12 Timeless Horror Films That Remain Frightening Today

      Here are some timeless horror films that continue to terrify audiences today.

      If you're seeking a classic to enjoy during the spooky season that will keep you awake at night—or make you hesitant about going to the beach—these titles are sure to deliver.

      Sleep tight, and don't forget to leave the lights on.

      The Exorcist (1973)

      Warner Bros. – Credit: Warner Bros.

      Deeply unsettling even before Linda Blair’s head begins to rotate, The Exorcist did for unleashing ancient evils what Jaws did for swimming in the ocean.

      The franchise made a comeback recently with David Gordon Green’s Exorcist: Believer, featuring Ellen Burstyn returning to her role as Chris MacNeil after 50 years.

      However, nothing can compare to the terror of the original.

      Carrie (1976)

      United Artists – Credit: C/O United Artists

      Adapted from Stephen King's debut novel, Carrie still evokes anxiety not just from the infamous blood shower but from the high-school bullying that resonates with anyone who has lived through it.

      The casual cruelty, more accepted during its time than it is now, is just as painful to witness as ever.

      This film marked a significant breakthrough for director Brian De Palma, who went on to create numerous iconic films across various genres.

      Rosemary’s Baby (1968)

      Paramount – Credit: C/O

      In an age where gaslighting is frequently discussed, Rosemary’s Baby immerses viewers in a Manhattan apartment complex that masterfully employs it to frightening effects.

      When Rosemary (Mia Farrow) becomes pregnant, those around her dismiss her genuine fears as mere hormones and paranoia. Yet, as the saying goes, just because you're paranoid doesn't mean they aren't after you—or your child.

      Jaws (1975)

      Universal – Credit: Universal Pictures

      An exemplary film that skillfully introduces its sinister villain, Jaws instilled in anyone who has seen it a lasting fear of sharks whenever visiting the beach.

      It remains just as terrifying today as it was 50 years ago, when it revolutionized cinema.

      It also led to a wave of scary animal films and teaches vital lessons on when to reveal the monster and when to keep it hidden.

      Night of the Living Dead (1968)

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      This low-budget gem by George Romero retains a haunting simplicity that surpasses modern zombie stories like The Last of Us and The Walking Dead.

      It excels on all fronts and even weaves in insightful social commentary.

      Moreover, it's one of the most financially successful films of all time, earning over 100 times its original budget.

      Psycho (1960)

      Paramount – Credit: Paramount Pictures

      This iconic Alfred Hitchcock film implies rather than shows, but does so with remarkable effectiveness.

      Psycho launched the slasher genre, brought horror into the mainstream, and caused many viewers to feel significantly less secure in the shower.

      It also features at least one of cinema's most legendary plot twists.

      Suspiria (1977)

      Produzioni Atlas Consorziate – Credit: C/O

      A visually striking giallo masterpiece, Dario Argento’s eerie and haunting tale follows an American (Jessica Harper, as seen above) at a prestigious German ballet school who uncovers, through some creatively depicted murders, that the institution is a hub of witchcraft.

      The perplexing sequel, Inferno, released in 1980, is also worth watching. Don't worry about understanding the plot; instead, let yourself be entranced by a blend of blood, color, and fire.

      Regardless of personal preference, Argento creates some of the most visually captivating horror films.

      The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)

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      Just reading that title sends shivers down your spine. The film's intensely ominous atmosphere—complete with buzzing flies and animal noises—makes it one of the creepiest films ever. The chainsaw scenes push it into truly terrifying territory, but Tobe Hooper’s astute direction elevates it well above its many copies.

      Despite the foreboding title, the film insinuates much more than it shows—like all great horror movies.

      Also: The grainy 70s film stock amplifies the fear factor.

      Alien (1979)

      Credit: 20th Century Fox

      Following the optimism of Star Wars, Alien offered a grim counterpoint, centering on a creature driven by a relentless, parasitic instinct to survive and reproduce—often utilizing unwilling human hosts.

      What truly adds to its horror are its many parallels to sexual assault, reversing the typical horror narrative by making men the primary victims.

      It also presents thoughtful explorations of artificial intelligence, themes director Ridley Scott would further develop three years later in Blade Runner, as well as in numerous sequels and spinoffs, including the recent TV series Alien: Earth.

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