With Good Scary Movies on HBO MAX at the forefront, this article will take you on a journey to explore some of the most chilling content available on the platform, delving into the evolution of horror movies, iconic classics, and even the unsung heroes of the genre – women in horror.
From classic horror movies to new releases, HBO MAX has become a go-to destination for fans of the genre, offering a diverse range of titles that cater to different tastes and preferences. In this article, we’ll explore the good scary movies available on HBO MAX, discussing their impact on popular culture, the techniques used to create suspense and jump scares, and the importance of representation in the horror genre.
The Evolution of Horror on HBOMax
The world of horror movies has undergone a transformation in recent years, and HBOMax has been at the forefront of this evolution. With a vast library of classic and modern horror films at their disposal, audiences have never been spoilt for choice. In this article, we will delve into the resurgence of classic horror movies, explore why they remain timeless, and discuss how the availability of these films on HBOMax has changed the way audiences consume horror content.
Classic Horror Movies Revived
The past decade has seen a resurgence of classic horror movies on HBOMax. These films have become staples of the genre, remaining relevant and frightening audiences to this day. From the iconic Halloween (1978) to the cult classic The Evil Dead (1981), these movies have stood the test of time, their scares and themes still as effective as they were when first released.
Some of the most notable classic horror movies available on HBOMax include:
- The Shining (1980) – Stanley Kubrick’s adaptation of Stephen King’s novel, starring Jack Nicholson as a writer who goes insane at an isolated hotel
- The Exorcist (1973) – William Friedkin’s chilling tale of a young girl possessed by a demon
- A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984) – Wes Craven’s introduction to Freddy Krueger, a dream demon who terrorizes his victims in their sleep
- The Amityville Horror (1979) – Stuart Rosenberg’s film about a family who moves into a haunted house with a dark history
- The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974) – Tobe Hooper’s low-budget horror classic about a group of friends stalked by a family of cannibals
- The Omen (1976) – Richard Donner’s film about a young boy who may be the Antichrist
- Poltergeist (1982) – Tobe Hooper’s classic about a family whose home is haunted by malevolent spirits
- The Silence of the Lambs (1991) – Jonathan Demme’s film about an FBI agent who seeks the help of a imprisoned serial killer to catch another
The availability of these classic horror movies on HBOMax has changed the way audiences consume horror content. Gone are the days of having to search for these films on DVD or streaming them illegally. With HBOMax, horror fans can access a vast library of classic horror movies with the click of a button.
The Difference in Viewing Experience
The way we consume horror content has changed significantly in recent years. The rise of streaming platforms like HBOMax has made it easier than ever to access a wide variety of horror movies. But what about the viewing experience itself? How has the rise of streaming platforms changed the way we watch horror movies?
In the past, horror movies were often watched on television, a communal experience that was shared with family and friends. However, with the rise of streaming platforms, the viewing experience has become a more personal one. We can now watch horror movies in the comfort of our own homes, at our own pace, and on our own schedule.
This shift in viewing experience has had a significant impact on the way we engage with horror content. We are no longer limited by the constraints of traditional television, and we can now watch horror movies whenever and however we want.
This shift in viewing experience has also led to a change in the way we interact with horror movies. We are now more likely to watch horror movies alone, rather than with a group of friends. This change in viewing experience has led to a shift in the way we engage with horror content, and it has had a significant impact on the way we experience fear.
The availability of classic horror movies on HBOMax has changed the way audiences consume horror content. With a vast library of classic horror movies at their disposal, audiences can now access these films with the click of a button. This shift in viewing experience has had a significant impact on the way we engage with horror content, and it has led to a change in the way we experience fear.
The classic horror movies on HBOMax are:
- Halloween (1978)
- The Evil Dead (1981)
- The Shining (1980)
- The Exorcist (1973)
- A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
- The Amityville Horror (1979)
- The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)
- The Omen (1976)
- Poltergeist (1982)
- The Silence of the Lambs (1991)
The availability of these classic horror movies on HBOMAX has changed the way audiences consume horror content. With a vast library of classic horror movies at their disposal, audiences can now access these films with the click of a button. This shift in viewing experience has had a significant impact on the way we engage with horror content, and it has led to a change in the way we experience fear.
