Welcome, brave souls, to the ultimate haunted hall of fame: “Top 10 Horror Movies Of All Time.” If you’re looking for films that’ll make your hair stand on end and your popcorn fly out of your hand, you’ve landed in the right spooky corner of the internet. Imagine, if you will, a night so dark and stormy, the wind howling like a banshee outside your window. That’s the kind of chilling atmosphere we’re diving into.
Let me tell you a quick tale. Once upon a Halloween night, I decided to marathon horror movies alone. Big mistake. By the time I reached the third movie, I was jumping at shadows and peering around corners like a nervous cat. Each creak and groan of my house became a terrifying monster lurking just out of sight.
But hey, enough about my ghostly paranoia! We’re here to talk about the crème de la crème of horror cinema—the kind of movies that crawl under your skin and make your spine tingle. From creepy clowns to sinister spirits, these films have it all. So grab your blanket, double-check your locks, and prepare to face the top 10 horror movies that have terrified audiences for generations. Ready? Let’s get this eerie show on the road!
Detailed Table of Top 10 Greatest Horror Movies Of All Time
| Rank | Movie Name | Genres | Runtime | Directors | Writers | Stars Cast | IMDB Rating | Box Office Collection | Where to watch |
| 1 | Psycho (1960) | Horror, Mystery, Thriller | 1h 49m | Alfred Hitchcock | Joseph Stefano, Robert Bloch | Anthony Perkins, Vera Miles, John Gavin, Martin Balsam, John McIntire, Janet Leigh | 8.5/10 | $50 million | Apple Tv, Amazon, Google Play Movies, You Tube, Vudu, Microsoft |
| 2 | Alien (1979) | Horror, Sci-fi | 1h 56m | Ridley Scott | Dan O’Bannon, Ronald Shusett | Tom Skerritt, Sigourney Weaver, Veronica Cartwright, Harry Dean Stanton, John Hurt, Ian Holm, Yaphet Kotto | 8.5/10 | $184.7 million | Hulu, Apple Tv, Hotstar, Google Play Movies, You Tube, Vudu, Microsoft, Amazon |
| 3 | The Shining (1980) | Drama, Horror | 2h 24m | Stanley Kubrick | Stephen King, Stanley Kubrick, Diane Johnson | Jack Nicholson, Shelley Duvall, Scatman Crothers, Danny Lloyd | 8.4/10 | $47.3 million | Apple Tv, Roku, Apple Tv, Amazon, Google Play Movies, You Tube, Vudu, Microsoft |
| 4 | The Exorcist (1973) | Horror | 2h 2m | William Friedkin | William Peter Blatty | Ellen Burstyn, Max von Sydow, Lee J. Cobb, Kitty Winn, Jack MacGowran, Jason Miller | 8.1/10 | $441.3 million | Apple Tv, Google Play Movies, You Tube, Vudu, Microsoft, Amazon |
| 5 | Rosemary’s Baby (1968) | Drama, Horror | 2h 17m | Roman Polanski | Ira Levin, Roman Polanski | Mia Farrow, John Cassavetes, Ruth Gordon, Sidney Blackmer, Maurice Evans, Ralph Bellamy | 8.0/10 | $33.4 million | Amazon, Apple Tv, Fubo, Google Play Movies, You Tube, Vudu, Microsoft, Spectrum |
| 6 | Nosferatu (1922) | Fantasy, Horror | 1h 21m | F. W. Murnau | Bram Stoker, Henrik Galeen | Max Schreck, Gustav von Wangenheim, Greta Schröder, Alexander Granach, Ruth Landshoff, Wolfgang Heinz | 7.9/10 | $21,401 | Apple Tv, Flixfling, Amazon, Roku, Vudu, Google Play Movies, You Tube |
