As Halloween approaches, many horror movie fans are eagerly preparing their watchlists to set the spooky mood just right. Bailey Richards, a writer-reporter at PEOPLE, has taken her love for horror movies to the next level by watching over 100 horror films so far this year. With her extensive knowledge and passion for the genre, she has curated a list of the top 10 horror films to add to your Halloween watchlist, featuring a mix of ’90s classics and recent releases.
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Richards’ eclectic taste in horror movies ranges from cult classics to lesser-known gems, with a special affinity for body horror, campy vibes, and weird-girl protagonists. She is a devotee of the ’90s and early 2000s horror canons and has a keen eye for horror-comedy films that deliver both scares and laughs.
One of the films on Richards’ Halloween watchlist is “Cherry Falls,” a hidden gem from 1999 starring Brittany Murphy. This teen slasher-comedy follows a serial killer targeting virgins in a small town, offering a dark, twisty, and humorous take on the genre. Murphy’s performance as a scream queen in this film is not to be missed.
Another ’90s classic recommended by Richards is “Idle Hands,” a stoner comedy-slasher featuring Devon Sawa and Jessica Alba. The film’s quirky premise of a protagonist losing control of his possessed hand leads to absurd and laugh-out-loud moments, making it a must-watch for fans of horror-comedy.
For those looking for a more recent addition to their Halloween lineup, Richards suggests “Stopmotion,” a 2023 film that blends psychological thriller, body horror, and stop motion animation. The story follows an artist who becomes consumed by her final project, blurring the lines between art and reality in a visually stunning and gripping manner.
Fans of dark and disturbing tales will appreciate “The Ugly Stepsister,” a Norwegian film that puts a new spin on the Cinderella story. Directed by Emilie Blichfeldt, this film delves into themes of beauty, obsession, and transformation, offering a unique and unsettling take on a classic fairy tale.
“Mays,” a psychological thriller starring Angela Bettis, explores themes of loneliness and longing through the story of a socially awkward young woman who seeks companionship in unconventional ways. The film’s unsettling atmosphere and standout performances make it a haunting addition to any Halloween watchlist.
French film “Humanist Vampire Seeking Consenting Suicidal Person” takes a unique approach to vampire lore, following a vegetarian vampire navigating her existence after her blood supply is cut off. The film’s eerie yet heartfelt narrative and standout performances make it a refreshing and offbeat choice for Halloween viewing.
The list also includes a mix of underrated and overlooked films such as “House of Wax,” featuring Paris Hilton in a role that subverts expectations and showcases her acting chops. Additionally, “Perfect Blue,” an anime classic from 1997, explores themes of fame, obsession, and identity in a mind-bending and psychologically intense narrative.
Richards rounds out her recommendations with “Hell of a Summer,” a slasher film that may not meet all expectations but offers a fun and entertaining ride for horror fans. Despite its shortcomings, the film’s solid performances and campy charm make it a worthwhile addition to any Halloween movie marathon.
As Halloween approaches, Bailey Richards’ curated list of horror films offers a diverse selection of titles to suit every taste, from classic slashers to psychological thrillers. Whether you’re in the mood for ’90s nostalgia or modern-day scares, these recommendations are sure to keep you entertained and spooked throughout the spooky season.