Halloween Movie Marathon: AP's Take on 10 Iconic Horror Films

As Halloween approaches, it's an ideal time to revisit classic horror films. Here are 10 iconic movies from the past 70 years, along with insights from AP writers about their initial releases.

Iconic Horror Films

Rear Window

Alfred Hitchcock's "Rear Window" features a protagonist who observes a possible murder from his apartment, showcasing the voyeuristic nature of human curiosity. It's praised for its engaging performances, especially from James Stewart and Grace Kelly.

Halloween

Jamie Lee Curtis stars in "Halloween," a film about a madman returning home to stalk his sister's friends after escaping from an asylum. This horror classic set the stage for the slasher genre.

The Silence of the Lambs

Jonathan Demme's "The Silence of the Lambs" is relentless in its suspense, featuring notable performances by Jodie Foster and Anthony Hopkins as they navigate a chilling narrative of serial killers.

Scream

"Scream," written by David Williamson, cleverly critiques the horror genre while delivering scares and laughs as high school students face a killer mimicking iconic film tropes.

The Blair Witch Project

This film presents a haunting narrative around student filmmakers lost in the woods, skillfully blending reality with fiction, creating an immersive horror experience.

Saw

"Saw" presents a poorly executed plot with minimal scares, receiving harsh criticism for its lack of storytelling and effective horror elements.

Paranormal Activity

The film explores the terrifying events experienced by a couple in their home, proving that simplicity can be more effective than intricate plots.

The Conjuring

Starring Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson, "The Conjuring" captures old-fashioned horror with well-developed characters and a nod to classic haunted house tales.

Get Out

Jordan Peele's "Get Out," a critique of racism masked in a horror narrative, flips genre tropes on their head, showcasing a fresh perspective on societal issues.

Hereditary

Ari Aster’s "Hereditary" is a bone-chilling exploration of family trauma, consistently leaving viewers on the edge of their seats with its disturbing narrative.

For more in-depth reviews, visit the AP News Halloween hub.