The Ultimate Collection: Unveiling the Greatest Horror Film of All Time
Count down the days to Halloween with our definitive guide to the top 30 horror movies of all time From the chilling classics like The Exorcist and Psycho to modern favorites like Get Out and The Conjuring, this list will send shivers down your spine
Get ready to be scared, really scared. With Halloween just around the corner, we present to you the ultimate list of the 30 greatest horror movies ever made.
Renowned author Stephen King once classified horror into three distinct categories. First, there's the "gross-out" factor - the unsettling sensation of witnessing a decapitated head rolling down a staircase or feeling a slimy, green substance splatter against your arm when the lights go out.
In the realm of horror, you encounter the unimaginable – grotesque spiders as big as bears and the deceased reanimating and wandering about. And then, there's the chilling terror that consumes you in the darkness, when an unseen presence lurks behind, its breath brushing against your ear, yet vanishing when you turn to confront it. This is the allure of the genre, catering to every individual's desires, intensifying heartbeats and causing fingers to turn pale. At times, a good fright serves as the ideal refuge from the madness life unleashes upon us all. As they say, "We all experience bouts of madness occasionally."
Top 30 horror movies ever made
Below, you’ll find our list of the top 30 horror films ever made, and details of where you can watch and stream them.
We just have one question: “Do you like scary movies?”
30. X
A group of actors embarks on a daring venture to create an adult film in the tranquil countryside of Texas, all while carefully evading their reclusive hosts. However, their audacious plan takes a terrifying turn when the elderly couple unexpectedly discover their young guests in the midst of their explicit endeavor, igniting a harrowing battle for survival.
Thoughts: Being the latest addition to this list, X has already made a significant impact on the horror genre. As the first installment of an ongoing trilogy, X provides a fresh take on the enticing slasher film. With relatable characters, including the killers themselves, X effectively engages your sense of empathy and disgust, resulting in a truly unforgettable movie experience.
Streaming platform: Paramount+ featuring Showtime.
Author: Lucy-Jo Finnighan
29. House of Wax (1953)
Synopsis: Taking place in New York during the 1900s, House of Wax revolves around a skilled yet vengeful artist. After enduring a treacherous betrayal that leaves him disfigured, he embarks on reconstructing his wax museum, filling it with astonishingly authentic sculptures. As the city witnesses perplexing disappearances, a sinister secret hidden within the museum's unsettlingly lifelike exhibits comes to light.
House of Wax is an exquisite cinematic masterpiece that seamlessly blends horror and artistic craftsmanship. Notably, it stands as one of the pioneering films to be shot in 3D. Its immersive atmosphere, coupled with intricately detailed wax figures, delves into the eerie realm where life intertwines with art. Set against the backdrop of 1900s New York, the film's captivating allure is further enhanced by Vincent Price's stellar portrayal.
Stream House of Wax on-demand at the following platforms:
Author: Daisy Phillipson
28. A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
Plot Summary: Set in a tranquil suburban neighborhood, this bone-chilling tale takes place in a town that conceals a sinister secret. Enter the nightmarish realm of Freddy Krueger, an ominous figure whose deformed appearance and deadly talons inspire terror. As the boundaries blur between dreams and reality, the town's youth become the hunted victims of Freddy's relentless grip, desperately yearning to break free from his clutches.
This is where it all started. Wes Craven, a master at creating horror icons, brings us Freddy Krueger. With a hand resembling a knife rack, a devilish smile, and an eerie skill for tormenting his victims in their dreams, A Nightmare on Elm Street is a timeless classic. Robert Englund's captivating performance and Craven's skillful direction add to the wickedness of this film. It's thrilling, it's spooky, and it's definitely worth watching again this Halloween.
Stream it on Max.
Author: Daisy Phillipson
27. The Ring (2002)
Plot Summary: Following the tragic demise of her niece caused by an alleged cursed videotape, a journalist embarks on a quest to uncover the truth surrounding the incident. Intrigued, she proceeds to watch the eerie film, only to receive a hair-raising phone call moments later, ominously foretelling her fate: "Seven days."
