Before you plan another scary movie night, here's your chance to do your research. Don't waste another night disappointing your guests with a lackluster horror movie. Take a look through our horror movie bible. I've watched pretty much every popular horror movie from the late '70s on and reviewed them, five-star rating system included.
2013
Aftershock
This earthquake survival tale starring Eli Roth and Selena Gomez seems to have the right idea, but the tone doesn't fit and the whole thing just turns into a giant mess.
1/5
Dark Skies
Aliens torment Kerri Russell and her family in this by-the-book sci-fi thriller that lacks depth and any real emotion. You want to care, but you just can't.
2/5
Evil Dead
Gruesome and intense while staying fun, this remake to the cult classic follows a group of friends who retreat to a remote cabin for an intervention only to accidentally unleash a demon that wants to kill them all.
4.5/5
Hansel & Gretel: Witch Hunters
Surprisingly entertaining take on the classic fairy tale of Hansel & Gretel. It's a total popcorn movie, which isn't always a bad thing. Especially with gory fun like this.
3/5
Haunting in Connecticut 2: Ghosts of Georgia
How is this called Haunting in Connecticut while taking place in Georgia? It's direct to video for a reason. No scares in this haunting, nothing original or interesting.
1.5/5
The Last Exorcism Part II
A bizarre approach for a sequel to the handheld footage style of its predecessor, "The Last Exorcism Part II" finds our Michael Cera-looking possessed girl attending college and still being tortured by a demonic force. It's disjointed and feels forced.
2/5
The Lords of Salem
While it's difficult to call Rob Zombie's most ambitious film good or bad, it is definitely interesting. If you're a fan of his past films the style will be welcomed, but I don't see him gaining any new fans here.
2.5/5
Mama
After two girls are discovered in the woods they go to live with their uncle and his "I'm going to keep reminding you I'm a rocker" girlfriend. While it's shot beautifully, the story has a ridiculous amount of holes and the ending was so bad, it literally made me angry.
2.5/5
The Purge
In the future, the public is allowed one night where all crime, including murder, is legal. It's an interesting concept that is ultimately poorly executed with all kills and scares being completely laughable and predictable.
1/5
Texas Chainsaw 3D
How many times can studios cash in on the same story? The time they try to make Leatherface some sort of anti-hero. It doesn't work and the story is as bad as the terrible 3D effects.
1.5/5
2012
ABCs of Death
26 directors were given a letter of the alphabet and $5,000 to make a horror short based on a word that starts with their letter. Obviously not all of them are good, some are just terrible, but it's at least original and something different. You have to appreciate that.
3/5
American Mary
A med student gets involved in a dark and sinister world but unfortunately you won't care because the characters are dumb and uninteresting.
.5/5
The Bay
Something in the water is killing everyone and everything in this small bay area town. Some of the found footage in this faux documentary is a little silly, but it does have some scares and a decent amount of suspense.
3/5
Cabin in the Woods
Joss Whedon's tongue in cheek horror film pays homage to the genre while challenging it to push for something beyond the status quo. It's a completely different take on the concept of promiscuous teens on a camping trip and a must for any horror fan.
5/5
The Caller
Mary begins to receive phone calls from an evil woman from the past in this suspense thriller that may not end strong, but builds enough tension you'll be able to look past it.
3.5/5
Chernobyl Diaries
Jesse McCartney and his pals are hunted by mutants in the abandoned nuclear wasteland of a town in Russia. It's a cheap cash-in on the found footage concept, but it's decent enough. Not good but not completely terrible.
2.5/5
Cold Sweat
A surprisingly fun entry from Argentinian director Adrian Garcia Bogilano if your idea of fun involves cannibals and torture. It's not tremendously scary but the story of a guy trying to find his girlfriend who suddenly disappeared is incredibly intense. This is a nice find for horror fans.
3.5/5
The Collection
The follow-up to the ultra gory ""The Collector," this one feels a little more like a Saw movie but holds up on its own quite well. This time the collector is operating on a much bigger scale, like chopping everyone in a nightclub into pieces. Not for the faint by any means.
3/5
Dark Shadows
Is it a comedy or horror or drama? I'm not sure the filmmakers could answer this question either in the Johnny Depp led vampire tale based on the classic television series. Not exactly what fans had hoped for.
1/5
The Devil Inside
A girl searches for answers to what happened to her mother and why she is committed. The only thing that lacks more than scares is a plot. It's quite painful to watch.
1/5
Grave Encounters 2
A total meta-sequel that follows a college student who uncovers that the first film was actually true and there may be survivors in the haunted hospital. It takes a while to really get going but once it does, hold on, you're in for a great ride.
3.5/5
Infected
A terrible zombie movie clone with a bunch of B-listers led by Michael Madsen. It's like a robot heard what a zombie movie was and tried to produce a script. It's just plain bad.
.5/5
John Dies at the End
Based on the cult novel, "John Dies at the End" is extremely difficult to describe but finds a way to be unbelievable fun on what was clearly a microscopic budget. There are inter-dimension battles, monsters made from cuts of meat, mind reading Rastafarians, and Paul Giamatti!
4/5
Lovely Molly
Another ultra-creepy film from Eduardo Sanchez, "Lovely Molly" mixes found footage with standard film as we try to figure out what exactly is wrong with Molly. It may be the most overlooked horror film of the year.
4/5
Paranormal Activity 4
The weakest entry in the franchise, this time focusing on a teenage neighbor while advancing very little plot to the overall story arc. The scares feel cheap, which is disappointing after the strength of Paranormal Activity 3.
1.5/5
Piranha 3DD
Was anyone really looking for a sequel to Piranha 3D? At least the first one was somewhat fun. This one sucks all the joy out and leaves us with what feels like a bad USA "Up All Night" movie.
1/5
The Possession
A man's daughter opens a box, which causes her to be possessed by an ancient demon. While there are some entertaining parts, it just feels like something is missing. Definitely not as bad as the terrible box office numbers it put up.
2.5/5
Prometheus
The not prequel to "Alien" that turned out to kind of be a prequel to "Alien" is breathtakingly beautiful and, while there are some plot holes, sufficiently entertaining. There are much worst things you could do with 2 hours of your life.
3.5/5
Silent Hill: Revelation
It's time for another journey into the alternate universe of Silent Hill. This time Sean Bean and his daughter are taking the journey and searching for his wife. While I expected to completely hate this, it's not all terrible, but the story is just a little lacking.
2/5
Silent House
The amazing Elizabeth Olsen leads this "edited to look like one continuous shot" thriller as she is hunted and stalked through her dilapidated childhood home. It's claustrophobic and genuinely terrifying even if you do figure out the twists.
4/5
Sinister
Ethan Hawke stars as a has-been writer searching for his next big hit while investigating a series of family murders only to discover it may be connected with an ancient demon who preys upon children. The ending is so rushed it really hurts the overall film, which is just OK on its own.
2.5/5
Sleep Tight
An incredibly creepy Spanish film by Jaume Balaguero about a doorman who becomes obsessed with a young, female resident and invades her life in the most disturbing ways imaginable. It teeters on absurd but stays just close enough to reality to really freak you out.
4/5
Underworld: Awakening
Kate Beckinsale thankfully returns after a lackluster Beckinsale-less prequel and kicks some serious Lycan butt. It may not reach the statute of the original but it's a much better place for the franchise than the previous installment.
3/5
V/H/S
A group of thugs break into a house to steal a series of videotapes that turn out to contain bizarre footage of murders and monsters. Some of the footage from the tapes is solid while others severally lack. The Ti West story of a couple vacationing at the Grand Canyon is definitely the strongest.
3/5
The Woman in Black
Daniel Radcliffe comes fresh off the Harry Potter series to star in this dud about doing taxes in a haunted house. You will find yourself yelling at the screen for the terrible decisions his characters makes throughout the film. The ending is just ridiculous.
1/5
Would You Rather
A group of strangers are offered an opportunity to have all of their financial problems eliminated by competing in a game. It's kind of like "Saw" around a dinner table. There isn't much depth to the characters, but with a story this straightforward it almost doesn't feel necessary. It's not winning any Oscars, but there are some gruesome scenes and the director works wonders on what was clearly a small budget.
