The Best Horror Movies Of All Time
These are the most popular Horror movies ranked by adrenaline junkies worldwide. Anyone can vote on this CrowdRanked list of these famous horror movies. Ghosts, zombies, monsters, or maybe just the quiet guy down the street who straps on a hockey mask for kicks; these are the films that scare the pants off you will be the highest rated horror movie? What are the greatest horror films ever made? And how many of these popular horror movies have you actually seen? No matter the answer, you'll find that this list goes way beyond the top 100 horror films of all time.
Great horror films have a long and storied history in cinema. From the earliest horror movies like 1922's Nosferatu, to modern favorites like the Saw series, scary movies have always had a special place in the collective, twisted hearts of moviegoers. Each year, new good horror movies come out that are designed to terrify, with evil characters bent on death and destruction. Will they all wind up on a list of the scariest horror movies ever made? Probably not, but not for a lack of trying.
Many of the best horror films are haunted house movies, relying on the setting as a huge, spooky selling factor. Other excellent horror films rely on nausea-inducing tactics, making us recoil in terror, totally disturbed by whatever we're watching on screen. Start with all of the ones on this list, and of course, feel free to add any top horror movies that might be missing.
Enjoy this list of great horror films, and remember: You can rerank this list in any order you like. Boo!
- 1Jodie Foster, Anthony Hopkins, Scott Glenn
- Released: 1991
- Directed by: Jonathan Demme
A bone-chilling, psychological thriller that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats from start to finish. With an iconic performance by Sir Anthony Hopkins as the cannibalistic Dr. Hannibal Lecter, it's no wonder this film has become a classic in the horror genre. Additionally, Jodie Foster's portrayal of FBI Agent Clarice Starling adds depth and vulnerability to the story, making it a must-watch for any horror aficionado.
- 2Ellen Burstyn, Linda Blair, Max von Sydow
- Released: 1973
- Directed by: William Friedkin
Regarded as one of the most terrifying films ever made, this spine-tingling tale of demonic possession and exorcism will make even the bravest of viewers squirm in their seats. Linda Blair's haunting portrayal of the possessed Regan MacNeil is unforgettable, and the film's eerie atmosphere is enough to give anyone nightmares for days. It's no wonder this film has been a staple in the horror genre for decades.
- 3Vera Farmiga, Patrick Wilson, Lili Taylor
- Released: 2013
- Directed by: James Wan
Based on the true-life experiences of paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren, this chilling tale of hauntings and demonic possession will leave audiences questioning their own beliefs in the supernatural. With spine-tingling scares and a gripping storyline, it's no wonder this film has spawned a successful franchise and solidified its place in the horror hall of fame.
- 4Jack Nicholson, Shelley Duvall, Danny Lloyd
- Released: 1980
- Directed by: Stanley Kubrick
Stanley Kubrick's adaptation of Stephen King's chilling novel is a masterclass in psychological horror. Jack Nicholson's descent into madness as Jack Torrance, the caretaker of the isolated Overlook Hotel, is both captivating and terrifying. Add in the eerie atmosphere and chilling supernatural occurrences, and it's no wonder this film is considered one of the greatest horror movies of all time.
- 5Donald Pleasence, Jamie Lee Curtis, Nancy Kyes
- Released: 1978
- Directed by: John Carpenter
Arguably the film that launched the modern slasher genre, John Carpenter's Halloween introduced audiences to the terrifying Michael Myers. His relentless pursuit of Laurie Strode, played by a young Jamie Lee Curtis, is the stuff of nightmares and has spawned countless sequels and imitators. The haunting score and suspenseful pacing make this film a must-watch for any horror fan.
- 6John Saxon, Ronee Blakley, Heather Langenkamp
- Released: 1984
- Directed by: Wes Craven
Wes Craven's inventive and terrifying tale of Freddy Krueger, a vengeful spirit who haunts the dreams of teenagers, has become a horror classic. With its imaginative kills and chilling premise, it's no wonder this film has spawned numerous sequels and a dedicated fanbase. The iconic performance of Robert Englund as the razor-fingered Freddy is a highlight that'll keep you awake at night.
