Presently, we’re witnessing a unique period in the horror genre that effectively combines elevated films like “Midsommar” and reboot-sequels such as “Scream”. However, many horror enthusiasts often hail the 1980s as the golden age of this genre. While it was challenging to whittle down a decade to just ten titles, here are some outstanding standouts from that era. Some films didn’t make the cut because they were more of genre hybrids where the horror element wasn’t the main focus, such as “Altered States” and “An American Werewolf in London,” which lean more towards comedy and romance respectively. Other examples include “Evil Dead II”, “Videodrome”, “Gremlins”, “Fright Night”, “Re-Animator”, “The Return of the Living Dead”, “April Fool’s Day”, “Night of the Creeps”, “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2”, “The Lost Boys”, “Predator”, “Killer Klowns from Outer Space”, and “The Monster Squad”.
Apart from our top picks, we can’t ignore mentioning some other outstanding horror films that were nearly included in the list. These movies, despite being noteworthy, just fell short of making it: “The Fog,” “Alligator,” “The Burning,” “Halloween II,” “The Howling,” “My Bloody Valentine,” “Christine,” “Cujo,” “Sleepaway Camp,” “Day of the Dead,” “Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer,” “Angel Heart,” “The Stepfather,” “Creepshow,” and “Possession.
1) Friday the 13th
In simpler terms, while the Friday the 13th movie series, whether referring to the original or the entire franchise, is generally renowned for its creative and gruesome kill scenes, many other slasher films released afterward also featured similar elements. However, these movies don’t seem to be as impactful compared to the Friday the 13th series.
Essentially, Friday the 13th isn’t given as much appreciation as it ought to be. It skillfully builds tension with an escalating sense of danger that leaves you on edge. The realistic setting makes it feel like you’re a camp counselor at Camp Crystal Lake alongside Alice, Bill, Steve Christy, Brenda, Jack, Marcie, Ned, and Annie (even if poor Annie never gets to join the group). Add to this an iconic soundtrack, a chilling performance by Betsy Palmer, characters you grow fond of, and one of the most memorable horror movie deaths ever (which sadly befalls a young Kevin Bacon), and Friday the 13th is undeniably a classic.
Rent Friday the 13th on Amazon Video.
2) The Shining
A movie like no other, even 45 years after its release, Stanley Kubrick’s “The Shining” continues to reveal hidden depths – a testament to its brilliance in crafting suspense, visual storytelling, and performances. The production of this film was grueling for many, yet the outcome speaks for itself.
In plain terms, it can be rephrased as follows: Jack Nicholson’s performance in the movie stands out prominently. Stephen King often notes that Nicholson portrays Jack Torrance as clearly unstable from the very beginning, and indeed he does, but similar to Heath Ledger’s role in “The Dark Knight,” this is a captivating display throughout the entire film.
Rent The Shining on Amazon Video.
3) The Evil Dead
It’s possible that “Evil Dead II” was excluded because it leans more towards a lively and humorous style reminiscent of “Looney Tunes,” rather than aiming to genuinely scare viewers, whereas the 1981 film “The Evil Dead” remains eligible. Despite being many fans’ preferred entry in the series, “Evil Dead II” may not possess the same intense, spine-tingling terror as the original movie does.
In much the same way as viewers find themselves trapped along with the camp counselors at Camp Crystal Lake, they feel ensnared inside the cabin alongside the movie’s main characters. This film can truly be considered a classic cabin-in-the-woods movie, and the chilling scene where the character Cheryl accurately predicts the cards in the deck despite being 10 feet away outside the window remains one of the most spine-tingling moments in horror cinema.
Rent The Evil Dead on Apple TV.
4) Poltergeist
If you’re looking for a beginner-friendly horror film from the provided list, it would be “Poltergeist”. Although the bathroom mirror scene might be a bit disturbing, generally speaking, it’s suitable for children to watch.
The standout feature of Poltergeist lies in the authentic portrayal of its family cast, making viewers feel deeply connected and compelled to aid them in their quest to rescue their youngest member from the spiritual realm. The suburban backdrop only enhances this eerie tale; despite its typical connotations of safety, this seemingly harmless neighborhood conceals a house where no one is immune to ghostly intrusions.
Rent Poltergeist on Amazon Video.
