It is that time of year again! Even though many of us will be satisfied watching ‘Hocus Pocus’, there is always that urge to watch as many scary films as possible. So here is a list of our favourite horror classics, old and new:
- The Conjuring (2013)
Here at HCX we think this film is one of the best modern horror films! The film follows one of paranormal investigators, Ed and Lorraine Warren’s, cases and I often see these films as much of a love story between the two as well as a spine chilling horror. If you love kick ass marital partnerships and terrifying witch demons, this this the one for you!
- Scream (1996)
Changing the way we view slasher films, ‘Scream’ has become an absolute classic which fuels that 90’s nostalgia, whilst keeping you on edge until the very end. Be warned, you will never want to answer the phone when you are home alone ever again!
- The Blair Witch Project (1999)
Again, an absolute game changer for the horror genre, but also for filmmaking in general. ‘Blair Witch’ was the film that popularised the ‘found footage’ genre of movies. It uses the medium to its advantage, creating an immersive atmosphere that makes your spine tingle. You can’t help question whether or not those teenagers actually got lost in the woods.
- The Babadook (2014)
On the surface of this film, we see a child’s imagination going wild with a seemingly less-than scary character from a picture book. However, don’t let this fool you. The ‘Babadook’ is a wonderfully crafted psychological horror film that is genuinely terrifying in parts but surprisingly can be also equally heart-warming.
- The Shining (1980)
You can’t talk about horror films without including the shining, one of the great psychological thrillers, with moments that have permeated pop culture for decades. This film has stood the test of time and should be a must watch for any Halloween marathon!
- It Follows (2015)
Despite many critic’s praise of this film, it doesn’t feel all that well made, the actors are annoying and it is terribly clumsy in parts. But it isn’t the crafting of the film that stays with you. It is the genius concept behind the film really makes it worth watching, and it will have you looking over your shoulder for a good few days.
- 28 Days Later (2002)
Arguably one of the best zombie apocalypse movie made, with the scariest zombies. ‘Shaun of the Dead’ was the original contended for the zombie spot on this list, but we but we all know those zombies are not exactly terrifying. ‘28 Day’s’ zombies are a brilliant twist on the normal slow, shuffling zombies and will have you chilled to the bone!
- Paranormal Activity (2007)
Perhaps the guiltiest of horror pleasures on this list. Another of the ‘found footage’ genre, this film might make your eyes well up in ear! There is something about the realism of the setting and the fact that most of the scares happen when characters are asleep really makes it terrifying. It will certainly make you want to keep your feet firmly tucked into the duvet!
- The Exorcist (1973)
Another classic, which many people may not find very scary now, due to some of the antiquated, laughable effects. But this film is not all about the jump scares, it can be disgusting and grim and that is what really sticks with you. I can imagine watching it back in the 1970s would have been quite the traumatic experience!
- The Conjuring 2 (2016)
Some say the sequels are never as good as the original, but in this case, ‘The Conjuring 2’ is actually on par, and definitely more terrifying. The cinematography of some of the scenes is fantastic, truly scary without having to make you jump. You will never look at nuns the same way again…
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