The Ultimate List of the Best Horror Films of All Time

Description: Alfred Hitchcock's masterpiece redefined horror with its shocking plot twists and the iconic shower scene. "Psycho" explores the psyche of a disturbed motel owner, Norman Bates, and the terror he inflicts on his guests.

Fact: The film was shot with a low budget, and Hitchcock bought up copies of the novel to keep the ending a secret.

Description: Often hailed as the scariest film ever made, "The Exorcist" delves into the demonic possession of a young girl and the subsequent exorcism. Its realistic portrayal of evil and psychological horror has left an indelible mark on the genre.

Fact: The film was nominated for 10 Academy Awards, winning two. It was also the first horror film to be nominated for Best Picture.

Description: Tobe Hooper's film about a group of friends encountering a family of cannibals, including the chainsaw-wielding Leatherface, is known for its gritty realism and raw terror.

Fact: Despite its title, the film has very little actual gore, relying instead on suggestion and sound design for its horror.

Description: John Carpenter's "Halloween" introduced the world to Michael Myers, the silent, masked killer. Its minimalist approach to horror, focusing on suspense and atmosphere, has made it a genre-defining slasher film.

Fact: The film was shot in just 20 days, and the budget was so tight that they used a real pumpkin for the iconic jack-o'-lantern.

Description: Stanley Kubrick's adaptation of Stephen King's novel about a writer, his family, and their stay at the haunted Overlook Hotel. The film's eerie atmosphere and Jack Nicholson's unforgettable performance make it a horror staple.

Fact: Kubrick had the set of the Overlook Hotel built at Elstree Studios in England, and it was so large that it took up most of the studio space.

Description: Wes Craven's creation of Freddy Krueger, who terrorizes teenagers in their dreams, brought a new level of psychological horror to the screen. Its blend of surrealism and terror has made it a horror classic.

Fact: The film was inspired by real-life events where people died in their sleep from unexplained causes.

Description: This British horror film follows a group of women on a caving expedition who encounter terrifying creatures in the cave system. Its claustrophobic setting and relentless tension make it a modern horror classic.

Fact: The film was shot in real caves in Scotland, adding to the authenticity of the setting.

Description: Set in 1630s New England, "The Witch" examines the disintegration of a Puritan family due to supernatural forces. Its historical accuracy and atmospheric dread make it stand out.

Fact: The film uses authentic dialogue from the period, making it linguistically accurate to the time.

Description: Jordan Peele's directorial debut combines social commentary with horror, telling the story of a young African-American man who uncovers a sinister plot at his white girlfriend's family estate.

Fact: The film was made on a relatively low budget but grossed over $250 million worldwide.

Description: Ari Aster's debut feature film explores familial grief and the supernatural, delivering a slow-burn horror experience that culminates in shocking and unforgettable scenes.

Fact: The film was shot in just 32 days, and the house used as the main setting was actually built for the movie.