What is the most terrifying movie you’ve ever seen? If you enjoy horror movies you’re in luck: we’ve rounded up 12 most terrifying movies that will have you rocking back and forth until the sun comes up.
Whether you want to celebrate spooky season in style or just like watching horror movies, it can be hard to pick the “really scary” from the “campy and cheesy” with so many options out there. You won’t be disappointed with these suggestions… But you will be horrified.
The Vanishing (1988)
The person who suggested this included the comment, “Go into it blind. Do not read anything about it” so I’m not going to give you any details other than this: Stanley Kubrick said it was the most terrifying movie he’s ever seen.
Hereditary (2018)
“When THAT scene came there was an audible gasp in the cinema.”
What is that scene, exactly? I guess you’ll just have to watch Hereditary to find out!
Martyrs (2008)
Watch the French version of Martyrs for the best terrifying movie experience. It’s a revenge movie at its core, but has so many messed up twists that it stays with you for a long time.
Folks agreed, with one even saying “This is the final boss of horror movies”. Talk about scary!
Antichrist (2009)
This art horror film stars William Dafoe and is too harrowing for words. If you haven’t seen Antichrist, be aware there are some pretty triggering elements in this one – which is exactly what makes it so horrifying and intense.
You won’t forget this one anytime soon. “[..] worst scene in the barn. Stayed with me for months.” someone said.
The Descent (2005)
What makes the Descent so scary is that it plays off a real-life activity that’s already super scary: spelunking. While the events of this movie wouldn’t really happen, you can’t help thinking of it every time you even consider entering a cave.
Fire in the Sky (1993)
I love a good sci-fi horror movie, but Fire in the Sky is especially unique because it’s grounded, at least partially, in a reality that could (maybe) happen. While some folks think this movie is a bit boring, others appreciate the slow build to an intense horror scene.
Decide for yourself!
Sinister (2012)
Sinister came up a few times, and for good reason: it’s super scary. Not only is the movie creepy throughout, they balance that with enough shocking scenes to make Sinister unforgettable. Fair warning: this one’s intense.
Event Horizon (1997)
I didn’t just include this one because it made me cry, plenty of folks agreed Event Horizon is the absolute most terrifying movie they’ve ever seen.
One of the main reasons it’s so scary is that a lot of people (me included) assumed it was just a regular (or maybe a bit creepy) sci-fi movie when it came out.
The Exorcist (1973)
It’s rare that older films scare a modern audience because of the changes in special effects, but The Exorcist still holds up as a terrifying horror movie even today.
Poltergeist (1982)
Poltergeist is one of those classic horror movies that has the ability to change the way you perceive the world. Sort of like how everyone who saw Final Destination is afraid to drive behind logging trucks.
In this case, it’s trees. “never looked at trees the same since.” one commenter said.
Midsommar (2019)
Want a movie that leaves you dazed and confused, but also horrified? Midsommer is for you! It’s a bit gorey, so be warned if that’s not your thing.
This comment summed it up quite well: “By the end of this movie I was in a state of terrified confusion.”
Hell House LLC (2015)
Hell House LLC is one of those “found footage” type movies (like the Blair Witch Project). If you’re a horror fan don’t let the mixed reviews for this one deter you – it’s actually really good.
Bonus: Home (The X-Files)
It’s not a movie, but it’s so terrifying that it’s only been shown twice on TV. Fair warning: this episode is not for the faint of heart.
“Watched it when I was about 13. It gave me insomnia for weeks.” one person commented.
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