Why Classic Horror Movies Remain Timeless
Classic horror movies remain timeless because they tap into our deepest fears. These films often explore universal themes such as death, loss, and the supernatural, which continue to resonate with audiences today. They also often feature iconic villains and monsters, which continue to captivate audiences with their fear and horror.
Classic horror movies also often feature atmospheric settings and cinematography, which add to the overall sense of fear and tension. These films often take place in isolated locations, such as abandoned houses or remote forests, which further heighten the sense of fear and dread.
Furthermore, classic horror movies often feature memorable plot twists and endings, which continue to surprise and shock audiences today. These films often subvert our expectations, keeping us on the edge of our seats as we try to predict what will happen next.
The combination of these elements – atmospheric settings, iconic villains, memorable plot twists, and universal themes – makes classic horror movies timeless, continuing to captivate audiences with their fear and horror.
“I have always found that horror movies are a great way to confront our deepest fears. They allow us to experience fear in a safe and controlled environment, which can be cathartic and even therapeutic.”
Classic horror movies remain timeless because they tap into our deepest fears. These films often explore universal themes such as death, loss, and the supernatural, which continue to resonate with audiences today.
Fear Factor: Breaking Down the Most Chilling Scenes on HBOMAX
As we delve into the realm of horror movies on HBOMAX, it’s impossible to ignore the electrifying atmosphere that certain scenes evoke. These moments, crafted with precision by masterful filmmakers, leave viewers on the edge of their seats, their hearts racing with anticipation and fear. In this exploration, we’ll dissect some of the most iconic and chilling scenes to have graced HBOMAX, examining the techniques used to conjure dread and the lasting impact on popular culture.
Masterclasses in Suspense: Identifying Key Scenes
Some scenes leave an indelible mark on our collective psyche, forever altering the way we perceive and react to fear. The following are a few exemplary instances that exemplify the horror genre’s ability to craft unsettling narratives that linger long after the credits roll.
- The Shining (1980) – Room 237
- The Exorcist (1973) – Possession of Regan
- Get Out (2017) – The Sunken Place
- The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974) – The Gas Station Scene
- Halloween (1978) – The Killer in the Shadows
Stanley Kubrick’s adaptation of Stephen King’s classic novel is synonymous with masterful storytelling, and the scene where Jack Torrance (Jack Nicholson) discovers the eerie Room 237 is a testament to this. Kubrick cleverly employs long takes and an unsettling atmosphere to create a sense of unease, making the viewer feel like they’re experiencing the terror firsthand. This innovative approach sets the stage for the iconic film’s exploration of the human psyche.
William Friedkin’s The Exorcist is a seminal work in the horror genre, and the scene depicting Regan MacNeil’s possession is a prime example of the film’s ability to evoke intense fear. By slowly building tension and exploiting the audience’s inherent discomfort with the idea of possession, Friedkin expertly crafts a sequence that leaves viewers on the edge of their seats. The use of long, unnerving takes and carefully timed music adds to the scene’s chilling effect.
Jordan Peele’s Get Out is a thought-provoking exploration of racism and identity, with the Sunken Place scene serving as a pivotal moment in the narrative. By cleverly incorporating elements of social commentary and psychological horror, Peele creates a sequence that not only terrifies but also educates. The use of a mixture of slow-paced tension and rapid, disorienting cuts adds to the scene’s unsettling atmosphere.
Tobe Hooper’s The Texas Chain Saw Massacre is a masterclass in building tension, and the gas station scene is a prime example of this. By cleverly utilizing long takes and a mix of close-up shots, Hooper creates a sense of claustrophobia, making the viewer feel trapped alongside the characters. The slow build-up of tension culminates in a shocking and terrifying reveal, leaving viewers reeling.
John Carpenter’s Halloween is a seminal work in the slasher genre, and the scene where Michael Myers lurks in the shadows is a testament to this. By cleverly using a mix of close-up shots and long takes, Carpenter creates a sense of unease and tension, making the viewer feel like they’re being stalked by the killer. The scene’s impact on popular culture is undeniable, influencing the way horror movies are made and perceived to this day.
