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

I don’t care what you say, the best part of Halloween is watching scary movies. Although I love a good scare, sometimes it’s too terrifying.

Here are some recommendations for amazing horror films that won’t make you pee your pants.

“Clue” (1985)

1985’s “Clue” is a hidden gem in the world of murder mystery movies. Directed by Jonathan Lynn, this is a thrilling horror film that follows a group of six guests who are invited to a strange mansion.

After they discover the host dead, they must scramble to identify the murderer.

This movie has fast-paced action and quick wit, which makes it the perfect watch for a night in. There aren’t any jump scares or highly grotesque images, and it is rated PG.

It also has a surprise twist ending that I highly recommend sticking around for.

“The Shining” (1980)

Based on Stephen King’s 1977 horror novel, “The Shining” tells the story of a family living and caretaking Colorado’s Overlook Hotel.

As they continue to stay in the hotel, an eerie presence starts to drive the father insane and the child to have psychic abilities.

This film is different from typical horror movies because it has less gore and jump scares. It’s more of a psychological thriller.

After watching this, it will leave you feeling unsettled.

“Scream” (1996)

This cult classic Halloween flick is about Sidney Prescott, a high school student living in Woodsboro, California who is terrorized by a murderer in a Ghostface mask.

“Scream” is considered a horror satire which means that it combines traditional elements of horror with comedic components.

It makes fun of other horror movies and plays with the stereotypical rules of how to survive those horror movies.

Overall, an amazing film for its time and not as scary as typical films in the genre.

“Zombieland” (2009)

When a strain of mad cow disease mutates into “mad person disease,” it overruns the entire United States, creating a zombie apocalypse.

“Zombieland” follows the story of Columbus who is trying to get back home from college when he meets other survivors. Together, they try and work together to get to a place free of zombies while keeping their identities anonymous.

This movie is well-produced and has incredible writing that keeps you on your toes. Keep in mind that his film is gory, but it focuses on the character development and plot more than the actual scare factor.

“Coraline” (2009)

In the 2009 animated picture “Coraline,” a family moves to a new home in England. Coraline discovers a secret passageway in their new house that leads to an ideal parallel universe, unaware that it holds a dark and sinister secret.

Filled with extraordinary animation, this movie captures the ominous feeling of the unknown. It’s rated PG and unlike most horror movies, is more of a psychological thriller.

It’s a must-watch for the Halloween season.

Whether it is scary or not, Halloween movies are the best genre of film to watch during the fall season. I highly recommend these movies for your spooky season.

Have a Happy Halloween and a fantastic fall season!

Allison is a first-year student studying Digital and Print Journalism with a minor in Women's Studies. When she isn't writing for Her Campus @ PSU, she's listening to ABBA, hanging out with friends, and watching sitcoms. On the weekends, she likes to go thrifting and try new restaurants downtown.