Alright, let’s have a chat. Say that you’re on a date, hanging out with friends, or maybe you’re just on your own, and the desire to watch a horror movie arises. You might be scared at first because you’ve never watched a horror movie before, and you don’t know how you’ll react to them. Are they all as terrifying as Midsommar and Hereditary seem to be? Rest assured, that’s not the case at all, and there’s a whole world of thrilling, chilling, and even hilarious horror waiting for you!
Starting out in the vast and sometimes overwhelming world of horror can be a little daunting, we totally get it. Ever since the first horror movie ever made, *The House of the Devil* (1896), the genre has grown into a branching tree that covers a diverse variety of subgenres. You’ll find everything from monster movies and supernatural thrillers to slasher flicks, each with its own flavor of fear. Some are renowned for their violence and gore, while others gained popularity because of the psychological distress they caused viewers.
But just because you’re interested in one doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll love all the others. Today, we’re here to review several great picks for horror movies for beginners, whether you want something with a little less horror or maybe a little more. Rather than watch the same 10 scary movies everyone’s always talking about, here’s a comprehensive list for the movie fan ready to take a real dive into the vast genre that is horror. Let’s get into the first seven picks that are perfect for dipping your toes into the spooky side!
1. **Beetlejuice (1988)**
If you’re looking for probably the best entrance into horror, then buckle up for *Beetlejuice*. With *Beetlejuice Beetlejuice* releasing, it’s the perfect time to watch the original film, a true masterpiece of gothic comedy from the legendary Tim Burton. This movie perfectly blends spooky aesthetics with laugh-out-loud moments, making it an ideal starting point for anyone new to the genre who wants to ease in without jumping straight into nightmare fuel.
The film stars Michael Keaton as the titular character, a “bio-exorcist” who is contacted by two recently deceased ghosts. These spectral newlyweds are trying to get the new, living humans to leave their beloved home. However, Beetlejuice is far from your average ghost-remover, and he definitely has tricks up his sleeves that are both hilarious and delightfully macabre.
What makes *Beetlejuice* so perfect for horror beginners is that it’s way more funny than scary. While it certainly has enough creepy moments to dip your toes in horror, the overarching tone is lighthearted and comedic. The scares are mostly visual gags and quirky character designs rather than intense gore or jump scares, offering a gentle introduction to supernatural themes and eerie environments.
It’s a fantastic example of how horror can be entertaining and visually inventive without relying on terror to carry the plot. The iconic performances, unique visual style, and memorable music create an experience that’s spooky enough to feel like horror, but comforting enough to be enjoyed by nearly anyone. Plus, it’s a pop culture staple for a reason!
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2. **Psycho (1960)**
Okay, we absolutely have to put *Psycho* on this list! Directed by Hollywood legend Alfred Hitchcock, this 1960s masterpiece isn’t just a classic horror movie; it’s considered one of the original slasher films and one of the greatest films of all time. It’s an essential watch for any film enthusiast, and especially for those new to horror, precisely because of its masterful build of suspense over shock.
*Psycho* is based on the novel of the same name and follows the story of a young secretary, Marion Crane, played by Janet Leigh. After embezzling $40,000, she goes on the run and finds herself at the secluded Bates Motel, where she bonds with the motel’s shy proprietor, Norman Bates. However, one fateful interaction and Marion’s mysterious disappearance change everything, drawing an investigator into the strange life at the motel.
One of the most remarkable aspects of *Psycho* for beginner horror fans is that it’s black and white and famously has no gore. While it was once considered unwatchable for its daring themes, it primarily builds fright through psychological tension and brilliant storytelling. Hitchcock famously issued a “no late admission” policy for the film, emphasizing its immersive and uninterrupted experience.
This film set a new standard of acceptability for violence and sexuality in American films, proving that true horror could be achieved through atmosphere, character, and psychological thrills rather than explicit visuals. It’s a foundational piece that teaches you how effective suggestion and suspense can be, making it a truly great horror movie to start on. Trust us on this one; it’s an education in terror without the blood and guts.
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3. **Jaws (1975)**
Will you be scared of sharks a little after watching *Jaws*? Sure, maybe a bit, but this film is iconic for a reason, and it’s surprisingly good for beginners. In fact, it’s often joked that it is the easiest horror movie to survive: just stay out of the water! Directed by the incomparable Steven Spielberg, *Jaws* cemented itself as the king of beach-day-gone-wrong horror flicks and remains a masterclass in suspense.