Gore Verbinski's American version of Hideo Nakata's chilling film is considered one of the finest adaptations of a foreign work, not solely in the horror genre, but in cinema overall. The haunting and captivating videotape, coupled with the ominous declaration of "You will meet your demise in seven days," along with the skillful employment of visual effects to give life to Samara and her curse. A skillfully crafted and widely accessible reimagining.
Available for streaming on: Paramount+ and MGM+.
Author: Cameron Frew
26. The Babadook
Synopsis: A single mother, grappling with the haunting demise of her spouse, confronts her son's terror of a lurking monster within their home, only to uncover a malevolent force encompassing her very existence.
The Babadook is widely regarded as the pioneer of the 'elevated' horror genre in the 2010s. By personifying grief and depression as a supernatural entity, the film successfully resonated with audiences, allowing them to empathize with the horror. Over the past decade, The Babadook has attained the status of an iconic movie monster, with some considering it an LGBTQ+ symbol, thus increasing its popularity. You can currently stream The Babadook on Hulu and AMC+.
Author: Lucy-Jo Finnighan
25. The Strangers
What it’s about: A couple in an isolated vacation home are tormented by three strangers in the depths of the night. Why? Because “they were home.”
Horror can be extravagant, ethereal, and imaginative, but it can also be unsettlingly straightforward. The Strangers explores a single fear: the presence of a malignant intruder in your own residence, unbeknownst to you. As a masked assailant materializes out of the darkness and vanishes just as swiftly, your astonishment will immobilize you.
Streaming options: Netflix and AMC+.
Synopsis: A group of astronauts aboard the Nostromo spacecraft respond to a distress signal originating from a distant planet. Little do they know, their mission takes a terrifying turn as they become targets of a ruthless extraterrestrial creature that infiltrates their vessel.
Thoughts: If you have never experienced the exhilaration of a supernatural creature bursting from your chest, then you have not truly lived. Sigourney Weaver delivers a captivating performance in her most memorable role yet, leaving her fellow actors to fall one by one as the chase unfolds. The concluding scene is filled with intense suspense, evoking a deep sense of fear where only the strongest survive.
Streaming platform: Disney+
Author: Jasmine Valentine
23. Ichi the Killer
Takashi Miike's grotesque world is depicted in a man's back melting off from bubbling tempura oil, another individual slowly slicing off their tongue with a samurai sword, and real semen oozing out of a potted plant. This brutal yet hilarious tour de force, based on Hideo Yamamoto's manga, sets itself apart from conventional yakuza films. Ichi the Killer showcases sadomasochism, psychological turmoil, and moral ambiguity in an unflinching manner, which may not be appealing to everyone. However, for those who can handle it, the film's mesmerizing and unapologetic exploration of humanity's dark instincts solidifies its status as a cult classic in the realm of transgressive cinema. It is advisable to have a sick bucket nearby, just in case.
Streaming Platform: Peacock
Author: Daisy Phillipson
22. The Thing (1982)
"Man is the warmest hiding place," is the chilling notion that encapsulates the nauseating paranoia of John Carpenter's The Thing. Its heart-stopping ripple effect is a relentless spectacle, as horrifying and grotesque visuals collide with the relentless undercurrent of menace. This encounter has never been so brutally savage.
Stream on: AMC+
Author: Cameron Frew
21. Carrie (1976)
Synopsis: Adapted from Stephen King's debut novel, Carrie tells the story of a teenage girl who endures ceaseless torment from her peers. As she discovers her extraordinary abilities, she harnesses them to exact retribution upon her tormentors.
Although Carrie may not fit the conventional horror movie genre with its limited scares, the impact of witnessing her mercilessly slay her fellow classmates still resonates strongly even years after its initial release. This cinematic adaptation of King's work effectively emphasizes the psychological torment endured when an individual is pushed to their breaking point.
Streaming options: Max and Hulu
Author: Kayla Harrington
20. Child’s Play (1988)
The pivotal moment when Chucky transformed into the iconic character we know today, and talking dolls became essential in the horror genre. Initially prohibited in the UK due to its resemblance to a real-life killer, this timeless horror masterpiece is a thrilling 80s adventure that revolutionized the concept of fear.
