Is there anything greater than a movie that actually makes you empty your butt into your boxers from sheer terror? That’s right, no, there isn’t. Time to go and wipe!

Alien (1979)

Ridley Scott terrified us with a shadowy, acid-blooded monster that emblematically burst from John Hurt’s chest. Classic.

The Exorcist (1973)

Linda Blair creeping down the stairs backwards and upside down? Bloody scary and twisted.

The Silence of the Lambs (1991)

We’ve never been able to put on lotion the same way since Buffalo Bill. Also, how about a nice Chianti.

The Ring (2002)

I can’t look at any blank screen without thinking about Samara. Seven days… seven days. The original from Japan is arguably more terrifying, too.

Poltergeist (1982)

“They’re heeeeere.” Oh my sweet lord.

A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)

Great, now I’m never going to sleep again. Thanks, Wes Craven, and your sick brain. Sweet flick, though.

Carrie (1976)

Sissy Spacek covered in pig’s blood is not a sight we’ll soon forget. Hello, nightmares!

The Grudge (2004)

Based on the Japanese Ju-On franchise, this film features ghosts sans bottom jaws. creepy as all hell.

The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)

Thanks, Leatherface, for inspiring all the slasher antagonists who now haunt our fevered, bloody dreams.

The Shining (1980)

While not gory or outright terrifying, the performances, cinematography, and score really get under your skin and stay there to twist your tainted subconscious.