Horror movies have been a popular genre for decades, providing audiences with spine-tingling scares and thrilling suspense. With so many great horror films out there, it can be difficult to narrow down the top ten.
However, here are the ten horror movies that have stood the test of time and continue to be celebrated as some of the best in the genre.
The Exorcist (1973)
The Exorcist is widely regarded as the scariest horror movie of all time, and for good reason. The film tells the story of a young girl who is possessed by a demonic entity, and the two priests who attempt to exorcise her. The Exorcist is famous for its shocking special effects, intense atmosphere, and memorable performances.
Halloween (1978)
John Carpenter’s Halloween is a classic slasher movie that has inspired countless imitators. The film follows Michael Myers, a masked killer who returns to his hometown to terrorize a group of teenagers. Halloween is known for its iconic villain, suspenseful music, and tension-filled chase scenes.
The Shining (1980)
Based on Stephen King’s novel, The Shining is a psychological horror movie that explores the descent into madness of its main character, Jack Torrance. Jack takes a job as the winter caretaker of an isolated hotel with his family, but his mental state deteriorates as the ghosts of the hotel’s past begin to haunt him. The Shining is renowned for its eerie atmosphere, stunning cinematography, and Jack Nicholson’s chilling performance.
Psycho (1960)
Psycho is a masterclass in suspense and psychological terror. The film follows Marion Crane, who steals money from her employer and ends up at the Bates Motel, where she meets the disturbed proprietor, Norman Bates. Psycho is famous for its iconic shower scene, and its twist ending has become one of the most well-known in movie history.
Alien (1979)
Ridley Scott’s Alien is a sci-fi horror movie that has spawned numerous sequels and spin-offs. The film follows a crew of space travelers who encounter a deadly extraterrestrial creature on their journey. Alien is known for its tense atmosphere, stunning visuals, and innovative creature design.
The Silence of the Lambs (1991)
The Silence of the Lambs is a horror movie that also works as a crime thriller. The film follows FBI agent Clarice Starling, who enlists the help of imprisoned serial killer Dr. Hannibal Lecter to catch another serial killer. The Silence of the Lambs is famous for its intense performances by Jodie Foster and Anthony Hopkins, as well as its iconic villain.
Jaws (1975)
Jaws is a classic horror movie that made people afraid to go in the water. The film follows a sheriff, a marine biologist, and a fisherman who team up to hunt down a man-eating great white shark that is terrorizing a beach town. Jaws is famous for its iconic theme music, suspenseful pacing, and thrilling action sequences.
The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)
The Texas Chainsaw Massacre is a gritty, visceral horror movie that has become a cult classic. The film follows a group of friends who fall victim to a family of cannibals in rural Texas. The Texas Chainsaw Massacre is known for its shocking violence, intense atmosphere, and iconic villain, Leatherface.