Streaming Platform: Max
Author: Jasmine Valentine
19. Kill List
Synopsis: A unemployed assassin agrees to a lucrative assignment, unaware that it will plunge him into a whirlwind of distress, enigma, and age-old rituals.
Kill List is an exemplary rugpull. At first glance, one might assume that Ben Wheatley has delivered a gritty British gangster thriller. However, as the dark and ominous tension takes over, the exceptional sound design grips the audience with a sense of terror. The familiar elements of crime cinema are then replaced by a nightmarish display of a horror cult. The violence is sparing, for which you will be grateful once you witness Wheatley's distinct form of brutality. Additionally, unexpected yet appreciated humor is sprinkled throughout, all leading up to a climax that will leave you eagerly scheduling your next therapy session.
Stream Kill List on Shudder.
Author: Daisy Phillipson
18. Jaws
Synopsis: Experience the iconic shark saga that set the precedent. Following a series of horrifying shark attacks on Amity Island, Chief Martin Brody joins forces with a marine biologist and a seasoned fisherman to embark on a relentless pursuit of the formidable predator.
In our opinion, although the quality of the animatronics may not be impressive, the impact of watching Jaws at a young age, due to the influence of our cousins, can result in lasting nightmares. With its gripping speeches, tense scenes, and thrilling explosions, Jaws remains a timeless horror masterpiece that can be enjoyed repeatedly without ever losing its charm.
To stream Jaws, you can find it available on Netflix.
Author: Jasmine Valentine
17. Psycho
Some perceive Alfred Hitchcock's "Psycho" as his finest masterpiece, greatly influencing the film industry. Its impact on cinema is apparent even if you haven't personally viewed it. The movie excels in delivering surprising twists in both the second and third acts, accompanied by an unforgettable theme composed by Bernard Herrmann. However, it's advisable to avoid the Vince Vaughn remake. Available for streaming on-demand.
Author: Lucy-Jo Finnighan
16. Don’t Look Now
Synopsis: In an attempt to salvage their crumbling marriage after the loss of their beloved daughter, a couple embarks on a journey to Venice. Amidst the process of healing, they encounter a psychic who foresees an impending tragedy and frequently catches glimpses of a haunting figure resembling their cherished little girl...
Don't Look Now, based on Daphne du Maurier's short story of the same name, is a gripping exploration of grief. Director Nic Roeg masterfully infuses the film with unsettling visuals that will haunt your nightmares, particularly as sightings of the enigmatic figure grow increasingly frequent. The unforgettable climax of the film will leave you breathless, simultaneously stirring your emotions.
Streaming: Pluto TV.
Author: Chris Tilly
15. Night of the Living Dead
Synopsis: When an unknown force reanimates the deceased, a diverse group of survivors unite within the confines of a farmhouse, desperately fighting to endure the impending zombie apocalypse.
George A. Romero is widely recognized as a pioneer of graphic horror, with his film Night of the Living Dead redefining the boundaries of movie violence. Notably, there is a scene in which a young girl feasts on her own mother, pushing the limits of acceptability. However, beyond its terrifying elements, Night of the Living Dead also serves as a poignant political commentary on the tumultuous state of race relations in America during that period. This film kickstarted a remarkable trilogy in the horror genre, with Dawn of the Dead cleverly satirizing consumerism and Day of the Dead critically examining the military industrial complex.
Streaming availability: This film can be found on various platforms, as it is no longer protected by copyright.
Author: Chris Tilly
14. It Chapter One
Synopsis: It Chapter One is an adaptation of Stephen King's novel, where a group of socially marginalized youngsters in Maine confronts a malevolent ancient entity camouflaged as a clown. This malevolent spirit reappears every 27 years with the intention of devouring children.
Stream It Chapter One on Max for a truly terrifying experience. Pennywise's portrayal in this film will leave you on the edge of your seat, as the kids' fears become haunting realities. Prepare to be chilled to the core.
Author: Kayla Harrington
13. Halloween (1978)
Synopsis: Released after spending fifteen years in a mental asylum, Michael Myers evades confinement and comes back to his hometown of Haddonfield, coinciding with Halloween. With a sinister objective in mind, he sets his sights on his next targets, among them being Laurie Strode.