| 7 | Night of the Living Dead (1968) | Horror, Thriller | 1h 36m | George A. Romero | John A. Russo, George A. Romero | Judith O’Dea, Duane Jones, Marilyn Eastman, Karl Hardman, Judith Ridley, Keith Wayne, Russell W. Streiner | 7.8/10 | $30,236,452 | Amazon, Apple Tv, Hulu, Fubo, Max, Google Play Movies, You Tube, Amazon, Microsoft, Flixfling |
| 8 | Halloween (1978) | Horror, Thriller | 1h 31m | John Carpenter | John Carpenter, Debra Hill | Donald Pleasence, Jamie Lee Curtis, P.J. Soles, Nancy Loomis | 7.7/10 | $70 million | Apple Tv, Fubo, Amazon, Google Play Movies, You Tube, Vudu, Cultpix |
| 9 | The Conjuring (2013) | Horror | 1h 52m | James Wan | Chad Hayes, Carey W. Hayes | Vera Farmiga, Patrick Wilson, Ron Livingston, Lili Taylor | 7.5/10 | $319.5 million | Netflix, Amazon, Apple Tv, Google Play Movies, You Tube, Vudu, Microsoft |
| 10 | Carrie (1976) | Horror | 1h 38m | Brian De Palma | Stephen King, Lawrence D. Cohen | Sissy Spacek, Amy Irving, Betty Buckley, Nancy Allen, William Katt, John Travolta, P. J. Soles, Piper Laurie | 7.4/10 | $33.8 million | Max, Apple Tv, Hulu, Amazon, Vudu, Microsoft, Google Play Movies, You Tube |
1.Psycho (1960)
Suggested Read: Top 10 Romantic Movies Of All Time
Genres: Horror, Mystery, Thriller
Runtime: 1h 49m
Director: Alfred Hitchcock
Writers: Joseph Stefano, Robert Bloch
Stars: Anthony Perkins, Vera Miles, John Gavin
Producers: Alfred Hitchcock
Release Date: June 16, 1960
IMDB Rating: 8.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 97%
Just Watch Rating: 96%
Box Office Collection: $50 million
Famous Quote: “A boy’s best friend is his mother.”
Where to Watch: Apple TV, Amazon, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft
Summary:
In 1960, Alfred Hitchcock unleashed “Psycho” upon the world, a chilling tale that blends horror, mystery, and thriller genres seamlessly. With a runtime of 1 hour and 49 minutes, the film, directed by Hitchcock himself, boasts a stellar cast including Anthony Perkins, Vera Miles, and John Gavin. It was penned by Joseph Stefano and Robert Bloch, with Hitchcock also serving as one of the producers.
Released on June 16, 1960, “Psycho” quickly became a critical and commercial success, earning an impressive IMDb rating of 8.5/10 and a Rotten Tomatoes rating of 97%. Its box office collection reached a staggering $50 million, solidifying its status as a classic in cinema history.
One of the most memorable aspects of “Psycho” is its famous quote: “A boy’s best friend is his mother,” a haunting reflection of the film’s themes of maternal influence and psychological turmoil.
For those eager to experience the spine-tingling suspense of “Psycho,” it is available for streaming on popular platforms such as Apple TV, Amazon, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, and Microsoft.
2.Alien (1979)
Genres: Horror, Sci-fi
Runtime: 1h 56m
Director: Ridley Scott
Writers: Dan O’Bannon, Ronald Shusett
Stars: Tom Skerritt, Sigourney Weaver, Veronica Cartwright
Producers: Gordon Carroll, David Giler, Walter Hill
Release Date: May 25, 1979
IMDB Rating: 8.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 93%
Just Watch Rating: 97%
Box Office Collection: $184.7 million
Famous Quote: “In space, no one can hear you scream.”
