The Spookiest Movies to Get You in the Halloween Spirit

October is here, and for many, that means embracing the spooky season in various ways. While some people indulge in pumpkin spice and cozy vibes, others welcome October by diving into a marathon of chilling movies that send shivers down their spines. If you’re part of the latter group, this article is tailor-made for you. Whether you plan to turn it into a binge-watching weekend, revisit classic horrors, or explore international frights, we’ve compiled a list of the scariest movies to watch this October.

Table of Contents

“The Exorcist” (1973)

Director: William Friedkin

Cast: Linda Blair, Ellen Burstyn, Max von Sydow, Lee J. Cobb

Many horror movies explore the themes of demons and possession, but “The Exorcist” set the gold standard. The film revolves around a young girl named Regan, whose once mild behavior spirals into disturbing and violent territory. Her mother suspects possession, leading to a desperate plea for two priests to perform an exorcism. Remarkably, the practical effects in this film still hold up, with the infamous head-spinning scene as terrifying as ever. While the narrative is a straightforward battle between good and evil, “The Exorcist” remains the reigning champion in the supernatural horror genre.

“Hereditary” (2018)

Cast: Toni Collette, Alex Wolff, Milly Shapiro, Gabriel Byrne

“Hereditary” has earned the title of a modern horror masterpiece, and it’s well-deserved. Director Ari Aster’s breakout film received critical acclaim for its unique take on family-centric horror and its deeply disturbing, unforgettable final sequence. After their secretive grandmother’s death, a family unravels dark and disturbing family secrets, exacerbated by a tragic accident. As they delve deeper into their family’s history, they unearth a supernatural force that might be at the root of generations of horrors.

“Rosemary’s Baby” (1968)

Cast: Mia Farrow, John Cassavetes, Ruth Gordon, Sidney Blackmer

“Rosemary’s Baby” has maintained its bone-chilling appeal throughout the decades. The film delves into paranoia, maternal anxiety, and bodily autonomy as pregnant Rosemary Woodhouse becomes convinced that her neighbors harbor sinister plans for her unborn child. Her journey leads her into a world of satanic worship and witchcraft rituals as she fights to save herself and her baby. Mia Farrow’s portrayal of Rosemary is still hailed as a chilling depiction of maternal anxiety, while Ruth Gordon earned an Academy Award for her role as Minnie Castevet.

“The Witch” (2015)

Cast: Anya Taylor-Joy, Ralph Ineson, Kate Dickie, Harvey Scrimshaw

Period horror films often remain underappreciated in the genre, but “The Witch” broke the mold. It was a financial and critical success, showcasing one of Anya Taylor-Joy’s best performances. The story follows a devout Puritan family banished from their community, settling near a secluded forest. As they face the challenges of harsh wilderness and isolation, unsettling supernatural occurrences shatter their sense of reality, leading them to believe that a malevolent witch resides in the woods. The film’s attention to historical detail adds to the chilling atmosphere, immersing audiences in a descent into madness alongside the family as they confront the supernatural forces around them.

“The Babadook” (2014)

Cast: Essie Davis, Noah Wiseman

Directed by Jennifer Kent, “The Babadook” exemplifies the unique impact of female-directed horror. Considered one of the scariest films of all time, it follows a mother living with grief and anxiety as her son is haunted by a terrifying character from a children’s book. Reality blurs, and sanity hangs in the balance as the mother battles this monster while protecting her son and her own mental state.

“Ju-on: The Grudge” (2002)

Director: Takashi Shimizu

Cast: Megumi Okina, Misaki Ito, Takashi Matsuyama, Yui Ichikawa

This Japanese horror film weaves together the stories of interconnected characters who fall victim to a vengeful and malevolent spirit haunting a cursed house. Although overshadowed by other Japanese horror films upon its release, “Ju-on: The Grudge” went on to spawn a franchise, an American remake, and a prequel television series.

“Get Out” (2017)

Cast: Daniel Kaluuya, Allison Williams, Bradley Whitford, Catherine Keener, Lil Rel Howery

“Get Out” demonstrates that horror films can serve as a potent tool for social commentary. Directed by Jordan Peele, the film tells the story of Chris, who uncovers disturbing truths when he visits his white girlfriend’s home in an affluent suburb. He must fight to save himself from the same fate that has befallen other Black visitors. The film secured Peele’s reputation as a master of horror, a title he continues to validate.

“Insidious” (2010)

Cast: Patrick Wilson, Rose Byrne, Ty Simpkins, Lin Shaye

The original “Insidious” film, which launched a successful franchise, is arguably still the best. Made on a mere $2 million budget, it became a worldwide sensation, grossing over $100 million. The story revolves around a family battling a supernatural entity as their son falls into a mysterious coma, and strange paranormal activities unfold in their home. With inventive jump scares and a terrifying portrayal of astral projection, “Insidious” remains a modern classic.

“Talk to Me” (2023)

Directors: Danny and Michael Philippou

Cast: Sophie Wilde, Joe Bird, Miranda Otto, Chris Alosio

“When a group of friends discover how to conjure spirits with an embalmed hand, they become hooked on the new thrill and high-stakes party game. That is until one of them goes too far and unleashes terrifying supernatural forces.” “Talk to Me” emerged as a surprise hit in 2023, delivering heart-racing moments that will keep you up at night. This non-stop thrill ride is a must-watch for horror enthusiasts.

“Paranormal Activity” (2007)

Cast: Katie Featherston, Micah Sloat

“Paranormal Activity” proved that with the right approach, a low budget can yield gripping results. Made with just $15,000, the film launched a franchise of seven films and counting. The story follows Katie and Micah as they document unexplained occurrences in their home, capturing a terrorizing entity seemingly connected to Katie. The film’s found-footage style immerses viewers in the suspenseful and eerie narrative, making them feel like they’re experiencing the events firsthand.

Prepare to have your heart racing and your lights on as you delve into these spine-tingling movies this October. Whether you’re a horror veteran or a newcomer to the genre, these films are sure to deliver the thrills and chills that make Halloween season truly spine-tingling.