Halloween is the perfect time of year to justify some scary movies.The UBC Film Society (located in the SUB at the Norm Theatre!) has helped us pick out the top movies to watch to freak yourself out. Some are slashers, some comedies, and even thrillers. No matter what the genre, these movies will for sure get you ready for the 31st!
1) Hocus Pocus (1993) – Rotton Tomatoes Rating = 33%
We guarantee you won’t recognize Sarah Jessica Parker in this classic. After three witch sisters are brought back to life in Salem, they try to steal youth from the local children. It’s up to three teenagers to stop them. Though it recieved a low rating on Rotton Tomatoes, we stand by this this one! If you’re someone who doesn’t like scary movies, this may be the best one for you to check out, as it is a comedy. Unfortunately, it isn’t available on Netflix, but is available on iTunes to rent!
2) The Shining (1980) – Rotton Tomatoes Rating = 92%
This psychological horror film is perhaps one of the best known scary movies. Directed by Stanly Kubrick, the movie tells the story of a family who moves into a haunted hotel. Probably best known for Jack Nicholson’s “HERE’S JOHNNY!” line, the movie is sure to scare you and is a must watch on this list. You’ll definitely never be able to look at deserted hotel hallways the same way again.
3) Friday the 13th (1980) – Rotton Tomatoes Rating = 59%
Named after the well known “unlucky” day for those superstitous folks out there (…or also Taylor Swift’s favorite day – different strokes for different folks), this movie focuses in on a string of killings at a newly opened summer camp. The film, which was directed by Sean Cunningham, will keep you on the edge of your seat and/or covering your eyes. The movie is available on iTunes for rent, but we suggest the 1980 version – not the 2012 remake. Just…no.
4) Evil Dead (1981 and 2012) – Rotton Tomatoes Rating = 96%
You probably would not want to watch this if you are staying in a remote cabin, or anywhere creepy for that matter. This movie is perhaps one of the most chilling films in the sense that it may not seem scary while you are watching it, but it will suddenly pop back into your head at 3AM when you hear a noise in your apartment. Both versions of the film are on iTunes and are sure freak you out!
5) Black Christmas (1974) – Rotton Tomatoes Rating = 63%
This Canadian independent film is largely regarded as one of the first slasher films. Having a similar plot line to When a Stranger Calls (2006), it’s clear that Black Christmas has had an influence on various movies since its debut. The film is available to rent on iTunes so check it out! Go Canada!
6) Dial M for Murder (1954) – Rotton Tomatoes Rating = 88%
Directed by Alfred Hitchcock, Dial M for Muder is a favorite amongst film buffs. The movie has some pretty unforeseeable plot twists that would be hard for anyone to guess. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled while watching to spot Hitchcock’s signature cameo (it’s around the 13 minute mark).
7) Carrie (1976) – Rotton Tomatoes Rating = 92%
Perhaps one of the most iconic horror movies of all time, Carrie is about a young girl who discovers she has telekinesis, whicg leads to what could also be an incredibly violent anti-bullying ad…either way it really helps you really appreciate how little pig blood there was at your prom. Now available for streaming on Netflix!
8) American Werewolf in London (1981) – Rotton Tomatoes Rating 89%
American Werewolf in London is a horror comedy cult classic that tells the story of two backpackers and their encounter with a vicious werewolf. The movie is an odd mix of comedy and horror, but is worth checking out for its makeup alone.
If you have already seen all of these and/or consider yourself a Film Buff, be sure to check out the UBC Film Soceity! They have a upcoming beverage garden on November 7th at the Norm for showing School of Rock! Presale tickets are $4 for CiTR and FilmSoc members, and $8 for nonmembers. See you there!