5 frightful films to watch this Halloween

Scream (1996) Directed by Wes Craven

“What's your favorite horror movie?” Wes Craven's re-invented modern slasher reigns supreme in the thriller genre. While being suspenseful and self aware, this film puts a twist on the classic serial killer antagonist. The parodical writing keeps the watcher invested and stunned, accompanied by a couple laughs. It's no wonder this film is so popular, watch it now on Amazon or iTunes.

The Witch (2015) Directed by Robert Eggers

Set in the 1630s, Eggers film portrays a family of five living and working on the early East Coast. When the youngest goes missing the blame is put on the eldest daughter. In an era of women being burnt at the stake due to accusations of witchcraft, this conflict tests the family's loyalty and love for each other and in that isolation they face satanic and dark entities. Eggers succeeds in creating a dark, immersing, mise-en-scene that will scare, and amaze you. Watch on Hulu or HBO Max.

The Exorcist (1973) Directed by William Freidkin

The oldest on this list, but the most timeless. This classic horror film grossed $441 million in the box office when it was released in 1973 and was the first horror film to be nominated for best picture. This monumental film explores a possessed little girl and the act of exorcizing this “demon” out of her. With makeup design that will make your skin crawl, Freidkin delivered one of the most loved horror films of the 70s. Watch now on HBO Max.

Nightmare on Elm Street (1984) Directed by Wes Craven

Nightmare on Elms Street is what put Wes Craven's acclaimed horror work on the map. This 80s masterpiece contains the freakiest of special effects and gore, accompanied by one of the most popular villains, Freddy Kreugar. Freddy can only haunt the main character in her dreams, so as she fights to stay awake by downing coffee, she also fights to solve this phenomenon. For a hell of a time, watch Nightmare on Elm Street on HBO Max and Apple TV.

The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) Directed by Tim Burton

This early 90s film doubles as a Christmas and Halloween movie, in-turn, doubling the popularity. The meticulous claymation and design conjures nostalgia in the viewer, with detail you can't help but notice and appreciate. In addition to the creative design that is Tim Burton's expertise, many catchy songs are performed by the ghouls and elves. These melodies take over the months of October to January, and that should tell you enough! Watch Burton's top film on Disney+ and Youtube.