Where to Watch: Hulu, Apple TV, Hotstar, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft, Amazon
Summary:
“In 1979, Ridley Scott took audiences on a terrifying journey into the depths of space with ‘Alien.’ Starring Tom Skerritt, Sigourney Weaver, and Veronica Cartwright, the film tells the harrowing tale of the crew of the commercial spaceship Nostromo. After responding to a distress signal on a distant planet, they encounter a deadly extraterrestrial creature that wreaks havoc on their ship. As the crew fights for survival, they must confront not only the alien threat but also the sinister agendas of their own employers.
With its groundbreaking visuals, intense atmosphere, and iconic tagline ‘In space, no one can hear you scream,‘ ‘Alien’ became an instant classic. The film’s success at the box office, grossing $184.7 million, and its critical acclaim, including an IMDb rating of 8.5/10 and a Rotten Tomatoes rating of 93%, solidified its place in cinema history.
For those brave enough to experience the terror, ‘Alien’ is available for streaming on platforms like Hulu, Apple TV, Hotstar, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft, and Amazon. Prepare to be gripped by fear as you journey into the unknown reaches of outer space.”
3.The Shining (1980)
Genres: Drama, Horror
Runtime: 2h 24m
Director: Stanley Kubrick
Writers: Stephen King, Stanley Kubrick, Diane Johnson
Stars: Jack Nicholson, Shelley Duvall, Scatman Crothers
Producers: Stanley Kubrick
Release Date: May 23, 1980
IMDB Rating: 8.4/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 83%
Just Watch Rating: 95%
Box Office Collection: $47.3 million
Famous Quote: “Here’s Johnny!”
Where to Watch: Apple TV, Roku, Amazon, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft
Summary:
“In 1980, Stanley Kubrick unleashed ‘The Shining,’ a psychological horror masterpiece that continues to captivate audiences. Based on Stephen King’s novel, the film stars Jack Nicholson, Shelley Duvall, and Scatman Crothers. It follows the Torrance family as they move into the isolated Overlook Hotel, where Jack Torrance, played by Nicholson, takes on the role of caretaker during the winter months. As the family becomes increasingly isolated, supernatural forces within the hotel begin to exert their influence, driving Jack to madness.
Kubrick’s masterful direction, combined with the haunting performances of the cast, creates an atmosphere of dread and suspense that lingers long after the credits roll. With its iconic moments, including the chilling line ‘Here’s Johnny!‘ and the eerie maze sequences, ‘The Shining’ has earned its place as one of the greatest horror films of all time.
Despite initially receiving mixed reviews, the film has since garnered widespread acclaim, boasting an IMDb rating of 8.4/10 and a Just Watch Rating of 95%. While its box office collection reached $47.3 million, its impact on popular culture far exceeds its financial success.
For those brave enough to confront their deepest fears, ‘The Shining’ is available for streaming on platforms like Apple TV, Roku, Amazon, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, and Microsoft. Prepare to be haunted by the chilling tale of the Overlook Hotel.”
4.The Exorcist (1973)
Genres: Horror
Runtime: 2h 2m
Director: William Friedkin
Writers: William Peter Blatty
Stars: Ellen Burstyn, Max von Sydow, Lee J. Cobb
Producers: William Peter Blatty
Release Date: December 26, 1973
IMDB Rating: 8.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 78%
Just Watch Rating: 93%
Box Office Collection: $441.3 million
Famous Quote: “The power of Christ compels you!”
Where to Watch: Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft, Amazon
Summary:
“In 1973, William Friedkin unleashed ‘The Exorcist,’ a horror masterpiece that continues to haunt audiences to this day. The film, based on William Peter Blatty’s novel, follows the disturbing ordeal of Regan MacNeil, a young girl seemingly possessed by a malevolent entity. As her mother, played by Ellen Burstyn, witnesses Regan’s increasingly bizarre and terrifying behavior, she seeks the help of two priests, portrayed by Max von Sydow and Lee J. Cobb. What unfolds is a harrowing battle between good and evil, as the priests confront the demonic forces tormenting Regan.
