As it’s end-October, the vibes are getting a whole lot spookier with Halloween just four days away. There’s no better time than this to gear up for a horror movie marathon. We’ve curated a list of scary movies you can watch this spooky holiday season when you’re not out trick-or-treating.

Hereditary

Hereditary (2018) is a slow-burning horror film that follows the Graham family as they grapple with the death of their matriarch and the dark secrets she left behind. Toni Collette gives a tour-de-force performance as Annie Graham, a grieving mother whose mental state unravels as she becomes increasingly obsessed with her daughter’s death.

Writer-director Ari Aster creates a masterclass in dread and suspense, with a film that is both emotionally devastating and psychologically terrifying. The atmosphere is oppressive and unsettling, and the film’s imagery is truly haunting. Hereditary is not for the faint of heart, but it is a must-see for fans of horror cinema.

The Pope’s Exorcist

Russell Crowe stars in this supernatural horror film based on the true story of Father Gabriele Amorth, the Vatican’s chief exorcist for over 30 years. Amorth called to investigate the possession of a young boy, but soon finds himself uncovering a centuries-old conspiracy that threatens the very foundations of the Catholic Church.

Crowe is excellent as Amorth, bringing a gruff intensity and wry humor to the role. The supporting cast is also strong, including Daniel Zovatto as Amorth’s young protégé and Alex Essoe as the widowed mother of the possessed boy. Director Julius Avery creates a suitably atmospheric and suspenseful film, with some genuinely disturbing imagery. However, the film’s pacing can be a bit uneven, and the plot becomes increasingly convoluted in the third act.

Overall, The Pope’s Exorcist is a solid supernatural horror film with a good performance from Crowe. However, it’s ultimately let down by a somewhat predictable and convoluted plot.

Midsommar

Midsommar (2019) is a folk horror film directed by Ari Aster. It follows a group of American friends who travel to Sweden to celebrate a midsummer festival, but find themselves trapped in a nightmarish cult.

The film has praised for its stunning visuals, disturbing imagery, and psychological depth. Aster creates a truly unsettling atmosphere, and the performances from the cast are excellent, particularly from Florence Pugh, who gives a breakout performance as Dani.

Midsommar is a challenging film, but it is also a rewarding one. It is a film that will stay with you long after the credits have rolled.

The Witch

The Witch is a 2015 American supernatural horror film written and directed by Robert Eggers in his directorial debut, and starring Anya Taylor-Joy, Ralph Ineson, Kate Dickie, Harvey Scrimshaw, Ellie Grainger, and Lucas Dawson. The film follows a Puritan family who torn apart by the forces of witchcraft, black magic, and possession.

Eggers creates a deeply unsettling and atmospheric film that evokes the dread and paranoia of the Puritan era. The performances are excellent, particularly from Taylor-Joy, who gives a breakout performance as the eldest daughter, Thomasin.

The Witch is a slow-burn film that takes its time to build atmosphere and suspense. It is not for everyone, but for those who are patient, it is a rewarding and unforgettable experience.

Evil Dead Rise

Evil Dead Rise, a worthy addition to the iconic horror franchise, delivers the over-the-top gore and scares fans crave. Closer in tone to the original trilogy than the 2013 version, it follows sisters Beth and Ellie, whose reunion in a Los Angeles apartment takes a sinister turn when a mysterious book unleashes a malevolent force. The film excels in its claustrophobic atmosphere and relentless, creative violence. Alyssa Sutherland shines as Beth. A must-see for franchise and horror fans, it’s a wild, bloody ride that both entertains and horrifies.