Techniques for Crafting Suspense and Jump Scares
So, what makes these scenes so effective? By analyzing the techniques employed by filmmakers, we can gain a deeper understanding of the art of crafting suspense and jump scares.
- Long Takes and Pacing
- Close-Ups and Point-of-View Shots
- Music and Sound Design
Certain scenes, like those in The Shining and The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, rely heavily on long takes to build tension. By maintaining a steady pace and keeping the viewer engaged, filmmakers can create a sense of anticipation and unease.
Scenes like those in The Exorcist and Get Out utilize close-up shots and point-of-view shots to put the viewer in the character’s shoes. This technique creates a sense of intimacy and immediacy, making the experience even more terrifying.
The use of music and sound design is a crucial aspect of crafting suspense and jump scares. Scenes like those in Halloween and The Texas Chain Saw Massacre rely heavily on the soundtrack to create a sense of tension and unease.
The Lasting Impact on Popular Culture
The scenes mentioned above have had a lasting impact on popular culture, influencing the way horror movies are made and perceived to this day. These examples have inspired countless filmmakers, writers, and artists, cementing their place in the annals of horror history.
Unsettling Atmosphere: The Sound Design of Good Scary Movies: Good Scary Movies On Hbo Max
In the realm of horror movies, a chill down the spine is often the ultimate goal. But have you ever stopped to think about the unsung hero behind those spine-tingling moments? Enter sound design, the secret sauce that adds depth and tension to even the most seemingly innocuous scenes. On HBOMAX, a plethora of good scary movies boasts impressive sound design, transporting viewers to a realm where fear reigns supreme.
Sound design plays a crucial role in creating a tense atmosphere in horror movies. It is the art of using sound effects, music, and silence to evoke emotions and create a sense of unease. A perfectly crafted sound design can make or break the horror experience, drawing viewers in with subtle hints and building tension through calculated releases. By exploiting our auditory vulnerabilities, sound designers can manipulate our perception, making us feel like we’re right there on-screen with the characters.
The Role of Sound Effects in Horror Movies
A creaking door, the scuttling of insects, or the ominous hum of an old elevator – these sounds are not just mere background noise, but a carefully curated selection of auditory cues that heighten our senses and prepare us for the unknown. In films like “The Shining,” the sound effects of creaking wooden floorboards, howling wind, and the eerie whispering of “Redrum” set the tone for a descent into madness. Conversely, in “The Conjuring,” the sound of a door creaking open, followed by an unsettling silence, is a masterclass in building tension.
The effective use of sound effects in horror movies is a delicate balancing act. Too much can be overwhelming, while too little can leave viewers disengaged. A good sound designer must strike a balance between creating a sense of unease and not overwhelming the viewer.
The Power of Music in Horror Movies
Music is another crucial element in creating an unsettling atmosphere. A discordant note, a jarring melody, or a haunting orchestral score can all contribute to a sense of unease, even when the visuals are relatively calm. Take, for instance, the iconic score of “The Exorcist” which, through its use of dissonant harmonies and eerie melodies, perfectly captures the sense of demonic presence. Conversely, in “Get Out,” the use of an unsettling, pulsing soundtrack creates an atmosphere of unease, perfectly mirroring the protagonist’s growing discomfort with the world around him.
In the world of horror movies, silence can be just as terrifying as any loud noise. A well-placed moment of silence can create an almost deafening tension, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats, wondering what will happen next. In “The Texas Chain Saw Massacre,” the extended silence after the death of a character creates a sense of unease, making the viewer feel like they’re part of the horror unfolding on screen.
A Few Notable Sound Design Moments in Good Scary Movies on HBOMAX
HBOMAX offers a diverse selection of horror movies with impressive sound design. Here are a few notable moments that will chill your spine:
- In “Hereditary,” the sound design of the family’s car ride to the funeral creates an eerie atmosphere, punctuated by the sounds of the wind and the creaking of the car’s doors.
