Halloween is tomorrow, and there is no better way to get in the spooky season mood than with a good scary movie. Here are the top five horror movies in no particular order.
Suspiria (1977) Directed by Dario Argento
Dario Argento’s French horror classic “Suspiria” is one of the most captivating films of its era. Jessica Harper (“Phantom of the Paradise”) plays the main role of Suzy, a woman visiting Germany in order to study at a renowned ballet school. However, her arrival is followed by a series of deaths and disturbing occurrences that lead Suzy to dive deeper into the school’s dark underbelly. The film’s cinematography and color palette keep it fresh even decades after its release, and the soundtrack done by French electronic band Goblin is striking and wonderful. If you’re to watch any early horror movie this Halloween, make it “Suspiria.”
Nope (2022) Directed by Jordan Peele
Jordan Peele’s third movie is a rewarding horror, mixing mystery with the otherworldly. Peele was an impressive director as soon as he burst onto the scene with “Get Out” in 2017, an instant modern classic that balanced commentary and horror. “Nope,” however, struck a chord that I haven’t seen any other movie have. Its sheer spectacle is breathtaking, and the story itself is unlike any other. Daniel Kaluuya (“Get Out”) and Keke Palmer (“Akeelah and the Bee”) are two siblings taking care of a rural ranch after their fathers passing. Things go ary whenever a creature in the sky starts wreaking havoc on their peaceful farm as they make an attempt to profit off the unknown.
The Shining (1980) Directed by Stanley Kubrick
Saying that Kubrick’s “The Shining” is one of the best horror movies ever is surprising to no one. Stanley Kubrick’s adaptation of Stephen King’s “The Shining” is one of the most prominent films of its time, and continues to this day, to be an important piece of popular culture. Shelley Duvall (“Popeye”) and Jack Nicholson (“Batman” and “One Flew Over The Cuckoo’s Nest”) star in this mosaic of isolation in a sprawling hotel in Colorado with their son as they deal with psychosis and wicked premonitions. The film is great at making you feel stranded and stressed, and if by some means you haven’t seen the movie yet, this halloween is the perfect time if any.
Scream (1996) Directed by Wes Craven
The first installment in the ongoing “Scream” series is easily the best, taking the ambiance and likable characters of the series, and establishing a group of films spanning decades. Of all classic horrors, Scream has always stood out, it’s your classic slasher film, but it takes advantage of the mystery and twists riddled throughout the movie. It’s a truly unique horror for its time and the perfect movie to watch on halloween.
Evil Dead II (1987) Directed by Sam Raimi
Bruce Campbell’s breakout role as Ash Williams in the “Evil Dead” series amplifies one of the wackiest horrors ever. If you’re wondering, “why the sequel?” it is just a better version of the first. It’s funnier, scarier and all around better. It’s one of the campiest movies ever, memorable lines and scenes gush out of the movie almost as much as the bright fake blood. If you want a light hearted horror that’s short, punchy and a good time, “Evil Dead II” really is the perfect film.
