As a lifelong horror enthusiast and movie aficionado, I wholeheartedly concur with these astute assessments of three exceptional films that have left indelible marks on the genre.
This week is all about Halloween! Even though some people may have already had their celebrations over the weekend, there’s still a lot of opportunity left to enjoy numerous scary movies leading up to the actual event itself.
Absolutely, there’s an abundance of fresh horror movies to watch at cinemas right now – including Smile 2 and the third installment of Terrifier, which is getting progressively bloodier. However, nothing quite matches the excitement of settling down with a horror flick in the cozy surroundings of your own home.
From horror films that are over 100 years old such as Nosferatu to modern masterpieces like Hereditary, there are all sorts of possibilities for your Halloween movie night – and plenty of them are streaming on Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney Plus, and various other platforms.
Regardless if you lean more towards slasher films, psychological thrillers, or even folk horror genres, there’s a selection tailored to your taste on the list…
Best classic Halloween movies to watch right now
Carrie (1976)
It was recently announced that modern day horror maestro will be adapting Stephen King’s debut novel into an eight-episode TV series – but he’ll have a tough job topping Brian De Palma’s superb film from 1976. Two subsequent adaptations have already tried and failed to get anywhere near this version, which saw Sissy Spacek star as the titular teenager who strikes back against her bullies after a viciously cruel Prom prank.
Spacek delivers an outstanding performance as the main character, while Piper Laurie, sadly no longer with us, gives a chilling portrayal of Carrie’s oppressive, religiously fanatical mother whose overbearing parenting contributes to Carrie’s insecurities. John Travolta also makes an early appearance as one of the tormentors. De Palma masterfully directs this film, creating a deeply immersive and visually stunning adaptation that perfectly complements King’s writing. The climactic, gory scene stands among the most memorable moments in horror movie history.
– Patrick Cremona, Senior Film Writer
Where to watch: Prime Video
The Shining (1980)
There have been a seemingly endless number of Stephen King adaptations over the years, and although they have generally been of mixed quality, there’s no doubt that this Stanley Kubrick film is a horror classic – even if King himself had major reservations. The film follows Jack Torrance, a writer who moves with his family to the closed Overlook Hotel to take a position as winter caretaker, only for him to gradually lose his mind.
In the main character, Jack Nicholson delivers an outstanding performance showcasing his unstable side, while Shelley Duvall shines as his tormented spouse Wendy. Director Kubrick skillfully creates bizarre and terrifying visuals that will likely leave many viewers tossing and turning in their sleep.
King’s criticisms primarily focused on the film’s deviation from his original novel, yet this departure does little to diminish the fact that it continues to be an unparalleled and chilling viewing experience even after over 40 years.
– Patrick Cremona, Senior Film Writer
Where to watch: Rent or buy on Prime Video
Get Out (2017)
If you’re in search of a thought-provoking horror movie for Halloween, Jordan Peele’s award-winning film “Get Out” could be an excellent choice. This film, while honoring classic horror flicks like “The Shining,” offers a unique perspective by using satire as it delves into the genre. At the same time, it tackles social issues and provides a chilling experience for adrenaline junkies who crave a good scare.
Get Out, featuring Daniel Kaluuya as Chris, a photographer who journeys with his girlfriend Rose (Allison Williams) to her family’s home in Upstate New York. As Chris becomes increasingly uneasy due to the peculiar actions of Rose’s parents and their neighbors, the vacation spirals into a chilling ordeal.
In a captivating blend of suspense and social critique, “Get Out” stands out as one of the top movies of 2017 by seamlessly integrating classic horror motifs with witty humor and profound visual symbolism.
– Lauren Morris
Where to watch: Netflix and BBC iPlayer
Hereditary (2018)
It’s astonishing to think that this chilling masterpiece was Ari Aster’s debut directorial effort, considering his impressive ability to build tension and craft genuine frights. The story centers on a family grappling with grief who gradually uncover unsettling truths about their heritage after the death of an elderly relative, which sets off a series of peculiar events.
In Toni Collette’s outstanding portrayal of matriarch Annie, the entire cast gives a remarkable performance. The movie cleverly alludes to several iconic horror films, such as Rosemary’s Baby and The Shining. However, let it be clear that this film stands on its own as a unique and impactful piece within the horror genre, earning its place among modern classics.
