10 Films That'll Scare The Hell Out Of You
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Written by: Ryan McNally
Halloween is a great excuse to scare the crap out of other people -- and yourself. These 10 excellent horror films (listed alphabetically) will help make the task a little easier. |
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| 1. |
The Blair Witch Project
Some people just don't get it, but for those who do, this low-budget indie smash about three unfortunate filmmakers who get lost in the woods is guaranteed to give you nightmares.
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| 2. |
Candyman
Based on a short story by Clive Barker, this chilling, intelligent horror film about an inner-city "urban legend" not only delivers the requisite scares and petrifying boogeyman, but also boasts some fascinating racial undercurrents and a dollop of sexual tension.
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| 3. |
The Exorcist
More than 25 years after its release, this classic horror film about a young girl whose body is taken over by demons still packs enough of a wallop (crucifix, anyone?) to leave you whimpering in the corner afterwards.
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| 4. |
Halloween
A certain bad guy by the name of Michael Myers wreaks havoc in one of the top-grossing low-budget pics ever, and Jamie Lee Curtis makes her bones as a screaming victim-to-be in the film's terrifying conclusion. Directed by John Carpenter.
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| 5. |
Hellraiser
Bestselling author Clive Barker transfers his shocking visions to a new medium in this unsettling and highly original tale of lust, demons, pain and pleasure. In addition to several classic "scares," the film delivers a number of disturbing scenes that will haunt you long after you're done watching.
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| 6. |
A Nightmare On Elm Street
Before Freddy Krueger's impact became diluted by silly sequels, he was busy scaring the hell out of people in this Wes Craven-directed original about a group of teens that are terrorized by a razor-nailed, dream-invading monster.
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| 7. |
Psycho
Bernard Herrman's masterfully unnerving score alone makes this one of the scariest films ever. Throw in Alfred Hitchcock's brilliant direction, a stellar cast and some startling plot developments, and you've got a horror classic for the ages.
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| 8. |
Scream
After the teen slasher flicks he helped popularize turned stale, director Wes Craven turned the genre on its head with a self-conscious horror film that's alternately funny and scary. Starring Drew Barrymore, Neve Campbell and Courtney Cox.
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| 9. |
The Shining
"Heeerrrrrrre's Johnny." Legendary director Stanley Kubrick delivers scares aplenty in translating Stephen King's novel to the screen, and Jack Nicholson delivers one of his most memorable performances as a man teetering on the brink of insanity.
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| 10. |
The Silence Of The Lambs
As much thriller as horror film, this "serial killer" pic transcends its genre thanks to superb direction and sensational performances. Anthony Hopkins' portrayal of Hannibal "The Cannibal" Lecter remains the benchmark against which all other "villain" performances are judged.
Other memorable frightfests that'll keep you up all night: Carrie, The Birds, The Sixth Sense, Rosemary's Baby and Final Destination. Want to sound off about our selections? Drop us a line and tell us which selections you agreed with, and which scary movies you think we missed. You can pick any of these up any of these movies by clicking on the corresponding film image above. |
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