Available for streaming on Shudder.
Author: Cameron Frew
12. Hellraiser (1987)
The story revolves around Frank (played by Sean Chapman), a sexual deviant who, during a trip abroad, becomes intrigued by a peculiar puzzle box. Little does he know, his curiosity unleashes a group of otherworldly creatures known as Cenobites, who are unable to distinguish between pain and pleasure. At the forefront of these beings is Pinhead, their fearless leader.
Having watched the movie well into my teenage years, Hellraiser was one of the few horror films that terrified me to the point where I couldn't bring myself to finish it. It took several attempts for me to truly appreciate its intense level of blood-curdling horror and its disturbing antagonists. The chilling and brutal ways in which the murders are portrayed linger in your mind, leaving you wide awake till dawn. To me, it stands as one of the very few monstrous entities that I am certain I would never be able to survive.
Streaming option: Prime Video
Author: Gabriela Silva
11. Seven
Synopsis: Detective William Somerset (Morgan Freeman) joins forces with his rookie partner, David Mills (Brad Pitt), on their last investigation. Their mission is to apprehend a sadistic serial killer who gruesomely represents each of the seven deadly sins with his victims. Time is of the essence as they race against the clock to bring an end to the killer's reign of terror before he completes his sinister mission.
Although not classified as a horror, Seven remains one of my personal favorites as it captures the raw and dirty essence of crime thrillers from the late '90s. Significantly, the film's depiction of the seven deadly sins provides its serial killer antagonist with a profoundly twisted ideology. The sin of Lust particularly disturbed me upon my initial viewing, given its brutal nature. As the movie progressed, the killer's malevolence intensified, culminating in a shocking ending that rendered me speechless, astonished by his complete absence of humanity.
Streaming platform: Hulu
Author: Gabriela Silva
10. Martyrs (2008)
Synopsis: In search of retribution, a young woman embarks on a quest for revenge against those who tormented her during childhood, embarking on a chilling journey alongside another survivor of abuse, delving into the darkest realms of human depravity.
Although some may label it as "torture porn," I personally view it as a powerful representation of French horror that dares its audience to delve into existential questions beyond its visceral intensity. Make no mistake, Martyrs is undeniably brutal. However, this film goes beyond the typical horror experience, delving into deep philosophical inquiries that confront the uncomfortable truths surrounding suffering, the pursuit of transcendence, and the extreme measures individuals take to fathom the unknown. Even if you disagree with this perspective, one thing is certain: you won't easily forget this movie.
Streaming platform: On-demand
Author: Daisy Phillipson
9. The Wicker Man (1973)
Synopsis: An island off the Scottish coast becomes the backdrop for a mysterious case as a devotedly religious police officer sets out to uncover the truth behind the vanishing of a young girl. However, the islanders vehemently deny her existence and relentlessly obstruct his desperate quest to locate her.
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That's the premise of The Wicker Man, a film set in the peculiar and unnerving community of Summerisle. The residents of Summerisle are eccentric, and their traditions are unsettling. However, The Wicker Man delivers an intense and startling conclusion that is considered one of the most shocking in film history. Edward Woodward gives a remarkable performance as the devout police officer at the center of the story, while Christopher Lee embodies the menacing and cunning Lord Summerisle.
Streaming platforms: Tubi, Pluto, and Freevee.
Author: Chris Tilly
8. The Conjuring
Overview: In 1970, the residence of Carolyn and Roger Perron attracts the attention of renowned paranormal investigators Lorraine and Ed Warren. The Perron family, consisting of the couple and their five daughters, has just settled into a tranquil farmhouse, but soon discovers the unsettling presence of supernatural forces.
Fans adore the fictional characters of Ed and Lorraine, who were actually real individuals, so much that an entire horror franchise has been created around them. The irresistible chemistry between Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson is undeniable, and the contemporary supernatural theme of the film breaks free from the traditional clichés.
Streaming Platform: Max
Synopsis: In pursuit of a documentary subject, three aspiring filmmakers embark on a daring expedition into the eerie Black Hills near Burkittsville, Maryland. Their objective is to delve into the realms of an infamous urban legend known as the Blair Witch.
