The best horror movies for this holiday season

Films in the key of Halloween

By Cazzy Lewchuk, Staff Writer

Happy Halloween, boils and ghouls! It’s a month full of jack-o’-lanterns, haunted houses, scary movies, and holiday TV specials. One of the easiest ways to celebrate this holiday is by grabbing some popcorn, someone to hold on to during the really scary scenes, and watching a horror movie. Although scary movies are pretty subjective and varied, here are some of my personal recommendations for when the spirit moves you.

Evil Dead II (1987)

This cult classic features demonic zombies attacking young adults in a cabin in the woods. With the perfect blend of horror, gore, and even humour, it’s an essential. In the words of the protagonist, it’s “groovy!”

Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)

Serial killer Freddie Krueger slaughters teenagers in the one place adults can’t help them: their dreams. A classic full of blood, this flick gets bonus points for featuring an up-and-coming actor in his first-ever role—Johnny Depp.

The Shining (1980)

A former alcoholic writer, his wife, and his son are caretakers for an isolated Colorado hotel all winter. But the many ghosts of the past and present may drive them—and perhaps the viewer—insane. The real horror here is the ambiguity in what’s really going on.

Insidious (2010)

Paranormal activities seem to haunt a suburban family even after they hire a psychic. The characters—and the viewer—begin to wonder if something far more insidious is at play. You might find yourself a believer after viewing this one.

Insidious: Chapter Two (2013)

The follow-up to Insidious is not only just as good as the first but makes it even better by revealing new details. They’re the perfect movies to watch back-to-back.

Let Me In (2010)

In this remake of the Swedish film, Let the Right One In, the extremely talented child actress Chloë-Grace Moretz plays a mysterious young girl who befriends a bullied little boy. Did I mention she’s also a thirsty vampire?

The Exorcist (1973)

The original demon-possession movie. A priest is called in to cure a little girl who’s been projectile vomiting and speaking to a mysterious “Captain Howdy.” Widely considered to be one of the scariest movies of all time.

Trick ‘r Treat (2007)

Four interwoven stories all set during Halloween night are told, ranging from a principal with an unusual hobby to teens who pull a prank that gets out of control quickly. This one will make you laugh as well as scream.

Poltergeist (1982)

A family is terrorized by several ghosts that lurk around their house and may be coming in through the TV. You’ll never find eight-year-olds with glowing eyes more terrifying. “They’re heeeeeere!”

The Ring (2002)

A woman seeks to find out the origin of a mysterious videotape that kills everyone who watches it seven days later. It’s been over 10 years and I still find myself afraid to answer the phone after watching this one.

Psycho (1960)

Norman Bates is a charming man who runs the Bates Motel with his mother, who he absolutely adores. This movie will disturb you and possibly make you switch to taking baths instead of showers.

If the spirit moves you, turn out the lights and tune in to any of these classics, easily accessible wherever movies are streamed or found. Of course, you may want to sleep with the lights on afterwards!