While a main character in a horror movie should have enough distinct personality traits to interest audiences, and minor characters should be compelling as well, a scary film is only as strong as its villain. From serial killers to supernatural forces, these characters are so dark, evil, and dangerous that fans will never forget them.
Reddit users have shared their favorite villains in horror movies, from a memorable character in an anthology film to several villains from popular, legendary franchises. No matter what their motive, these villains can be appreciated for their terrifying appearances and ability to frighten audiences.
Sam (Trick 'r Treat)
One Redditor said that when it comes to horror movie villains, "I definitely love Sam from Trick 'r Treat."
The reveal of Sam is a brilliant one and one of the best moments in this celebrated horror anthology movie. While he seems to be a kid who is trick or treating and wearing a costume, it turns out that he's much more sinister and disturbing. Sam looks like a pumpkin and is actually an evil villain who wants to make sure that everyone is behaving themselves on Halloween.
Michael Myers (Halloween)
One Redditor said that a favorite horror movie villain is "Michael Myers" from the Halloween franchise.
There are many scary Michael Myers murders in Halloween, and many horror fans would say that he makes for a memorable villain because he doesn't show any feeling at all. The way that Michael stalks the main characters and especially the way that he walks around the neighborhood in the first movie is terrifying. There also doesn't seem to be a way to win against Michael, making every new film in the franchise a wild and scary adventure.
Pennywise (It)
One Redditor posted that many people are "terrified of clowns" thanks to Pennywise from the It miniseries and 2017 movie. The fan said that Pennywise is scary because he "uses your deepest and darkest fears against you."
It's definitely true that for many people, clowns are something to be fearful of, and Pennywise seems to know that, too, as he takes a horrible kind of pleasure in scaring and killing kids.
Freddy Krueger (A Nightmare On Elm Street)
As one of the most famous horror movie characters, Freddy Krueger has been scaring audiences in A Nightmare On Elm Street for a long time. While the movie has so many memorable parts, from strong characters like Nancy, it's also a picture perfect portrait of a classic villain.
One Redditor said that Freddy is one of the greatest horror movie villains because no one can get away from a killer who targets dreams. The fan wrote, "he will get you, no matter what" which is a "truly terrifying concept."
Ghostface (Scream)
One Redditor wrote that Ghostface is one of the best horror movie villains, writing of the Scream character, "I love the whole mystery build up to who these masked serial killers are."
The concept of Ghostface is brilliant as they change in each movie and they also have a new motive for murder. It's also intelligent that each Ghostface is connected to the original story and to Sidney, and the reveals are always exciting and interesting.
Jigsaw (Saw)
The Saw movies are some of the darkest of the horror genre, and that's all thanks to Jigsaw. Since he likes to play games with people and see if they're going to die or survive, it's hard to imagine a more terrifying killer.
Reddit user JacobasNile said that Jigsaw is "diabolical" and "his voice sends chills down my spine." Without Jigsaw, it's unlikely that the franchise would have such an impact on the horror genre or would feel so unforgettable.
Jason Voorhees (Friday The 13th)
Reddit user JacobasNile also thinks that Jason Voorhees from Friday the 13th is one of the scariest horror movie villains, writing, "No emotion, no one-liners, just straight up murder everyone with a hatchet."
Each Jason in Friday the 13th is scary in their own way, and in order for a horror movie villain to make a huge impression on audiences, they need to have a distinct look. Jason's mask works perfectly and makes it impossible not to pay attention to him.
Leatherface (The Texas Chainsaw Massacre)
With the newest movie in The Texas Chainsaw Massacre franchise, it's a good time to revisit what fans like about Leatherface.
Reddit user -TheShape_ likes Leatherface's appearance, writing, "There's just something timeless about his look too with the masks, movement and chainsaw." The villain definitely stands out amongst other classic ones and it's hard to forget how evil and determined Leatherface is.
Pinhead
Reddit user TempleToons said that "Pinhead" is a favorite horror movie character who is evil, and many do find the Hellraiser villain to be horrifying.
Pinhead is a Cenobite, a human who became a demon, and fans of the franchise have gotten to know him well while realizing just how terrible he is. Audiences learn a lot about Pinhead's backstory which makes him feel like a layered character.
Hannibal Lector (The Silence Of The Lambs)
One Redditor thinks that Hannibal Lector from The Silence of the Lambs stands out, writing, "his genius IQ makes him incredibly dangerous."
From the best quotes in The Silence of the Lambs to how horrifying it is to imagine being in a room with Hannibal, it's impossible to forget about Hannibal. His mask is especially disturbing and makes an impression.