3.5/5
2011
11-11-11
A poorly strung together story of an author who meet up with his brother and dying father only to realize that 11/11/11 is going to cause his life to fall apart. The scariest part is trying to finish the entire movie.
1.5/5
Apollo 18
Somehow it's a found footage movie from the moon as astronauts are apparently being stalked and hunted by an alien life form. It's nothing special.
2/5
Detention
A teen-slasher-comedic thriller that also features a time traveling bear and Dane Cook. It's clever and fun but never loses the horror vibe.
4/5
Don't Be Afraid of the Dark
Katie Holmes and Guy Pierce star in this unintentionally hilarious thriller about tiny creatures that want to eat you and your family. The ending is just plain stupid and the creatures lose all scariness once you see how adorable they actually are.
1/5
Dream House
Even Daniel Craig couldn't save this script that gives away its twist barely halfway through. Is he a murderer? Is he crazy? You'll find out way too fast!
2/5
Final Destination 5
A new twist in the Final Destination franchise is the concept that if you kill someone death will skip you and claim the person you killed in your place. The ending gives some life to what appeared to be a dying franchise.
2.5/5
Fright Night
Surprisingly fun and scary, this remake follows a teen as he discovers his next-door neighbor, Colin Ferrell, is actually a vampire.
3.5/5
Grave Encounters
It's everything you wish would happen on all of those ghost-hunting shows. Forget listening to an EVP, the spirits are full out hunting the crew in this found footage scarefest.
4/5
The Human Centipede 2
After viewing the first "Human Centipede" film, a weirdo decides he should make his own centipede. It's gross in the worst way. It's far from enjoyable.
1.5/5
The Innkeepers
Out of all of Ti West's movies, this story of a haunted hotel is the least effective. Although the performances are strong, the payoff takes way too long and just doesn't scare.
2/5
Paranormal Activity 3
A prequel to Paranormal Activity that explores what happened to cause Katie to be tormented by the demon. It's clever and highly satisfying to fans of the series.
4/5
Quarantine 2: Terminal
It's a sequel to a remake so that's never a good start. The found footage aspect isn't nearly as creepy this time around, even in an airport.
1.5/5
Red State
It's a highly disjointed story of religious fanatics shooting at FBI agents. John Goodman is really solid and the boys who have been taken hostage by the church give great performances. That's about it.
2/5
Scream 4
The surviving Scream members are back to battle a younger generation of killers. It's good enough if you can completely turn off your sense of reason and logic.
3/5
Shark Night 3D
Completely devoid of plot or scares, Shark Night 3D does the impossible and makes sharks boring and uninteresting.
1/5
The Thing
A prequel, that is considered a remake for some reason, to the Kurt Russell classic is full of fantastic creatures, good enough performances, and a fun story.
4/5
The Tunnel
The mockumentary about creatures living in city's abandoned tunnels is scary and original on a minimum budget. You'll find yourself genuinely interested in the characters, which is a rarity in this style of film.
4/5
2010
30 Days of Night: Dark Days
No stars from the first film return for this round of vampire hunting. The story is decent enough but the ending is one of the dumbest you'll ever see.
2/5
A Serbian Film
Completely devoid of value, relying on shocks over substance, "A Serbian Film" is a vile and repulsive film about a has-been porn star who is lured into a twisted world with the promise of big money.
0/5
Cold Prey 3
A prequel to "Cold Prey" that misses the mark completely. This is a disappointing ending to a very good franchise as all the stars are gone and so is our interest.
1/5
The Crazies
Timothy Olyphant stars in this zombie remake about a town that goes mad after a government experiment gone wrong. It's surprisingly good and filled with scares.
4/5
Frozen
Three friends are abandoned atop a ski lift for the weekend and desperately try to escape before they freeze to death. It's original and terrifying even though the plot isn't a lot to work with.
3.5/5
Hatchet 2
Victor Crowley returns with another set of victims wandering into his woods. There's more blood and even crazier kills than its predecessor if you can imagine.
3.5/5
I Spit on Your Grave
A gross remake to the cult classic that gets the story of a girl seeking revenge on her attackers completely wrong. It goes from boring to unwatchable very quickly.
.5/5
Insidious
Surprisingly terrifying story of parents desperately trying to reunite their son's spirit with his body before it's taken over by an unwanted visitor. Patrick Wilson is quickly becoming a go-to actor for solid horror performances. There is a disturbing looking sequel on the way.
4/5
Julia's Eyes
While the story of a woman who is slowly losing her vision as she investigates her twin sister's death is interesting, the movie just goes on so long. Director Guillem Morales seems promising with some great moments, but let's hope his future work involves a little more editing.
2/5
The Last Exorcism
A priest decides to perform his final exorcism, but things don't exactly go as planned in this found footage story. As soon as you say "Hey this isn't that bad, I kind of like it!" get ready because one of the most confusing, out of nowhere endings is on the way.
2.5/5
Let Me In
What some consider an unnecessary remake to "Let the Right One In," "Let Me In" stars Chloe Moretz in a fantastic performance as a vampire who befriends an introverted young neighbor. It's dark and entertaining and a great way to introduce an audience to a story that they probably wouldn't have seen if it otherwise.
4/5
My Soul to Take
A killer's spirit returns to occupy the bodies of the teens born the night of his death while also killing them off. I have no idea how this awful movie got approved by a studio and then was given a theatrical release. It is complete trash and void of any form of entertainment.
.5/5
A Nightmare on Elm Street
A poor attempt at relaunching the franchise without Robert Englund who clearly made the Nightmare movies successful. This time Freddy looks like a koi fish left out of water for several days. The budget is bigger, but without a scary Freddy it doesn't really matter.
1.5/5
Paranormal Activity 2
The much-anticipated sequel to the surprise hit follows Katie's sister and her family as they deal with a demonic force reeking havoc on their home. Although not as strong as the first it's a decent companion even if the husband annoys you as much as he annoyed me.
3/5
Piranha 3-D
Well if you've seen the trailer you kind of know what you're getting into so it's hard to bash this one. Is the story good? Not at all. There's non-stop nudity and just silliness but if that's what you signed up for then you're in luck. The rest of us will probably wish we sat this round out.
2/5
Resident Evil: Afterlife
Of all the Resident Evil movies, this one lacked any resemblance of a plot the most. It's basically a video game as you follow Alice and the gang as they fight through each level of the Umbrella facilities. Michelle Rodriguez is back if that helps at all...
2/5
Saw 3D
The big finale to the franchise that seems to never end goes out with barely a whimper. Gone are intelligence of the original or the sense of any sort of reality. This one is just a series of absurd killings and a half-hearted ending that doesn't really end it after all.
1.5/5
Tucker and Dale vs Evil
Two rednecks buy a cabin, which unintentionally becomes the site of numerous teenage deaths. It's the funniest horror movie since "Shaun of the Dead" and could be argued as an even better film. Without a doubt, the most fun you will have watching people being killed.
5/5
2009
Blood Creek
Two brothers return to a farmhouse to battle an immortal Nazi who has held the family there captive for decades. It's scary and action-packed. You also may recognize the Nazi as "Prometheus" star, Michael Fassbender.
3.5/5
Cabin Fever 2: Spring Fever
Ti West takes over the directing role this time around as the flesh-eating virus is back and in the bottled water. If you enjoyed the first "Cabin Fever," the fun continues but if not, it's going to be more of the same.
3/5
Carriers
Chris Pine and a group of friends try to escape a deadly virus. It sounds like a familiar plot, but the film's focus on the characters, and not on the gore, makes it stand out from the competition.
3.5/5
Case 39
Despite poor reviews, this Renee Zellweger supernatural thriller isn't that bad. If the plot of a demon girl living with her social worker doesn't attract you, just wait until Bradley Cooper spits out a hive of bees.
2.5/5
The Collector
An ex-con decides to break into the home of a family he is working for in order to repay a debt only to become part of a psychopath's house of death traps. The kills are gruesome and the gritty feel leaves you quite disturbed.
