1. “The Shining”

The classic Stanley Kubrick film based on the Stephen King novel has become a staple in cinema as a whole, not just in the horror genre. Jack Nicholson and Shelley Duvall’s legendary performance creates an unmatched and uneasy atmosphere. “The Shining’s” greatness lies in its innovation in psychological horror. The film leaves the audience with more questions than answers, and is debatably the best horror film of all time. 

2. “The Blair Witch Project” 

For an independent film, the quality and innovation in “The Blair Witch Project” doesn’t go unnoticed by viewers. The ‘found footage’ style of horror was something the mainstream moviegoers had never seen before. Another aspect of “Blair Witch” was its marketing. The creators used the Internet to spread missing person posters, and they convinced the public that this was a real documentary. This is a must see film for movie enthusiasts.

3. “Halloween”

Probably the most iconic horror movie of all time. The 1978 “Halloween” follows Michael Myers, a serial killer who broke out of a mental institution where he was held. His iconic mask and quiet presence puts this film in a very high ranking for most people. The movie has expanded into a mega franchise with over 13 feature length movies, novels, video games, toys, etc. This abundance of media leaves a no brainer for this list.