50 Best Horror Movies of All Time (Updated List 2024) - GeeksforGeeks (2024)

Horror movies have changed a lot over the years. Classic films like “The Exorcist” and “TheShining” were the first to bring psychological thrills and ghostly scares to the big screen. Now, horror movies have grown to include all kinds of stories, with amazing visuals and new techniques that connect with people everywhere. Modern hits like “It” and “The Conjuring” show that horror films aren’t just about jump scares—they also tap into our biggest fears and worries about the world.

50 Best Horror Movies of All Time (Updated List 2024) - GeeksforGeeks (1)

In this horror movies list, we’ll guide you through some of the most iconic and unforgettable films ever made. We’ll explore horror movies most famous for their terrifying plots and suspenseful twists, along with the horror movies Hollywood has produced that have stood the test of time.

If you’re ready to find the horror movies most scary, join us as we uncover the top horror movies of all time that are sure to send shivers down your spine and make you sleep with the lights on!

Best Horror Movies of All Time

According to the latest reviews of 2024, here is the list of the 10 best horror movies of all time. These films are widely recognized by audiences worldwide for their spine-chilling stories and unforgettable scares.

The most horror movie in the world according to the latest IMBD ratings and studies is –

1.The Exorcist (1973)

“The Exorcist” (1973) is widely regarded as one of the best horror movies of all time due to its terrifying plot, groundbreaking special effects, and lasting impact on the genre. This classic film has set the standard for supernatural horror, earning its reputation as the scariest film ever made. Here’s why “The Exorcist” remains a favorite among horror fans worldwide:

  • Based on Real Events: One reason “The Exorcist” stands out as the most iconic horror movie is that it’s loosely inspired by a true exorcism that took place in 1949, adding an extra layer of fear.
  • Controversial Yet Popular: When “The Exorcist” was first released, it faced bans in several countries due to its shocking content, which only increased its popularity and cult-like status among horror movie fans.

“The Exorcist” tells the bone-chilling story of Regan, a young girl possessed by a demonic entity. Her mother, desperate to save her daughter, turns to two priests for help. The intense exorcism that follows tests their faith as they face unimaginable horrors in the battle between good and evil.

You can watch “The Exorcist” on popular streaming platforms:

  • Amazon Prime Video
  • Hulu
  • HBO Max

The movie is also available for rent or purchase on iTunes, Google Play, and Vudu.

  • IMDb Rating: With an IMDb score of 8.1/10, “The Exorcist” ranks as one of the top horror movies ever made.
  • Rotten Tomatoes Score: It holds a solid 83% on Rotten Tomatoes, with praise for its direction, performances, and unforgettable scares.
  • Age Rating: “The Exorcist” has an R rating, recommended for viewers aged 17 and older due to its intense and graphic scenes.

“The Exorcist” continues to terrify and captivate audiences, earning its place as one of the most famous horror movies in the world. Its combination of psychological horror, supernatural scares, and a story based on real events makes it a must-watch for every fan of the genre. If you’re looking to experience the best horror movie of all time, “The Exorcist” should be at the top of your list.

Also check: Best Movies Of All Time

2.Hereditary (2018)

Writer-director Ari Aster made a big impact with his first movie, “Hereditary” (2018), which mixes a dark family drama with supernatural horror. The film focuses on themes like grief and loss, creating a chilling story that grabs the audience’s attention.

Toni Collette’s intense performance as the troubled mother, Annie, was so powerful that many fans believe she deserved an Oscar nomination for it. While we won’t spoil the biggest surprise of the movie, let’s just say that “Hereditary” left a lasting impression on viewers, making Ari Aster a director everyone should keep an eye on. The film’s success instantly pushed it to the second of the best horror movies list, earning it a spot as one of the scariest films in recent years.

  • Groundbreaking Horror: The film redefined what horror could be, focusing not just on jump scares but on deeply unsettling emotions and mind-bending suspense.
  • Critically Acclaimed Performances: Toni Collette’s portrayal of a grief-stricken mother is often hailed as one of the best performances in a horror film, adding a layer of realism to the terrifying storyline.
  • Cult Following: Since its release, “Hereditary” has developed a dedicated fan base and is frequently discussed in horror communities as one of the most disturbing movies ever made.

