Pinhead has become a horror icon. Hellraiser is such a visually haunting film that it is hard to look away. A dark movie that is sure to satisfy any gore hound.
19) [Rec] (2007) – This film took what was started with The Blair Witch Project one step further. The film gets so incredibly creepy at the end that it’s hard to keep watching unless you’re with company.
18) The Ring/Ringu (2002/1998) – Both the Japanese version and the remake are worth seeing for their own reasons. Both manage to be truly scary and have an original and creepy plot.
17) Ju-on/ The Grudge (2003/2004) – Another set of American/Japanese films, The Grudge set of films doesn’t use jump scares for terror but shows you a monster and dares you not to be scared.
16) The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974) – Filmed like it was a real event, this film scared the pants off a lot of people. Based around real events, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre is a twisted and interesting horror film.
15) Shaun of the Dead (2004) – Bar none the best horror comedy ever writer. It’s original and embraces the horror genre rather than just parodying it.
Check out part two of this article.
Andrew Scholz - I am currently a journalism student at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh with an emphasis in writing and editing. Also I am working on a ...
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