3/5
The Descent 2
As soon as this sequel starts it ruins everything so great about the original. The story is uninteresting and the whole thing feels extremely uninspired.
1.5/5
Drag Me to Hell
Sam Raimi returns to horror and it's ridiculously fun. You'll laugh while getting completely gross out as a young loan officer battles a demon after a gypsy curse.
4.5/5
The Final Destination
By this point in the franchise there is no more plot and just a series of deaths that don't seem to be caused by death's design but more negligence of random businesses.
1.5/5
The Fourth Kind
A fake documentary mixed with professional reenactments of the fake footage (because that makes sense) about alien abductions. It's surprisingly creepy even after finding out it's all fake.
3/5
Friday the 13th
The Michael Bay produced attempt is an absolutely soulless remake of the Jason classics. The characters are so unlikeable that you'll find yourself cheering for the slasher.
.5/5
Grace
A woman loses her baby but after she carries it full term and delivers it, the baby returns to life. The only problem is that it only wants human blood. While it's not for everyone, "Grace" is original and oddly fun.
3/5
The Grudge 3
A direct-to-video attempt to keep the series alive, unfortunately without the stars or scares. It's boring and forgettable.
1/5
Halloween 2
The conclusion to Rob Zombie's Halloween revision finds Michael Myers traveling back to Haddonfield to continue his killing spree. While it wanders away from the original plot drastically and isn't necessarily anything great, there are some very cool visuals.
2.5/5
The Haunting in Connecticut
A family relocates to Connecticut for their son's cancer treatments only to realize they've moved into a haunted house. Not the most original story the characters are likeable and the poster is fantastic.
2.5/5
The House of the Devil
Ti West creates an homage to the '80s as a college student realizes her babysitting job may be an evil ploy to sacrifice her to the devil. It is extremely slow but that isn't necessarily a bad thing.
4/5
The Human Centipede
An insane doctor kidnaps three people and tries to surgically attach them in the form of a human centipede. It's filled with some of the grossest moments you'll ever witness in a movie and will leave you squirming in your chair.
3/5
Jennifer's Body
Megan Fox is possessed by an evil spirit and starts tormenting her friend Amanda Seyfried. Not nearly as clever as it thinks it is and quickly becomes obnoxious.
1.5/5
Le Horde
As police officers seek justice on a group of criminals, the zombie apocalypse occurs and they're now forced to work together to survive. The zombies are terrifying and the characters actually have depth, a rarity for zombie films.
3.5/5
The Last House on the Left
Somehow this remake of the 1972 Wes Craven film is much more gory and yet significantly less scary. It seems to glorify the violence instead of viewing it as a means of survival.
1.5/5
The Loved Ones
A demented girl and her father kidnap the boy who turned down her prom request and torment him while recreating some bizarre murder prom. "The Loved Ones" is genuinely scary and will make you glad prom season is over.
4/5
My Bloody Valentine 3D
A film made for no other reason than to cash in on the 3D trend, "My Bloody Valentine 3D" is full of uninteresting characters and a stale plot.
1.5/5
Orphan
Probably not the best movie to watch if you're considering adoption, "Orphan" starts out creepy, but once its twist is revealed, it becomes unintentionally hilarious.
1/5
Paranormal Entity
A completely useless supernatural tale that exists in the hopes that you'll be looking for "Paranormal Activity" and accidentally grab this one instead.
.5/5
Pontypool
Claustrophobic and eerie, "Pontypool" let's us witness the zombie uprising from a radio station studio. The source of the outbreak may be clever, but it becomes so preachy, you'll be more annoyed that scared by the end.
2/5
Saw VI
Jigsaw's wife Jill tries to fulfill his last request while battling Hoffman who may also be following Jigsaw's instructions." Saw VI" isn't anything special and does nothing but drag out a dying franchise.
1.5/5
Sorority Row
A college slasher film that is completely aware of how ridiculous it is and becomes very entertaining. It's not going to win any awards, but if you're looking for mindless entertainment, you've come to the right place.
3.5/5
Splice
A scientist couple creates a life form by splicing together different species' DNA. What unfolds is some of the most jaw-dropping and shocking sci-fi scenes in recent memory.
3.5/5
Survival of the Dead
Another George A. Romero zombie installment that just doesn't quite live up to his classics. The characters are flat and the zombies just aren't very scary.
1/5
Triangle
Impossible to summarize, "Triangle" follows a passenger on a yacht as she tries to figure out what a bizarre weather condition caused and how to escape her living nightmare. Melissa George delivers a dazzling performance.
4.5/5
Trick r Treat
Everything you could want in a series of Halloween tales. "Trick 'r Treat" is scary and highly enjoyable with a brilliant cast.
4.5/5
The Unborn
Not sure how they talked Gary Oldman into getting involved with this train wreck that lacks any scares and quickly becomes hilarious in the worst way possible.
1/5
Underworld: Rise of the Lycans
It looks like an Underworld movie but it definitely doesn't feel like one. It seems unnecessary and lacks anything that would make it re-watchable.
1/5
The Uninvited
The plot twist is visible a mile away in this Japanese remake about a pair of sisters trying to figure out if their new stepmom is trying to kill them.
1/5
Vacancy 2: The First Cut
The concept is the same as its predecessor but it feels so cheap that it's no surprise it was direct to video. Just re-watch the original if you feel any desire to check this one out.
1/5
Wrong Turn 3: Left for Dead
For a movie that wasn't very good to start with, the "Wrong Turn" franchise sure cranks out a lot of sequels. The inbred mutants are back to hunt more beautiful people but good luck trying to care.
1/5
Zombieland
A shot of adrenaline to the zombie movie genre,"Zombieland" is hilarious and perfectly cast while still finding a way to be gory and scary.
4.5/5
2008
100 Feet
A woman is tormented by the ghost of her ex-husband while being on house arrest in this lackluster story that features one of the least scary ghosts in recent memory.
.5/5
Amusement
A painfully non intimidating serial killer hunts three women and attempt to torment them in the most annoying ways imaginable. You will hate him so much.
.5/5
The Children
Oddly creepy story of killer children systematically murdering their parents and relatives, "The Children" feels like you're watching a group of Macaulay Culkins from "The Good Son."
3.5/5
Creep
A freak who lives in the subway captures and performs makeshift operations on a group of victims. It's enjoyable despite being subpar on multiple levels.
2.5/5
Cloverfield
A big budget found footage monster movie that is stylized and clever while still being genuinely scary. The characters are likeable and the monster is devastating. Not much more you could ask for.
4/5
Cold Prey 2
The slasher sequel picks up right after the first installment and does not disappoint. It feels quite similar to "Halloween 2," but it's done so well it feels more like a companion that a ripoff.
4/5
Dance of the Dead
Prom is invaded by flesh eating zombies as the students must fight them off if they want to survive. "Dance of the Dead" is a guilty pleasure that you'll hate to say how much you enjoy.
3/5
Day of the Dead
Ving Rhames and Mena Suvari can't help this sloppy attempt at portraying the zombie apocalypse. No surprises here, as it feels like a zombie movie Mad Lib just filled in with different names.
1/5
Diary of the Dead
Romero takes on the found footage concept this round blending zombie gore with politics but still keeping the feel light and fun.
3.5/5
Eden Lake
A couple is tormented by a group of sadistic teens in one of the most chilling tales of the year with an ending that will haunt you for days to come.
5/5
The Eye
Jessica Alba gets new eyes to cure her blindness. Unfortunately, those eyes see ghosts. It's an unnecessary remake to the J-horror classic that lacks any real suspense.
1/5
Feast 2: Sloppy Seconds
As fun as the first "Feast" was, this installment lacks any likeability and takes itself way too seriously. Same monsters, nowhere near as much fun.
1/5
The Haunting of Molly Hartley
No scares can be found as a teen girl tries to prevent her body from being claimed by the devil on her birthday. It's simply not worth your time.
.5/5
Home Movie
A collection of home footage showing what is supposed to be a journey into madness for a family seems more like the records of the dumbest, most obnoxious group of people you've ever witnessed.
1/5
Lake Mungo
A very well done faux documentary that focuses more on lies and deception than on ghosts and spirits, "Lake Mungo" won't have you jumping out of your chair, but it's scary nonetheless.
