The Top 20 Best Reviewed Halloween Movies of All Time

Scary movies. Halloween movies. Those rare horror movie nights.

Halloween is the time of year for us when the eerie, the unsettling, and the outright terrifying come together in a celebration of all things macabre. Whether you love to be scared or prefer the lighter side of the season, there is a distinctive pull to put on a classic scary film this time of year.

Here’s a rundown of the top 20 best-reviewed Halloween movies of all time, each earning critical acclaim for their creativity, storytelling, and scare factor.

(And while we feel pretty confident about the quality of this list, what films do you feel earn a top spot in the best reviewed Halloween films of all time?)

Widely regarded as a masterpiece of suspense, Psycho is a film that redefined horror with its unsettling atmosphere and unforgettable twists. Hitchcock’s direction, combined with Anthony Perkins’ chilling performance as Norman Bates, has made it a touchstone in psychological horror.

This is the quintessential Halloween movie. Halloween pioneered the slasher genre, with Michael Myers becoming the embodiment of relentless terror. Carpenter’s skillful use of music and minimalist direction created an enduring atmosphere of fear.

Often cited as one of the scariest films of all time, The Exorcist delves into supernatural horror with a chilling tale of demonic possession. Its groundbreaking special effects and intense performances, especially from Linda Blair, make it an unrelenting experience.

One of the most terrifying modern horror films, Hereditary deals with family trauma and supernatural horror in a way that leaves viewers deeply unsettled. Toni Collette’s incredible performance and Aster’s unnerving direction have made it a modern classic.

Kubrick’s adaptation of Stephen King’s novel is haunting, both visually and psychologically. Jack Nicholson’s portrayal of Jack Torrance and the eerie atmosphere of the Overlook Hotel make The Shining a must-watch for Halloween.

Blending horror with social commentary, Get Out is a unique entry in the genre that explores race relations in America through a terrifying lens. Peele’s directorial debut is lauded for its originality and tension, marking it as a modern horror classic.

For those who like their Halloween movies a little lighter, this Tim Burton-produced stop-motion animation is a beloved classic. Its gothic charm, unforgettable songs, and holiday-spanning appeal make it a perennial favorite for both Halloween and Christmas.

Blending sci-fi with horror, Alien is a masterclass in suspense and visual storytelling. The claustrophobic setting of the spaceship and the unstoppable terror of the Xenomorph have made this film a genre-defining masterpiece. Its influence is still felt in both horror and science fiction.

Set in 1630s New England, The Witch creates an atmosphere of dread and paranoia through its eerie historical setting and unsettling supernatural elements. Eggers’ attention to detail and the slow-burn tension have earned it a spot among the best horror films in recent years.

This indie horror hit delivers a fresh take on the genre with its slow-building dread and metaphorical storytelling. The film’s innovative concept, where a supernatural entity follows its victims, received widespread praise for its originality and tension.

This Australian psychological horror film tells the story of a mother and son haunted by a sinister presence. More than just a monster movie, The Babadook explores grief and mental illness, earning it acclaim for its depth and emotional resonance.

A meta-horror film that revitalized the slasher genre, Scream cleverly blends humor with horror, playing with genre tropes while delivering genuine scares. Its mix of satire and suspense has made it a fan favorite for Halloween.

This supernatural horror film about a family haunted by malevolent spirits is a genre-defining classic. Poltergeist combines heart-pounding scares with Spielbergian storytelling, making it a well-reviewed favorite for fans of supernatural thrillers.

This low-budget film is raw, gritty, and terrifying. Its brutal portrayal of a group of friends being hunted by a family of cannibals shocked audiences in the 1970s and continues to be regarded as one of the most intense horror films ever made.

Rosemary’s Baby masterfully blends psychological horror with supernatural elements, following a young woman who fears her unborn child may be part of a dark conspiracy. Its slow-burning suspense and disturbing themes have earned it critical acclaim.

With its unforgettable twist and chilling atmosphere, The Sixth Sense became a pop culture phenomenon upon its release. The film’s strong performances and careful buildup of suspense make it a must-watch for Halloween.

This horror-comedy strikes a perfect balance between gruesome horror and dark humor. Its groundbreaking practical effects, particularly during the werewolf transformation scene, set a new standard for horror makeup and visual effects.

Based on Stephen King’s novel, Carrie tells the story of a high school girl with telekinetic powers and explores themes of bullying and repression. The film’s intense climax and emotional depth have cemented its place as a horror classic.

Based on real-life paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren, The Conjuring is known for its well-crafted scares and eerie atmosphere. James Wan’s direction elevates the film, making it one of the best-reviewed supernatural horror movies of the 21st century.

Mixing horror with psychological thriller elements, The Silence of the Lambs is iconic for its intense performances by Jodie Foster and Anthony Hopkins. The film’s exploration of the mind of a serial killer, paired with its thrilling cat-and-mouse plot, makes it both terrifying and riveting.

These 20 films are celebrated for their ability to evoke strong emotional responses, whether through suspense, terror, or psychological depth. The masterful direction, memorable performances, and innovative storytelling in each movie have made them highly rated by critics and audiences alike.

They’ve also stood the test of time and continue to be Halloween favorites, delivering the chills, thrills, and heart-pounding tension we crave during the spookiest time of year.

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