Christopher Landon’s 8 Best (and Worst) Movies Ranked

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Christopher Landon is well-known for his consistent work in the horror-comedy genre, even if his name isn’t immediately familiar to many. Notable films under his direction include “Paranormal Activity: The Marked Ones”, “Happy Death Day”, and “Freaky”. While primarily horror productions, these movies often feature humorous elements as well.

In the footsteps of my father, the legendary Charles Ingalls portrayer in “Little House on the Prairie”, I, Christopher Landon, ventured into the world of cinema. I honed my craft co-writing scripts for films like “Another Day in Paradise” and “Blood & Chocolate”. But it was my collaboration on the 2007 thriller, “Disturbia,” a work heavily influenced by Alfred Hitchcock’s timeless masterpiece, “Rear Window,” that truly catapulted me into the limelight. Today, I stand as a significant creative force behind the “Paranormal Activity” franchise, penning several sequels and eventually taking the helm for one. Since then, I’ve directed numerous horror comedies, positioning myself as a key player in the genre, shaping its future as one of the most influential filmmakers today.

8. Burning Palms (2010)

Landon’s Directorial Debut

In his initial directorial endeavor, Christopher Landon’s work is frequently regarded as his least successful film, a departure from his usual horror genre. As described by producer Oren Segal, “Burning Palms” can be seen as a satirical thriller that resembles a John Waters take on Robert Altman’s “Short Cuts”. The movie weaves together five narratives about Los Angeles stereotypes, exploring taboo subjects and often ending in a darkly humorous resolution for each character.

In the debut film of director Landon, titled Burning Palms, you’ll find a lineup of well-known actors, including Zoe Saldaña (Emilia Pérez) who won an Oscar, and Rosamund Pike (Gone Girl) who was nominated for one. Although the movie had a compelling plotline and a talented ensemble, Burning Palms received harsh criticism from critics, who found it lacking in depth, sensitivity, and emotional resonance. Many criticized it as being offensive or merely provocative on a surface level. The film didn’t fare well at the box office, earning only $3.2 million despite a budget of $5 million, and its Rotten Tomatoes scores are among Landon’s lowest at 38% and 35%.

7. Scouts Guide To The Zombie Apocalypse (2015)

Landon’s Lesser-Known Horror Comedy

2015’s zombie movie could be considered one of Landon’s less popular, though debatable, horror comedies. This movie tells a story about three Boy Scouts, along with a cocktail waitress, who unite to save their town from a zombie onslaught and learn the essence of friendship in the process. The film boasts actors like Tye Sheridan, Logan Miller, Joey Morgan, Sarah Dumont, and David Koechner.

Much like many of Landon’s previous films, “Scouts Guide to the Zombie Apocalypse” garnered primarily unfavorable responses from critics. In truth, it doesn’t live up to the exciting expectation suggested by its title, turning out to be a typical zombie comedy that overrelies on worn-out sex appeal tropes. The film was launched during a period when numerous zombie comedies were attempting to replicate the earlier success of “Zombieland” from 2009. Nevertheless, for those seeking exactly such entertainment, it could prove quite enjoyable.

6. Paranormal Activity: The Marked Ones (2014)

The First Paranormal Activity Movie Landon Directed

In 2014, Landon assumed the director’s role for the fourth installment of the found-footage horror series, titled Paranormal Activity: The Marked Ones. This spinoff introduces a fresh character, Jesse Arista (played by Andrew Jacobs), who finds himself under the threat of a malignant force. As the entity begins to exert its influence over him, Jesse strives to expose its true objectives before it completely dominates him.

In one of his rare directorial ventures, Landon found himself restrained within the boundaries of an established franchise that he had a hand in creating, and this limitation is evident. Although the new setting introduces a touch of novelty to the series, The Marked Ones seems to lack the consistent tension required to make the film engaging. Yet, similar to other Paranormal Activity films, its financial success is indisputable, grossing over $90 million while only costing less than $10 million to produce.

5. We Have A Ghost (2023)

Landon’s Overlooked Netflix Film

We Have A Ghost, one of Landon’s films, might have gone unnoticed because it was released on Netflix in 2023. Yet, this movie boasts some well-known actors like Anthony Mackie, David Harbour, Tig Notaro, and Jennifer Coolidge. The story is based on the 2017 short story “Ernest” by Geoff Manaugh and revolves around a family who discover a ghost in their newly-purchased house. Suddenly, they become internet sensations. However, as they delve into the ghost’s enigmatic past, they unwittingly catch the attention of the CIA.

