Horror fans often spend just as much time recommending favorite films as they do checking out new releases. While several scary movies are perfect to rewatch, there are some that fans think everyone needs to see once, whether to say that they have seen every popular horror film of a certain decade or if they're looking for something a bit more offbeat and different.
Whether a recent creative film or a celebrated classic, Redditors are sharing the horror movies that they think people need to enjoy at least once. Chances are that fans of the genre will like these stories and want to add them to their list of favorites that they watch on a regular basis.
Ginger Snaps (2001)
Stream on Shudder
Redditor catflemington recommended Ginger Snaps as a film to watch at least once, writing, "I feel like it's one of the best examples of early 2000's horror/werewolf horror."
One of the best Canadian monster horror movies, Ginger Snaps tells a story that is as shocking and scary as it is sad, as a werewolf bites Ginger Fitzgerald and she becomes one, too. She and her sister Brigitte are incredibly close and also obsessed with all things related to death and darkness, which makes the story even more memorable. Brigitte struggles with watching the closest person in her life change, and it's heartbreaking and also creepy to see Ginger transform.
Candyman (1992)
Rent on AppleTV
One Redditor recommended "Candyman (1992)," the story of Helen Lyle, a graduate student who is researching the Candyman legend. Helen gets more and more invested, and the film is incredibly well-crafted with a shocking ending.
The 2021 sequel picks up several decades after the original film and tells the story of Anthony McCoy who delves into the legend and the story of the Cabrini–Green houses, learning something about his family history that changes his life forever. There is a twist that makes perfect sense.
Poltergeist (1982)
Stream on HBO Max and Shudder
Redditor Nurokatt said of Poltergeist, "it has such mass appeal, but is also genuinely scary at times, because we're so invested in the characters and their safety."
Horror fans are familiar with the image of young Carol Anne Freeling staring at the TV screen and being pulled in. It's fun to watch Poltergeist since it has such an important place in the genre's history and tells an interesting story of a family in a home with evil spirits. It's the standard all ghost stories should be judged against.
Jennifer's Body (2009)
Stream on Peacock
A great movie about demonic possession, Jennifer's Body is a popular film that is just as much about the personal relationship between the two main characters as it is Jennifer Check being taken over by an evil demon.
Professional-Sun7537 said that horror fans should watch the movie once, writing that they appreciate "the exploration of sexuality and female friendship. Imo, a great movie in general, not JUST a great horror movie."
The Shining (1980)
Stream on HBO Max
Redditor Agonist85 suggested the Stephen King film "The Shining" as one that everyone should see, and for many fans of the genre, everything about it is solid, unforgettable, and praiseworthy.
There's the setting of the chilling hotel, the memorable characters from writer Jack Torrance to the strange twins, and the overall sense of unease that audiences feel when watching it.
Halloween (1978)
Stream on Shudder
For Redditor Libertyprime8397, everyone should see "Halloween (1978)," and chances are that several horror fans would agree with that.
Halloween's legacy is huge, with fans loving Jamie Lee Curtis's determined and intelligent character Laurie Strode and the storytelling style. So much of this film is about the slow music and the environment of October 31st in a small town. Given the popularity of the new trilogy, it's fun to go back to where Michael Myers started.
Jaws (1975)
Stream on Peacock
Redditor Cykonaut135 suggested Jaws, calling it "the original summer blockbuster" and one of the best movies about sharks. It's enjoyable going back and watching as many horror classics as possible.
The filmmaking style and sense of dread and tension is what makes Jaws so unique. The thought that the shark could be anywhere in the water is always with the audience, and this movie influenced so many others.
The Exorcist (1973)
Stream on Netflix
For Redditor WadeGarrett10, The Exorcist is a horror film that everyone should watch once and it's "A perfect horror movie. Intelligent, well-crafted and creepy." One Redditor added, "I always tell people if you're going to watch a horror movie, The Exorcist is the top of the pile."
Since there have been so many terrifying films focusing on demons, it's interesting watching The Exorcist both for the first time or even the tenth, as the story of Regan MacNeil's possession was a major influence on the genre.
The Cabin In The Woods (2012)
Rent on AppleTV
Redditor sugah560 said "The Cabin in the Woods" and Redditor grurul added, "I went in blind with Cabin in the Woods and it was such a great experience."
The terrifying monsters in The Cabin in the Woods are just one great part, and the way that the movie takes apart the horror genre, references many films, and discusses common tropes and cliches is why fans are still so impressed all of these years after its original release.
Mandy (2018)
Stream on Shudder
For Redditor c-nugs_in_the_caf, Mandy is a film that people definitely need to see. The fan wrote, "it's one of my absolute favorites. It's not a 'scary' movie, but definitely exists in the realm of horror without a doubt."
The film focuses on Red Miller and Mandy Bloom, a couple living in a rural area of California. When a cult takes Mandy and wants to perform a ritual, Red has to spring into action and try to save her. The movie is definitely different, unique, and creative and will stay with fans.