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As the digital streaming landscape continues to expand, Peacock emerges as a treasure trove for horror movie enthusiasts. Offering a diverse selection of spine-tingling and terrifying films, Peacock brings some of the most iconic horror movies right to your fingertips. Whether you’re a fan of supernatural horrors, psychological thrillers, or classic monsters, this streaming service has something to satisfy your deepest fears. Here are the ten best horror movies on Peacock you need to stream this Halloween season.
Psycho (1960)
Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho is a timeless classic that set the standard for psychological horror. This groundbreaking film follows the eerie events at the Bates Motel, where Norman Bates, played brilliantly by Anthony Perkins, becomes one of cinema’s most iconic villains. Psycho is a masterclass in suspense, featuring a spine-tingling score and memorable shower scene that continues to haunt audiences today. If you haven’t experienced the chills of Psycho, you might want to give it a try. It might seem a little dated since it’s over sixty years old, but it’s still a great piece of horror cinema.
The Conjuring (2013)
The Conjuring marked the beginning of a successful horror franchise that continues to terrify audiences worldwide. Directed by James Wan, this supernatural horror film is based on the real-life paranormal investigations of Ed and Lorraine Warren. Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson deliver outstanding performances as the Warrens, who are called upon to help a family tormented by a malevolent presence in their new home. With a gripping plot, well-executed scares, and atmospheric tension, The Conjuring and the other films in the universe is a must-watch for any horror aficionado.
Hereditary (2018)
Ari Aster’s directorial debut, Hereditary, is a masterclass in slow-burning psychological horror—and we mean slow-burning. The film explores the harrowing consequences of a family’s dark ancestral secrets as they slowly yet tantalizingly unravel following the death of the family matriarch. Toni Collette delivers an unforgettable performance as the grieving mother as she slips into madness. The film is known for its unsettling imagery and a sense of dread that lingers long after the credits roll. Hereditary is an intense and thought-provoking horror experience that will leave you questioning the boundaries of sanity and the supernatural.
A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
Wes Craven’s A Nightmare on Elm Street introduced the world to one of the most iconic horror villains of all time, Freddy Krueger, played by Robert Englund. This supernatural slasher film follows a group of teenagers who are haunted by Freddy in their dreams, with their deaths in the dream world resulting in their very real demise. With its inventive premise and nightmarish visuals, this film is a cornerstone of the horror genre. If you haven’t had the pleasure of visiting Elm Street just yet, Peacock offers the perfect opportunity to dive into this franchise that spans decades.
The Silence of the Lambs (1991)
The Silence of the Lambs is a chilling thriller that combines elements of horror, crime, and psychological drama. Jodie Foster stars as Clarice Starling, an FBI trainee who seeks the assistance of the brilliant but monstrous serial killer Dr. Hannibal Lecter, portrayed by Anthony Hopkins, to catch another killer on the loose known as Buffalo Bill. The film is known for its intense performances, unforgettable characters, and a sense of unease that lingers throughout.
The Silence of the Lambs remains a classic that continues to terrify and captivate audiences. The fact that Anthony Hopkins managed to win an Oscar for Best Actor despite being on screen for a total of 16 minutes should tell you everything you need to know about this horror film.
Get Out (2017)
Jordan Peele’s Get Out redefined the horror genre with its intelligent social commentary and thought-provoking narrative. The film follows a young African-American man who visits his girlfriend’s affluent family estate only to discover disturbing secrets lurking beneath the surface. Get Out delves into themes of racism, identity, and privilege while delivering spine-tingling horror and suspense.
With its innovative approach to the genre, Get Out became a cultural phenomenon and a must-watch for horror enthusiasts. While he has released two more horror films since Get Out, neither of them has quite lived up to the horror masterpiece that is Get Out.
The Exorcist (1973)
The Exorcist is often hailed as one of the most terrifying films ever made. Upon its release, the world was taken by storm, with moviegoers either fainting or having to leave the theater because of how viscerally shocking the film was. Based on the novel by William Peter Blatty, the film tells the harrowing story of a young girl possessed by a malevolent entity and the efforts of two priests to save her through an exorcism. Linda Blair’s performance as the possessed Regan is nothing short of chilling, and the film’s unsettling atmosphere and practical effects still hold up to this day. The Exorcist is a true horror classic that has left a lasting impact on the genre; just don’t try and watch the sequel if you’re looking for more exorcisms.
The Others (2001)
Alejandro Amenábar’s The Others is a hauntingly atmospheric and psychologically-driven horror film. Set in 1945, it stars Nicole Kidman as a mother who lives in a dark, isolated house with her two photosensitive children, the film is filled with suspense and an oppressive sense of dread. As strange occurrences plague the household, the tension builds to a shocking revelation that will leave you questioning reality. The Others is a cerebral horror film that relies on atmosphere and storytelling to create a memorable and unsettling experience, and you can watch it on Peacock right now.
The Cabin in the Woods (2012)
This one is slightly comedic but still does well to maintain elements popular within the horror genre. Joss Whedon and Drew Goddard’s The Cabin in the Woods is a meta-horror film that follows a group of friends who embark on a weekend getaway to a remote cabin, only to find themselves caught in a sinister experiment. The film blends horror tropes with clever satire and a twisty plot that keeps viewers guessing. The Cabin in the Woods is a unique and entertaining take on the horror genre that pays homage to classic horror while subverting expectations. If you’re looking for something new that isn’t just another slasher flick, give this one a try.
Paranormal Activity (2007)
Paranormal Activity is a found footage horror film that revitalized the genre and became a cultural phenomenon. It’s also arguably one of the most successful horror movies ever, netting close to $200 million on a budget of just over $200,000.
Paranormal Activity tells the story of a young couple who set up cameras in their home to document the strange and increasingly terrifying occurrences they experience. Pro-tip: never set up a camera to watch yourself sleep—nothing good can come of it.
The film’s minimalist approach and slow-building tension make it a haunting and suspenseful experience. Paranormal Activity spawned a successful franchise and remains a must-watch for fans of supernatural horror. The sequels are just as good if you’re interested in more after watching this horror film on Peacock, but the first one remains at the top of horror gold.
Wrap Up
Peacock’s extensive library of horror movies offers a wealth of scares and thrills for every type of horror enthusiast. From classic classics like Psycho to modern masterpieces like Hereditary and Get Out, the streaming service provides a diverse range of horror films that cater to a wide range of tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for psychological horror, supernatural scares, or iconic monsters, Peacock has you covered. So, dim the lights, grab some popcorn, and prepare to be terrified by these spine-tingling horror movies available on Peacock Streaming. Happy haunting!