Seattle University's student newspaper since 1933

The Spectator

Seattle University's student newspaper since 1933

The Spectator

Seattle University's student newspaper since 1933

The Spectator

Halloween Movies to Watch in the Dark

Ahh, beloved Halloween. What better way to spend it than by watching horror movies?

Horror movies have always been one of the more contentious types of films discussed. Horror movies seem to generate a missed response from people, whether it’s the graphic content or subjective material. Sadly for many horror films nowadays, it’s not necessarily the context of the film that scares us, but rather, sitting through the film itself that’s the real nightmare. There are just so many overall corny, pointless horror films that make their way into the movie theaters that it’s hard not to feel jaded and bored when October rolls around.

But as a horror movie lover myself, fear not. If you plan on spending some time indoors this Halloween and need a good scare to keep up your spirits, here is a list of a few horror movies that will bring out the best of this holiday.

Spoilers to these films will not be provided but keep in mind each of them comes with a special content warning, so watch at your own risk.

1. Suspiria (1977)

While this may be the oldest movie on this list, its frightening charm is undeniable. What happens when an American student studies abroad at a prestigious dance academy in Germany and discovers the horrifying secrets behind the academy and why they want her? Horror of course! Definitely a favorite of mine. Prepare to be mesmerized.

2. 28 days later (2002)

Whoever said zombie movies are dead clearly needs to watch this movie to reignite the flame. Awakening in hospital from a coma to find that as you have been asleep, the world around you has been going to hell as the apocalypse has begun. What better way to start the adventure to survival.

3. The Ring (2002)

News Flash: An American remake of a Japanese horror film (that’s actually good)! Makes me want to cry. And as a little plus, it was filmed here in our beloved Seattle. With many chills, a suspenseful plot and scary images galore, you might find yourself looking away from the tv-screen while watching this one.

4. Halloween (1978)

One really can’t have a list talking about horror movies to watch on Halloween without this movie. One of the most iconic slasher films to date and truly a masterpiece in its own right. This truly is a stand alone film that has served as inspiration for a long line of (unfortunately very bad) slasher films. I recommend staying away from the sequels (with the exception of the 2nd one) and the remakes as none of them do any justice to this film.

5. Sinister (2012)

A more recent example but nonetheless spooky and disturbing. Nothing about this film can really be said without spoiling anything, so grab some popcorn and enjoy.

6. Oldboy (2003)

While more of a thriller than a horror film, the context of this film is nothing short of heartbreaking. A Korean film that tells the grisly and heart wrenching tale of revenge and has many turns and unexpected revelations. This movie really tells the horror that is life. Also a sidenote, stay away from the American remake.

7. The Thing (1982)

The second film on this list by John Carpenter, but surely a jewel among the horror genre. Being trapped in an arctic wasteland with only a few friends and a monster that has the ability to replicate you….who will survive? The 2011 version of this film is actually not terrible, but if you want a more suspenseful story with many moments that make you leap that doesn’t rely so much on special effects via computer generation this one is definitely the more preferred version.

8. The Shining (1980)

You know a movie is scary when it comes from the mind of novelist Stephen King. A ghost story that truly keeps the audience on their feet, I highly recommend this one for late at night when the house is empty and the lights are off.

9. Possession (2012)

The Possession genre of horror films may be done to death, but that doesn’t make it any less scary. Being one of many recent films revolving around possession, this one has been praised and even compared to the level of the Exorcist. Step aside Paranormal Activity, here’s a supernatural horror that’s really a crowd pleaser.

And there we have it. Have a great Halloween everyone, and make the most out the night.

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