If you’re thinking of dipping your toes into horror this October, it can be easy to become overwhelmed by the sheer amount of movies in the genre. Let’s be honest—horror movies aren’t always the best films, and at times knowing which one to watch can be a dizzying process. Fear not mortals, here’s a list of the movies you absolutely should not miss this year, based on nothing more than my opinion. Let’s go!
1) John Carpenter’s Halloween
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I didn’t see this movie until embarrassingly late, and all I have to say is that it absolutely holds up. The story is simple enough—bad seed Michael Myers escapes asylum and goes on a killing spree in the neighborhood he grew up in on Halloween Night. It features Jamie Lee Curtis in her first role as Laurie Strode, a bookish girl who ultimately becomes a baddie. Give it a watch if you haven’t, I promise it still holds up.
2) The Conjuring
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A more modern example that brings the scares in an exciting way, The Conjuring has made its way to the top of my all time favorites list. Based on a true story, paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren investigate strange occurrences at a Rhode Island House. It’s a slow burn, and when the action takes place, it does not disappoint.
3) It & It Chapter 2
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In case you somehow missed the hype, this version of Stephen King’s magnum opus is absolutely unmissable. In my eyes the films together create one complete work, but both are great films in their own right. With perfect casting and a story that truly is a coming of age tale that will move you to uproarious laughter and cathartic tears.
4) It Follows
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A deeply troubling story with incredible cinematography, we follow Jay, a young women who has contracted a demon through having sex. This demon will follow her until it kills her or she passes on the curse. It’s subtle, scary, and filled with stellar performances that will have you constantly looking over your shoulder.
5) Psycho
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A classic that still holds up, Psycho is arguable one of the most famous horror films of all time, with some of the most iconic shots in film history. The twist will leave you breathless, and there is also an incredible companion show Bates Motel if you find yourself needing more.
6) Scream
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A movie that brought horror back to the big screen, this meta film is often considered a satire due to the way it deconstructs the genre. That being said, it has one of the most badass leading ladies in cinema, and incredible twists and turns that keep you on your toes no matter how familiar you are with the genre. An incredible work of art by the late Wes Craven that should not be missed this year
7) Saw
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A personal all time favorite, the first film in this expansive franchise is not nearly as disturbing or violent as the rest of the films would have you believe. It’s gritty and is almost like a crime procedural, with most of the horror masked with jump cuts and implied gore. Saw is a viewing experience that can only truly be experienced once, so do yourself a favor and watch it, you will absolutely not regret it.
I hope this list proves to be inspiring and frightening. Happy Halloween!