This Spielberg classic stars Roy Scheider, Richard Dreyfuss, and Robert Shaw as a police chief, a marine biologist, and a professional shark hunter, respectively. They band together to take down a monstrous, man-eating great white shark that’s terrorizing their island community. The film’s tension is palpable, often built on what you *don’t* see, rather than what you do, proving that imagination can be far scarier than any on-screen monster.
While some viewers exhibited extreme psychological distress after viewing, similar to the cinematic neurosis caused by *The Exorcist*, *Jaws* still received highly positive views for its artistry. Celebrated critic Roger Ebert called it “a scary thriller that works all the better because it’s populated with characters that have been developed into human beings,” highlighting its strong character development alongside its terrifying premise.
The iconic score, which instantly conjures images of a lurking menace beneath the waves, is as legendary as the film itself. *Jaws* is a perfect introduction to creature features and suspense-driven horror because it creates genuine terror through pacing and character, rather than relying on gore. It’s a classic for a reason, and a thrilling ride that will keep you on the edge of your seat without making you want to hide under the blanket.
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4. **Halloween (1978)**
When we talk about classic horror movie villains, you truly can’t get more iconic than Michael Myers. The original *Halloween*, released back in 1978, is a cornerstone of the slasher genre and an excellent pick for anyone new to horror. It shows you how a relentless killer and sheer suspense can be far more terrifying than buckets of blood.
The film tells the gripping story of a young woman, Laurie Strode, acting as a babysitter on the night of Halloween. Her seemingly ordinary evening turns into a nightmare as she has to survive the wrath of Michael Myers, an escaped killer from a mental facility. Jamie Lee Curtis made her unforgettable film debut here, establishing Laurie Strode as one of the most famous and influential “final girls” in horror history.
Crucially for beginners, *Halloween* isn’t gorey. Instead, it meticulously builds fright through its excellent music, masterful suspense, and the sheer presence of its unforgettable villain. Out of all the *Halloween* movies, this one is still widely considered the best, a testament to its timeless ability to generate chills without explicit violence.
This indie slasher film was one of the earlier works inspired by Hitchcock’s *Psycho*, demonstrating how effective minimalist horror could be. Despite its initially tepid early reviews, it went on to become one of the most profitable independent films of all time and spawned seven sequels, a book, and a video game. Its legacy is undeniable, offering a potent blend of tension and a truly terrifying antagonist that’s perfectly suited for new horror fans.
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5. **Poltergeist (1982)***
*Poltergeist* is a classic horror movie from the 1980s that comes with a fantastic pedigree: it was co-written by none other than Steven Spielberg and directed by Tobe Hooper, the visionary behind *The Texas Chainsaw Massacre*. Despite that lineage, it offers a surprisingly gentle entry into the supernatural horror genre, proving that not all scares need to be overtly terrifying to be effective.
The film follows a suburban family who finds their home infiltrated by vengeful spirits. Their world is turned upside down when these malevolent entities go so far as to abduct their young daughter, forcing the family to find a way to save her. The story taps into primal fears about the sanctity of home and family, delivering a potent emotional punch.
What makes *Poltergeist* particularly suitable for horror newbies is its approach to fright. Out of most horror movies, this one is very light on the jumpscares, mainly building its suspense through atmosphere and unsettling phenomena, mixed in with some pretty okay-ish CGI for its time. It’s more about the creeping dread and the unsettling feeling of the unknown, rather than sudden shocks.
Interestingly, *Poltergeist* had a journey through the MPAA, originally rated R, then re-rated to PG-13 in 1984, and eventually to PG after the fact, highlighting its accessibility. It was the highest-grossing horror movie of 1982 and is still lauded as one of the best films ever made. It’s a testament to effective storytelling and character development, offering a deeply engaging and classic supernatural horror experience without pushing beginners too far.
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6. **The Sixth Sense (1999)**
M. Night Shyamalan’s best movies often involve some horror, and *The Sixth Sense* absolutely follows that pattern. This supernatural psychological thriller is known best for its renowned plot twist, a classic Shyamalan signature that makes this movie all the better. For beginners, it’s a brilliant choice because it’s not scary, per se – just exciting.
