Halloween is that time of year when the spooky atmosphere is in the air, and people are eager to enjoy thrills and chills. Whether you’re hosting a Halloween party or simply looking to settle in for a fright-filled movie night, horror films are an essential part of the celebration. But with so many movies to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which ones will truly get you in the Halloween spirit.
This list of the 20 best Halloween horror movies includes classics, modern hits, and hidden gems that will keep you on the edge of your seat. From terrifying monsters and haunted houses to disturbing psychological horror, there’s something here for every horror fan. Whether you’re in the mood for a bloodcurdling slasher, a supernatural tale, or an eerie psychological thriller, these films are guaranteed to make your Halloween unforgettable.
1. Halloween (1978)
John Carpenter’s Halloween is often regarded as the film that kicked off the slasher genre. Released in 1978, it introduced us to Michael Myers, a masked killer who stalks babysitter Laurie Strode on Halloween night. With its iconic score, atmospheric tension, and minimalist storytelling, this film is a must-watch every Halloween.
The movie’s impact on the genre is immense. It not only created a lasting franchise but also influenced countless horror films that followed. If you haven’t seen it yet, now’s the perfect time to experience this seminal classic.
2. The Exorcist (1973)
The Exorcist is one of the most terrifying movies of all time. Directed by William Friedkin, it tells the story of a young girl named Regan who becomes possessed by a demonic force. As her behavior becomes increasingly erratic and violent, her mother turns to two priests for help.
This chilling tale of demonic possession is known for its disturbing imagery, such as Regan’s head spinning and her voice changing, making it a horror experience that stays with you long after the credits roll.
3. The Shining (1980)
Stanley Kubrick’s adaptation of Stephen King’s novel The Shining is a masterclass in atmospheric horror. Set in a remote hotel during the off-season, it follows Jack Torrance, a writer who slowly descends into madness under the influence of supernatural forces. The film features one of Jack Nicholson’s most iconic performances, and the tension throughout is unrelenting.
The eerie setting, unsettling visuals, and ambiguous ending make The Shining a terrifying exploration of isolation and madness, making it a perfect Halloween watch.
4. Psycho (1960)
Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho is a pioneering psychological horror thriller that changed the way audiences view suspense. The story of a disturbed motel owner named Norman Bates and his unsettling relationship with his mother is filled with twists and turns.
With its shocking moments, including one of the most infamous scenes in cinema history—the shower scene—Psycho has earned its place as one of the greatest horror films ever made.
5. Hereditary (2018)
A recent addition to the horror canon, Hereditary is a deeply unsettling and emotionally intense film that focuses on a family’s descent into grief and madness after the death of their matriarch. Directed by Ari Aster, this film blends supernatural horror with psychological terror, creating a haunting atmosphere that lingers long after it ends.
With its shocking visuals, disturbing themes, and strong performances, Hereditary is a modern classic that redefined horror in the 21st century.
6. A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
Wes Craven’s A Nightmare on Elm Street introduced the world to Freddy Krueger, a vengeful spirit who haunts the dreams of teenagers, killing them in their sleep. The movie mixes slasher elements with supernatural horror, making it one of the most unique and terrifying films of the 1980s.
Freddy’s creepy appearance and ability to kill in the dream world create an unsettling premise, making this film one of the scariest entries in the slasher genre.
7. It (2017)
Based on Stephen King’s 1986 novel, It tells the story of a group of kids in the town of Derry who face off against a shape-shifting entity that preys on children’s fears. The character of Pennywise the Dancing Clown, played by Bill Skarsgård, has become an iconic villain in modern horror.
The film expertly blends coming-of-age drama with spine-chilling horror, making it both an emotional and terrifying experience that’s perfect for Halloween.
8. The Conjuring (2013)
Directed by James Wan, The Conjuring is based on the real-life investigations of paranormal experts Ed and Lorraine Warren. The film follows the Warrens as they investigate a haunted farmhouse where a family is being tormented by dark forces.
With its creepy atmosphere, well-timed scares, and strong performances, The Conjuring has become one of the most successful and beloved supernatural horror films of the last decade.
9. Get Out (2017)
Jordan Peele’s Get Out is a brilliant blend of social commentary and horror. The film follows Chris, an African American man who visits his white girlfriend’s family estate, only to uncover a terrifying secret. Through its clever use of racial themes and psychological horror, Get Out is both thought-provoking and deeply unsettling.
With its sharp direction and memorable performances, Get Out is a modern horror film that will keep you thinking long after you’ve seen it.
10. Rosemary’s Baby (1968)
In Rosemary’s Baby, director Roman Polanski crafts a slow-burning horror film about a young woman who becomes pregnant under mysterious and sinister circumstances. As she becomes suspicious of those around her, the tension builds, leading to a terrifying conclusion.
