October is the time when all the streaming platforms decide to show off their horror genre full of classics. Horror films are made to draw fear from the audience. There are many types of horror, but I will be discussing a few of the top subgenres, such as family-friendly horror, monster movies, and some other memorable subgenres. Now we are going to embrace the spooky spirit of Halloween, and I’m here to help you choose which movies should be added to your watchlist.
Family Friendly Horror
Family-friendly horror is a great way to get into the wider genre overall. The setting of a darker atmosphere, along with some tropes like jump scares and supernatural beings, is introduced without being too intense or gory. These movies are more story-driven in a creepy environment and not very scary. My recommendations are Corpse Bride (2005), Goosebumps (2015), and Hocus Pocus (1993).
Monster Movies
In a monster movie, the antagonists can be aliens, supersized animals, or mythological creatures; but the main quality is that they are not human and are a huge threat. These movies are scary and fit the horror genre because monsters are unpredictable. Animalistic monsters don’t have a set motive or a meticulously calculated approach. Creatures that are more human-like — such as vampires — still have some animalistic traits like fangs and sometimes claws while being more methodical. My recommendations are A Quiet Place (2018), Bram Stoker’s Dracula (1992), and Jaws (1975).
supernatural Horror
Supernatural horror includes all types of strange events and beings, like demons, ghosts, and curses that are the sources of horror. This genre creates fear because, like the monster movies, these entities are unpredictable. What sets them apart is that sometimes these forces are invisible and can include paranormal activity. There are also different rules because beings in this genre are not tied to the laws of the natural world. My recommendations are The Conjuring (2013), Talk to Me (2022), and The Exorcist (1973).
psychological Horror
Psychological horror is my absolute favorite. This genre uses emotional and psychological suspense that creates a perpetual sense of unease. A twist ending is common in this genre, so the audience is kept on their toes. These movies often have a chilling atmosphere. My recommendations are The Others (2001), The Shining (1980), and Black Swan (2010).
Slasher
Slasher films are the most notable faces of horror and Halloween. There is usually one specific killer that stalks their victims, often including a lot of gore and violence. These movies have a good bit of blood, but are classics nonetheless. My recommendations are Scream (1996), Halloween (1978), and Pearl (2022).
To conclude, horror is a way for the audience to feel fear in a safe environment. There are many more genres of horror, but I provided a good introduction to each main subgenre. All the subgenres I discussed can overlap, and do so often. This overlap allows horror to dive deep into more layered themes and keep an audience entertained with thrilling suspense. Now that you have a decent list of movies, go watch!