“Hereditary” follows the story of the Graham family, who begin to unravel dark secrets after the death of their grandmother. As they dig deeper into their ancestry, they uncover a sinister fate that has been passed down through generations. The film masterfully blends supernatural elements with psychological horror, making viewers question reality at every turn.

“Hereditary” is available for streaming on major platforms, making it easy for horror enthusiasts to experience this chilling film:

  • Amazon Prime Video
  • Hulu
  • Netflix

You can also rent or purchase it on iTunes, Google Play, and Vudu.

  • IMDb Rating: “Hereditary” boasts an impressive IMDb rating of 7.3/10, placing it among the top horror movies of recent years.
  • Rotten Tomatoes Score: The film has a 90% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with both critics and audiences praising its unique storytelling and haunting visuals.
  • Age Rating: Rated R, “Hereditary” is recommended for viewers aged 17 and older due to its disturbing content, graphic scenes, and intense psychological themes.

Also check: 20 Best Artificial Intelligence Movies You Must Watch (2023)

3. The Conjuring (2013)

“The Conjuring” (2013) stands out as one of the most iconic horror movies due to its chilling storyline, based on real-life events, and its powerful execution of paranormal scares. Directed by James Wan, this supernatural thriller has redefined the genre with its blend of suspense and true terror.

“The Conjuring” has a reputation for causing extreme reactions among its viewers. In several countries, including the U.S. and the U.K., there were reports of audience members experiencing heart attacks or fainting during screenings. The movie’s realistic depiction of demonic possession and intense horror sequences pushed some viewers beyond their limits, leading to emergency medical situations in theaters.

  • Inspired by True Events: The movie is based on real-life cases investigated by famous paranormal experts Ed and Lorraine Warren, which makes the story even more terrifying for viewers.
  • James Wan’s Direction: Director James Wan is known for his mastery of the horror genre, and “The Conjuring” is often cited as his finest work, influencing many modern supernatural films.
  • Launched a Franchise: “The Conjuring” was so successful that it led to the creation of the Conjuring Universe, including sequels and spin-offs like “Annabelle” and “The Nun,” making it one of the highest-grossing horror franchises.
  • No CGI Scares: Unlike many horror movies that rely on CGI, “The Conjuring” is praised for its practical effects and atmospheric horror, which create a genuinely eerie experience.

Set in the early 1970s, “The Conjuring” follows the story of the Perron family, who move into a farmhouse and soon experience terrifying paranormal activity. As the hauntings grow worse, they seek help from paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren. The movie builds suspense masterfully, leading to a heart-pounding confrontation with the malevolent spirit.

For those looking to experience one of the best horror movies of all time, “The Conjuring” is available on popular streaming services:

  • HBO Max
  • Netflix
  • Amazon Prime Video

It can also be rented or purchased on Google Play, iTunes, and Vudu.

  • IMDb Rating: “The Conjuring” has a solid IMDb rating of 7.5/10, showcasing its widespread appeal and success among horror enthusiasts.
  • Rotten Tomatoes Score: It has a high approval rating of 86% on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics praising its tension-filled narrative and powerful performances.
  • Age Rating: The movie is rated R, suitable for viewers aged 17 and older, due to its intense scenes and disturbing supernatural themes.

Also check: Best Tech Movies That Every Programmer Must Watch

Why “The Conjuring” is a Supernatural Horror Classic

“The Conjuring” isn’t just another haunted house movie; it’s a well-crafted story that takes horror to a new level. With its combination of real-life inspiration and spine-chilling moments, it stands as a benchmark in supernatural horror. For anyone searching for the most terrifying horror movies, “The Conjuring” is an essential watch that promises to keep you on the edge of your seat.

4. TheShining(1980)

Many of Stephen King’s novels have been turned into movies, and several of them are now known as horror movie classics, like “Carrie,” “Misery,” and “Pet Sematary.” Even non-horror films like “The Shawshank Redemption” and “Stand By Me” come from his stories. But the one that stands above them all is Stanley Kubrick’s adaptation of “The Shining.”

“The Shining” is more than just a haunted house movie; it’s a masterpiece of film design with unforgettable scenes and Jack Nicholson’s legendary performance as Jack Torrance. Unlike other horror movies that rely on jump scares, “The Shining” gets under your skin by showing Jack’s slow fall into madness in a way that’s deeply unsettling. This is why it’s often called one of the greatest horror films of all time, and it continues to be a favorite among fans.