– Patrick Cremona, Senior Film Writer
Where to watch: Rent or buy on Prime Video
The Exorcist (1973)
50 years ago, this iconic horror movie was released, and this year marks its golden anniversary. Regrettably, the talented director William Friedkin passed away at 87 shortly afterwards. A new sequel has recently hit theaters in the UK, where Ellen Burstyn once again portrays Chris MacNeil – a role she last played in the original film. However, the latest installment fails to capture the brilliance of the first – a horror masterpiece that stands not only as one of the best in its genre but also among the greatest movies ever made.
From a movie enthusiast’s perspective: I can’t help but be captivated by the timeless plotline of “The Exorcism of Emily Rose”: a mother, filled with fear, pleads for assistance from two clergymen when her daughter, Emily, exhibits bizarre behaviors hinting at demonic possession. While scenes like the iconic head-spinning and spider walk make for sensational news, the film as a whole demonstrates an uncanny ability to create an eerie ambiance while delving into profound themes of faith and religious doctrine.
– Patrick Cremona, Senior Film Writer
Where to watch: NOW
Don’t Look Now (1973)
This year marks the 50th anniversary for another cinematic gem, the chilling masterpiece directed by Nicolas Roeg, featuring Donald Sutherland and Julie Christie. Frequently ranked among the greatest British films, it certainly lives up to its billing. Based on a short story penned by Daphne du Maurier, the film chronicles a couple who visit Venice in the aftermath of their daughter’s heartbreaking drowning.
As they navigate the enigmatic waterways of an Italian city, they encounter several peculiar individuals such as two sisters who profess to converse with the departed and a foreboding man in a crimson coat, similar to their daughter’s attire. It offers an uncommon and eerie exploration of sorrow, with a spine-tingling ambiance and exceptional portrayals from Sutherland and Christie.
– Patrick Cremona, Senior Film Writer
Where to watch: ITV Hub or Studio Canal Presents
Nope (2022)
Last year saw the arrival of a fresh masterpiece, the most recent creation by horror maestro Jordan Peele, titled NOPE.
The story primarily unfolds at a California ranch, where Daniel Kaluuya reteams with Jordan Peele and assumes the role of a skilled horse trainer catering to the film industry, amidst financial difficulties faced by his family’s ranch.
In a captivating performance, Keke Palmer exudes charm as Kaluuya’s screen sibling. As they both encounter danger, an ominous, unknown entity seems to be targeting their horses.
Expect awe-inspiring visuals, unnerving chimpanzees and unsettling scenes galore.
– Lewis Knight, Trends Editor
Where to watch: Netflix
Psycho (1960)
Mentioning “Psycho” likely conjures up images of quick violin bursts in your mind and Janet Leigh’s frightened face from the shower scene filling your thoughts. The reason Psycho stands out among horror movies is due to its rapid pace, tension, and an eerie soundtrack that has become one of the most haunting melodies ever created.
Marion Crane (played by Leigh) finds herself fleeing from a regrettable act and winds up at the ominous Bates Motel. This remote lodging is run by Norman Bates (Perkins), an individual with an unusual fascination for taxidermy and harboring a chilling secret within his mother’s room. Brimming with fear, tension, intensity, and a climax that will take you by surprise, Hitchcock’s masterful horror masterpiece is a must-watch this Halloween season.
– Helen Daly, Associate Editor
Where to watch: Rent or Buy on Prime Video
Halloween
Perhaps the most convincing argument is that Psycho paved the way as the first genuine slasher movie. However, it was John Carpenter’s Halloween that established the blueprint for numerous imitators – like Friday the 13th, Silent Night, Deadly Night, and others – during the 80s.
Over time, a series of progressively complex sequels, remakes, and reboots have been produced, resulting in three separate storylines (or four if you include Rob Zombie’s 2007 film and its 2009 sequel). While some of these offshoots have their benefits, the raw, unparalleled charm of the initial Halloween is indescribable.
The storyline is straightforward: the character Laurie Strode, played by Jamie Lee Curtis, is pursued by the masked Michael Myers, with Dr Sam Loomis, portrayed by Donald Pleasance, attempting to hunt him down. However, Carpenter’s tight and fearless direction, spine-tingling music, and creative employment of point-of-view shots (frequently placing the audience in Michael’s perspective) results in a horror encounter that remains as relevant and petrifying as ever.
