Horror movies have always been a popular genre for people who enjoy thrill, suspense, and the adrenaline rush of being scared. Whether it’s a classic slasher film, supernatural thriller, or psychological horror, the genre has something for everyone. Over the years, filmmakers have pushed the boundaries of fear, creating stories that stay with you long after the credits roll.
The beauty of horror is that it doesn’t just make us afraid; it challenges our perceptions, makes us think, and even provides moments of catharsis. But with so many horror films out there, it can be tough to decide which ones are truly worth watching. In this article, we’ll take a look at the Best 10 Horror Movies to Watch in English, offering you a range of spine-chilling films that will make you jump, scream, and keep you up at night.
Let’s dive into these films that have redefined horror and cemented their place as must-watch experiences in the genre. From supernatural beings to monsters lurking in the dark, these films are sure to satisfy any horror lover’s craving for terror.
1. The Shining (1980)
Directed by Stanley Kubrick, The Shining is considered one of the greatest horror movies ever made. Based on Stephen King’s novel, it tells the story of Jack Torrance, a writer who accepts a job as the winter caretaker of a remote hotel. When he’s alone with his wife and son, Jack begins to slowly lose his sanity due to the eerie, supernatural presence within the hotel.
The film is renowned for its slow-building tension, incredible atmosphere, and unforgettable performances. Jack Nicholson’s portrayal of Jack Torrance is chilling, particularly during the famous “Here’s Johnny!” scene. Kubrick’s mastery of cinematography and unsettling sound design add to the sense of paranoia and fear.
Why Watch It: The Shining isn’t just about scares; it’s a deep psychological horror that explores themes of isolation, madness, and family trauma. The eerie hotel setting, mixed with supernatural elements, makes it a masterpiece in the genre.
2. Get Out (2017)
Written and directed by Jordan Peele, Get Out is a modern horror classic that blends social commentary with spine-tingling terror. The film follows Chris, a young African American man, as he visits his white girlfriend’s family for the weekend. What starts as an awkward encounter with her family quickly takes a dark turn, revealing a horrifying conspiracy.
The genius of Get Out lies in its ability to blend horror with real-world issues, particularly racism and exploitation. The psychological horror in the film is profound, and the tension builds as Chris uncovers more sinister secrets about his girlfriend’s family.
Why Watch It: Get Out isn’t just about thrills and shocks. It’s a film that makes you think long after the credits roll. Peele’s commentary on race and privilege is timely, and it’s wrapped up in an unforgettable horror story.
3. The Exorcist (1973)
A true horror landmark, The Exorcist remains one of the scariest films ever made. Directed by William Friedkin, the film tells the story of a young girl, Regan, who becomes possessed by a demon. As Regan’s behavior becomes more disturbing, her mother turns to a Catholic priest to perform an exorcism.
The film’s portrayal of demonic possession is terrifying, and the special effects—especially the infamous spinning head and projectile vomiting scenes—remain iconic. The performances, particularly by Linda Blair (Regan) and Max von Sydow (Father Merrin), are chilling.
Why Watch It: The Exorcist is a deep, atmospheric film that taps into universal fears about the unknown and the power of evil. It’s a slow burn that builds to a terrifying crescendo, and its themes of faith, fear, and the supernatural make it one of the best in the genre.
4. A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
Directed by Wes Craven, A Nightmare on Elm Street introduced the world to Freddy Krueger, one of horror’s most iconic villains. The film is set in a suburban neighborhood where teenagers are being killed in their dreams by Freddy, a vengeful spirit who can invade the dreams of his victims.
The premise is original and terrifying—how do you fight an enemy who comes for you while you’re asleep? Craven’s innovative storytelling, along with Robert Englund’s unforgettable portrayal of Freddy, made this movie a standout. The film’s mix of supernatural elements with slasher tropes brought a new twist to the genre.
Why Watch It: A Nightmare on Elm Street is a must-watch for fans of supernatural horror and slasher films. Freddy Krueger has become a cultural icon, and this movie’s creepy atmosphere and clever premise will leave you looking over your shoulder every time you go to sleep.
5. The Conjuring (2013)
Directed by James Wan, The Conjuring is a supernatural horror film that follows real-life paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren. The film is based on their investigation into the haunting of the Perron family’s home in Rhode Island.