  • Jack Nicholson’s Iconic Performance: Jack Nicholson’s portrayal of Jack Torrance is widely regarded as one of the most memorable performances in horror cinema. His descent into madness, highlighted by his terrifying expressions and the famous “Here’s Johnny!” scene, is etched into movie history.
  • Film’s Visuals and Symbolism: “The Shining” is filled with haunting imagery and hidden symbols that have been the subject of analysis for decades. Its use of unsettling visuals and the mysterious Overlook Hotel setting creates a sense of dread that lingers throughout.
  • Controversial Yet Timeless: Initially, the film received mixed reviews from critics, including Stephen King himself. However, over time, it has gained immense praise and is now considered a classic, influencing countless films in the psychological horror genre.

“The Shining” tells the story of Jack Torrance, a writer who takes a job as the winter caretaker of the isolated Overlook Hotel, bringing his wife and son with him. As the days go by, supernatural forces and the hotel’s dark secrets begin to influence Jack’s mind, leading him into a terrifying spiral of madness that threatens his family.

You can experience the horror of “The Shining” on these streaming platforms:

  • HBO Max
  • Amazon Prime Video
  • Netflix

It is also available for rent or purchase on Google Play, iTunes, and Vudu.

  • IMDb Rating: “The Shining” holds a strong IMDb rating of 8.4/10, making it one of the highest-rated horror movies of all time.
  • Rotten Tomatoes Score: The film has a remarkable 84% score on Rotten Tomatoes, with both audiences and critics praising its psychological depth and chilling atmosphere.
  • Age Rating: Rated R, “The Shining” is suitable for viewers aged 17 and older due to its intense scenes, disturbing themes, and psychological horror elements.

Also check: 25 Highest-Grossing Movies Of All Time (2024)

5. The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)

The top four horror movies on this list got a combined 42% of the total votes, but they were closely followed by six other films, each earning about 3% of the votes. These six films were separated by no more than 60 votes each. First on that list is the low-budget slasher movie, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, directed and co-written by Tobe Hooper. This film was very loosely inspired by the real-life crimes of Ed Gein. The gritty, realistic look of Texas Chainsaw gave it a creepy, “this could really happen” vibe that made it even scarier.

The movie’s terrifying villain, Leatherface, played by Gunnar Hansen, set the stage for other famous killers like Michael Myers and Jason Voorhees. Even though there have been many attempts to revive the Texas Chainsaw franchise, none have matched the raw fear and intense terror of the original film

  • Inspired by True Events: The movie was loosely inspired by real-life crimes, specifically those of infamous killer Ed Gein, adding a layer of realism that made the story even more horrifying for viewers.
  • Iconic Villain: Leatherface, the movie’s chainsaw-wielding antagonist, became one of the most terrifying and recognizable characters in horror, influencing the creation of many slasher film villains.
  • Low-Budget Masterpiece: Made on a modest budget, “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre” proved that horror doesn’t need high production costs to be effective. Its raw and gritty style only added to its terrifying impact.
  • Banned and Controversial: Upon its release, the film faced bans in several countries due to its graphic violence and disturbing content, which only fueled its reputation as one of the most infamous horror movies of all time.

The film follows a group of friends who stumble upon a secluded farmhouse while on a road trip in Texas. Unknowingly, they become the target of a family of cannibals, led by the terrifying Leatherface. What begins as an innocent adventure quickly turns into a nightmare of relentless horror and survival.

You can watch this horror classic on the following streaming services:

  • Amazon Prime Video
  • Shudder
  • HBO Max

It’s also available for rent or purchase on Google Play, iTunes, and Vudu.

  • IMDb Rating: “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre” has an impressive IMDb rating of 7.4/10, making it a top choice for fans of classic horror and slasher films.
  • Rotten Tomatoes Score: The film holds a 90% score on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics and audiences praising its gritty realism and relentless scares.
  • Age Rating: Rated R, this film is recommended for viewers aged 17 and older due to its intense violence, disturbing themes, and terrifying scenes.