Local legends and eerie tales that haunt our imagination form the foundation of our obsession with horror. This is precisely why The Blair Witch Project, a remarkable found-footage film, holds such allure. Its ability to delves into the mysterious depths of the woods is so convincing that many actually believed it to be true. The unfiltered hysteria of "what the f*ck was that?" captured in the film's rawness adds to its authenticity. It's a bone-chilling experience that leaves you apprehensive about closing or even opening your eyes.
Streaming availability: Paramount+
Author: Cameron Frew
6. The Exorcist
Synopsis: A young girl's escalating erratic conduct prompts her mother to seek aid from a priest. Soon, the priest discovers that the girl is plagued by demonic possession.
The Exorcist holds a terrifying reputation, but its inherent strength captivates you even without invoking the name of Christ. After nearly five decades, it remains the ultimate film about possession, featuring horrifying makeup, chilling visuals, and a truly terrifying narrative that would make anyone with a pure soul tremble in fear.
Catch it on Max for streaming.
Author: Cameron Frew
5. The Shining
Plot: In The Shining, a man takes his wife and young son to a snowbound hotel where he has been hired as the winter caretaker. As they stay in the hotel, the son begins to have psychic visions, while the man delves deeper into the hotel's concealed sinister truths, ultimately leading him to commit acts of violence.
The Shining has endured the test of time by consistently evoking a sense of unease throughout its duration. Witnessing the disintegration of a family is already distressing, but when combined with instances of violence and disturbing dreams of murder, this movie becomes truly terrifying.
Streaming options: Prime Video and Max.
Author: Kayla Harrington
4. Get Out
Get Out, directed by Jordan Peele, made a remarkable entrance into the world of filmmaking and quickly garnered widespread critical acclaim. This is well-deserved as the movie effortlessly blends elements of horror and psychological thriller, delivering a captivating and unforgettable storyline. Daniel Kaluuya delivers a haunting performance that will leave a lasting impression. Additionally, the revelation at the film's midpoint is a cinematic moment that defies expectations.
For those interested in streaming the movie, it is available on-demand.
Author: Jasmine Valentine
3. Scream (1996)
Synopsis: Follow high school student Sidney Prescott as she becomes the prime target of a chilling killer, concealed behind a haunting Ghostface mask. On the commemoration of her mother's tragic murder, anyone in proximity to Sidney becomes a potential victim, all in an effort to reach her.
The 1996 film gave birth to a horror franchise that has remained a beloved cult classic for years. Scream is undoubtedly a must-watch for me throughout the year. What truly makes this movie a horror gem are its well-executed jump-scares, unapologetic display of gore, and the intriguing mystery surrounding Ghostface's identity. Scream's gripping twist reveal still lingers in my mind, as I find myself constantly trying to piece it all together while watching the film.
Streaming Platform: Max
Author: Gabriela Silva
2. The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974)
Synopsis: A group of five friends embarks on a journey through the rural landscape of Texas when they chance upon an eerie, deserted house, unknowingly stepping into the clutches of a cannibalistic family.
Title: The Vivid Terror of Leatherface: Where to Watch
Experience the chilling horror of the iconic slasher, Leatherface, with a tagline that haunts the imagination: "Who will survive and what will be left of them?" From his unforgettable debut, resonating like a foreboding alarm, this film captures the essence of madness and macabre in mere seconds, going beyond the visible and leaving a lasting impact.
To indulge in the terror, you can stream Leatherface on Peacock, Shudder, and AMC+.
Author: Cameron Frew
1. Hereditary
What it’s about: In the wake of their secretive, “difficult” matriarch’s death, a sinister force drives the Graham family towards unimaginable terrors.
At the screening of Hereditary, my fiancée cried openly for three quarters of the film, while several couples, unable to bear the fright, rushed towards the exit during the final act. For those who may dismiss it with a roll of their eyes, I assure you, it truly is that terrifying. However, sacrificing your sleep will be worth it when compared to the rewards this film offers. It is a nightmare machine that comes around only once in a generation, and Toni Collette's performance stands as the pinnacle of horror. I say it once, I say it again: this film deserves all our praise.
To stream: Max.
Author: Cameron Frew
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