The Exorcist (1973)
Considered a classic in the horror genre, ‘The Exorcist’ is not for the faint of heart. With its terrifying depiction of demonic possession, this film can be deeply unsettling for those who are not fans of horror. The movie explores themes of faith, evil, and the battle between good and evil. The iconic possession scenes and visceral horror make ‘The Exorcist’ a landmark in the horror genre.
The Conjuring (2013)
Based on a true story, ‘The Conjuring’ follows paranormal investigators as they confront a malevolent force in a haunted house. The eerie atmosphere and jump scares make this movie a must-avoid for those who do not enjoy horror films. The film’s focus on the Warrens’ investigations and their encounters with the supernatural adds a layer of realism to the horror elements, heightening the overall scare factor for viewers.
The Babadook (2014)
‘The Babadook’ delves into themes of grief and motherhood through a chilling tale of a mother and son haunted by a sinister presence. Its psychological horror elements may not be suitable for those who dislike scary movies. The film uses the Babadook monster as a metaphor for the mother’s unresolved grief and inner demons, adding depth to the traditional horror narrative.
Hereditary (2018)
Known for its disturbing imagery and intense atmosphere, ‘Hereditary’ is a slow-burn horror film that builds tension to a terrifying climax. The unsettling themes explored in this movie may not be suitable for non-horror fans. The film’s exploration of family dynamics, grief, and inherited trauma sets it apart from conventional horror films, offering a more psychological and emotionally intense viewing experience.
A Quiet Place (2018)
While not a traditional horror film, ‘A Quiet Place’ is a suspenseful thriller set in a post-apocalyptic world where silence is key to survival. Despite its unique premise, the film’s intense moments and suspenseful scenes may still be too much for those who dislike horror. The film’s innovative use of sound, or lack thereof, creates a tense and immersive viewing experience, drawing audiences into the characters’ struggle for survival.
It Follows (2014)
Combining elements of supernatural horror and psychological thriller, ‘It Follows’ tells the story of a young woman plagued by a mysterious curse. The tension and dread throughout the film make it a challenging watch for viewers averse to horror. The film’s exploration of sexuality, fear of mortality, and the inevitability of death adds a layer of depth to the traditional horror narrative, making it a thought-provoking viewing experience.
Get Out (2017)
A critically acclaimed film that blends horror with social commentary, ‘Get Out’ explores race relations through a chilling tale of insidious racism. The unsettling themes and tense moments may not be suitable for those who prefer to avoid horror. The film’s satirical take on racism and societal norms elevates it beyond traditional horror, sparking important conversations on race, privilege, and power dynamics.
The Witch (2015)
Set in 17th-century New England, ‘The Witch’ follows a Puritan family as they encounter supernatural forces in the wilderness. The slow-paced tension and eerie atmosphere of the film make it a haunting experience for those who do not enjoy horror. The film’s historical accuracy, attention to detail, and authentic portrayal of Puritan beliefs immerse viewers in a dark and foreboding world of paranoia and religious hysteria.
Paranormal Activity (2007)
Shot in a found-footage style, ‘Paranormal Activity’ follows a couple as they experience increasingly disturbing supernatural events in their home. The suspenseful build-up and jump scares may not be suitable for viewers who dislike horror. The film’s use of found footage adds a sense of realism and intimacy to the horror, creating a creeping sense of dread that lingers long after the movie ends.
Suspiria (2018)
A remake of the 1977 classic, ‘Suspiria’ tells the story of a young dancer who uncovers dark secrets at a prestigious dance academy. The film’s disturbing visuals and themes of witchcraft may not be appealing to non-horror fans. The film’s bold visual style, intricate choreography, and thematic depth elevate it beyond traditional horror, offering a visually stunning and intellectually stimulating viewing experience.
Midsommar (2019)
From the director of ‘Hereditary,’ ‘Midsommar’ follows a group of friends as they attend a festival in a remote Swedish village. The unsettling events and graphic imagery in the film may be too intense for those who do not enjoy horror. The film’s exploration of grief, relationships, and societal norms in a surreal and unsettling setting makes it a unique and polarizing addition to the horror genre.
The Shining (1980)
Directed by Stanley Kubrick, ‘The Shining’ is a psychological horror masterpiece that follows a family as they stay in a haunted hotel. The film’s eerie atmosphere and iconic scenes may be too unsettling for viewers averse to horror. The film’s ambiguous storytelling, haunting visuals, and memorable performances create a chilling and immersive experience that has cemented ‘The Shining’ as a classic in the horror genre.
Rosemary’s Baby (1968)
A classic psychological horror film, ‘Rosemary’s Baby’ tells the story of a young woman who suspects dark forces are at play in her life. The slow-burn tension and disturbing themes explored in the film may not be suitable for those who dislike horror. The film’s exploration of female agency, motherhood, and patriarchal control adds a layer of complexity to the horror narrative, making it a compelling and thought-provoking watch.
Insidious (2010)
Combining elements of supernatural horror and psychological thriller, ‘Insidious’ follows a family as they navigate a realm of malevolent spirits. The film’s jump scares and chilling atmosphere may not be well-received by viewers who are not fans of horror. The film’s blend of supernatural elements, family drama, and psychological terror creates a gripping and suspenseful viewing experience that keeps audiences on edge throughout.