– Morgan Jeffery, Executive Editor
Where to watch: Rent or buy On Prime Video
It (2017)
If you don’t mind being spooked by clowns, Andy Muschietti’s 2017 reinterpretation of Stephen King’s It should send a shiver down your spine. Featuring Bill Skarsgård in an unsettling portrayal of the shape-shifting antagonist, this box office hit serves as a chilling update to a horror legend, brimming with unexpected jumps, ghastly wounds, and eerie dance sequences that will linger in your nightmares even after the movie concludes.
1988 serves as the backdrop to the story, where we follow schoolboy Bill (Jaeden Lieberher) and his companions Richie, Eddie, Stan, Mike, Ben, and Beverly – collectively known as The Losers’ Club – as they probe into incidents involving Pennywise the Dancing Clown. This ominous entity, a supernatural force, is believed to be behind the mysterious deaths of several children in their locale, including Bill’s younger brother Georgie, who was just six years old.
If you’re a fan of Stranger Things and are looking for a spookier alternative for Halloween, It offers captivating performances from its young cast and nail-biting encounters between the kids and Pennywise, making it a worthwhile watch.
– Lauren Morris
Where to watch: NOW
Midsommar (2019)
Ari Aster undeniably established himself as an exciting new name in horror directing with his first movie Hereditary in 2018. With this outstanding second film, he further solidified his status as a director worth keeping an eye on.
Drawing significant influence from classic folk horror films like The Wicker Man, this movie carves its unique identity. It offers a thrilling cinematic journey filled with moments that linger in memory, yet it’s more than just excitement – it delves deeply into the poignant and healing aspects of grief.
The movie primarily revolves around Dani Ardor, a woman mourning the loss of her sister and parents. She decides to join her boyfriend and his companions on a trip to a secluded Swedish village for their annual Midsommar celebration. However, she soon discovers that things are not as they appear in this seemingly idyllic setting.
In a cinematic world dominated by horror movies with ominous darkness, this film stands out as it primarily takes place during daytime, demonstrating that fear and suspense aren’t exclusively confined to nighttime.
– Patrick Cremona, Senior Film Writer
Where to watch: Rent or buy on Prime Video
Shaun of the Dead (2004)
For those not fond of horror films, Halloween can become quite challenging as everyone else seems to be eager for marathons of slasher movies. Repeated viewings of Alfred Hitchcock’s Rebecca, while charming and less violent, may not suffice.
Step into the world of Shaun of the Dead, featuring Simon Pegg and Nick Frost. A zombie movie might not initially appeal to those who are easily scared, but this innovative ‘humorous horror’ has a sitcom-like vibe (complete with some undead characters roaming the streets of London).
In a simplified manner, Pegg portrays Shaun, a Romeo-like slacker who is going through a heartbreaking breakup and chooses to numb his pain with his closest friend (Frost). However, he wakes up the next morning, suffering from a hangover, right in the midst of a full-blown zombie outbreak.
As a cinema enthusiast, I must say that the distinctly British humor shines brilliantly in Billy Nighy’s captivating performance as Shaun’s father. His response to being bitten by a zombie, which is “I ran it under a cold tap,” truly encapsulates the unique charm of this witty nation.
– Flora Carr
Where to watch: Netflix
Alien (1979)
“In Space, No-One Can Hear You Scream…”
As a devoted film enthusiast, I can’t help but marvel at one of the most captivating taglines ever seen in a movie poster – Ridley Scott’s iconic Alien. This cinematic masterpiece flawlessly blended elements from both sci-fi and horror genres, resulting in an unforgettable, spine-tingling cat-and-mouse game that unfolded within the confines of a weathered spaceship. Needless to say, when we mention ‘cat,’ it’s certainly not Jonesy we’re referring to!
Indeed, it’s not a fellow crew member causing trouble aboard the Nostromo spaceship; instead, that role belongs to the terrifying alien monster. Most notably, it emerges dramatically from John Hurt’s chest, then hunts down the ship’s crew members one by one. Fortunately, we have Ellen Ripley, a legendary film heroine played by Sigourney Weaver, standing as the last line of defense between this creature and the survival of the human race…
The quality of some sequels and spin-offs in the Alien series, ranging from acceptable to downright poor (like Alien vs Predator: Requiem), has somewhat tarnished the overall reputation of the franchise. However, the original Alien film remains a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences. But, I’d advise against watching the chestburster scene before you eat your own dinner!
