Experience the thrill of horror with our handpicked scary movie selections
The leaves may have not turned crimson and we definitely won’t see autumn on this side of the globe, but tis the season to whisper tales of the unknown, embracing the thrill of a heart-pounding horror movie.
Spooky season is upon us, and it’s the perfect moment to immerse ourselves in the eerie, the macabre and the downright terrifying.
To tickle your spine, we’re bringing you our picks within the horror movie genre. Whether you’re a seasoned horror aficionado or someone looking to dip their toes into the world of cinematic chills, we hope these choices will feed the fright-seeking soul in you.
IZAH’S PICKS
Rewinding back to 2002, we have Ju-On: The Grudge. The movie is like that creepy old house at the end of your street – you know you shouldn’t go in, but you can’t resist the thrill. This Japanese horror masterpiece is all about restless spirits, and trust me, they’re not here for a friendly chat.
With its twisted, non-linear plot, it keeps you guessing and second-guessing your own sanity.
This flick isn’t your typical spooky story; it’s a horror cocktail mixing real-world horrors with supernatural terrors. The result? An eerie, hair-raising experience that’ll stick with you long after the credits roll.
Speaking of which, you can’t beat the classics when it comes to dishing out those extra spine-tingles. There’s just this special sauce that makes ‘80s and ‘90s slasher flicks churn your insides in the best, blood-curdling way.
So, imagine this: a bunch of teenagers who can’t catch a break, a slice of pizza that’s hotter than hell, and a villain who’s got a thing for striped sweaters and bladed gloves.
Welcome to the Nightmare on Elm Street movie franchise, where nightmares are a one-way ticket to a slasher’s paradise with seven films dedicated to it.
Freddy Krueger, our not-so-friendly neighbourhood dream stalker, haunts your dreams and makes sure you never sleep easy again. As if high school wasn’t terrifying enough, now you’ve got this guy to deal with in your sleep.
These movies are a wild rollercoaster of gruesome dreamscapes, creative deaths, and enough one-liners to make Freddy the sassiest slasher around.
If you’re up for some old-school horror fun, the Nightmare on Elm Street franchise is where you want to be. Just remember, don’t fall asleep, or you might just meet Freddy in your wildest dreams – and it’s not going to be pleasant!
WARDI’S PICKS
When it comes to classic horror movies that really get you in the spooky spirit, you can’t beat the 1982 film The Thing. Directed by the master of low-budget horror, John Carpenter, this American science fiction horror flick is a must-watch for any horror fan.
Set in Antarctica, The Thing tells the story of American researchers stumbling upon an extra-terrestrial creature frozen beneath the frigid tundra.
This entity – the eponymous Thing – survives by assimilating other life forms and as the plot unfolds, isolation and paranoia grip the researchers as they struggle to not only comprehend the nature of the creature but also face the daunting task of identifying which among them has fallen victim to its assimilation.
There’s a heavy and suspenseful atmosphere that permeates the film as trust becomes scarce and the survival of the human race hangs in the balance, as they try to prevent the Thing from escaping the confines of the research station and wreaking further havoc to the world.
The film is a slow-burn, taking its time and letting your mind fester as you grapple with which character to trust and sympathise with. The film also set the standard for the use of practical effects in horror, as it depicts body horror in such a way that will leave you both fascinated and deeply unsettled.
Now, if there’s one thing about the horror genre that I love is the anthologies. I like to enjoy horror through different forms. Whether it’s a full-length movies or short films, the impact of horror isn’t confined to its duration, but its ability to terrify you within the time it has. After all, it’s all about the spine tingling sensation.
The 2007’s Trick ‘r’ Treat is American anthology horror comedy film written and directed by Michael Dougherty. For a horror anthology, Trick ‘r’ Treat is unique in how they wave four separate yet related horror stories that take place concurrently on one Halloween night in a fictional town in Ohio.
There’s a common element that occurs throughout all these tales and that is Sam, a peculiar trick-or-treater with a burlap sack over his head and matching pajamas. His presence is ominous as he ensures that the rules of Halloween are abided by, often leading to fatal consequences.
It’s a non-linear approach where you get to see characters from the various stories intertwine. It’s like a puzzle, with characters making cameos in the background of other tales and it becomes a delightful part of the experience to pick apart the Easter eggs and piece together the order of events that unfolded throughout the night.
Trick ‘r’ Treat is definitely a fun and comedic horror romp with truly terrifying truly that secures its place as a contemporary cult horror classic.
So, if you’re in the mood for some serious goose bumps, these movie selections may be the ticket to terror-town you’ve been searching for. But don’t say we didn’t warn you – they may haunt your dreams! – Izah Azahari & Wardi Wasil