Friedkin’s direction, combined with Blatty’s gripping screenplay, creates an atmosphere of dread and suspense that grips viewers from start to finish. The film’s iconic moments, including Regan’s infamous head-spinning scene and the chilling line ‘The power of Christ compels you!‘, have solidified ‘The Exorcist’ as one of the most influential horror films of all time.
With a stellar cast delivering unforgettable performances, ‘The Exorcist’ earned critical acclaim and became a cultural phenomenon upon its release. Its impact is still felt today, with an IMDb rating of 8.1/10 and a Just Watch Rating of 93%. The film’s box office success, grossing $441.3 million, further cements its status as a classic.
For those brave enough to experience its terror, ‘The Exorcist’ is available for streaming on platforms like Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft, and Amazon. Prepare yourself for a spine-tingling journey into the darkest depths of the human soul.”
5.Rosemary’s Baby (1968)
Genres: Drama, Horror
Runtime: 2h 17m
Director: Roman Polanski
Writers: Ira Levin, Roman Polanski
Stars: Mia Farrow, John Cassavetes, Ruth Gordon
Producers: William Castle
Release Date: June 12, 1968
IMDB Rating: 8.0/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 96%
Just Watch Rating: 92%
Box Office Collection: $33.4 million
Famous Quote: “This is no dream! This is really happening!”
Where to Watch: Amazon, Apple TV, Fubo, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft, Spectrum
Summary:
“Released in 1968, ‘Rosemary’s Baby’ is a chilling drama-horror film directed by Roman Polanski. Starring Mia Farrow, John Cassavetes, and Ruth Gordon, the film revolves around Rosemary Woodhouse, a young woman who moves into a new apartment with her husband, Guy. Their seemingly perfect life takes a dark turn when Rosemary becomes pregnant under suspicious circumstances. As her pregnancy progresses, Rosemary begins to suspect that her neighbors, the Castevets, have sinister intentions for her unborn child.
Polanski’s direction and the eerie atmosphere created by the film’s setting in New York City’s Dakota building contribute to the sense of creeping dread that pervades ‘Rosemary’s Baby.’ Mia Farrow delivers a captivating performance as Rosemary, capturing the character’s vulnerability and growing paranoia.
With an IMDb rating of 8.0/10 and a Rotten Tomatoes rating of 96%, ‘Rosemary’s Baby’ has earned acclaim from both critics and audiences alike. Its box office success, grossing $33.4 million, further solidifies its status as a classic in the horror genre.
For those seeking a spine-tingling experience, ‘Rosemary’s Baby’ is available for streaming on platforms like Amazon, Apple TV, Fubo, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft, and Spectrum. Prepare to be immersed in a tale of suspense and terror as Rosemary uncovers the horrifying truth behind her pregnancy.”
6.Nosferatu (1922)
Genres: Fantasy, Horror
Runtime: 1h 21m
Director: F. W. Murnau
Writers: Bram Stoker, Henrik Galeen
Stars: Max Schreck, Gustav von Wangenheim, Greta Schröder
Producers: Enrico Dieckmann, Albin Grau
Release Date: March 4, 1922
IMDB Rating: 7.9/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 97%
Just Watch Rating: 89%
Box Office Collection: $21,401
Famous Quote: “The absence of love is the most abject pain.”
Where to Watch: Apple TV, Flixfling, Amazon, Roku, Vudu, Google Play Movies, YouTube
Summary:
“Released in 1922, ‘Nosferatu’ is a silent horror-fantasy film directed by F. W. Murnau. Based on Bram Stoker’s novel ‘Dracula,’ the film stars Max Schreck as the iconic vampire Count Orlok. The story follows the mysterious arrival of Count Orlok in the town of Wisborg and his subsequent reign of terror as he preys on the unsuspecting residents.
Murnau’s direction, combined with the haunting performance of Max Schreck, creates an atmosphere of dread and unease that lingers long after the film ends. Shot in eerie locations and utilizing innovative cinematography techniques for its time, ‘Nosferatu’ is regarded as a groundbreaking work in the horror genre.