What sets The Conjuring apart is its genuine scares and well-crafted suspense. Unlike many modern horror films, it doesn’t rely too heavily on jump scares. Instead, it builds tension and dread through its atmosphere and subtle creepiness. Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga give standout performances as the Warrens.
Why Watch It: If you’re a fan of supernatural horror films that feel grounded in reality, The Conjuring is a must-see. The movie’s strong sense of dread and its connection to real-life events make it feel all the more terrifying.
6. Hereditary (2018)
A disturbing and deeply unsettling horror film, Hereditary is written and directed by Ari Aster. The story follows the Graham family as they cope with the death of the family matriarch, only to discover dark secrets that lead them down a terrifying path.
What makes Hereditary so unsettling is its slow build-up and its exploration of grief, trauma, and the impact of family history. Toni Collette’s performance as the grieving mother is nothing short of extraordinary, and the film’s shocking twists will leave you gasping.
Why Watch It: Hereditary is a slow-burn psychological horror film that digs deep into family dysfunction and the lasting effects of trauma. Its disturbing imagery and emotional weight make it a standout in modern horror.
7. Psycho (1960)
Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho is one of the most influential horror films in history. The film follows Marion Crane, a woman on the run who checks into a remote motel run by the shy but strange Norman Bates. What follows is a story of deceit, violence, and terror that has become synonymous with the genre.
Hitchcock’s masterful direction and Bernard Herrmann’s haunting score elevate Psycho to another level of suspense. The film’s shocking twists and its unforgettable final moments have made it a benchmark for psychological horror and thrillers.
Why Watch It: Psycho is a cinematic classic that helped define the slasher genre. Its twists and turns, combined with its memorable characters, make it an essential watch for any horror fan.
8. It Follows (2014)
It Follows is a modern horror film that taps into primal fears of being pursued by something unstoppable. The story follows Jay, a young woman who is pursued by a supernatural entity after a sexual encounter. The entity can take any form and always follows its victim, moving slowly but steadily towards them.
The film is unique in its approach to horror, offering an unsettling sense of dread that permeates every scene. It explores themes of sexual trauma, fear, and inevitability in a way that feels fresh and engaging. The film’s minimalist style and haunting score add to the tension and atmosphere.
Why Watch It: It Follows is a modern classic that takes a simple but terrifying premise and builds it into an incredibly tense experience. It’s a smart, atmospheric horror film that will stay with you long after it ends.
9. The Babadook (2014)
Directed by Jennifer Kent, The Babadook is a psychological horror film about a mother and her son who are haunted by a dark presence after reading a mysterious book. The film explores grief, mental illness, and the dark places in the mind, all while delivering some truly terrifying moments.
The Babadook itself, an eerie figure from the book, represents the unprocessed trauma that the mother can’t escape. The film’s slow pace and deeply unsettling tone make it one of the more unique horror films in recent years.
Why Watch It: The Babadook is not just about scares; it’s about confronting the darker aspects of ourselves. It’s a film that uses horror to explore real emotional struggles, making it a poignant and terrifying watch.
10. The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974)
Directed by Tobe Hooper, The Texas Chain Saw Massacre is a brutal, gritty film that set the standard for slasher films. The story follows a group of friends who stumble upon a family of cannibals while on a road trip in rural Texas. The film is infamous for its graphic violence and raw, unrelenting terror.
What makes The Texas Chain Saw Massacre so effective is its sense of realism. The film is dirty, claustrophobic, and feels like you’re trapped in a nightmare with no escape. Leatherface, the film’s iconic killer, is a terrifying figure who uses a chainsaw to kill his victims, and his presence lingers long after the film ends.
Why Watch It: If you love raw, intense horror, The Texas Chain Saw Massacre is a must-see. It’s a landmark film in the slasher genre and remains one of the most terrifying movies ever made.
Conclusion
These ten films represent some of the best horror movies ever made in the English language. Whether you’re a fan of psychological terror, supernatural creatures, or gory slasher films, there’s something here for everyone. From the haunting atmosphere of The Shining to the socially conscious horror of Get Out, each of these films offers a unique take on fear. So, turn off the lights, grab some popcorn, and get ready for a thrilling ride into the world of horror.
