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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Monmouth chapter.

Halloween is my absolute favorite time of the year, hot drinks, cozy weather, late night movies, and the crisp fall air. To me, the one factor that makes my Halloween perfect every year is the essence of horror movies.  There’s no better night to cozy up with friends, or a significant other, make some popcorn, and set up in a dark room to watch the scariest movies possible.  Here are my top 5 absolute favorite horror movies that are essential to watch to get in the Halloween spirit.   

 

5. At number 5, I’ve chosen The Shining.  Not only is this thriller a timeless classic with stupendous acting, this movie is the perfect start to a scary movie night.  The Shining had almost become a reality this year during quarantine, since the family in the movie gets stuck in a hotel (with only them in it) during a terrible snowstorm.  The reason this movie is ranked at number 5 is due to the length, which may lose some viewers.  All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy

4. For number 4, I chose to put in The Invisible Man. This movie is fairly new, hitting the theaters about a year ago.  The suspenseful thriller held my attention for the entire movie and had well executed scenes.  This captivating film had me on the edge of my seat the whole time and definitely shocked me with the ending.  The Invisible Man is a movie that shouldn’t be passed up.    

3. At number 3, I decided to choose Texas Chainsaw Massacre.  This is another classic horror movie that still holds its fear factor today.  Based on a true story, Texas Chainsaw Massacre depicts gory and honest scenes that depict anguish and fear.  The fact that this movie was based on a true story makes it that much more horrifying.  Texas Chainsaw Massacre is a true and classic horror movie that leaves viewers shaken up.  

2. For number 2, I figured nothing would fit this place better than It.  By now, if you haven’t seen It you are truly missing out.  From terrifying scenes of unhinging jaws and spiky teeth, It has it all.  From funny jokes to gory scenes, this movie covers all the tracks of being funny and horrifying in all the right ways.  Personally, this movie will always be a favorite due to the amazing execution not only the scenes, but the characters as well.  

1. Finally, at number one, I decided I had to go with a timeless classic.  My favorite movie to watch to get into the fall and Halloween spirit is … Halloween.  This late 70’s quintessential film is the perfect slasher horror.  The soundtrack is still something that is used today, and still strikes fear for many.  Halloween has a constant lingering of vulnerability for not only the characters in the movie, but for the audience as well.  The movie feels so realistic that you too wind up feeling like you’re the one being followed.   

 

I hope that everyone gets a chance to watch these fantastic movies (if you’re a fan of horror and thriller movies).  Happy Halloween to everyone! 

 

 

Madison Mastromarino is a 20 year old student at Monmouth University from Wildwood, New Jersey. Madison is currently working towards a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology with a minor in Social Work. Her educational background includes an Associate's Degree in Psychology from Atlantic Cape Community College. Madison enjoys attending concerts and has aspirations to travel the world.