There are a multitude of acclaimed horror movies to watch throughout the Halloween season, but which are worthwhile?

When people hear the word “Horror” most conclude that it means something that evokes fear or is scary and that’s not entirely wrong but there’s much more to it. Horror movies for example aren’t always just frightening movies - different elements create a good horror film, such as good storytelling, unique concepts, and talented actors. 

Today we’ll review a list of horror movies held in high regard and determine if they deserve the prestige associated with them while giving a background to each film.

“The Shining” is a movie revolving around a story about a man named Jack Torrance, a writer struggling with alcoholism and uncontrolled rage, his wife Wendy, and his son Danny, who possess the ability to see prophetic visions. Created in 1980, this movie was easily recognized because of the "Here's Johnny!" scene. The movie received lots of positive feedback because of the incredible performance of Jack Nicholson and the terrifying atmosphere throughout the movie. Many believe “The Shining” is one of the best horror movies of all time, mainly because of how the movie can illustrate the severity of Jack Torrance’s mental state. Still, others disagree and suggest that the movie is overrated because of the missed opportunities to create tension and show Jack’s slow descent into insanity. Our Rating: 7.8 for its scattered story plot and slow pace but its outstanding psychological effect on its viewers.

“Alien” is a science fiction and horror film that involves a story about a spaceship crew who receives a mysterious transmission that belongs to an abandoned ship which the crew explores while trying to survive a deadly extraterrestrial creature. The film was made in 1979 and was revolutionary because it was able to use sci-fi and horror - two genres that had not been combined successfully before - as well as impressive outfits and sets to create a suspenseful environment where Dallas, Ripley, Lambert, Brett, Kane, Ash, and Parker fight for their lives.. Some disliked the movie's slow pace and suggested it was disappointing in the end. Fans of the film argue it masterfully portrays how isolated the crew is alongside the Xenomorph and how eerie the situation is. Our Rating: 6.8 because of its lack of jumpscares while having an impressive amount of detail.

“Halloween” is a horror movie known for its famous protagonist, Michael Myers, who was committed to a sanitarium for murdering his sister when he was six years old but then escaped while being transferred and began looking for people to kill in his hometown. The movie was made in 1963 and was recognized for its memorable soundtrack, villain, and influence on the slasher genre in horror movies. Enjoyers of this movie believe that the mysteriousness in the film causes the movie to be entertaining and the cinematography makes the movie visually appealing. However, others dislike “Halloween” because they think the killer is dull since no major details or backstory sets him apart from other main characters in slasher films. Our Rating: 8.3 for its stimulating plot but its mediocre quality.

“Scream” is a 1996 movie starring Ghostface. It follows high school students in a fictional town called Woodsboro where Ghostface terrorizes. The main character, Sydney Prescott, is traumatized by her mother’s death, which makes her relationship with her boyfriend, Billy Loomis, rocky and paranoid. Later in the film, she is stalked and taunted by Ghostface. Honestly, it's a thrilling film with tension from the chase scenes. Some disagree and claim the movie is too satirical, losing its scariness. Overall, it’s a good classic horror movie to watch and is highly recommended. Our Rating: 8.1 for its humorous nature and astounding plot twist but an absence of lighting in the scenes which makes it difficult to see during some parts.

“The Exorcist”, made in 1973, is about a mother’s attempt to save her daughter from being possessed by a demonic entity. The suspense and visuals during the movie make it thrilling to watch, especially because of the frightening and unsettling feeling that makes it feel realistic. A scene in the movie that surprised the audience is the crucifix scene, where Regan, a young girl, harms herself and her mother, which disturbed the audience and left most people scared when it was first released. Individuals who were not fond of the film claim “The Exorcist” has no plot and it was overhyped but others believe that the editing and originality in the movie made it interesting to watch. Our Rating: 7.5 for the captivating exorcism aspect and the fact it was based on a true story but unorganized and unnecessary scenes.