– Huw Fullerton
Where to watch: Disney Plus
Scream (1996)
Renowned director Wes Craven revitalized the struggling slasher genre through this creative masterpiece. The film Scream captivates right away with one of the scariest opening sequences ever filmed, showcasing a heart-wrenching portrayal by Drew Barrymore and the chilling debut of Ghostface.
The attention now turns to a cluster of high school students, particularly Neve Campbell’s character Sidney Prescott, who are taken aback when they discover that a murderer is hiding in their peaceful town. The mood brightens slightly as Craven cleverly manipulates the conventions of a genre he played a significant role in shaping, infusing it with some witty self-referential humor courtesy of Jamie Kennedy’s character Randy Meeks, a movie enthusiast.
Such is the brilliance of Scream; it delivers big on scares, but what really sets it apart is its smartly written characters and a dark sense of humour that should put a smile on any horror fan’s face. Without a doubt, one of the greatest slashers ever made.
– David Craig, Senior Drama Writer
Where to watch:
- Scream (1996) Netflix and Paramount Plus
- Scream 2 Amazon Freevee and Paramount Plus
- Scream 3 Amazon Freevee and Paramount Plus
- Scream 4 Rent or buy on Prime Video
- Scream (2022) Rent or buy on Prime Video
- Scream VI NOW
Suspiria (1977)
The renowned director Luca Guadagnino has recently reimagined the chilling 1977 giallo movie, now featuring Dakota Johnson and Tilda Swinton in leading roles. However, the original film stands out as the more exceptional work: it offers a gory yet visually stunning portrayal of horror, complete with an eerie ambiance that lingers long after viewing, along with a hauntingly memorable soundtrack.
The film follows Suzy Bannion (Jessica Harper), a young American ballet dancer who arrives at a prestigious German dance school and begins to suspect that supernatural forces are present at the academy.
As bizarre events multiply, Suzy gradually untangles the enigma surrounding her school, culminating in a meticulously filmed confrontation with the head of a dark witch’s cult.
One option from Dario Argento’s collection that you can stream with an Amazon Prime Video subscription is “Deep Red” (also known as “Profondo Rosso”). For those unfamiliar with his work, I highly recommend checking out “Deep Red”, along with “Phenomena” and “Opera”. These are other engaging films from this Italian master.
– Patrick Cremona, Senior Film Writer
Where to watch: Prime Video
Nosferatu (1922)
1922’s “Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror,” often hailed as the best fan film ever made, was an early cinematic interpretation of Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Although another film, “Dracula’s Death,” had been released previously featuring the Count, it wasn’t directly based on Stoker’s novel. Due to lack of permission, the production altered character names as a weak effort to dodge copyright issues. For instance, Max Schreck portrayed a vampire known as Count Orlok instead of the sophisticated Count Dracula we’re familiar with today. The attempt to evade legal troubles failed, and a court decision mandated the destruction of all copies. Remarkably, some prints survived, ensuring that this silent German Expressionist horror masterpiece remains preserved. Even after nearly a century since its release, director FW Murnau’s use of shadows and eerie imagery continues to instill a sense of unease.
– Morgan Jeffery, Executive Editor
Where to watch: Prime Video
A Quiet Place (2018)
In simple terms, John Krasinski’s first directorial effort transforms the nerve-wracking experience of returning home after a secret night out with every small sound potentially signaling danger into an intense, heart-pounding thriller. After watching this film, even a squeaky stair might give you a bit of a fright.
In an imminent future on our current Earth, we find ourselves in a world dominated by blind but highly sensitive alien creatures who have largely decimated human civilization. The few remaining humans survive by living in absolute quietude; even the softest whisper or loudest footstep could summon a swift attack from these rapid-approaching monsters.
A significant aspect of the movie’s appeal lies in observing the intricate ways the main characters devise to stay undetected – using subtle board game pieces, hiding steamed food beneath floorboards, and walking on meticulously sanded paths with bare feet. However, it doesn’t take long before their careful plans unravel, leading to a more conventional monster confrontation.
– Huw Fullerton
Where to watch: Prime Video and Paramount Plus
Night of the Living Dead (1968)
1968 marked the debut of modern zombie movies, as evidenced by the release of George A. Romero’s independent horror film, “Night of the Living Dead.
Filmed with limited resources yet eventually generating over 250 times its production cost, this movie is a masterful demonstration of mounting suspense interspersed with sudden, gruesome violence. It tells the story of seven individuals stranded in a farmhouse under attack by flesh-eating undead. Like many of Romero’s finest works, Night of the Living Dead offers more than just its initial appearance – it is also a powerful critique, delving into issues of racism as the film’s black protagonist Ben (Duane Jones) encounters prejudice from bigots who view him as equally dangerous as the reanimated corpses.
