Horror movies have been captivating audiences for decades, delivering spine-chilling thrills and leaving us on the edge of our seats. From classics to modern masterpieces, the horror genre has given us some of the most memorable and terrifying films of all time. In this article, we will explore the top 10 most popular horror movies in the world, diving into their cast, duration, budget, profit, IMDb rating, and providing a summary with a full explanation.
1. The Exorcist (1973)
Cast: Linda Blair, Ellen Burstyn, Max von Sydow
Duration: 2h 2min
Budget: $12 million
Profit: $441.3 million
IMDb Rating: 8.0/10
Summary: Regarded as one of the scariest movies of all time, “The Exorcist” follows the story of a young girl possessed by a demonic entity. The film explores themes of faith and the battle between good and evil, leaving audiences terrified and fascinated.
2. Psycho (1960)
Cast: Anthony Perkins, Janet Leigh, Vera Miles
Duration: 1h 49min
Budget: $806,947
Profit: $50 million
IMDb Rating: 8.5/10
Summary: Directed by Alfred Hitchcock, “Psycho” is a psychological horror film that introduces us to the iconic character Norman Bates. The movie takes us on a suspenseful journey filled with twists and turns, forever changing the landscape of horror cinema.
3. Halloween (1978)
Cast: Donald Pleasence, Jamie Lee Curtis, Tony Moran
Duration: 1h 31min
Budget: $325,000
Profit: $70 million
IMDb Rating: 7.8/10
Summary: This slasher film directed by John Carpenter introduced the world to the infamous masked killer, Michael Myers. “Halloween” became a franchise and a staple of the horror genre, setting the standard for future slasher films.
4. The Shining (1980)
Cast: Jack Nicholson, Shelley Duvall, Danny Lloyd
Duration: 2h 26min
Budget: $19 million
Profit: $47.3 million
IMDb Rating: 8.4/10
Summary: Based on Stephen King’s novel, “The Shining” tells the story of a writer who becomes the winter caretaker of an isolated hotel. As supernatural events unfold, the film delves into themes of madness and isolation, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.
5. A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
Cast: Heather Langenkamp, Johnny Depp, Robert Englund
Duration: 1h 31min
Budget: $1.8 million
Profit: $57 million
IMDb Rating: 7.5/10
Summary: This Wes Craven classic introduces us to Freddy Krueger, a disfigured serial killer who terrorizes teenagers in their dreams. “A Nightmare on Elm Street” combines elements of horror and fantasy, creating an unforgettable and iconic villain.
6. The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974)
Cast: Marilyn Burns, Edwin Neal, Allen Danziger
Duration: 1h 23min
Budget: $140,000
Profit: $30.9 million
IMDb Rating: 7.5/10
Summary: This low-budget horror film directed by Tobe Hooper follows a group of friends who encounter a family of cannibals in rural Texas. “The Texas Chain Saw Massacre” is known for its gritty and intense atmosphere, establishing itself as a cult classic.
7. The Conjuring (2013)
Cast: Vera Farmiga, Patrick Wilson, Lili Taylor
Duration: 1h 52min
Budget: $20 million
Profit: $319.5 million
IMDb Rating: 7.5/10
Summary: Inspired by true events, “The Conjuring” follows paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren as they help a family plagued by a dark presence in their farmhouse. This supernatural horror film spawned a successful franchise and introduced audiences to the terrifying Annabelle doll.
8. Get Out (2017)
Cast: Daniel Kaluuya, Allison Williams, Bradley Whitford
Duration: 1h 44min
Budget: $4.5 million
Profit: $255.4 million
IMDb Rating: 7.7/10
Summary: Jordan Peele’s directorial debut, “Get Out,” tackles racial tensions through the lens of a horror film. The movie follows a young African-American man who uncovers a disturbing secret while visiting his white girlfriend’s family. It blends social commentary with psychological horror, earning critical acclaim and multiple awards.
9. It (2017)
Cast: Bill Skarsgård, Jaeden Martell, Finn Wolfhard
Duration: 2h 15min
Budget: $35 million
Profit: $701.8 million
IMDb Rating: 7.3/10
Summary: Based on Stephen King’s novel, “It” brings the terrifying Pennywise the Dancing Clown to life. Set in the town of Derry, the film follows a group of kids known as the Losers’ Club as they face their worst fears and battle an ancient evil.
10.The Babadook
Cast: Essie Davis, Noah Wiseman, Daniel Henshall
Duration: 1h 33min
Budget: $2 million
Profit: $10.4 million
IMDb Rating: 6.8/10
Summary: “The Babadook” is an Australian psychological horror film that explores themes of grief and motherhood. When a sinister creature from a children’s book starts haunting a widow and her son, their lives take a dark and terrifying turn.
Conclusion
These top 10 horror movies have left an indelible mark on the genre, scaring audiences and becoming cultural phenomena. From supernatural entities to deranged killers, these films have pushed the boundaries of fear and storytelling. Whether you’re a horror enthusiast or looking to experience the thrill of a good scare, these movies are a must-watch for any fan of the genre.
