While Halloween celebrations often revolve around cute kids in superhero costumes or themed parties with friends, for film enthusiasts, it’s also a time to indulge in the best horror films. Whether you’re looking for movies directly related to the spooky holiday or just want something to send chills down your spine on a cold night, this list will have something for you. Grab some popcorn, dim the lights, and get ready to be spooked!
The Origins of Halloween and Horror Films
Have you ever wondered why horror films and Halloween go hand in hand? Historically, Halloween was a time to ward off ghosts and supernatural entities. Over time, the holiday evolved and was marked by tales of horror and mysterious happenings. Movies have since embraced these tales, and we’ve been blessed with decades of frightful films that range from hauntingly beautiful to downright terrifying.
Classic Horror Movies for Halloween
1. Halloween (1978)
It’s impossible to talk about Halloween movies without mentioning John Carpenter’s classic. Jamie Lee Curtis stars in this timeless story about the escape of a masked killer, Michael Myers, and his return to his hometown.
2. Trick ‘r Treat (2007)
This anthology film offers multiple interwoven tales of Halloween horror in a small town. It beautifully captures the spirit of the holiday with various levels of fear and fun.
3. The Exorcist (1973)
This tale of a young girl possessed by an evil entity is a must-watch for anyone seeking spine-tingling moments. Its iconic scenes and gripping storyline make it a favorite even today.
Scary Movies for Cold Nights
4. The Shining (1980)
A snowed-in hotel and a family slowly descending into madness – Stanley Kubrick’s adaptation of Stephen King’s novel is the perfect fit for a chilly evening.
5. The Others (2001)
This eerie film starring Nicole Kidman is about a woman who believes her house is haunted. The twist ending will leave you pondering for hours.
6. Hereditary (2018)
A modern horror masterpiece, ‘Hereditary’ explores family dynamics and inherited trauma in a deeply unsettling way.
Hidden Gems Worth a Watch
7. The Witch (2015)
Set in the 1600s, this story about a family’s unraveling after being banished to the edge of a mysterious forest is both atmospheric and chilling.
8. It Follows (2014)
A unique premise about a curse that is passed on through intimate encounters, ‘It Follows’ combines deep-seated fears with a relentless, creeping horror.
In conclusion, there’s no shortage of fantastic horror films to indulge in as Halloween approaches. From timeless classics to modern masterpieces, these movies will set the mood for the most haunted night of the year.