The film is a masterful psychological thriller that plays on themes of trust, paranoia, and the fear of the unknown, making it a chilling choice for Halloween.
11. Nosferatu (1922)
For fans of classic horror, Nosferatu is a must-see. This silent film by F.W. Murnau is one of the earliest adaptations of Bram Stoker’s Dracula. It tells the story of Count Orlok, a vampire who terrorizes a young couple.
The film’s eerie imagery, especially Max Schreck’s performance as Count Orlok, has made it an iconic entry in the horror genre, and its unsettling atmosphere makes it a perfect choice for Halloween.
12. The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974)
Tobe Hooper’s The Texas Chain Saw Massacre is a grueling, disturbing slasher film that has influenced countless horror movies since its release. The story follows a group of friends who encounter a family of cannibals, including the infamous Leatherface, who wields a chainsaw as his weapon of choice.
The raw and gritty style of the film, combined with its relentless intensity, makes it a staple of horror that’s sure to leave a lasting impact.
13. The Ring (2002)
In The Ring, a journalist investigates a mysterious videotape that allegedly causes the death of anyone who watches it after seven days. The film, a remake of the Japanese horror movie Ringu, taps into the fear of technology and the unknown, building suspense through its eerie atmosphere and unsettling visuals.
The sense of dread that permeates the film makes it a fantastic Halloween choice for those who enjoy supernatural horror.
14. Jaws (1975)
While not a traditional Halloween film, Steven Spielberg’s Jaws is one of the most terrifying movies of all time. The story of a great white shark terrorizing a small beach town has everything: suspense, heart-pounding moments, and a primal fear of the ocean.
The tension between the characters and the unseen monster lurking beneath the surface makes this film a must-watch during spooky season.
15. Suspiria (1977)
Directed by Dario Argento, Suspiria is a visually stunning and unnerving Italian horror film that follows a young woman who enrolls in a dance academy, only to discover that it hides dark and supernatural secrets. The film’s vibrant colors, haunting soundtrack, and surreal imagery combine to create a disorienting and terrifying experience.
Suspiria is a cult classic that perfectly captures the eerie, dreamlike quality of a true horror film, making it an excellent choice for Halloween.
16. The Babadook (2014)
The Babadook is a psychological horror film that explores grief and motherhood through the story of a widow who becomes haunted by a sinister presence. The film’s central monster, the Babadook, is a dark and disturbing manifestation of the protagonist’s emotional turmoil.
The tension and dread in this film build gradually, leading to an intense and unforgettable climax that makes it a standout in modern horror.
17. The Witch (2015)
Set in 1630s New England, The Witch tells the story of a Puritan family that begins to unravel as strange and terrifying events occur around them. The film is slow-burn horror at its best, building dread through its unsettling atmosphere, period detail, and chilling performances.
With its themes of religious fanaticism and supernatural horror, The Witch is an eerie and thought-provoking choice for a Halloween watch.
18. The Others (2001)
The Others is a gothic horror film that stars Nicole Kidman as a woman who becomes convinced that her home is haunted. The film uses atmosphere and suspense rather than gore to create a truly terrifying experience, and its twist ending is sure to leave you stunned.
The film’s moody and atmospheric style, combined with its haunting story, makes it a perfect addition to your Halloween movie marathon.
19. Cabin in the Woods (2012)
Cabin in the Woods is a smart and subversive horror film that turns the typical slasher movie on its head. A group of friends head to a remote cabin for a weekend getaway, only to find themselves caught up in a mysterious and deadly experiment. Directed by Drew Goddard and produced by Joss Whedon, this film combines elements of traditional horror with a fresh twist.
The clever commentary on horror tropes and the film’s unexpected turns make it a fun and thrilling experience for both casual and die-hard horror fans. It’s a perfect choice for Halloween if you enjoy a mix of horror and humor with your scares.
20. Trick ‘r Treat (2007)
Trick ‘r Treat is an anthology horror film that tells multiple interconnected stories set on Halloween night. Each story is full of supernatural creatures, creepy legends, and dark twists that encapsulate the essence of Halloween. With its mix of blood, humor, and eerie atmospheres, it’s a film that’s perfect for getting into the Halloween spirit.
The character of Sam, a creepy little trick-or-treater with a burlap sack for a head, has become an iconic Halloween figure, and the film’s clever storytelling makes it a fun and spooky watch for the holiday season.
Conclusion
Halloween is the perfect time to dive into a scary movie marathon, and this list of 20 best Halloween horror films offers a little something for everyone. Whether you prefer the classic thrills of Halloween or the psychological terror of Hereditary, each film on this list will keep you at the edge of your seat. These films not only represent the best of the horror genre but also embody the eerie, spooky atmosphere that makes Halloween so special.
So, grab some popcorn, dim the lights, and get ready for a night of fear, fun, and frights with these terrifying Halloween horror movies.
