10 Thrilling Picks Like Terror Train (1980)

Description: Pioneering slasher about a group of sorority sisters terrorized by obscene phone calls and a hidden killer during the holidays.

Fact: Often credited as one of the earliest examples of the slasher genre, predating Halloween.

Description: A masked killer escapes from a mental institution to stalk babysitters on Halloween night, setting the template for slasher films.

Fact: Made on a tight budget, it became one of the most profitable independent films of its time.

Description: Centers on a vengeful killer stalking camp counselors, utilizing practical effects for gruesome deaths and a summer camp setting to heighten tension.

Fact: Notable for early work by makeup effects artist Tom Savini and being based on the urban legend of Cropsey.

Description: A killer targets high school students during their graduation festivities, combining teen drama with slasher tropes.

Fact: Features an early appearance by Vanna White, before her fame on Wheel of Fortune.

Description: Features a mysterious killer eliminating members of a social circle one by one, with a focus on psychological twists and elaborate death scenes.

Fact: Known for its shocking finale and one of the most inventive death scenes involving a shish kebab.

Description: A fraternity initiation turns deadly as pledges face a real threat in a haunted mansion, mixing horror with elements of mystery.

Fact: One of the first films to blend the slasher genre with haunted house tropes.

Description: A slasher film set around a holiday, featuring a masked killer targeting a group of young people in an isolated setting, blending suspense with gory kills.

Fact: Originally heavily censored for its graphic violence, with many scenes only restored in the 2009 uncut release.

Description: A small-town massacre unfolds as a masked assailant hunts down attendees of a post-war dance, with a focus on suspense and mystery.

Fact: Tom Savini's special effects work is a highlight, particularly in a notorious pitchfork kill scene.

Description: Actresses at a remote audition house are stalked by a killer, blending psychological horror with traditional slasher elements.

Fact: The film's production was troubled, leading to a delayed release and significant re-editing.

Description: A group of friends gather at a remote location for a party, only to fall victim to a series of pranks that turn deadly, playing with audience expectations.

Fact: The film's twist ending was highly controversial and led to debates among fans about its execution.