The film mainly focuses on a child psychologist, played by Bruce Willis, who is working with a patient named Cole Sear, portrayed by Haley Joel Osment. Cole possesses an extraordinary and unsettling ability: he can see dead people. Toni Collette also stars, bringing depth to the emotional core of the film as Cole’s mother.
What truly elevates *The Sixth Sense* for a new horror viewer is its focus on psychological tension and emotional depth rather than overt gore or jump scares. The horror elements stem from the unsettling reality of Cole’s visions and the profound sadness that often accompanies them. The film expertly crafts a pervasive sense of unease and mystery that keeps you utterly captivated.
This movie was met with overwhelmingly positive reviews and garnered nominations at prestigious events like the Academy Awards and the Golden Globes. It also created one of the most well-known catchphrases to ever come from a movie: “I see dead people.” *The Sixth Sense* established Shyamalan as a filmmaker to be reckoned with in Hollywood, delivering a compelling narrative that prioritizes story and character, making it a thrilling yet approachable introduction to the genre.
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7. **Gremlins (1984)**
If you’re ready for a delightful blend of comedy and creature feature, then *Gremlins* is an absolute must-watch. This iconic comedy horror film feels like one that everyone has seen at least once, and it’s an excellent, lighthearted introduction to the more monstrous side of the genre. It promises chuckles alongside its chills, making for a truly enjoyable experience.
The film follows the story of a man who receives a strange, adorable creature called a mogwai as a pet. At first, it seems like a perfectly charming companion. However, there are three crucial rules to owning a mogwai: don’t expose it to bright lights, don’t get it wet, and most importantly, never, ever feed it after midnight. As you might guess, these rules are inevitably broken.
Once the mogwai gets fed past midnight, it undergoes a grotesque transformation, multiplying and turning into chaotic, mischievous monsters that wreak absolute havoc on the town. The transformation sequences and the ensuing mayhem are iconic, offering a fun and inventive take on creature design and practical effects.
For first-time horror viewers, the best part is that the movie isn’t scary in a terrifying way. Instead, it has some incredibly good makeup and animatronics for its era, and you’ll find yourself laughing a lot more than screaming at the antics of these tiny, destructive creatures. *Gremlins* perfectly balances its spooky premise with a huge dose of humor, making it an engaging and genuinely fun way to dip your toes into the horror genre without being overwhelmed.
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8. **Night Of The Living Dead (1968)**
Alright, if you’re ready to truly appreciate where the zombie phenomenon began, you absolutely have to experience *Night of the Living Dead*. This classic horror film from the 1960s, directed by the legendary George A. Romero, isn’t just a movie; it essentially created the zombie genre as a whole. It set the stage for countless films, shows, and games that followed, proving you don’t need lightning-fast ghouls to be absolutely terrifying.
The film plunges you into a harrowing scenario where a group of survivors in Pennsylvania must try to survive when they are all attacked by corpses that have come back to life. They barricade themselves in an isolated farmhouse, desperately fighting for survival against the relentless undead horde outside. The claustrophobic setting and mounting tension make for a truly immersive experience that keeps you glued to the screen.
What makes *Night of the Living Dead* such a compelling watch for emerging horror fans is its incredible storytelling and atmospheric dread, rather than relying on jump scares or explicit gore. Sure, the movie features the slowest zombies ever, but their relentless, unstoppable nature is powerfully told. It’s a masterclass in building tension through sheer presence and bleak realism, making every shadow and creak feel deeply unsettling.
Beyond its foundational impact, this black and white masterpiece uses its stark visual style to amplify the chilling atmosphere. It’s a landmark film that doesn’t just scare you; it makes you think about survival and human nature. Get ready to witness the birth of a genre and prepare for some serious chills!
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9. **Alien (1979)**
Ready for a trip to space where things go spectacularly wrong? Then buckle up for *Alien*, a movie that many consider the original sci-fi horror masterpiece. Directed by the visionary Ridley Scott, this film isn’t just about a monster; it’s a claustrophobic, suspenseful ride that redefined what sci-fi horror could be, proving that terror can thrive in the cold vacuum of space.