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6.The Ring (2002)

Gore Verbinski’s “The Ring” (2002) is a perfect example of how a horror story can cross cultural boundaries and still terrify audiences around the world. This film is a remake of Japanese director Hideo Nakata’s famous thriller about a cursed videotape. Verbinski kept the haunting visual of the ghostly girl—a child in a white dress with long black hair covering her face—which turned out to be just as terrifying to viewers in the U.S. as it was to those in Japan.

Though some critics didn’t rate it as highly as the original Japanese version, “The Ring” introduced many Western audiences to the world of East Asian horror movies. The movie also featured a powerful performance from Naomi Watts, who was then rising to fame. This film became a major gateway for viewers to discover the best Asian horror films, cementing its place as one of the most famous horror movies of the early 2000s.

  • “The Ring” played a significant role in introducing Japanese horror to Western audiences, leading to a surge in interest for similar films from Japan and other Asian countries.
  • The character of Samara, the ghostly girl who crawls out of the TV screen, has become one of the most haunting figures in horror cinema, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.
  • Box Office Success: “The Ring” was a huge hit at the box office, grossing over $249 million worldwide and proving that supernatural horror could captivate audiences across the globe.
  • Psychological Terror: Unlike typical jump-scare movies, “The Ring” relies on slow-building suspense and psychological terror, which makes it even more unnerving for viewers.

The film follows journalist Rachel Keller as she investigates a mysterious videotape that causes anyone who watches it to die within seven days. As Rachel uncovers the dark history behind the tape, she must race against time to save herself and her loved ones from the curse of Samara, the vengeful spirit trapped within the video.

You can experience the haunting tale of “The Ring” on the following streaming platforms:

  • Amazon Prime Video
  • Hulu
  • HBO Max

It is also available for rent or purchase on Google Play, iTunes, and Vudu.

  • IMDb Rating: “The Ring” holds a solid IMDb rating of 7.1/10, cementing its place as a favorite among supernatural horror fans.
  • Rotten Tomatoes Score: The film has a 71% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics praising its chilling atmosphere, suspenseful plot, and innovative storytelling.
  • Age Rating: Rated PG-13, “The Ring” is suitable for viewers aged 13 and older, though its psychological horror and creepy visuals may still be too intense for younger audiences.

7.Halloween (1978)

Coming in at the seventh spot on our list is Halloween (1978), the movie that made Jamie Lee Curtis the ultimate scream queen and put director John Carpenter on the map. Often called one of the first real slasher films, Halloween helped shape the horror genre we know today. It may not have the same level of gore that modern slasher movies do, but it delivers tons of tension and clever scares in a simple yet powerful way.

The legacy of Halloween is legendary. Michael Myers’ mask has become a symbol of fear, and the idea of the unstoppable killer hunting the “final girl” is now a big part of horror culture. This classic movie started a franchise that’s still going strong over 40 years later, proving why it’s one of the best horror movies of all time.

  • Birth of the Slasher Genre: “Halloween” is credited with popularizing the slasher film formula, paving the way for other iconic franchises like “Friday the 13th” and “A Nightmare on Elm Street.”
  • Iconic Villain: Michael Myers, with his haunting white mask and silent demeanor, became a symbol of fear and the ultimate slasher villain, influencing horror movie villains for decades.
  • Groundbreaking Soundtrack: John Carpenter’s eerie, minimalist score for “Halloween” is one of the most recognizable soundtracks in film history, amplifying the film’s suspense and becoming synonymous with the horror genre.
  • Independent Film Success: Despite being made on a small budget of around $300,000, “Halloween” grossed over $70 million worldwide, making it one of the most profitable independent films of all time.

You can experience the terror of the original “Halloween” on these streaming platforms:

  • Amazon Prime Video
  • Shudder
  • Peacock

It is also available for rent or purchase on Google Play, iTunes, and Vudu.

  • IMDb Rating: “Halloween” holds a strong IMDb rating of 7.7/10, reflecting its status as one of the most influential horror films in cinematic history.
  • Rotten Tomatoes Score: The film boasts a high approval rating of 96% on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics praising its suspenseful storytelling, chilling atmosphere, and Carpenter’s masterful direction.
  • Age Rating: Rated R, “Halloween” is suitable for viewers aged 17 and older due to its violent scenes, intense suspense, and slasher elements.

