Ranking the Best Horror Movie Franchises of All Time

Horror movie franchises have a unique ability to captivate audiences with their terrifying tales and unforgettable characters. From classic monsters to modern-day slashers, these franchises have left an indelible mark on the genre, solidifying their place in cinematic history. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most iconic horror franchises of all time.

Table of Contents

12. Final Destination Franchise (2000-Present)

Revolutionizing Horror with a Fresh Concept

The Final Destination franchise introduced a groundbreaking concept to the horror genre, turning Death itself into the antagonist. Spanning five films over 11 years, the series has captivated audiences with its edge-of-the-seat thrills and inventive storytelling. While the formula may have lost some of its freshness over time, the franchise’s influence on subsequent horror films like Saw and Hostel is undeniable. With Final Destination 6 confirmed, the franchise continues to push the boundaries of visceral and uncompromising horror cinema.

11. Universal Classic Monster Movies (1923-1960)

Pioneering Force Within the Horror Genre

The Universal Monsters franchise, which began in 1923 with silent films like The Hunchback of Notre Dame and The Phantom of the Opera, is a pioneering force in the horror genre. Introducing iconic characters such as Dracula, Frankenstein, and The Mummy, every Universal Classic Monster movie has left a significant impact on the landscape of horror cinema. Spanning over several decades and featuring legendary actors like Bela Lugosi and Boris Karloff, the franchise has explored various subgenres of horror, setting the stage for future films.

10. Paranormal Activity Franchise (2007-2021)

Redefining the Haunted House Subgenre

The Paranormal Activity franchise redefined the haunted house subgenre and revitalized the found footage style of horror. By placing the audience in the front-row seat of terrifying ordeals, the series tapped into the primal fear of the unknown. The franchise’s ability to consistently deliver strong scares throughout its sequels and prequels demonstrates its understanding that the human imagination is the most potent tool in crafting truly frightening experiences.

9. Hellraiser Franchise (1987-Present)

Recognizable and Iconic Characters

The Hellraiser franchise, spanning over three decades and boasting 10 main entries plus a reboot, has left a huge mark on the horror genre with its unparalleled depiction of the grotesque and the masochistic. Adapted from Clive Barker’s acclaimed work, the series introduced some of the most iconic and terrifying creatures in cinematic history, such as the Cenobites. Hellraiser’s enduring impact as one of the most significant horror franchises remains undeniable.

8. Evil Dead Franchise (1981-Present)

Horror and Comedy Like No Other

Seamlessly blending terror and comedy, the Evil Dead series has consistently pushed the boundaries of the horror genre. The groundbreaking original set the stage for a series that never shied away from reinvention. With the 2023 installment, Evil DeadRise, the franchise further demonstrated its capacity for evolution, setting a new standard for brutality in horror. Though relatively small, the films in this series stand tall as some of the most influential and entertaining entries in history.

7. The Ring Franchise (1991-Present)

A Cross-Cultural Series That Taps Into Universal Fears

The Ring franchise has carved its place in horror history, thanks to its haunting premise and the terrifying figure of Sadako, one of the best female horror villains. By weaving together elements of Japanese folklore and the anxieties surrounding modern technology, the series taps into universal fears that transcend cultural boundaries. The cursed videotape at the center of the story heightens the tension as characters desperately seek to unravel the mystery before succumbing to Sadako’s vengeance.

6. Saw Franchise (2004-Present)

Diabolical and Twisted Horror at Its Finest

In the realm of extreme horror, the Saw franchise dissects the depths of human depravity through its intricate web of crime thriller storytelling and shocking, gore-filled set pieces. Each entry in the franchise upped the ante with increasingly elaborate traps, making the Saw films a macabre annual tradition for horror enthusiasts. While the franchise’s non-linear storytelling may muddle the overarching narrative, its impact on the genre is undeniable.

5. The Conjuring Universe (2013-Present)

Emotionally Resonant Ghost Stories

Despite its relatively small number of films released over a decade, the Conjuring franchise has firmly established itself as a powerhouse in the horror genre. This revolutionary series has redefined mainstream horror, setting a new standard that countless imitators have sought to replicate. At the heart of The Conjuring‘s success lies its blend of terror and emotional depth, crafting ghost stories that are as emotionally resonant as they are frightening.

4. Friday The 13th Franchise (1980-Present)

Reigns Supreme in the Slasher Subgenre

A true titan of the slasher subgenre, the Friday the 13th franchise has forever changed the face of horror. At the center of its enduring legacy stands the iconic Jason Voorhees, whose popularity has transcended the realm of horror to become a cultural phenomenon. While later installments may have ventured into more outlandish territory, the series’ unwavering commitment to entertaining and terrifying makes it one of the greatest horror franchises of all time.

3. A Nightmare On Elm Street Franchise (1984-Present)

An Iconic Villain Imprinted on Pop Culture

Created by legendary horror director Wes Craven, A Nightmare on Elm Street introduced the world to one of the most iconic and terrifying horror villains: Freddy Krueger. With his razor-sharp claws, this classic creature stalks his victims in some of the most brutal dream sequences ever filmed. The series’ impact on pop culture is undeniable, with Freddy becoming a household name.

2. Halloween Franchise (1978-Present)

Jump Started the Slasher Craze of the 1980s

The Halloween franchise has secured its place as one of the most influential horror series of all time. John Carpenter’s groundbreaking original film not only redefined the slasher subgenre but also brought terror to the heart of suburbia, creating a formula that would inspire countless imitators and fuel the slasher boom of the 1980s. Despite numerous reinventions over the years, its cultural impact remains unparalleled.

1. Scream Franchise (1996-Present)

A Genius Example of Meta-Horror

The Scream franchise has solidified its position as the ultimate horror series, thanks to Wes Craven’s ingenious blend of meta-humor, slasher thrills, and gripping murder mystery. Ghostface, the franchise’s iconic villain, has become a symbol of terror, captivating audiences with each installment. The series’ lasting success lies in its ability to reinvent itself while staying true to its core elements, keeping the scares fresh and the humor sharp. With six films spanning over two and a half decades, and no signs of slowing down, Scream has earned its place at the pinnacle of horror cinema.

By embracing a variety of subgenres, from supernatural hauntings to psychological terror, the Horror Movie Franchises have maintained their relevance and captivated audiences for generations. With their ability to evolve and innovate, these franchises continue to shape the landscape of horror cinema, ensuring that the thrill of a good scare is always just around the corner.