The 50 Scariest Movies of All Time – Reader’s Digest

The Exorcist

Released: 1973

Rated: R

Director: William Friedkin

Theres a reason this horror classic is one of the scariest movies of all time. The Exorcist is the story of a possessed 12-year-old girl and the two priests who try to save her by performing an exorcism.

Why its scary: The concept of possession is terrifying in itself. But a child being possessed? That adds an extra layer of terror to the story. Combined with an unnerving atmosphere fueled by the unknown and notable special effects of the time (seen in the infamous head-spinning scene), The Exorcist delivers a frightening experience you wont forget. It was a smash hit and continues to be talked about to this day.If you need a break from being scared, watch one of these funny movies to get the laughs going.

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Released: 1980

Rated: R

Director: Stanley Kubrick

This is another film based on an unnerving Stephen King novel (which is considered one of the best horror books ever written). The Shining is the story of a writer, Jack Torrance, who moves his family to a secluded hotel to oversee it for the winter. Soon, Jacks young son starts seeing disturbing premonitions, and Jack himself becomes influenced by malevolent forces within the hotel of horrors.

Why its scary: Seeing these terrifying premonitions and visions in the hotel is enough to make The Shining scary. Seeing Jacks descent into madness, though, adds an extra (and very real) layer of horror. Jack Nicholsons performance is jarring, eerie, and plain terrifying. Plus, Stanley Kubricks distinct style of directing pulls it all together, tied with a creepy bow.

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Released: 2018

Rated: R

Director: Ari Aster

Hereditary is easily one of the scariest movies to come out in recent years. Its about a family rocked to its core following a series of tragedies. As they grieve, they experience disturbing forces that soon lead them to a frightening fate.

Why its scary: While some aspects of the film qualify it as a sad movie, theres no mistaking the unnerving feeling that arises right from the start of Hereditary. You know somethings off but you cant put your finger on what exactly it is. That feeling stays with you up until the last few minutes of the film. Plus, the theme of grief is portrayed realistically and is prevalent throughout the film, and we see just how much it can impact our lives. Hereditary isnt your typical jump-scare horror film; it gets in your head and makes you question everything.

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The 50 Scariest Movies of All Time - Reader's Digest