8. Sinister (2012)

For those who haven’t seen the scientific study mentioned earlier, we’ve finally reached the film that it named as the scariest movie of all time. Before joining the Marvel Cinematic Universe with 2016’s “Doctor Strange,” director Scott Derrickson was known for his work in the horror genre, creating films that gained a loyal fan base. One of those films was this chilling haunted house and possession story about a true-crime writer (played by Ethan Hawke) who moves his family into a house where a previous family was brutally murdered. Soon, he discovers that their new home might be haunted by a dark and evil force.

The movie’s writer, C. Robert Cargill, was inspired to write the script after having a nightmare from watching “The Ring,” which explains the eerie similarities between the two films, especially with the creepy snuff film element. For many viewers, the shocking plot twists and eerie moments in this film stood out as some of the most terrifying ever seen in horror. Even though it uses some familiar horror themes, the dramatic reveals and spine-chilling scenes make it unforgettable. Plus, a study has even called it the scariest film ever made, which is definitely saying something!

  • Psychological and Supernatural Horror: “Sinister” blends psychological horror with supernatural elements, creating an experience that is both mentally disturbing and visually frightening.
  • Creepy Found Footage: The film’s use of disturbing found footage scenes is a major reason for its fear factor, adding a layer of realism that keeps viewers on edge throughout the movie.
  • Iconic Villain – Bughuul: The mysterious entity known as Bughuul, or the “Eater of Children,” has become a haunting figure in horror, with his terrifying appearance and eerie presence leaving a lasting impact on audiences.
  • Scientific Study on Fear: In a study conducted in 2020, “Sinister” was named the scariest movie ever, with viewers’ heart rates significantly increasing during its most intense scenes, proving its powerful impact on audiences.

You can experience the terrifying journey of “Sinister” on these streaming platforms:

  • Amazon Prime Video
  • Hulu
  • Netflix

It is also available for rent or purchase on Google Play, iTunes, and Vudu.

  • IMDb Rating: “Sinister” has a solid IMDb rating of 6.8/10, with fans and critics alike praising its chilling atmosphere and unique storyline.
  • Rotten Tomatoes Score: The film has a 63% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with audience reactions highlighting its relentless suspense and effective scares.
  • Age Rating: Rated R, “Sinister” is suitable for viewers aged 17 and older due to its intense violence, disturbing imagery, and supernatural themes.

9.Insidious (2010)

James Wan is already famous for his horror hits, but before he and Patrick Wilson created The Conjuring, they teamed up for this supernatural thriller, Insidious. The story is about a young boy who falls into a coma and begins to attract an evil spirit. While the plot itself wasn’t the most original, Leigh Whannell, who often works with Wan, added a deep and interesting mythology to the film. This made Insidious so popular that it led to four more movies in the series.

James Wan said that with Insidious, he wanted to move away from the intense violence of his earlier film, Saw, and focus more on creating scares at a spiritual level. The result was a creepy and effective horror movie known for having one of the best jump scares ever seen in a film. Insidious has since become a must-watch for anyone who loves supernatural horror movies and scariest films.

  • Revolutionary Concept: “Insidious” introduced the concept of “The Further,” a creepy, alternate dimension filled with lost souls and malevolent spirits, which added a new layer to supernatural horror storytelling.
  • Team Behind the Film: Directed by James Wan and written by Leigh Whannell, the creators of the “Saw” franchise, “Insidious” benefited from their expertise in crafting intense and suspenseful narratives.
  • Iconic Jump Scares: The film is known for its unforgettable jump scares, including the now-famous scene featuring the “Lipstick-Face Demon” appearing behind a character, which has become one of the most iconic moments in modern horror.
  • Box Office Success: Made on a modest budget of around $1.5 million, “Insidious” grossed over $99 million worldwide, proving that horror films with a great concept can be both critically acclaimed and commercially successful.

You can watch “Insidious” on these popular streaming platforms:

  • Amazon Prime Video
  • Netflix
  • HBO Max

The film is also available for rent or purchase on Google Play, iTunes, and Vudu.