The movie follows the space crew of the commercial towing spaceship Nostromo. After receiving an unknown transmission, they make their way to a desolate planet where they encounter a deadly extraterrestrial life form. This terrifying creature eventually makes its way into their vessel, forcing the crew to fight for their lives against an enemy that is both intelligent and incredibly dangerous, all while trapped light-years from home.
For those just getting their feet wet in horror, you might be surprised to hear that the aliens themselves aren’t always seen as ‘too creepy’ in the traditional sense. The true horror in *Alien* stems from the relentless suspense and the feeling of being hunted in an enclosed space where there’s no escape. The iconic chestburster scene isn’t as gratuitous as you might imagine, with its power coming more from shock than gore.
*Alien* was a box office success and received recognition from the Academy Awards, Golden Globes, and Grammy Awards. Sigourney Weaver’s iconic portrayal of Ellen Ripley broke new ground, and the film’s blend of science fiction and horror is a powerful lesson in how to build tension and fear through atmosphere and character. It’s an essential watch for any emerging horror fan.
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10. **The Shining (1980)**
If you’re looking for a psychological deep dive that will stay with you long after the credits roll, then prepare to check into the Overlook Hotel with *The Shining*. This absolute classic, based on the Stephen King novel and directed by the legendary Stanley Kubrick, is a masterclass in psychological horror. It’s not about jump scares; it’s about a slow burn into madness that will enthrall you.
The film stars Jack Nicholson as Jack Torrance, an aspiring writer and recovering alcoholic who takes on the position of off-season caretaker at the historic Overlook Hotel. He brings his wife, Wendy (Shelley Duvall), and their son, Danny, with him for the winter. But the hotel, with its horrific past and sinister presence, begins to exert a terrible influence, rapidly deteriorating Jack’s mental state.
What makes *The Shining* so brilliant for emerging fans is how it builds dread through pure atmosphere and character study rather than relying on gore or cheap frights. The movie is primarily built on suspense and doesn’t really have many overtly gory or scary moments. It’s a greatly shot film that masterfully creates a pervasive sense of unease, captivating you with its descent into madness, haunting visuals, and unsettling score.
This iconic film is considered one of the best Stephen King adaptations and one of the greatest films ever made. Its unforgettable imagery and performances, including Shelley Duvall’s intense portrayal of Wendy, make it a truly foundational experience for your horror journey. *The Shining* will challenge you and leave you pondering its mysteries, showing the profound impact of psychological terror.
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11. **Friday The 13th (1980)**
Okay, now let’s talk about a film that truly helped define the slasher genre, even if it’s not the first one people always think of for a beginner-friendly list. We’re diving into *Friday the 13th*! While the sequels got pretty wild, the first movie isn’t even that bad, offering a fantastic glimpse into the origins of summer camp terror. It’s a rite of passage for any horror fan, and surprisingly approachable for newbies!
The film focuses on a group of teenage counselors trying to reopen Camp Crystal Lake for the summer, years after a tragedy occurred there. Of course, their plans for a fun-filled season are quickly thwarted when they become the targets of a mysterious serial killer, who stalks and murders them one by one. It’s a classic setup that’s been emulated countless times, and for good reason—it’s effective and thrilling!
Crucially for those dipping their toes into the slasher pool, while there are undoubtedly some messier scenes, it’s not that bad in terms of extreme gore, especially compared to its more intense successors. The movie builds its frights through suspense and the mystery of the killer’s identity, keeping you on the edge of your seat. Plus, it has some great music that ratchets up the tension and is instantly recognizable for horror aficionados.
*Friday the 13th* was a box office success, leading to a long string of sequels and even a crossover with the *Nightmare on Elm Street* movies. It’s a hugely influential piece of horror history, and a fun, suspenseful watch that will introduce you to a beloved subgenre without overwhelming you. Get ready for some classic cabin-in-the-woods thrills!
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12. **The Ring (2002)**
Ever heard the ominous phrase “Seven days?” Well, you’re about to find out exactly where that chilling warning comes from, because it’s time to talk about *The Ring*! This chilling supernatural horror film became a massive cultural phenomenon, proving that psychological terror can be just as impactful as any physical threat. It’s a modern classic that everyone needs to know.
