The Ultimate List of Top Horror Movies

Description: Alfred Hitchcock's masterpiece redefined the horror genre with its shocking plot twists and iconic shower scene. "Psycho" explores themes of voyeurism, identity, and madness, making it a landmark film in cinema history.

Fact: Hitchcock bought up copies of the novel to keep the plot twist a secret. The film was also one of the first to show a toilet flushing on screen.

Description: Often hailed as the scariest movie ever made, "The Exorcist" delves into demonic possession, blending psychological horror with supernatural elements. Its realistic portrayal of exorcism and the emotional turmoil of a mother fighting for her daughter's soul make it a timeless classic.

Fact: The film was so terrifying that it was reported to have caused viewers to faint or leave the theater. It also received two Academy Awards.

Description: This film's raw intensity and the introduction of Leatherface set a new standard for horror. Its gritty realism and the terror of encountering a family of cannibals made it a defining moment in horror cinema.

Fact: Despite its title, the film has very little actual gore. The chainsaw was used more for psychological terror than for graphic violence.

Description: John Carpenter's "Halloween" introduced the world to Michael Myers, the embodiment of pure evil. Its minimalist approach to horror, with suspenseful build-up and a relentless killer, has influenced countless slasher films.

Fact: The film was made on a very low budget, with Carpenter composing the iconic score himself. It was also shot in only 20 days.

Description: Stanley Kubrick's adaptation of Stephen King's novel is a chilling exploration of isolation, madness, and the supernatural. Jack Nicholson's descent into insanity and the eerie atmosphere of the Overlook Hotel make this film unforgettable.

Fact: The film's famous "Here's Johnny!" line was improvised by Nicholson. Kubrick also used real blood for the elevator scene, which was quite controversial.

Description: Wes Craven's creation of Freddy Krueger brought nightmares to life, blending horror with dark humor. The concept of being killed in your dreams was both terrifying and original, making this film a horror staple.

Fact: The film was inspired by real-life events where people died in their sleep from unexplained causes. Robert Englund, who played Freddy, was initially considered for a different role.

Description: Based on the real-life paranormal investigations of Ed and Lorraine Warren, "The Conjuring" revitalized the haunted house subgenre with its effective jump scares and a compelling narrative about demonic possession.

Fact: The film was inspired by the Perron family's experiences, which were documented by the Warrens. The movie's clapboard was used in the actual Warrens' home.

Description: Jennifer Kent's "The Babadook" is a psychological horror that delves into grief, motherhood, and the manifestation of fear. Its use of shadow and light, along with its ambiguous ending, makes it a modern horror classic.

Fact: The film was made on a budget of just $2 million and was shot in only 25 days. The Babadook has since become an internet meme, often used to represent depression or anxiety.

Description: Jordan Peele's directorial debut combines social commentary with horror, creating a film that is both terrifying and thought-provoking. It tackles issues of race, identity, and control in a way that's both unique and chilling.

Fact: The film was originally intended to be a straight comedy, but Peele decided to turn it into a horror-comedy. It was also the first horror film to be nominated for Best Picture at the Oscars.

Description: Ari Aster's debut feature is a modern horror masterpiece, exploring grief, family secrets, and the occult. Its slow burn and shocking climax have cemented its place among the best horror films of recent years.

Fact: The film was shot in only 32 days, and many of the props were real, including the miniature house used in the film.