4/5
Let the Right One In
A young boy befriends a girl who is discovered to be a vampire. It breathes life into the genre and is one of the more intelligent horror movies in recent memory.
5/5
Martyrs
If the term torture-porn was ever appropriate this may be the place. "Martyrs" may be too extreme for many, but its boundary defying content is relentless and powerful.
4.5/5
One Missed Call
Despite a creepy premise, "One Missed Call" brings nothing new to the table and is filled with absolutely appalling performances.
.5/5
Prom Night
"Prom Night" takes the original story, which wasn't very good, and manages to make it less interesting as a crazed killer hunts a girl on her prom night.
0/5
Pulse 2: Afterlife
The world has been completely taken over by spirits that live in electronic devices and it couldn't be less entertaining. It's absurd and completely incoherent.
.5/5
Quarantine
While the scares are decent enough in the found footage from an apartment complex quarantined by the military after a virus outbreak, I can't get past the stupidity of putting the end of the movie on the poster and cover.
2.5/5
The Ruins
A group of friends find themselves trapped in the jungle with deadly plants. As ridiculous as that sounds, the cast is great and the movie is suspenseful and frightening.
3.5/5
Saw V
Maybe the weakest installment in the Saw franchise, "Saw V" lacks any sign of a plot and simply exists as a vehicle to string together a few torture scenes.
1/5
Seventh Moon
Despite poor lighting, "Seventh Moon" is genuinely scary as a newlywed couple realize they have become part of an ancient evil that requires human sacrifice. Amy Smart gives a fantastic performance.
4/5
Shutter
What happens when you take one of the scariest Thai horror films, remove any elements of horror, and add in Joshua Jackson from "Dawson's Creek?" Try not to find out.
1/5
Splinter
A low budget creature film that knows how to have fun while still keeping the scares coming, "Splinter" is the most fun you'll have at the gas station.
3/5
The Strangers
It's subtle and psychological at times then downright terrifying at other moments. "The Strangers" will make you hesitate answering your door or leaving the city.
4.5/5
Tokyo Gore Police
Self-mutilation is the norm and the police have become privatized in this look at a futuristic Japan that emphasizes the word gore its name.
3/5
2007
1408
John Cusack is trapped in a hotel room that tortures and kills all who dare to enter. There is very little violence. Instead, the film focuses on psychological torture to generate scares.
3.5/5
28 Weeks Later
While it doesn't quite live up to its predecessor, "28 Weeks Later" picks up where the story left off with strong performances from Jeremy Renner, Rose Byrne, and Harold Perrineau.
3/5
30 Days of Night
Vampires stalk a small Alaskan town as the residents experience a month with no sunlight. The story isn't anything amazing, but the tension is non-stop and Josh Hartnett is surprisingly likeable.
3/5
Aliens vs Predator: Requiem
Take everything good about "Alien vs Predator," add in awful lighting and melodrama, and you have this completely inept sequel with very few redeeming qualities.
.5/5
Dead Silence
A truly scary tale of an old female ghost who turns her victims into ventriloquist dummies, Dead Silence has its flaws but you'll be hard pressed not to enjoy it.
3/5
Frontieres
Sadistic neo-Nazis torment a group of thieves in this NC-17 French thriller. The blood is abundant and the gore just never seems to stop, not that I'm complaining.
4/5
Grindhouse
Fun, smart, and gross, "Grindhouse" feels more like an experience than simply a movie. It's a great homage to the exploitation films of yesteryear.
4/5
Halloween
Rob Zombie takes the classic "Halloween" story in a new direction in this ultra-gory and oversexed remake that delves into the unexplored parts of Michael Myers life. As far as remakes go, it's really not that bad.
3/5
Hannibal Rising
A far cry from the Hannibal Lector we were terrified of in "Silence of the Lambs," "Hannibal Rising" is pointless and unnecessary.
.5/5
The Hills Have Eyes 2
Unless you just love mutants with superhuman strength, there is no reason to watch this sloppy sequel that pales in comparison to the original.
.5/5
The Hitcher
An over-gory remake of the terrifying classic about a hitchhiker who kills anyone who gives him a ride, "The Hitcher" replaces character development with over-the-top horror and never quite works.
1.5/5
Hostel: Part 2
More of the same from the previous film, this time with a group of girls taken in as victims. If gore is your thing, you've hit the jackpot. If not, run in the other direction.
2.5/5
I Am Legend
Will Smith is the last man on earth other than hordes of mutated zombies, of course. The suspense is fantastic but you can't help wish that CGI wasn't used to create the zombies.
4/5
Inside
An ultra-intense French film that, not only satisfies any desire for blood and gore, but is one of the best horror movies of the last several years. It's vicious and unforgiving.
5/5
The Invasion
Body snatchers invade the world leaving Nicole Kidman and Daniel Craig to battle them. The story is familiar, but it's done so well, you'll look past some familiarities.
3/5
The Messengers
Kristen Stewart yawns her way through this dud of a ghost story filled with plot holes and poor special effects.
1/5
The Mist
Beautiful cinematography and characters that are more terrifying than the creatures make "The Mist" a strong entry, but the ending makes it one of the more memorable sci-fi horror movies of the year.
4/5
The Orphanage
An absolutely beautiful film that is not only satisfying to hardcore horror fans, but crosses over and uses power & emotion to entice even the most casual fan of the genre.
5/5
Paranormal Activity
A brilliant use of simple effects and suspense that delivers scares over and over again. It proves that throwing more money at a project does not necessarily make it better.
5/5
The Poughkeepsie Tapes
A documentary filled with found footage shows a demented serial killer committing a series of murders and torturing his victims. The images viewed on the tapes stay with you for days after it's over.
4/5
The Reaping
Despite a strong cast, the story of a small town experiencing biblical plagues is sloppy and uninteresting. By the time the twists are revealed, you'll have stopped caring completely.
1/5
[REC]
It starts out strong and doesn't slow down. "[REC]" stands atop the POV style of horror with its non-stop terrifying story that doesn't give you a chance to catch your breath.
5/5
Return to House on Haunted Hill
If you hated the action scenes of the first "House on Haunted Hill," then you'll love this one that feels like 90 minutes of annoying people standing around arguing over who is going to die next.
.5/5
Resident Evil: Extinction
Alice and the gang travel into the desert wasteland to battle the Umbrella Corporation along with their endless horde of zombies. Her powers are in full force which makes it the most fun Evil yet.
3.5/5
Saw IV
Even death can't stop Jigsaw, as this installment starts out absurd and just goes downhill from there. This is when the series goes from a creative journey into the mind of a serial killer to a desperate attempt to crank out a yearly installment of tons of cash.
1/5
The Signal
The concept is intriguing, but unfortunately three directors working on three different parts of the film leave it feeling disjointed and not quite coherent.
2/5
Teeth
The ultimate cautionary tale is also quite terrifying and hilarious. It's the definitive face of feminist horror.
3.5/5
Vacancy
The old fashioned feel is refreshing but there's something not quite right with "Vacancy". Still, you can't help to enjoy it. The plot is completely ridiculous and yet it still entertains.
2.5/5
Wrong Turn 2: Dead End
The mutant rednecks are back and this time hunting a group of reality show contestants. It's mindless fun, but still fun nonetheless. You would never recommend it to friends, but if it's on cable, you're probably not changing the channel.
3/5
2006
An American Haunting
Completely void of scares and written by what feels like a cliché generator. Not even a strong cast can save this ghostly snoozefest.
.5/5
Behind the Mask
As hilarious as it is frightening, the clever mockumentary pokes fun at the slasher genre while creating an homage that any fan would have a hard time not appreciating.
4/5
Black Christmas
Completely unnecessary remake that seems to fall apart as soon as it begins, "Black Christmas" doesn't really scare and really never develops into an actual story.
.5/5
Cold Prey
Considered by many to be the Norwegian equivalent of "Halloween," "Cold Prey" is a smart and scary slasher film that uses its surroundings and environment to its advantage.
4/5
The Devil's Chair
Just when you think you've figured out what is going on, everything completely changes. Its operating on a shoestring budget, yet manages to be more creative than most blockbusters.