  • IMDb Rating: “Insidious” holds a solid IMDb rating of 6.8/10, with fans praising its chilling storyline, creepy visuals, and heart-pounding jump scares.
  • Rotten Tomatoes Score: The film has a 66% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics highlighting its innovative concept and the effective use of suspense over cheap thrills.
  • Age Rating: Rated PG-13, “Insidious” is suitable for teens aged 13 and older, making it a great choice for horror enthusiasts who enjoy supernatural scares without excessive gore.

10.IT (2017)

The fear of clowns is very real, even though it might seem like everyone talks about it these days. If you need proof, just look at the massive success of “IT” (2017). This movie, based on Stephen King’s famous novel, broke records at the box office and became the highest-grossing horror film of all time, beating “The Exorcist” after 44 years. Directed by Andy Muschietti, this horror movie mixes childhood nostalgia with true terror.

Bill Skarsgård’s performance as Pennywise the Clown was both creepy and unsettling, making the character unforgettable. The film is packed with intense jump scares, amazing special effects, and some of the best CGI in modern horror, making it a must-watch for anyone who loves scary movies that are both thrilling and entertaining.

  • Stephen King’s Influence: “IT” is based on the bestselling novel by Stephen King, one of the most famous horror writers in the world, which adds depth and complexity to the film’s terrifying storyline.
  • Terrifying Pennywise: Bill Skarsgård’s portrayal of Pennywise the Dancing Clown has become one of the most iconic and feared performances in horror, with his unsettling smile and menacing voice haunting viewers long after the movie ends.
  • Record-Breaking Success: “IT” shattered box office records for horror films, grossing over $700 million worldwide, making it the highest-grossing horror film of all time.
  • Coming-of-Age Horror: The film’s success lies not only in its scares but also in its coming-of-age story, focusing on the bond between the kids of the Losers’ Club as they face both supernatural and real-life fears.

You can experience the terror of Pennywise on the following streaming platforms:

  • HBO Max
  • Amazon Prime Video
  • Netflix

The film is also available for rent or purchase on Google Play, iTunes, and Vudu.

Ratings and Reviews

  • IMDb Rating: “IT” holds an impressive IMDb rating of 7.3/10, with viewers praising its perfect blend of horror and character-driven storytelling.
  • Rotten Tomatoes Score: The film has an 86% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, with critics highlighting its balance of frightful moments, emotional depth, and nostalgic 1980s setting.
  • Age Rating: Rated R, “IT” is recommended for viewers aged 17 and older due to its intense violence, disturbing imagery, and strong language.

List of 50 Most Scariest Movies

Here are the 50 top most terrifying horror movies of all time according to peoples choice, ratings and popularity –

RankMovie TitleYearIMDb RatingRotten Tomatoes ScoreWhere to Watch
1The Exorcist19738.183%Amazon Prime, Hulu, HBO Max
2Hereditary20187.389%Amazon Prime, Hulu, Netflix
3The Conjuring20137.586%HBO Max, Netflix, Amazon Prime
4The Shining19808.484%HBO Max, Amazon Prime, Netflix
5The Texas Chainsaw Massacre19747.490%Amazon Prime, Peacock, Vudu
6The Ring20027.171%Amazon Prime, Hulu, HBO Max
7Halloween19787.796%Amazon Prime, Shudder, Peacock
8Sinister20126.863%Amazon Prime, Netflix, HBO Max
9Insidious20106.866%Amazon Prime, Netflix, HBO Max
10IT20177.386%HBO Max, Amazon Prime, Netflix
11Psycho19608.596%Amazon Prime, Netflix, Apple TV
12Get Out20177.798%Amazon Prime, Hulu, Peacock
13The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari19198.099%Criterion Channel
14Us20196.893%Amazon Prime, Netflix
15Alien19798.498%Hulu, HBO Max, Amazon Prime
16King Kong19337.998%HBO Max, Criterion Channel
17Nosferatu19227.997%Amazon Prime, Apple TV, Vudu
18The Night of the Hunter19558.095%Tubi, Amazon Prime
19The Invisible Man20207.191%HBO Max, Amazon Prime
20A Quiet Place20187.596%Paramount+, Amazon Prime
21The Bride of Frankenstein19357.898%Peacock, Amazon Prime
22Jaws19758.198%Peacock, Amazon Prime, Netflix
23The Babadook20146.898%Shudder, Amazon Prime, Hulu
24Frankenstein19317.8100%Criterion Channel, Amazon Prime
25The Lighthouse20197.590%Amazon Prime, HBO Max
26Invasion of the Body Snatchers19567.798%Criterion Channel, Amazon Prime
27Vampyr19327.597%Criterion Channel
28Let the Right One In20087.998%Sling TV, Amazon Prime, Philo
29It Follows20146.896%Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu
30Freaks19327.995%Criterion Channel
31Night of the Living Dead19687.996%HBO Max, Amazon Prime, Shudder
32Aliens19868.397%Disney+, Amazon Prime
33The Silence of the Lambs19918.696%Netflix, Amazon Prime, Hulu
34Rosemary’s Baby19688.096%Amazon Prime, Criterion Channel
35The Witch20156.990%Netflix, Amazon Prime
36Peeping Tom19607.796%Criterion Channel
37The Birds19637.795%Amazon Prime, Peacock
38The Orphanage20077.487%Amazon Prime, Vudu, Apple TV
39The Fly19867.692%Hulu, Amazon Prime, HBO Max
40Friday the 13th19806.563%Amazon Prime, Paramount+, Sling TV
41Nosferatu: A Symphony of Horror19227.997%Vudu, Amazon Prime, Apple TV
42The Wailing20167.599%Amazon Prime, Shudder
43Host20206.5100%Shudder, Amazon Prime
44Ready or Not20196.888%HBO Max, Amazon Prime, Hulu
45Mandy20186.690%Shudder, Amazon Prime
46Tigers Are Not Afraid20177.097%Amazon Prime, Shudder
47Cat People19427.391%Criterion Channel
48Don’t Look Now19737.295%Criterion Channel, Amazon Prime
49Eyes Without a Face19597.798%Criterion Channel, Amazon Prime
50Repulsion19657.795%Criterion Channel, Amazon Prime