Essentially, “We Have a Ghost” attempts to be a humorous spin on the horror film “Paranormal Activity,” showcasing Landon’s strengths. However, as suggested by its mixed reviews, it fails to fully capitalize on its promising concept and talented cast, leading to an inconsistent tribute to 1980s haunted house horror movies. The film leans towards sentimentality, but despite some clumsy dialogue, it manages to evoke enough emotion to potentially stir a tear or two.

4. Happy Death Day 2U (2019)

The Sequel To 2017’s Happy Death Day

Delving into Landon’s notable filmography, the movie “Happy Death Day 2U” stands out as one of his stronger pieces. A follow-up to his 2017 success, this film carries on with the story of Tree Gelbman (played by Jessica Rothe), who encounters another time loop, but this time in an alternate reality version. Israel Broussard, Rachel Matthews, and Ruby Modine reprise their roles in this production as well.

In terms of a rephrase, let me express it like this: Following the initial movie, Happy Death Day 2U amplifies its humor and science fiction aspects. Yet, much like many sequels, it doesn’t quite recapture the original’s unique charm. Additionally, it fell short of the box office success of the first film, earning only $64 million compared to its production budget of $9 million. Nevertheless, fans of the first installment can expect an enjoyable watch. It remains one of Landon’s more robust projects and is the sole entry on this list that boasts a Fresh rating (72%) on Rotten Tomatoes.

3. Happy Death Day (2017)

Groundhog Day Meets Scream

One of Landon’s notable films from 2017, “Happy Death Day,” is a slasher that revolves around a unique time-loop concept, often compared to the combination of “Groundhog Day” and “Scream.” It follows a college student who gets killed on her birthday only to find herself living the same day over and over again until she uncovers the identity of her killer. The movie stands out in the slasher genre by incorporating a witty, darkly comedic sci-fi twist, boosted by Jessica Rothe’s remarkable debut performance. Surprisingly, “Happy Death Day” became a huge success at the box office, generating over $125 million on a budget of just $4.8 million.

In creating “Happy Death Day”, Landon drew inspiration from classic slasher films like “Scream” and “Halloween”, time-loop movies such as “Groundhog Day”, and 1980s comedies including “Sixteen Candles” and “Back to the Future”. His aim was to produce a “fun, silly horror movie“. However, what sets “Happy Death Day” apart is that it represents Landon’s first foray into commenting on the era of social media.

2. Freaky (2020)

A Twist On Freaky Friday

In a fresh take on Freaky Friday, Landon’s 2020 slasher film presents the story of a teenage girl (Kathryn Newton) who unintentionally trades places with a ruthless serial killer (Vince Vaughn). With only 24 hours until the exchange becomes irreversible, she must find a way to break the curse and reclaim her own life. Supporting roles are played by Katie Finneran, Misha Osherovich, Celeste O’Connor, and Alan Ruck.

In the film “Freaky”, Landon skillfully combines various genres to produce a thrilling and highly amusing slasher. The unique concept of body-swapping and gender bending gives a novel twist to the genre, offering genuine frights and laugh-out-loud character interactions. Directing impressive performances from Vaughn and Newton, “Freaky” demonstrates Landon’s exceptional abilities at their finest.

1. Drop (2025)

Landon’s Latest Film

In the realm of modern cinema, I must confess that Landon’s latest offering, “Drop,” truly outshines its predecessors. Unlike the familiar territory tread in “Freaky,” “Drop” breathes life into something fresh and invigorating.

This gripping thriller follows the captivating Meghann Fahy as a widowed mother embarking on her first date in years, only to find herself entangled in a web of chilling mysteries. As she starts receiving ominous messages, her apprehensions towards her date, portrayed by Brandon Sklenar, intensify, and she finds herself grappling with concerns for her own safety.

In essence, “Drop” is a riveting exploration of suspense, trust, and the relentless pursuit of truth in a world where danger lurks around every corner. It’s a must-watch for any thriller enthusiast.

Landon’s career seemingly reaches its pinnacle with Drop, blending Hitchcock-inspired tension, reminiscent of his work on Disturbia, and innovative use of contemporary technology, akin to Happy Death Day. Similar to many of Christopher Landon’s films, it provides a powerful platform for its leading actress, Meghan Fahy. Drop is an enjoyable rollercoaster ride that maintains its cheesy thriller charm until the very end.

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2025-05-07 05:56