3/5
Final Destination 3
Filled with dumb characters, "Final Destination 3" feels more like a series of death clips than an actual movie.
1/5
The Grudge 2
It's hard to call it bad, it just doesn't seem to make any sense. There are some scary scenes, but if you don't understand why they're happening, it's hard to care.
1.5/5
Hatchet
Victor Crowley instantly becomes a classic horror monster as he hunts a group of tourists through his haunted woods. There's tons of blood and guts but more importantly, there's plenty of fun.
4/5
The Hills Have Eyes
Unoriginal and desperately trying to be shocking, "The Hills Have Eyes" is an unnecessary remake that brings nothing new to the genre.
1/5
The Omen
As remakes abound, "The Omen" isn't necessarily bad, it's just not different enough from the original to hold any real value.
2/5
Pulse
Paling in comparison to the Japanese original, the characters are unintelligent and constantly make decisions that will leave you yelling at the screen. If electronic devices kill you, then don't use your cell phone.
1/5
Saw III
We get a deeper look into the mind of Jigsaw and the ending is intriguing, but the story is so absurd it's hard to take serious. If you watch them all in a row, this one is the least terrible of the sequels.
2/5
Silent Hill
The video game adaptation looks great and the creatures of "Silent Hill" are terrifying, but the story is sloppy and doesn't do much other than steer towards the next visual effect.
1.5/5
Slither
Horror doesn't get much more fun than this alien invasion gem. The gross outs are as big as the laughs and the characters are so interesting, you wish you could spend an extra week in town to follow them around.
5/5
Stay Alive
Frankie Muniz and friends try to not die after starting a video game that kills you in real life when you die in the game. It's forgettable and not that scary at all.
1/5
The Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Beginning
The gory kills are abundant, but the absence of a story leaves this Leatherface installment feeling shockingly dull. It takes hard work to make a chainsaw wielding maniac boring.
1/5
Them
This French thriller keeps you in the dark as you watch a couple psychologically tormented in their home, only hearing unsettling noises and an occasional blur. It is truly a scary experience.
4.5/5
Underworld: Evolution
Way too heavy-handed, the story is completely convoluted and lacks anything you would actually care about. There are vampires and werewolves around, but they aren't doing anything you're interested in.
1.5/5
When a Stranger Calls
A terrible attempt at a remake and shockingly boring, "When a Stranger Calls" follows a babysitter around as she deals with a home invader. You already know the payoff, so just skip it.
1/5
The Wicker Man
The most unintentionally funny horror movie in recent memory, the only thing worth watching in this dud is Nicholas Cage's ridiculous acting **SPOILER ALERT** as he's being burned alive at the end.
2005
The Amityville Horror
Even with a shirtless Ryan Reynolds, there is no point to another Amityville Horror remake. There's nothing here you haven't seen before. Even shirtless Ryan Reynolds.
1.5/5
Cry_Wolf
Cry_Wolf avoids becoming a cliché teen horror story and keeps us guessing as to who the real killer actually is. There are quite a few problems, but points have to be given for originality.
2.5/5
Dark Water
You really want to be scared because "Dark Water's" atmosphere is so haunting, but nothing really happens other than John C. Reilly giving tours of apartments.
1.5/5
The Descent
A group of girlfriends go cave exploring in one of the most claustrophobic, terrifying movie experiences of the decade. The creatures are terrifying and the ending is just fantastic.
4.5/5
The Devil's Rejects
Rob Zombie's strongest film to date brings back the cast of "House of 1000 Corpses" in this gritty, dirty follow-up with a truly satisfying ending this time around.
3/5
The Exorcism of Emily Rose
Nowhere near as terrifying as expected, the plot focuses more on the courtroom side of the story than the supernatural side. It's still intriguing even if it's not exactly what was anticipated.
2.5/5
The Fog
It's nothing special and seems completely unnecessary. I can't imagine anyone seeing "The Fog" in theaters as it's one of the more bland horror movies of the decade.
0/5
Hostel
Proof that extreme gore can still be fun, "Hostel" piles on the body count with a style completely of its own.
3/5
The Ring Two
Hideo Nakata, who directed the Japanese original version of "The Ring," takes the helm and puts together an absolutely terrible film. Samara is basically just walking around and hanging out. There's nothing scary whatsoever.
.5/5
Saw II
No major twists like the original "Saw," but the sequel, featuring a funhouse of death, advances the series along in an adequate manner. There's much more gore this time around as well.
1.5/5
2004
Alien vs Predator
All the action you would expect pitting two of the biggest fan favorite movie monsters against one another with humans wedged in between. It's highly satisfying even for a total popcorn flick.
3/5
Dawn of the Dead
A rare remake that is better than the original. "Dawn of the Dead" is fun, stylized, and jolting even for the most casual fan of the genre.
5/5
Exorcist: The Beginning
It should be illegal to call this "The Exorcist." This sloppy, contrived prequel does nothing to shed light on the original, other than make you regret giving it enough money to justify a prequel.
0/5
Godsend
After losing their child, a couple pays to have a clone of him made which, of course, turns out terribly. The scares are very few and the plot is so bad, you can almost say the lines along with the characters.
1/5
The Grudge
While "The Grudge" is full of creepy, ghostly imagery, the story just seems muddled. The PG-13 rating could be an excuse for the lack of scares if it wasn't preceded by The Ring, which was completely terrifying.
1.5/5
Resident Evil: Apocalypse
A dramatic drop from the first or third installment, "Apocalypse" at least advances the story in a general direction, even if it doesn't entertain much along the way.
2.5/5
Saw
Despite the lackluster sequels, "Saw" is original and relentless. The story is interesting and the final reveal is worth the price of admission alone. Even if you don't watch the rest of the franchise, the first is a great standalone piece.
4/5
Seed of Chucky
The previous installment, "Bride of Chucky," was so tongue-in-cheek it was enjoyable. This one is just downright ridiculous as Chucky deals with becoming a father. We've come a long way since the original frightfest.
Shaun of the Dead
It's hard not to love this extremely well made comedy/horror zombie film that made Simon Pegg a star. It's scary in the right places and finds a way to be funny without insulting the audience.
4.5/5
2003
Darkness Falls
The tooth fairy isn't a sweet, coin-dealing lady but rather an evil monster that wants to feast on children. The opening scene sets a high bar that doesn't quite hold up throughout, but still offers a decent level of entertainment.
2.5/5
Dreamcatcher
You will be shocked at how terrible a movie can be while seemingly never coming to an end. Aliens with terrible accents sort of take over soldiers bodies but it really doesn't matter. Please don't watch this.
0/5
Final Destination 2
The first "Final Destination" had at least some structure and reason, the sequel struggles to find its identity and quickly becomes just a series of death scenes.
1.5/5
Freddy vs Jason
After lackluster finales for both franchises, fans finally got a battle between the two horror titans they'd always dreamed about. The kills are over the top and you'd be hard pressed to find a movie that's more fun.
4/5
Haute Tension
Full of extreme gore and violence, "Haute Tension" loses much of its credibility with a ridiculous twist ending, but still keeps the scares coming with, dare I say, High Tension.
3.5/5
House of the Dead
Not only one of the worst horror movies ever made, it could be one of the worst things ever put onto film. The idea that people got made to make this movie is the scariest part of all.
0/5
Jeepers Creepers 2
"Jeepers Creepers 2" is the most unintentional homoerotic horror movies since "A Nightmare on Elm Street 2." Some moments between the monster and his victims are downright sexual. It's just an uncomfortable experience all around.
.5/5
The Texas Chainsaw Massacre
Although panned upon release, this remake looks like "Citizen Kane" compared to the other Chainsaw Massacre reboots that came later. At least this one had actual suspense and terror.
2.5/5
Underworld
Vampires and werewolves continue another century of war, which could all be changed upon the discovery of a hybrid, who looks like Scott Stapp. The cinematography and slick style emulate the feel of the comic book and transfers it smoothly onto the screen.
3/5
Wrong Turn
Mutant, mountain-dwelling rednecks hunt a group of campers in a plot that doesn't really excel but stays simple enough that it still have a certain degree of enjoyment.
