Ranking: the 20 scariest horror movies ever

It is a bit of a mystery why some people are drawn to terrifying movies like moths to a flame — novelty, the adrenaline rush, or just learning what not to do in a horrifying situation. But whatever you’re repulsive attraction, here’s a list of the most blood-curdling films of all time.

“They’re here..” A suburban nightmare brought to life with ground-breaking special effects. The film masterfully combines familial love with heart-stopping supernatural occurrences, redefining haunted house horrors for the modern age.

Voted the best British film of all time in a Time Out poll, this psychological horror is an elegant yet terrifying exploration of grief and precognition. Its atmospheric tension and unsettling editing style make it a masterpiece of supernatural cinema.

Image: Don't Look Now, British Lion Films

A paragon of slow-burn horror, the film thrives on paranoia and social discomfort. Kusama’s deft direction turns a dinner party into a battleground of psychological warfare… and then something much worse.

Image: The Invitation, Drafthouse Films

This flick revolutionized the monster movie genre with its suspenseful pacing and groundbreaking effects. The ominous shark attacks left viewers on the edge of their seats, leaving some so frightened that they were even scared to use a toilet.

By introducing the concept of fast-moving zombies, this pandemic film revitalized the zombie genre. But much more than that, its grim portrayal of post-apocalyptic Britain is both intense and terrifying. Also, Cilian Murphy's fantastic film debut.

Image: 28 Days Later, Fox Searchlight Pictures

This pioneering film set the gold standard for slasher films. With its iconic masked villain and innovative use of camera work, it has become a masterclass in horror filmmaking and the franchise is still going to this day.

‘Ringu’ in the original Japanese blends psychological and supernatural horror, introducing the terrifying Sadako. The film’s cursed videotape concept has left a lasting imprint on horror cinema and led to the also scary ‘The Ring’ remake and started the popularity of other great Asian horror originals and remakes like 'The Grudge.'

Image: Ringu, Toho

A compelling blend of crime and horror, this film was made extra disturbing by its unforgettable performances. The film's chilling portrayal of its antagonist, Hannibal Lecter, has become legendary in horror lore. Fava beans and a nice Chianti, anyone?

Image: Silence of the Lambs, Orion Pictures

A claustrophobic Antarctic setting, paranoia, and groundbreaking practical effects combined to create a horrifying masterpiece of alien invasion and body horror.

Image: The Thing, Universal Pictures

A modern supernatural classic that revitalized haunted house and possession films. Wan’s skillful direction and the film's relentless scares have anchored its place in horror history.

Image: The Conjuring, Warner Brothers

A classic tale of the Antichrist, masterfully weaving biblical prophecies into a tale of terror with a creepy little kid. Its unsettling atmosphere and dramatic deaths make it a standout classic horror film.

A brutal, raw, and disturbing masterpiece that redefined horror with its chainsaw-wielding maniac. Hooper’s minimalist style creates an unrelenting atmosphere of pure terror and despair.

A psychological horror that explores the paranoia and vulnerability of pregnancy. Its meticulous craftsmanship, especially the performance by Mia Farrow, and unsettling atmosphere make it a monumental tale of Satanic conspiracy.

Image: Rosemary's Baby trailer, Paramount

A deep dive into grief and motherhood, personified by a nightmarish entity. Kent’s film brilliantly uses psychological horror to manifest real-life struggles and fears.

Image: The Babadook, Umbrella Entertainment

A sci-fi horror masterpiece, using tight spaces and darkness to evoke claustrophobic terror. Its innovative creature design and slow-burn suspense make it an eternal classic.

A groundbreaking social thriller, dissecting racism through chilling horror elements. Peele’s directorial debut is a sharp, terrifying critique of societal horrors hidden beneath polite facades.

Image: Get Out, Universal Pictures

Kubrick’s adaptation of the Stephen King novel is a masterclass in atmospheric horror, turning an isolated hotel into a labyrinth of terror with disturbing visuals and psychological unease.

A devastating portrait of familial grief transformed into palpable terror. Aster's film is laden with shocking moments and nightmarish imagery that linger long after viewing.

Image: Hereditary, A24

Hitchcock’s monumental thriller broke norms, delivering shocking twists and established the slasher genre. Its iconic shower scene and unsettling tension remain unparalleled in horror cinema.

A harrowing tale of demonic possession, combining visceral shocks with theological terror. Its unrelenting horror and powerful performances have cemented it as a genre-defining masterpiece, the one movie that no one could see without feeling at least a little terrified.

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