5) The Thing
Throughout my encounter with John Carpenter’s directorial work, two films stood out as undeniable masterpieces from his career: “Halloween” and “The Thing”. The latter offers a riveting exploration of Cold War era paranoia, amplified by what could arguably be the best practical effects ever displayed in horror cinema. It’s not just a movie, but a testament to cinematic excellence. To add to its allure, it features an ending that leaves viewers pondering long after the credits roll.
Similar to many outstanding films ever made, “The Thing” did not receive the recognition it deserved during its initial release. Some viewers found it excessively gruesome, while others thought it moved too slowly; it generated mixed reactions at best. However, over time, its reputation has skyrocketed and rightfully so. If any of Carpenter’s films warranted a Best Picture nomination, it was certainly this one.
Rent The Thing on Amazon Video.
6) A Nightmare on Elm Street
Wes Craven’s “A Nightmare on Elm Street” revitalized the slasher genre, providing a much-needed boost. Despite churning out numerous unmemorable films for the next five years, the slasher genre was already starting to lose steam by 1984.
Step into the scene of Freddy Krueger, the terrifying concept that brings fear to you when you’re at your weakest. Unlike other slashers, you can’t escape Freddy, and neither can you defeat him. All you can do is try to comprehend what’s happening to you, only to discover it’s already too late. Visually captivating and featuring an early performance by Johnny Depp alongside Robert Englund’s iconic portrayal, A Nightmare on Elm Street shares the top spot with Scream in the distinguished filmography of the late, great Wes Craven.
Rent A Nightmare on Elm Street on Amazon Video.
7) The Fly
Although David Cronenberg’s “The Fly” (a remake with significant differences from the ’50s original) might have seemed bizarre and superfluous, it was – and still is – an emotionally intense masterpiece that only he could have crafted to its fullest effect. Undeniably, “The Fly” packs a powerful punch.
The Academy Award-winning makeup in the film is undeniably attractive, but what truly captivates viewers is Jeff Goldblum’s portrayal of Seth Brundle as he spirals into madness and despair. Goldblum’s on-screen relationship with Geena Davis (who would soon become his wife) is intense and deeply moving, making it easy to empathize with their characters and believe in their plight.
Rent The Fly on Amazon Video.
8) Hellraiser
The iconic movie “Hellraiser” has spawned an ongoing franchise, with a video game in development. However, while “Hellbound: Hellraiser II” boasts high quality and is recommended for fans of the series, Clive Barker’s most impressive films work best as standalone experiences.
The entirety of the classic film “Hellraiser” effectively delivers, marking a remarkable directorial debut for author Clive Barker. He masterfully translated his intense, dark visions onto the silver screen. The compelling narrative revolves around a woman resurrecting her deceased lover, who’s evading demons, by sacrificing unwitting males. However, what truly sets it apart is the chilling design of the Cenobites, who manage to leave a lasting, unsettling impact despite limited screen time.
Stream Hellraiser for free with ads on Pluto TV.
9) Near Dark
Near Dark,” a nearly overlooked vampire film, struggles to reach a wider audience due to its scarcity. Remarkably, this was Kathryn Bigelow’s first solo directorial effort, and from the very start, she demonstrates her aptitude as a filmmaker with a keen focus on developing characters.
This narrative is deeply moving, stirring feelings of disgust towards certain vampires yet compassion for others. It’s almost like a reunion from the movie “Aliens.” At that time, Bigelow was acquainted with James Cameron (they married two years post the release of “Near Dark”), and one year following the release of “Aliens,” this film featured three of its actors: Lance Henriksen, Bill Paxton, and Jenette Goldstein. Interestingly enough, Cameron even made a brief appearance in the movie.
Near Dark is not available for digital rental or streaming.
10) Child’s Play
It can be debated that the movie “Child’s Play” doesn’t elicit much fear. However, within the series, it is the most frightening one. Still, there’s merit in the opposing viewpoint as well.
Undeniably, it was influential; thanks to Brad Dourif’s exceptional vocal performance as Chucky and the unique design of the killer doll, this character became a recurring theme in horror films that followed. With quick-moving scenes, the famous villain, an underappreciated soundtrack, and superb acting by Catherine Hicks, Child’s Play is definitely a hit.
Stream Child’s Play on MGM+.
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2025-08-17 18:13