The movie follows Rachel Keller, a journalist played by Naomi Watts, who finds herself investigating a mysterious urban legend: a cursed videotape. The chilling premise is that anyone who watches this tape receives a phone call immediately after, informing them that they will die in seven days. When her niece dies exactly seven days after watching it, Rachel must race against time to unravel the tape’s secrets and find a way to survive.
For emerging horror fans, *The Ring* is a fantastic choice because while the ghostly girl, Samara, can certainly be a little creepy, truthfully, the movie isn’t that bad in terms of overwhelming scares. Its power lies in the pervasive sense of dread, the unsettling imagery, and the ticking clock of the curse, rather than relying on excessive gore or sudden frights. It’s a masterclass in building psychological tension that will get under your skin in the best way.
*The Ring* was a huge commercial success, becoming one of the highest-grossing horror remakes, cementing its place as a modern classic. It introduced a whole generation to a new kind of supernatural horror, proving that a compelling mystery and a truly unsettling premise can be far more effective than overt violence. Get ready for a week of suspense and a truly memorable cinematic experience!
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13. **Get Out (2017)**
If you’re looking for something that’s not just scary but also incredibly smart and thought-provoking, then you absolutely need to see *Get Out*. Jordan Peele’s directorial debut was a huge hit for a reason, blending psychological horror with sharp social commentary in a way that truly redefined the genre. It’s a modern classic that everyone needs to experience!
The movie follows Chris, a young Black man, who travels with his Caucasian girlfriend, Rose, to her family’s remote estate for the first time. What starts as an awkward but seemingly normal weekend quickly descends into a chilling nightmare as Chris uncovers much darker and more sinister secrets than he could have ever imagined. The story is a masterful slow-burn that ratchets up the tension with every passing moment.
Crucially for horror newbies, *Get Out* has barely any gore, making it incredibly accessible for those who shy away from explicit violence. All the horror in this film is in the storytelling and how truly evil humans can be, tapping into deep-seated anxieties and fears with incredible precision. It’s a brilliant example of how atmosphere, brilliant writing, and powerful performances can create profound terror without needing buckets of blood.
*Get Out* was met with overwhelming critical acclaim, garnering nominations at prestigious events like the Academy Awards and the Golden Globes, and ultimately winning an Oscar for Best Original Screenplay. It’s a landmark film that cemented Jordan Peele as a filmmaker to be reckoned with, delivering a compelling narrative that prioritizes story and character while delivering a unique and deeply unsettling experience.
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14. **Scream (1996)**
Alright, for our final pick, let’s wrap things up with a movie that’s practically a love letter to the horror genre itself: *Scream*! This iconic film is the first in the hugely successful *Scream* franchise, and honestly, I stand by it – this film isn’t scary in the way you might expect. Instead, it’s a brilliant, self-aware ride that’s perfect for emerging horror fans who want to understand the genre’s tropes while still getting a good thrill.
The movie follows Sidney Prescott as she tries to avoid getting killed by Ghostface, a mysterious serial killer terrorizing her town. But here’s the twist: Ghostface is obsessed with horror movies, and uses the rules and clichés of slasher films to play a deadly game with Sidney and her friends. It’s a clever, meta-narrative that keeps you guessing and thoroughly entertained from start to finish.
What makes *Scream* so fantastic for dipping further into horror is that it’s a total ‘trope city.’ It playfully dissects all the classic horror movie conventions, making it an educational and humorous experience. While there are undoubtedly bloody moments – because, well, it’s a slasher! – they are not enough to truly scare you in an overwhelming way. Instead, you’ll find yourself appreciating the cleverness and the homage to horror history.
The iconic black and white mask of Ghostface is instantly recognizable, and the film is jam-packed with well-known names. *Scream* redefined the slasher genre for a new generation, proving that horror could be both terrifying and incredibly smart. It’s a fantastic film that encourages you to think about the genre while delivering an exciting, suspenseful, and surprisingly fun experience.
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So, there you have it, future horror aficionados! From foundational classics that birthed entire subgenres to modern psychological thrillers that mess with your mind, this list is your ultimate guide to navigating the vast and thrilling world of horror. Whether you prefer your scares with a side of laughter, a heavy dose of suspense, or a twist that leaves you speechless, there’s a perfect pick waiting for you. Dive in, explore, and remember: the best way to conquer your fears is to face them, one fantastic movie at a time! Happy watching, and don’t forget to tell us your favorite new discoveries!