2.5/5
2002
28 Days Later
A zombie masterpiece from Danny Boyle with a strong cast, full speed sprinting zombies, and a strong political statement, "28 Days Later" is completely infectious.
5/5
Cabin Fever
The definition of campy, "Cabin Fever" has so much fun that it's nearly impossible for the audience not to join in. You'll want to cover your eyes, but you won't want to miss a thing.
4/5
Halloween: Resurrection
After Michael Myers was beheaded the studio still found a way to crank out another sequel that slapped the face of the entire series. There are no redeeming qualities to this trash starring Busta Rhymes and Tyra Banks.
0/5
Jason X
Even if it's a joke, "Jason X" is such a ridiculous installment to the series that's it's difficult to watch. Not because of the extreme violence, but because the entire concept is asinine.
1/5
Resident Evil
A video game adaptation of the popular series that finds a group of soldiers battling flesh-eating zombies, "Resident Evil" is fun enough to have spawned the highly successful franchise that has made the movies as big as, if not more popular than the games.
3/5
The Ring
The filmmaking process that went into "The Ring" is a marvel to behold, as it is terrifyingly scary with very little action or gore. The concept of dying seven days after watching a VHS tape is intriguing but is just the tip of the iceberg for what horrors are in store.
5/5
2001
Jeepers Creepers
It starts out scary, but once the monster becomes such a common sight on screen, all fear goes out the window and he becomes a goofy looking bug man hunting human parts to make him look more stupid.
1.5/5
Session 9
Highly effective in utilizing atmosphere and style over cheap scares, "Session 9" is a creepy tale that takes place in one of the most memorable locations of any recent horror film.
4/5
Thir13en Ghosts
A house full of unleashed ghosts that can only be seen through special glasses, wreak havoc on a family and a caretaker. Nothing really special here, but it's worth a watch if there's nothing else on. I don't hate it.
2.5/5
2000
Book of Shadows: Blair Witch 2
A meta sequel to the surprise hit that gets everything wrong. You couldn't be more incorrect in how a sequel should have been made. It's nearly unwatchable and unrecognizable as anything associated with the original.
0/5
Final Destination
The concept of death planning your death in the most minute chain of events will leave you paranoid to walk around your house. The cast is somewhat idiotic and, in the long run, keeps it from being anything more than average.
2.5/5
Lost Souls
Another tale of the unavoidable Apocalypse finds Winona Ryder stuck in a mess of a film that is satisfying to absolutely no one. It's baffling how this even got made.
0/5
Scream 3
By this point the "Scream" format has become something to be mocked, which is ironic because that's how the franchise began, mocking the norm. If its purpose was to simply conclude the trilogy, then it succeeded. other than that, it's severally lacking.
2/5
1999
Audition
The controversial Japanese art house thriller is unapologetic and extreme in its violence and truly shocking. No matter how you approach "Audition," it is quite terrifying.
4/5
The Blair Witch Project
Completely groundbreaking and absolutely terrifying while letting your imagination do most of the work, the Blair Witch is still terrifying even after knowing the story isn't true.
5/5
The Haunting
An all-star cast that apparently didn't read the script to one of the most dull, lifeless ghost stories to hit theaters. It turns into a supernatural custody battle halfway through with the only silver lining coming in the form of Owen Wilson being beheaded.
.5/5
House on Haunted Hill
There's nothing you haven't seen done better a million times, but somehow it finds a way to be charming and fun. The cast is what you would expect on a present day season of celebrity rehab, especially Chris Kattan.
2.5/5
The Sixth Sense
A fantastic ghost story that looks beautiful in the most haunting way possible. The performances and direction are as good as they get.
5/5
Stigmata
How could a film this uninteresting take itself this seriously? "Stigmata" is barely horror and struggles to put any sort of plot together as a girl keeps manifesting the wounds of Christ.
.5/5
Stir of Echoes
Kevin Bacon is seeing ghosts and giving a tremendous performance in this supernatural thriller that may not be "The Sixth Sense," but still feels extremely creepy.
3/5
1998
Apt Pupil
Ian McKellen and Brad Renfro give fantastic performances as a Nazi war criminal is discovered by a troubled teen. It's compelling and hauntingly creepy.
4/5
Bride of Chucky
After two lackluster sequels, "Bride of Chucky" is completely self aware and campy so it's hard to dislike. Also, John Ritter is so much fun to watch as he battles Chucky.
2.5/5
The Faculty
A great, young cast fits into Kevin Williamson's script seamlessly in a familiar-yet-fun body snatchers story that takes place in a high school. It's still fun years later.
3.5/5
Halloween H20
Jamie Lee Curtis returns 20 years later and leads the best sequel since the first. The entertainment value is high so it's hard to dislike what should have been the final "Halloween."
4/5
I Still Know What You Did Last Summer
If the first one was ridiculous enough, this one takes logic and beats it to death. It also features a Rastafarian Jack Black.
1/5
Psycho
A shot for shot remake that could not be more worthless. Watch the original, this has no value.
0/5
Kind of like "Scream," if it was completely stupid, "Urban Legend" fills the cast with young, attractive faces but the idiotic story is just unforgivable.
1/5
1997
An American Werewolf in Paris
It's just not good. The effects are subpar and the characters are completely unlikeable. I refuse to call it a sequel.
0/5
Devil's Advocate
Keanu Reeves makes a deal with the devil in this supernatural thriller that focuses more on the characters than on the scares. It's well made even if it isn't completely fantastic.
3/5
Event Horizon
The scariest sci-fi horror film since "Alien," "Event Horizon" is original and creepy. Sam Neil should be in every horror movie.
4/5
I Know What You Did Last Summer
The cast is great, but the entire concept and the final payoff leave you wanting much more. It's lucky to be lumped in with the "Scream" series.
2/5
Scream 2
As smart as the first "Scream" was, the sequel is even better. It's self aware and doesn't take itself too seriously, yet has several moments of pure tension.
4.5/5
The Ugly
Dark and grimy, "The Ugly" explores the mind of a serial killer as he is interviewed by an over confident psychiatrist. The visuals are interesting and the use of black for blood is eerie but never are you genuinely scared.
2/5
1996
Fear
Mark Wahlberg turns into the boyfriend from hell when he begins dating a young Reese Witherspoon. If nothing else, it serves as a cautionary tale to girls desiring to date bad boys.
2.5/5
The Frighteners
Peter Jackson's lesser-known film of a psychic who discovers a ghost claiming the souls of local townspeople. The special effects are fantastic and the characters are highly likeable.
4/5
From Dust Till Dawn
Guilty pleasure fun as George Clooney and Quintin Tarintino battle a bar full of the undead along with a huge list of star cameos. Again, it isn't anything amazing, but it's highly rewatchable.
3/5
Scream
The witty slasher film that changed the genre, "Scream" is tongue-in-cheek, while generating genuine scares. There's a reason it's been cloned so many times.
4/5
Tales from the Crypt: Bordello of Blood
Dennis Miller stars in another big screen adaptation of the television series, this time in a whorehouse filled with monsters. There isn't much beyond that.
1/5
Thinner
A bizarre film about a gypsy curse that causes an obese man to rapidly lose weight .It never feels too serious but finds a way to keep your attention and remain interesting.
3/5
1995
Copycat
Harry Connick Jr. really doesn't work as a serial killer, but despite the odd casting choice "Copycat" finds a way to be engaging and intense.
3/5
Halloween: The Curse of Michael Myers
By far the most ridiculous entry in the "Halloween" series, Michael Myers is controlled by some sort of pagan witchcraft apparently. It's better to just pretend this one never happened.
1/5
The Mangler
Killer laundry equipment. It's about killer laundry equipment. Few things could be less frightening than killer laundry equipment.
0/5
Tales from the Crypt: Demon Knight
In the first big screen adaptation of the television show, "Demon Knight" struggles as it is never quite frightening or never quite funny. It just sort of exists in between.
1/5
Texas Chainsaw Massacre: The Next Generation
The weakest Chainsaw Massacre to date, Renee Zellweger seems to not realize it's a horror movie while Matthew McConaughey appears to be doing his own thing separate from the movie. Just bizarre.