The climax of the movie might be its most impressive aspect – I won’t give away any secrets, but it features an intriguingly ambiguous twist that powerfully ties up the movie’s central ideas in a surprising way.
– Morgan Jeffery, Executive Editor
Where to watch: Shudder on Amazon Prime and Plex
Dawn of the Dead (1978)
Ten years after the release of Night of the Living Dead, George A. Romero unveiled his sequel and what many consider his masterpiece: Dawn of the Dead. While social commentary was certainly present in its predecessor, Dawn of the Dead is just as much a critique of 1970s American society, specifically the escalating trend of mass consumerism, as it is a horror movie. A group consisting of SWAT officers Roger (Scott Reiniger) and Peter (Ken Foree), along with husband and wife Stephen (David Emge) and Fran (Gaylen Ross), seek refuge from the spreading zombie outbreak in an American suburban shopping mall – a concept still relatively new at the time.
In “Dawn of the Dead,” zombies aren’t merely adversaries; they symbolize humanity as well – mindless hordes propelled by an insatiable hunger for consumption. This film offers a powerful blend of suspense, horror, humor, and despair.
– Morgan Jeffery, Executive Editor
Where to watch: Prime Video
Day of the Dead (1985)
In contrast to the high acclaim of Night and Dawn, George A Romero’s third zombie movie, Day of the Dead (1985), often receives lower praise. However, despite this, it maintains the same level of impact, enjoyment, and influence as its predecessors in a unique manner. Rotten Tomatoes gives it an 81% approval rating, while Night and Dawn boast scores above 90%.
Discussing the main topic of science versus military power, portrayed through the conflict between Dr. Sarah Bowman, played by Lori Crdille, and the erratic Captain Rhodes, portrayed by Joseph Pilato, Romero takes the zombie series in innovative directions with the debut of “Bub” (Sherman Howard), a seemingly friendly undead creature that learns to act like humans. This idea of the partially rehabilitated zombie paved the way for later works such as Shaun of the Dead (2004) and In the Flesh (2013), where this theme is further developed.
Beyond that, isn’t it rare to find someone who wouldn’t make time for a movie featuring a character yanking out his own intestines and telling the attacking zombies to “Savor those!” instead?
– Morgan Jeffery, Executive Editor
Where to watch: Rent or buy on Prime Video
Rosemary’s Baby (1968)
Few horror films are as legendary as Roman Polanski’s 1968 version of Ira Levin’s book, sharing the same title – a haunting and bone-chilling movie that masterfully escalates suspense to nearly unbearable terrifying heights.
As a passionate cinephile, I can’t help but rave about Mia Farrow’s unforgettable portrayal of Rosemary, the protagonist who embarks on a chilling journey when she and her spouse, Guy, portrayed brilliantly by John Cassavetes, settle into an extravagant Upper West Side abode in New York City.
As I grow closer to our slightly eccentric neighbors, my unease grows. My concerns intensify when I discover I’m expecting, and I find myself fearing that this child might be the spawn of Satan himself. Yet, as I try to ward off what appears to be a coven, my efforts only seem to entangle me further in a web of trouble.
This movie largely avoids graphic violence, instead relying on its psychological aspects to create fear. Remarkably, over half a century since its release, it remains one of the most eerie horror films ever produced.
– Patrick Cremona, Senior Film Writer
Where to watch: Paramount Plus
Us (2019)
Unusual, captivating, and incredibly eerie are a few descriptions that pop into one’s thoughts when pondering on Jordan Peele’s movie, Us.
The American horror movie is divided into two time periods – 1986 and the present day. It follows the story of a family of four, led by Lupita Nyong’o and Winston Duke from Black Panther. Known as the Wilson family, they find themselves in a perilous situation during their vacation in Santa Cruz. When they are suddenly attacked by their terrifying counterparts, they must struggle to survive.
Just like M. Night Shyamalan’s film Us, starring Daniel Kaluuya, this production serves as a powerful allegory for contemporary America while also delivering spine-tingling horror. The final twist will leave you utterly astonished, ensuring an exhilarating viewing experience!
– Grace Henry
Where to watch: BBC iPlayer
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2024-10-28 16:06