The ultimate scary movie list

Time to enjoy the season with some horror flicks!

It’s that time of year again; fall has rolled around and you know what that means: pumpkin spice lattes, lots of candy and a good excuse to watch scary movies until your brain fries up.

For many students, fall is the perfect excuse to gather your peers, dim the lights and binge-watch some spine-tingling films that will have you jumping out of your seats and questioning your choices. Whether you’re into heart-pounding horror, laugh-out-loud comedies or a spooky mix of both, we’ve got you covered.

But, with a variety of films out there, picking the right ones for your movie marathon can feel like trying to find a seat on the bus on a Monday morning (nearly impossible).

So, grab some popcorn and get ready for the ultimate list of horror flicks that will give you nightmares!

Halloween

A creepy masked face appearing out of the dark. — *Via GIPHY*

First up is Halloween (1978), the film that basically invented the slasher genre and made Michael Myers a popular name. The film opens with Myers confined to a psychiatric institution after committing a terrible crime.

Years later, on Halloween night, he escapes and begins stalking Laurie Strode (played by the iconic Jamie Lee Curtis) and her friends, creating an intense atmosphere of suspense and dread. The film expertly blends suspense with terror, featuring memorable jump scares that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Pro tip: If the killer has a knife and is walking toward you at a slow pace, you can totally outrun them (unless you trip over something, then it’s game over).

Scream

A scary masked faced killer with a knife in hand. — *Via GIPHY*

Next on our list is Scream (1996), another cult classic with a healthy dose of humour and self-awareness. The film follows Sidney Prescott, a high school student targeted by a masked killer who uses horror movie trivia to torment his victims.

Ghostface, with his iconic mask and phone calls, keeps you on the edge of your seat while also making you laugh at the ridiculousness of the characters’ decisions. I mean, who runs upstairs when the killer is right behind them?

With lines like “What’s your favourite scary movie?” and a unique commentary about horror film clichés, Scream is perfect for post-secondary students who want to have a good time while still getting chills.

The Witch

A woman playing peek-a-boo. — *Via GIPHY*

If you’re in the mood for an atmospheric experience, The Witch (2015), directed by the talented Robert Eggers, is an absolute must-see. Set in the 1630s, this film dives into the unravelling psyche of a Puritan family as they face dark forces lurking in the woods.

Eggers masterfully builds tension through slow-burn horror, leaving you glued to the screen, wondering how much worse things can get. Anya Taylor-Joy delivers a captivating performance. This film is filled with haunting moments and thought-provoking themes, making it perfect for those who enjoy a cerebral scare.

So prepare for a journey that’ll have you questioning not just what lurks in the dark, but also your perception of horror cinema.

IT

A child noticing a strange figure in the drain. — *Via GIPHY*

IT (2017) is based on Stephen King’s novel and introduces us to a group of kids known as the “Losers Club,” who face off against Pennywise, a shape-shifting evil clown that feeds on the fear of his victims (for those who are genuinely scared of circus clowns, this movie is NOT for you)

Watching this film is like experiencing a rollercoaster, there are highs, lows and a lot of screaming (both from the characters and from you). As the kids band together to confront their fears and fight the terrifying clown, you’ll find yourself rooting for them.

With plenty of bizarre moments, intense action and unexpected jump scares, this movie will definitely give you some extreme nightmares.

Midsommar

A woman noticing a strange figure standing behind her. — *Via GIPHY*

Midsommar (2019) is a bright and sunny horror movie that turns the genre upside down. Imagine a group of friends excitedly planning a trip to Sweden for a festival. What could possibly go wrong, right? Well, as it turns out, a lot! Instead of sipping drinks on the beach, they end up caught in the middle of some really strange rituals from the local community.

The contrast of the beautiful scenery with the unsettling events creates an unforgettable viewing experience. You’ll laugh and gasp as the story unfolds, especially during some of the more absurd moments that leave you thinking, “Did that really just happen?”

This film is perfect for those who enjoy psychological horror with a touch of dark humour. Just remember, if your friends suggest an unusual vacation spot, maybe stick to the beach!

A man in heavy make-up is saying the words "It's showtime." — *Via GIPHY*

So, there you have it, folks! This October, don’t just sit around carving pumpkins, but make sure to dive into this list of spooky films that’ll keep you entertained and scared all night long.

Remember, these films are perfect not just for getting into the spooky season but also for bonding with friends over shared screams and jumpy moments. So, whether you’re the brave friend who insists on watching the scariest flicks or the one who curls up under a blanket with your heart racing, embrace the spirit.

It’s time to grab those cozy blankets, turn off the lights and immerse yourself in these creepy worlds. May your movie nights be filled with thrills, chills and laughter!

Feature image courtesy of Aiden Patrissi via Unsplash.

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