.5/5
1994
Brainscan
Do video games cause kids to kill? They do in this thriller featuring a young Edward Furlong. While it isn't necessarily good, it has a nostalgic joy that makes it quite watchable.
2.5/5
In the Mouth of Madness
A cerebral horror journey that follows Sam Neil into the depths of a nightmare world created by a missing author. The scares hold up quite well as it remains frightening and chilling.
3.5/5
Phantasm III: Lord of the Dead
The original cast returns but that's the only thing going for what is definitely the weakest entry of the series. While the Tall Man remains terrifying, the scares have been buried under lackluster slapstick humor.
1/5
Wes Craven's New Nightmare
With the return of Craven, Freddy is given a new life as the story of Elm Street jumps from the silver screen into the real world. It's the scariest Nightmare since the original.
4/5
Wolf
Jack Nicholson, in what may be his most bizarre role, stars as a werewolf that doesn't exactly frighten, but entertains while remaining intriguing.
3.5/5
1993
Army of Darkness
Although it doesn't work as a horror movie, it's a great comedic adventure. It's fun to watch and full of memorable quotes while continuing the legacy of our hero, Ash from the Evil Dead franchise.
4/5
Jason Goes to Hell: The Final Nightmare
How on earth did a movie about a killer in a hockey mask get this confusing? Way too supernatural for its own good. It feels like it will never end.
0/5
Leprechaun
Famed for being Jennifer Aniston's first film and launching some of the silliest sequels ever in the genre, "Leprechaun" has very few scares, probably because it's about a leprechaun.
1.5/5
The Tommyknockers
Unnecessarily long and bland, "The Tommyknockers" explores what would happen if alien technology was discovered and it somehow bored us to death.
.5/5
1992
Candyman
Spooky and clever, "Candyman" stood out in a time of lackluster horror movies and made you terrified to look at a mirror in the dark.
4/5
The Lawnmower Man
While you have to admire the attempt of exploring virtual reality and computer animated technology, "The Lawnmower Man" is painfully bad and looked outdated within months of its release.
.5/5
Pet Sematary II
Many would argue that the first "Pet Sematary" was unnecessary, so trying to find someone that was excited about this lackluster sequel would be shocking.
.5/5
1991
Child's Play 3
By far the weakest "Child's Play" installment, there is very few redeeming qualities in this sequel that was clearly rushed to cash in on the success of its predecessors.
0/5
Freddy's Dead: The Final Nightmare
At this point the franchise has gone from horror to slapstick and this is definitely not the way for the series to end. The incorporation of a sloppy 3D element only makes matters worse.
1/5
The People Under the Stairs
Based on a true story, it's interesting, but struggles with an uneven script that may be the weakest movie on Wes Craven's resume.
1.5/5
Sometimes They Come Back
In this inept adaptation of a Stephen King short story, teenagers come back from the dead to be mean to a man who just returned to his home town. It's just not very good.
.5/5
1990
Child's Play 2
Chucky returns to try and take over a young boy's body in this sequel that isn't necessarily bad, it just feels like the cutting room floor of the first movie.
2/5
The Exorcist III
Ignoring the "Exorcist 2" completely, this installment doesn't exactly thrill, but it's strong enough to stand on its own despite its inconsistencies.
2.5/5
It
The source of all our fears of clowns came from Stephen King's story of a group of friends tormented by a soul-sucking clown. Although the ending isn't exactly what you'd hope for, you'll never look at a clown in the sewer offering you a balloon the same way again.
4/5
Jacob's Ladder
After returning from Vietnam, Jacob Singer begins hallucinating and struggling with post traumatic stress syndrome in this bold, surreal thriller.
4/5
Leatherface: The Texas Chainsaw Massacre III
Probably the most forgettable installment in the franchise, this one doesn't feel anything like the previous two movies and clearly was just trying to milk everything out of the series. You aren't missing anything if you haven't seen this one.
1.5/5
Misery
The classic Kathy Bates role of a woman who won't let her favorite author escape her house by using whatever means necessary. Scary and original, the sledgehammer scene will haunt me forever.
4.5/5
Night of the Living Dead
Another remake of the classic, this one finds a way to be extremely fun no matter if it was intentional or not. You might not describe it as scary, but you'll enjoy yourself nonetheless.
3/5
Predator 2
Gone are Arnold and Jesse the Body Ventura. This time we have Danny Glover tracking an alien through city streets. Nowhere near its predecessor as it loses all the fun and classic lines of the first installment.
2/5
Tremors
Giant underground worms attack a small desert town whose only line of defense is Kevin Bacon and Reba McEntire. It's probably showing on cable right which is great because you won't have much more fun in a movie than this.
4/5
1989
Friday the 13th Part VIII: Jason Takes Manhattan
Although the premise is attractive, Jason spends most of his time chasing teens on a boat rather than Manhattan. It's a desperate attempt in reviving the franchise.
1.5/5
Halloween 5: The Revenge of Michael Myers
Rushed into production, "Halloween 5" features some of the dumbest versions of Michael Myers' mask and a story that is just uninteresting. It was the least successful Halloween movie and was straight to video outside North America.
1/5
A Nightmare on Elm Street 5: The Dream Child
After so many silly sequels, "The Dream Child" is incredibly dark with its gothic feel and look. Unfortunately after all the antics of the last few Nightmares, it's hard to take this one very seriously.
2/5
Pet Sematary
A man is warned by Herman Munster not to mess with a cemetery that brings the dead back to life, but that doesn't stop him from burying pets and loved ones there. It's far from scary and quickly becomes silly.
1/5
Shocker
What happens when a serial killer is executed but lives on through television sets to murder more people? Not much. Probably Wes Craven's weakest movie, "Shocker" is short of scares or a plausible plot.
1/5
1988
The Blob
A surprisingly strong remake of the 1950s tale about a pile of slime from outer-space that comes to earth and starts devouring people. It's shockingly gory and does everything its low budget predecessor couldn't do.
4/5
Child's Play
Extremely clever while still being scary, "Child's Play" ends up becoming unintentionally funny but not in a negative way. You'll never look at your child's favorite doll the same way again.
3.5/5
Friday the 13th Part VII: The New Blood
In what many have referred to as Jason vs Carrie, this installment has Jason battling a telekinetic teen in the Crystal Lake Campgrounds. It's not very good, even for diehard Jason fans.
1/5
Halloween 4: The Return of Michael Myers
After a baffling third installment, "Halloween 4" brings back Michael Myers as he hunts down his young niece. Not as strong as the first two but you have to appreciate the concept this time around.
2.5/5
A Nightmare on Elm Street 4: The Dream Master
Visually ahead of its time yet completely lacking in anything near a story, Nightmare 4 is lifeless and feels like a series of deleted scenes more than an actual movie.
1/5
Phantasm II
Although nearly a decade has passed since the original, this picks up right where "Phantasm" left off. The campy sequel isn't as scary, but Don Coscarelli keeps it interesting enough to engage new viewers as well as satisfying long-time fans.
3/5
Poltergeist III
A completely unnecessary sequel with very few moments worth even mentioning, "Poltergeist III" will probably be remembered only for the tragic death of Heather O'Rourke during production.
0/5
Pumpkinhead
Severely underrated story of a farmer who makes a deal with a demon to avenge the death of his son. The acting isn't tremendous, but the special effects are exceptional for the time.
3.5/5
1987
Creepshow 2
Not as strong as the original, "Creepshow 2," written by George Romero, still has quite a bit of fun in the three different stories. Without Stephen King at the helm, it doesn't translate as well but there's still a bit of enjoyment nonetheless.
3/5
Evil Dead II
In what is basically a remake of the original with a bigger budget, Sam Raimi comes back with more gore than ever. This one is a little more self-aware which makes it much lighter than the predecessor, but that doesn't mean it isn't fantastic.
4/5
Hellraiser
A cube is found that unleashes demons and torment on anyone who touches it. The story takes a while to get there, but when it does it is truly terrifying as it unleashes Pinhead upon the world.
