Frights, camera, action: 11 horror films to watch this Halloween
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Yes, that’s right, it’s officially spooky season. And what better way to celebrate than with some blood-pumping, sweat-inducing cinematic magic?
From the timeless classics that have been scaring us for generations to modern flicks that are giving us a new kind of heebie jeebies, this scary (ish) list has got you covered—and trust us when we say it will be love at first bite.
What We Do in the Shadows (2005)
While it won’t give you a scare, this wildly funny film is guaranteed to make your Halloween fang-tastic. From the brilliant minds of Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement What We Do in the Shadows will take you into the world of a group of vampire housemates who are trying to navigate modern society. Filled with sharp, deadpan humour, this cinematic gem will seduce from beginning to end.
Get Out (2017)
This modern horror has made big waves in the scary movie scene, and for good reason. The masterful cinematography instantly captures this truly terrifying plot. It’s one of those films that will stay with you long after it finishes (so maybe have Seinfeld on standby?). We won’t give away any of the chilling details, but whatever happens, try not to sink into your chair. Eek!
The Craft (1996)
It’s impossible not to fall in love with this iconic film. Think butterfly clips and female empowerment and Ouija boards—I mean, what more could you ask for? Perfect for those craving some 90’s nostalgia or perhaps some witching hour inspiration, either way, you will be left with a speller (get it?) movie experience.
The Blair Witch Project (1999)
Truly a horror movie trailblazer for its time with its doco style ‘found footage’ quickly blurring the line between reality and horror The Blair Witch Project is iconic. If you were planning a trip into a forest that’s linked to the reputation of a local murderer this might just make you rethink it. Seriously this is one to watch with the lights on.
Paranormal Activity (2007)
In a similar spirit to Blair Witch, doco-style horror will always be terrifying. While you could pluck any of the seven films from the sequels and instantly begin questioning every little sound in your house, the original film holds a special place in all horror lovers’ hearts. From slow builds, jump scars and characters you will be screaming at the whole way through—this gut-wrenching, knuckle-whitening film will leave you with nothing but fear.
The Shining (1980)
Now this movie (like all classics) needs no introduction, it’s perhaps one of the best horror films—and books—of all time. It’s one to re-watch if you haven’t seen it for a while, particularly after COVID (after all “all work and no play makes Johnny a dull boy”). I think we all know a little too intimately how Johnny felt— aside from trying to kill his wife and kids, that’s inexcusable. Perhaps all he needed to do was bake a loaf of bread?
Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1992)
Nothing quite says Halloween like a good old fashion slayer fest. And while we all know and love the TV series , there was actually another slayer in town before Sarah Michelle Gellar and the Scooby Gang. That’s right, in 1992, Kristy Swanson was dusting vamps and facing the forces of evil with sass and iconic fashion well before Buffy herself. One to watch if you have just finished season 7 of the TV series and are looking to fill your Buffy void. Grr argh!
Midsommar (2019)
Who knew a Swedish cult and gore could go so well together? Aside from being one the most visually beautiful films to watch, Midsommar takes cult horror into unexpected realms. It’s bold, thought-provoking and visually mesmerising—you will have to see it to believe it.
Silence of the lambs (1988)
For many of us, Hannibal Lecture and Buffalo Bill gave us our first introduction to horror, and 30 years later, it still leaves us uncomfortably squirming at the edge of our seats. But If it’s your first introduction to the cult classic that is a phycological thriller—prepare to be absolutely terrified—and quickly fall in love with Jodie Foster (if you haven’t already.)
The Exorcist (1973)
It would be a crime to have a horror movie list and not include The Exorcist. For over 50 years, this gruesome and simply jaw-dropping film has been terrifying audiences. While it’s beginning to show the wrinkles of time, the power of this chilling film never seems to weaken: maintaining its reputation as one of the scariest films to date.
X (2022)
Looking for a new slasher to add to your list of favourites? Look no further than X. Brought to life by arthouse distributor A24, X transcends the genre of horror into unexpected realms. And while it is very much an ode to classics such as Friday the 13th or The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, the character are intelligent and seemly capable. But it wouldn’t be a slasher film without, well, a lot of blood (so you can definitely expect that too).
