With Halloween just around the corner, Kevin Bacon—an iconic actor who has made his mark in both horror and mainstream cinema—has shared his personal list of favorite horror movies. Known for his roles in classics like “Friday the 13th” and “Stir of Echoes”, Bacon has a deep appreciation for the genre, often citing its ability to evoke visceral emotions and explore the darker corners of the human psyche. This Halloween, he offers fans a peek into his must-watch list of horror films, filled with everything from classic chillers to modern-day thrillers.

Whether you’re a longtime horror aficionado or a curious newcomer, Bacon’s list is sure to include some films that will send shivers down your spine and keep you on the edge of your seat. Here’s a breakdown of the movies that made it to Kevin Bacon’s top 20 favorite horror films for Halloween.

The Exorcist (1973)
Widely considered one of the scariest movies of all time, “The Exorcist” set the gold standard for supernatural horror. The story of a young girl possessed by a demonic entity and the desperate attempt by two priests to save her remains as terrifying today as it was upon its release.

Psycho (1960)
Alfred Hitchcock’s masterpiece “Psycho” redefined the psychological thriller genre. Its shocking twists, memorable score, and disturbing exploration of identity and madness make it an enduring classic that’s perfect for Halloween viewing.

The Shining (1980)
Directed by Stanley Kubrick and based on Stephen King’s novel, “The Shining” is a slow-burn horror film that delves into the isolation and insanity experienced by the Torrance family in a remote, haunted hotel. Jack Nicholson’s performance as Jack Torrance is chilling and unforgettable.

Halloween (1978)
John Carpenter’s “Halloween” introduced the world to Michael Myers, the relentless and emotionless killer. With its eerie soundtrack and tension-filled sequences, it remains a quintessential slasher film that has spawned countless sequels and imitators.

Hereditary (2018)
A modern horror masterpiece, “Hereditary” follows a family plagued by unsettling and terrifying events after the death of their secretive grandmother. The film’s disturbing imagery and harrowing performances make it a standout in contemporary horror.

A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
Wes Craven’s “A Nightmare on Elm Street” brought Freddy Krueger—a razor-gloved killer who haunts and kills his victims in their dreams—to life. The film’s surreal and nightmarish visuals still pack a punch decades later.

Rosemary’s Baby (1968)
Roman Polanski’s “Rosemary’s Baby” is a slow-building psychological horror about a young woman who becomes increasingly paranoid about her pregnancy and the intentions of those around her. The film’s climax is both shocking and deeply unsettling.

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974)
“The Texas Chain Saw Massacre” is a gritty, unrelenting horror film that shocked audiences with its raw portrayal of terror. Leatherface and his deranged family have become iconic figures in horror history.

Get Out (2017)
Jordan Peele’s “Get Out” is a modern social thriller that blends horror with biting commentary on race relations. Its unique premise and smart storytelling earned it critical acclaim and solidified Peele as a force in the horror genre.

The Babadook (2014)
This Australian horror film explores grief and motherhood through the story of a widowed mother and her troubled son who are terrorized by a sinister entity from a mysterious children’s book. “The Babadook” is haunting and emotionally resonant.

The Conjuring (2013)
James Wan’s “The Conjuring” reinvigorated the supernatural horror genre with its story of paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren and their encounter with a malevolent spirit. Its chilling atmosphere and effective scares make it a modern classic.

Jaws (1975)
Steven Spielberg’s “Jaws” may be known as a thriller, but its impact as a horror film cannot be overstated. The suspenseful build-up and the terror of the unseen shark have left generations of moviegoers afraid to go in the water.

The Silence of the Lambs (1991)
While not a traditional horror film, “The Silence of the Lambs” masterfully blends elements of horror and psychological suspense. Anthony Hopkins’ portrayal of Hannibal Lecter is both terrifying and mesmerizing.

It Follows (2014)
David Robert Mitchell’s “It Follows” presents a unique horror premise: a supernatural entity that relentlessly pursues its target, moving slowly but unstoppably. The film’s minimalist style and eerie atmosphere have made it a cult favorite.

Carrie (1976)

Based on Stephen King’s novel, “Carrie” tells the story of a bullied high school girl with telekinetic powers who exacts revenge on her tormentors. Sissy Spacek’s performance and the film’s iconic prom scene make it a standout.

The Witch (2015)
Robert Eggers’ “The Witch” is a period horror film set in 1630s New England. Its slow-burn pacing, historical authenticity, and unsettling atmosphere create a chilling tale of paranoia, family, and supernatural forces.

The Blair Witch Project (1999)
One of the most influential found-footage horror films, *The Blair Witch Project* effectively used its low-budget aesthetic and ambiguity to create a sense of unease and terror. Its impact on the genre is undeniable.

The Thing (1982)
John Carpenter’s “The Thing” is a masterclass in sci-fi horror. The story of a shape-shifting alien terrorizing an isolated research team in Antarctica is bolstered by groundbreaking practical effects and an atmosphere of paranoia and distrust.

Midsommar (2019)
Ari Aster’s “Midsommar” explores grief, relationships, and cult rituals in a horror film set almost entirely in daylight. Its bright, pastoral setting contrasts sharply with the dark themes and violent events that unfold.

The Fly (1986)
David Cronenberg’s “The Fly” is a grotesque yet tragic tale of a scientist whose experiment with teleportation goes horribly wrong. Jeff Goldblum’s transformation is both horrifying and poignant, making “The Fly” a unique entry in body horror.

Impression

Kevin Bacon’s top 20 horror movie recommendations reflect his appreciation for both the classics and modern masterpieces of the genre. Whether it’s psychological horror, supernatural thrills, or blood-soaked slasher flicks, this list offers a perfect lineup for anyone looking to get into the Halloween spirit. With each film bringing its own unique brand of terror and suspense, there’s something for every horror fan to enjoy this Halloween season. So grab some popcorn, dim the lights, and prepare yourself for a spine-tingling movie marathon, courtesy of Kevin Bacon.

No comments yet.