4/5
A Nightmare on Elm Street 3: Dream Warriors
After a poor sequel, "Dream Warriors" comes back strong and is probably the best sequel in the franchise. The cast is great and the return of Heather Langenkamp to battle Freddy is a breath of fresh air.
3.5/5
1986
The Fly
Although it's more sci-fi than horror, watching Jeff Goldblum slowly mutate from a man into a fly will always be terrifying. It's a classic for a reason.
4/5
Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives
After a completely absurd resurrection for Jason, part six in the series is much more fun than the previous sequels as it doesn't take itself nearly as serious. Unfortunately it's nowhere near the last sequel.
3/5
The Hitcher
Rutger Hauer makes sure you will never pick up another hitchhiker as he torments C. Thomas Howell and Jennifer Jason Leigh in a truly terrifying story. The scene with two semi-trucks haunted me as a child and is still gruesome today.
3/5
House
Silly attempt at horror as a man battles the perils of a haunted house that include a zombie drill sergeant among other ridiculous ideas. Very forgettable.
.5/5
Poltergeist II: The Other Side
Nowhere near the original, this sequel picks back up with the Freeling family, but this time no Steven Spielberg. It's horribly disjointed and just not what anyone would want in a sequel to a classic.
1.5/5
Psycho III
Jumping in one month after the events of "Psycho 2," Norman Bates is back to torment more hotel guests and, unfortunately, it's not what it used to be. Anthony Perkins isn't to fault as he personifies what Norman Bates should be, but it just doesn't live up to the original.
2.5/5
The Texas Chainsaw Massacre 2
The blood and kills are back but the feeling of dread and fear just isn't there in this installment. Granted, it's better than almost any attempt at a reboot for the franchise, but compared to the original it is a far cry.
3/5
1985
Day of the Dead
The third film in Romero's Dead series was the lowest rated of the original three films, but thanks to strong performances and tremendous special effects, it's still one of the must-see classic zombie films.
4/5
Friday the 13th: A New Beginning
After studios saw how much money "The Final Chapter" made, they decided they should keep the franchise going, except with a different killer. It's not good at all. It's bad.
.5/5
Fright Night
Terrifying, funny and sexy, "Fright Night" follows Charley Brewster as he discovers his neighbor is a vampire. As good as the remake is, the original is that much better.
4.5/5
A Nightmare on Elm Street 2: Freddy's Revenge
A truly abysmal sequel to a classic, "Freddy's Revenge" breaks all the rules set in place by the original and features a scene where a canary attacks a family. That pretty much sums it up.
1/5
1984
Children of the Corn
Stephen King's tale of evil, murdering children spawned countless, horrible sequels but the original isn't that much to begin with. The children aren't scary and the whole story just gets old quickly.
2/5
Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter
In what was supposed to be the final installment of the series, Jason has a definitive death and the story comes to a satisfying close. While it is far from the last sequel, it is one of the strongest.
3/5
A Nightmare on Elm Street
Wes Craven's classic story of a child murderer who continues to kill in the dreams of the town's youth is one of the most original and terrifying horror films of all time thanks to a splendid performance from Robert Englund.
5/5
1983
Christine
Stephen King's story with John Carpenter at the directorial helm about a car that is possessed by its former owner was full of decent scares and some tense moments that make you second guess getting into your car.
3.5/5
Cujo
A rabid dog traps a mother and her son in her car in one of the most underrated horror films of all time. It may not have blood and guts but it is terrifying in every sense of the word.
4.5/5
Psycho II
After 22 years in an asylum Norman Bates returns to his hotel and starts killing once again. While it doesn't live up to the original, it is fun and effective enough to be a companion to the Hitchcock classic.
3/5
1982
Basket Case
A young man carries around his deformed, separated Siamese twin brother around in a basket while going on a killing spree of the doctors who separated them. It's even more ridiculous than that premise suggests.
1/5
Creepshow
One of the most fun horror anthologies ever made, "Creepshow" is the joint effort of George Romero and Stephen King. It's fun and silly, but never quite scary. That being said, it doesn't really need to be terrifying to be enjoyable.
4/5
Friday the 13th Part III
The first "Friday the 13th" to be released in 3D, this sequel was also supposed to be the last of the franchise but Jason keep$ finding way$ to live. If you are watching the series straight through you'll definitely dislike this one less than others if that helps.
2.5/5
Halloween III: Season of the Witch
In one of the dumbest decisions in film history, the studio thought they could make a movie called "Halloween" without Michael Myers about Halloween masks that kill kids. It is extremely stupid and should just be ignored.
0/5
Poltergeist
While the scares don't exactly hold up over time, "Poltergeist" is a classic that changed the genre with a brilliant script and a sense that we are part of this family. It's the relationships that make us invest in the story.
4.5/5
1981
The Evil Dead
Sam Raimi's definitive film that follows a group of friends into a cabin in the woods that soon results in a tormenting demon being unleashed. It's the ultimate campy movie and created a career for Bruce Campbell. The scares and laughs, albeit, unintentional, still hold up.
5/5
Friday the 13th: Part 2
The debut of the hockey-masked slasher Jason Voorhees finds him slashing up promiscuous teens at Camp Crystal Lake in a story that isn't as good as the original, but still finds a way to be mindlessly enjoyable.
3.5/5
Halloween II
Michael Myers stalks and murders through the Haddonfield Hospital in the sequel that reveals his relationship to Laurie Strode. It's hard to compete with the original, but "Halloween 2" is a classic in its own right.
4.5/5
My Bloody Valentine
What some consider a cheap attempt to cash in on the slasher genre, "My Bloody Valentine" doesn't reinvent anything, but the kills are innovative and the legend is better than most.
3/5
1980
Cannibal Holocaust
Considered the first found footage film, "Cannibal Holocaust" was riddled with controversy including the on-screen killing of animals and the director being accused of murder from the realism of the film. It isn't pretty, but it is innovative.
2/5
The Fog
John Carpenter follows up "Halloween" with a tale of fog that kills people. The atmosphere is creepy and holds up quite well after all these years.
4/5
Friday the 13th
If launching one of the most recognizable horror franchises wasn't enough, "Friday the 13th" also features a young Kevin Bacon getting murdered! Tom Savini's special effects are way ahead of their time and help turn a weak script into an instant classic. It doesn't hold up as well as others, but it spawned so many sequels you'll be able to find one that'll satisfy your slasher needs.
4/5
The Shining
Stanley Kubrick creates one of the most iconic stories ever as a family spends the winter as caretakers of a massive hotel. Any movie that is still being dissected over 30 years later has to be considered a work of art.
5/5
1979
The Amityville Horror
Although it generated years and years of sequels, the original "Amityville Horror" is contrived and, shockingly enough, has a zero body count which is unreal for a horror movie.
1.5/5
Phantasm
A brilliant small budget film with tons of personality introduces us to The Tall Man, a truly terrifying monster that could be walking amongst us. It's fun and the ending is simply fantastic.
5/5
When a Stranger Calls
A babysitter is tormented by a caller in a story that lags in many spots and never quite develops beyond a very nice short story. The atmosphere is creepy but there just isn't enough content.
2/5
1978
Dawn of the Dead
The George Romero classic zombie apocalypse film scared audiences in a way that few films ever had.
5/5
Halloween
The horrifying tale of a masked murderer hunting babysitters on Halloween night is still just as scary all these years later. John Carpenter solidifies himself as a master of horror.
5/5
1976
Carrie
The most memorable prom scene ever in a movie, "Carrie" is terrifying on, not just a horror level, but as a glimpse into the cruelties of teenagers in high school.
5/5
The Omen
Director Richard Donner avoids gore and blood for atmosphere and dread in the story of a family who are raising a child that happens to be the son of Satan.
4/5
1974
The Texas Chainsaw Massacre
The film that frightened audiences so badly, legend is they ran out of the theater crying doesn't exactly hold up over the years, but it still pushed the limits to a place they'd never been before.
4/5
1972
The Last House on the Left
The horrifying Wes Craven film was banned in numerous states because of its grim, dark content. Despite a lackluster remake, it still holds up as one of the most gruesome mainstream movies in history.
5/5
