The 100+ Best Scary And Horror Rated-R Movies

Over 900 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The 100+ Best Scary And Horror Rated-R Movies
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List of R-rated horror movies, ranked from best to worst with movie trailers when available. This list takes the best R-rated horror movies and pits them against each other to see once and for all what the greatest R-rated horror movie of all time is. This list of popular R-rated horror movies includes information like who directed the film, when it was released and which actors starred in the movie. If you think the top R-rated horror movie isn't as high as it should be then be sure to vote it up so it can take its rightful place among the other great R-rated horror films on this list. If you're trying to find a specific R-rated horror Film film you can search this list and filter to find what you're looking for.

Everything from The Shining to Alien is included on this list and answerse the questions "What are the best R-rated horror movies?" and "What are the most famous R-rated horror movies?"

Use this list if you're looking for some new horror movies that are rated R. Between Netflix, Hulu and other services there are thousands of great horror movies rated R, so get out there and start watching.

You could always re-rank this list as your own then share it on your social networks to get a count of what only your friends think.

What kind of directors have worked on Horror R movies in the past? Stanley Kubrick and James Cameron both have, as have other great directors.

Ranked by
  • The Exorcist
    1
    Ellen Burstyn, Linda Blair, Max von Sydow
    217 votes
    • Released: 1973
    • Directed by: William Friedkin

    This chilling tale of demonic possession, set in Georgetown, follows the horrifying ordeal of a young girl as her mother seeks the help of two priests to save her. Masterfully directed by William Friedkin, it's famed for its shocking visuals, groundbreaking special effects, and intense psychological horror that continue to unsettle audiences today. The film's iconic scenes and haunting themes grapple with the eternal struggle between good and evil, leaving viewers questioning their own beliefs.

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  • The Shining
    2
    Jack Nicholson, Shelley Duvall, Danny Lloyd
    195 votes
    • Released: 1980
    • Directed by: Stanley Kubrick

    Directed by Stanley Kubrick, this unsettling adaptation of Stephen King's novel is a masterpiece of psychological horror, set in the isolated Overlook Hotel during a long, snowy winter. Jack Nicholson gives an unforgettable performance as Jack Torrance, a recovering alcoholic who gradually descends into madness, threatening the lives of his wife and son. The film's ominous atmosphere, chilling visuals, and eerie soundtrack linger long after the credits roll, making it a quintessential addition to any horror aficionado's collection.

  • Halloween
    3
    Donald Pleasence, Jamie Lee Curtis, Nancy Kyes
    217 votes
    • Released: 1978
    • Directed by: John Carpenter

    John Carpenter's pioneering slasher film introduces the terrifying Michael Myers, who escapes a mental institution and returns to his hometown of Haddonfield to stalk and kill unsuspecting teenagers. Jamie Lee Curtis delivers a standout performance as the resourceful heroine, Laurie Strode, while Carpenter's masterful direction builds the suspense and tension with every scene. With its iconic theme music, well-crafted scares, and memorable villain, Halloween remains a genre-defining classic.

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  • Alien
    4
    Tom Skerritt, Sigourney Weaver, John Hurt
    145 votes
    • Released: 1979
    • Directed by: Ridley Scott

    The unforgiving environment of deep space serves as the backdrop for Ridley Scott's sci-fi horror masterpiece in which the crew of the Nostromo stumbles upon a lethal extraterrestrial organism. Sigourney Weaver's portrayal of Ellen Ripley, the strong and resourceful survivor who faces off against the nightmarish Xenomorph, is nothing short of iconic. Alien's atmospheric terror, claustrophobic settings, and groundbreaking special effects solidify its status as a horror classic.

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  • The Thing
    5
    Kurt Russell, Wilford Brimley, T.K. Carter
    142 votes
    • Released: 1982
    • Directed by: John Carpenter

    John Carpenter's suspenseful tale of isolation and paranoia unfolds in an Antarctic research station, where a team of scientists unwittingly unleash a shape-shifting alien creature. Kurt Russell leads the ensemble cast as helicopter pilot MacReady, who becomes increasingly desperate to identify and destroy the monstrous imposter. With its expertly crafted atmosphere of dread and outstanding practical effects, The Thing remains a must-see for fans of intense, chilling horror.

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  • Psycho
    6
    Anthony Perkins, Janet Leigh, Vera Miles
    143 votes
    • Released: 1960
    • Directed by: Alfred Hitchcock

    Alfred Hitchcock's genre-defining classic is a masterclass in storytelling, suspense, and visual technique, featuring the iconic Bates Motel and its disturbed owner, Norman Bates. Janet Leigh's portrayal of the doomed Marion Crane, whose decision to steal money leads her to a grisly end, sets the stage for one of the most shocking twists in cinematic history. The film's infamous shower scene, unnerving score, and complex exploration of psychological horror leave viewers captivated and disturbed long after the credits roll.

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