With an IMDb rating of 7.9/10 and a Rotten Tomatoes rating of 97%, ‘Nosferatu’ has garnered acclaim for its enduring influence on cinema. Despite its modest box office collection of $21,401, the film’s legacy has only grown over the years, solidifying its status as a classic in the horror genre.
For those seeking to experience the origins of cinematic horror, ‘Nosferatu’ is available for streaming on platforms like Apple TV, Flixfling, Amazon, Roku, Vudu, Google Play Movies, and YouTube. Prepare to be transported to a world of darkness and terror as you witness the chilling tale of Count Orlok and his insatiable thirst for blood.”
7.Night of the Living Dead (1968)
Genres: Horror, Thriller
Runtime: 1h 36m
Director: George A. Romero
Writers: John A. Russo, George A. Romero
Stars: Judith O’Dea, Duane Jones, Marilyn Eastman
Producers: Russell W. Streiner
Release Date: October 4, 1968
IMDB Rating: 7.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 95%
Just Watch Rating: 91%
Box Office Collection: $30,236,452 (est.)
Famous Quote: “They’re coming to get you, Barbara!”
Where to Watch: Amazon, Apple TV, Hulu, Fubo, Max, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Microsoft, Flixfling
Summary:
“In 1968, George A. Romero’s ‘Night of the Living Dead’ redefined the horror genre and introduced audiences to the concept of the modern zombie. Starring Judith O’Dea, Duane Jones, and Marilyn Eastman, the film follows a group of strangers trapped in a farmhouse as they fend off hordes of flesh-eating zombies.
Romero’s direction and screenplay, co-written with John A. Russo, create a tense and claustrophobic atmosphere as the survivors struggle to survive the night. The film’s black-and-white cinematography adds to its gritty realism, while its social commentary on race and society adds depth to its horror elements.
With an IMDb rating of 7.8/10 and a Rotten Tomatoes rating of 95%, ‘Night of the Living Dead’ has earned its place as a cult classic in the horror genre. Despite its modest box office collection of approximately $30 million, the film’s influence on subsequent zombie films and pop culture is immeasurable.
For those brave enough to confront the undead, ‘Night of the Living Dead’ is available for streaming on platforms like Amazon, Apple TV, Hulu, Fubo, Max, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Microsoft, and Flixfling. Prepare for a night of terror as you witness the birth of a cinematic legend and the horrors that lurk in the darkness.”
8.Halloween (1978)
Genres: Horror, Thriller
Runtime: 1h 31m
Director: John Carpenter
Writers: John Carpenter, Debra Hill
Stars: Donald Pleasence, Jamie Lee Curtis, P.J. Soles
Producers: Debra Hill
Release Date: October 25, 1978
IMDB Rating: 7.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 96%
Just Watch Rating: 91%
Box Office Collection: $70 million
Famous Quote: “It’s Halloween, everyone’s entitled to one good scare.”
Where to Watch: Apple TV, Fubo, Amazon, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Cultpix
Summary:
“In 1978, John Carpenter’s ‘Halloween’ became an iconic horror film that still terrifies audiences to this day. Starring Donald Pleasence, Jamie Lee Curtis, and P.J. Soles, the movie follows the chilling story of Michael Myers, a masked serial killer who escapes from a mental institution and returns to his hometown to wreak havoc on Halloween night.
Carpenter’s direction and screenplay, co-written with Debra Hill, set the standard for slasher films with its suspenseful atmosphere and terrifying antagonist. The film’s haunting soundtrack, composed by Carpenter himself, adds to the tension and unease felt throughout.
With an IMDb rating of 7.7/10 and a Rotten Tomatoes rating of 96%, ‘Halloween’ has earned its place as one of the greatest horror films of all time. Its box office success, grossing $70 million, solidifies its status as a classic in the genre.
