The 1990s was a decade filled with some of the most iconic and terrifying Horror movies of all time. From classic slasher films to psychological thrillers, there’s the potential for an endless list. But since no one wants to read our posts till the end of times (fair enough!) here are our ten favorites. Let us know if you agree or disagree.
“Scream” (1996) – Directed by Wes Craven and starring Neve Campbell, this meta-horror film revitalized the slasher genre and spawned a franchise. The film follows a group of teenagers as they are stalked by a masked killer in the small town of Woodsboro. What sets Scream apart from other slasher films is its self-awareness and clever commentary on the genre. The film’s clever script, strong performances, and inventive kills make it a must-watch for horror fans.
IMDb page: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0117571/
“Silence of the Lambs” (1991) – Directed by Jonathan Demme and starring Jodie Foster and Anthony Hopkins, this psychological horror-thriller follows an FBI agent as she hunts down a cannibalistic serial killer. The film is a masterclass in tension and suspense, with Hopkins delivering a chilling performance as the infamous Dr. Hannibal Lecter. The film’s blend of crime thriller and horror elements make it a unique and unforgettable experience.
IMDb page: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0102926/
“The Sixth Sense” (1999) – Directed by M. Night Shyamalan and starring Bruce Willis and Haley Joel Osment, this supernatural thriller follows a child psychologist as he works with a young boy who can see dead people. The film’s twist ending is now legendary and has been imitated by countless movies since its release. The Sixth Sense is a masterclass in storytelling and filmmaking, with Shyamalan creating a film that is both emotionally powerful and terrifying.
IMDb page: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0167404/
“The Frighteners” (1996) – Directed by Peter Jackson and starring Michael J. Fox, this supernatural horror-comedy follows a psychic investigator as he battles a ghostly serial killer. The Frighteners is a unique blend of horror and comedy, with Jackson’s over-the-top direction and Fox’s charming performance making for a fun and entertaining watch. The film’s special effects and make-up are also top-notch..
IMDb page: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0116365/
“Deep Blue Sea” (1999) – Directed by Renny Harlin and starring Thomas Jane, this science fiction horror film follows a group of scientists as they are stalked by genetically enhanced sharks. Deep Blue Sea is a thrilling and action-packed horror film, with Harlin delivering some of the most intense and suspenseful shark attack scenes ever put to film. The film’s fun cast, campy feel and special effects make for a 90s B-movie classic.
IMDb page: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0149261/
“Candyman” (1992) – Directed by Bernard Rose and starring Tony Todd, this supernatural horror film follows a graduate student as she investigates an urban legend about a hook-handed ghost. Candyman is a chilling and atmospheric horror film, with Todd delivering a terrifying performance as the titular villain. The film’s blend of supernatural horror and social commentary make it a unique and thought-provoking film.
IMDB page: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0103919/
“Arachnophobia” (1990) – As we said in our full review: “What keeps this one engaging is the snowball effect of the plot, going from spider webs, to casualties, to a thrilling climax set in a house overrun with spiders. Perhaps the main reason Arachnophobia still holds up is because the threat here is rooted in reality.”
IMDB page: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0099052/
“Interview with the Vampire” (1994) – Directed by Neil Jordan and starring Tom Cruise and Brad Pitt, this vampire horror film is an adaptation of Anne Rice’s novel of the same name. The film is a dark and atmospheric horror film, with both Cruise and Pitt delivering strong performances as two of the most iconic vampire characters of all time. The film’s stunning visuals and strong performances make it a classic in the vampire genre.
IMDb page: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0110148/
“Misery” (1990) – Directed by Rob Reiner and starring James Caan and Kathy Bates, this psychological horror film follows a bestselling author as he is held captive by his number one fan. Misery is a masterclass in tension and suspense, with Bates delivering a chilling and Oscar-winning performance as the deranged fan.
IMDb page: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0100157/
“Jacob’s Ladder” (1990) – Directed by Adrian Lyne and starring Tim Robbins, this psychological horror film follows a Vietnam veteran as he is plagued by hallucinations and terrifying visions. Jacob’s Ladder is a masterclass in storytelling and filmmaking, with Lyne creating a film that is both emotionally powerful and terrifying.
IMDb page: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0099871/
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