These recommended horror movies will give you an amazing experience with a good story plot!

Conclusion

The best horror movies of all time have earned their place in cinema history by scaring audiences and pushing the boundaries of storytelling. From unforgettable classics like The Exorcist and The Shining to modern hits like Hereditary and IT, these films deliver a mix of psychological tension, supernatural terror, and shocking moments that leave a lasting impact. Each movie on this list has proven its ability to frighten and engage viewers with its unique blend of storytelling, characters, and visuals.

These horror films are more than just scary movies; they explore the darkest corners of human fear and tap into universal anxieties. They’ve made a mark not only through their box office success and high ratings but also by shaping the future of the genre and influencing countless other films. If you’re looking for the scariest films ever made, this list offers the top horror experiences, filled with legendary moments and iconic villains.

50 Best Horror Movies of All Time (Updated List 2024) – FAQs

What is the no. 1 ranked horror movie?

The number one ranked horror movie of all time, according to Rotten Tomatoes and various sources, is “The Exorcist” (1973). This classic film is widely regarded as the most terrifying and influential horror movie ever made. Directed by William Friedkin and based on William Peter Blatty’s novel, the film terrified audiences with its intense story of a young girl possessed by a demon. It became a cultural phenomenon, earning ten Academy Award nominations and winning two.

What is the scariest movie on Netflix?

The scariest movie currently on Netflix is “The Babadook” (2014). This psychological horror film is known for its chilling atmosphere and terrifying story of grief and trauma. The film follows a mother and her son who are haunted by a sinister presence that originates from a mysterious children’s book.

What is the most watched horror?

“IT” (2017) is indeed one of the most-watched and highest-grossing horror movies of all time. It became a massive box office success, grossing over $701 million worldwide, making it the highest-grossing horror film ever that is not adjusted for inflation.

Which horror movie is banned?

“A Serbian Film,” which faced bans for its extreme violence and disturbing themes, and “Cannibal Holocaust,” notorious for its graphic realism and real animal cruelty. “Salò, or the 120 Days of Sodom” is also banned in many countries for its explicit scenes of abuse.



50 Best Horror Movies of All Time (Updated List 2024) - GeeksforGeeks (2024)
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Job: Real-Estate Liaison

Hobby: Graffiti, Astronomy, Handball, Magic, Origami, Fashion, Foreign language learning

Introduction: My name is Lilliana Bartoletti, I am a adventurous, pleasant, shiny, beautiful, handsome, zealous, tasty person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.