For those seeking a good scare, ‘Halloween’ is available for streaming on platforms like Apple TV, Fubo, Amazon, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, and Cultpix. Prepare to be on the edge of your seat as you experience the terror of Michael Myers stalking his victims on Halloween night.”
9.The Conjuring (2013)
Genres: Horror
Runtime: 1h 52m
Director: James Wan
Writers: Chad Hayes, Carey W. Hayes
Stars: Vera Farmiga, Patrick Wilson, Ron Livingston
Producers: Tony DeRosa-Grund, Peter Safran, Rob Cowan
Release Date: July 19, 2013
IMDB Rating: 7.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 86%
Just Watch Rating: 94%
Box Office Collection: $319.5 million
Famous Quote: “The devil exists. God exists. And for us, as people, our very destiny hinges on which we decide to follow.”
Where to Watch: Netflix, Amazon, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, Microsoft
Summary:
“In 2013, James Wan brought terror to the screen with ‘The Conjuring,’ a spine-chilling horror film that delves into the real-life investigations of paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren. Starring Vera Farmiga, Patrick Wilson, and Ron Livingston, the movie follows the Warrens as they assist a family experiencing disturbing supernatural events in their secluded farmhouse.
Wan’s masterful direction and the compelling performances of the cast create an atmosphere of dread and suspense that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats. The film’s terrifying moments, based on the Warrens’ actual case files, make ‘The Conjuring’ a truly frightening cinematic experience.
With an IMDb rating of 7.5/10 and a Rotten Tomatoes rating of 86%, ‘The Conjuring’ received both critical and commercial success, grossing $319.5 million at the box office. Its availability on streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Vudu, and Microsoft allows viewers to experience the horror from the comfort of their homes.
Prepare to be terrified as you witness the battle between good and evil in ‘The Conjuring,’ where the line between the supernatural and reality blurs, and the fate of souls hangs in the balance.”
10.Carrie (1976)
Genres: Horror
Runtime: 1h 38m
Director: Brian De Palma
Writers: Stephen King, Lawrence D. Cohen
Stars: Sissy Spacek, Amy Irving, Betty Buckley
Producers: Paul Monash
Release Date: November 3, 1976
IMDB Rating: 7.4/10
Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 93%
Just Watch Rating: 93%
Box Office Collection: $33.8 million
Famous Quote: “They’re all gonna laugh at you!”
Where to Watch: Max, Apple TV, Hulu, Amazon, Vudu, Microsoft, Google Play Movies, YouTube
Summary:
“In 1976, Brian De Palma brought Stephen King’s chilling novel ‘Carrie’ to life on the silver screen. Starring Sissy Spacek, Amy Irving, and Betty Buckley, the film tells the story of Carrie White, a shy and awkward high school student who discovers she has telekinetic powers.
De Palma’s direction and the gripping performances of the cast create a sense of unease and tension that builds throughout the film. As Carrie struggles to navigate the cruelty of her peers and the oppressive control of her religiously fanatic mother, her powers grow increasingly volatile, leading to a climactic prom night that ends in tragedy.
With an IMDb rating of 7.4/10 and a Rotten Tomatoes rating of 93%, ‘Carrie’ received both critical acclaim and commercial success, grossing $33.8 million at the box office. Its availability on streaming platforms like Max, Apple TV, Hulu, Amazon, Vudu, Microsoft, Google Play Movies, and YouTube allows viewers to experience the horror of Carrie’s story.
Prepare to be captivated and disturbed as you witness the torment and revenge of a girl pushed to the brink in ‘Carrie,’ where the line between innocence and horror blurs, and the consequences of bullying are truly terrifying.”
Anas Chaudhary is a writer at Entertainment 24 Seven, specializing in entertainment news, facts, and trends. He brings a fresh perspective and engaging storytelling to his coverage of the latest happenings in the entertainment world.