- The use of sound effects in “A Quiet Place” is a masterclass in tension building, where every step, every movement, and every spoken word is amplified to create a sense of unease.
- In “It Follows,” the sound design of the unseen entity’s approach is a clever use of sound effects, creating a sense of unease and tension through subtle hints.
A Global Perspective: Horror Cinema from Around the World
International horror movies have been a staple of the genre for decades, offering a unique glimpse into the cultural and social fears of different countries and cultures. From the supernatural entities of Asia to the folkloric creatures of Latin America, horror cinema has adapted and evolved to reflect the diversity of our global community. In this section, we’ll explore some of the most notable international horror movies available on HBOMAX, highlighting their cultural influences and themes.
Horror Movies from Around the World
HBOMAX offers a vast library of international horror movies, each with its own distinct flavor and style. Here are eight notable examples:
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J-horror: The Ring (2002)
This influential Japanese horror movie tells the story of a cursed videotape that causes the viewer to die in seven days. Director Gore Verbinski’s adaptation of the 1998 Japanese film by Hideo Nakata has become a classic in its own right. -
Mexican Folk Horror: Verónica (2017)
Based on actual events, this Spanish-Mexican horror movie follows a teenager who, after using an Ouija board, is haunted by a malevolent spirit. This film showcases the dark fascination with the supernatural in Mexican folklore. -
Chinese Supernatural Horror: The Eye (2002)
In this psychological horror film, a blind woman undergoes an eye transplant, only to discover that she can see the dead. This Hong Kong production combines elements of Chinese folklore with modern psychological terror. -
Indian Folk Horror: Gandu (2009)
Set in the slums of Mumbai, this dark and unsettling film explores themes of poverty, violence, and the breakdown of social norms in Indian society. This critically acclaimed film offers a glimpse into the harsh realities of life in India. -
South African Horror: The Harvest (2007)
This South African zombie film tells the story of a group of college students who are attacked by zombies in a rural town. This low-budget horror film offers a fresh take on the zombie genre. -
French Psychological Horror: Inside (2007)
Inspired by real-life events, this French horror movie follows a pregnant woman who is held hostage by a mysterious and terrifying individual. This film showcases the darker side of human nature. -
German Folk Horror: The Devil’s Backbone (2001)
Directed by Guillermo del Toro, this Spanish-German co-production is set during the Spanish Civil War and follows a young boy who discovers a dark secret at a boarding school. This film combines elements of Spanish folklore with modern psychological terror. -
Australian Supernatural Horror: The Babadook (2014)
This critically acclaimed film tells the story of a mother and son who are haunted by a supernatural entity known as the Babadook. This film explores themes of grief, mental illness, and the complexities of human relationships.
In addition to these horror movies, HBOMAX also offers a wide range of international horror anthologies and short films. These shorts offer a glimpse into the creative and often experimental side of the horror genre, with producers and directors pushing the boundaries of what is possible with a limited budget and time frame.
The Importance of Global Representation in the Horror Genre
In an era of globalization, where cultures are increasingly interconnected, it’s more important than ever to represent the diversity of our global community in the horror genre. International horror movies offer a unique lens through which to explore the cultural and social fears of different countries and cultures, providing a platform for underrepresented voices and perspectives.
By featuring international horror movies on streaming platforms like HBOMAX, we can:
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Provide a platform for underrepresented voices
International horror movies offer a platform for filmmakers and writers from diverse backgrounds to share their unique perspectives and experiences. -
Explore the complexities of global culture
Horror movies from around the world offer a lens through which to explore the complex cultural and social dynamics of different countries and regions. -
Enrich the horror genre
International horror movies bring new ideas, perspectives, and styles to the horror genre, enriching it and pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
A Hypothetical Anthology Series: “Monsters of the World”
In order to create a more inclusive and diverse horror genre, I propose a hypothetical anthology series featuring international horror shorts. This series, titled “Monsters of the World,” would feature a collection of short horror movies from around the globe, each with its own unique story and cultural perspective.
Each episode would be a self-contained short film, featuring a different monster or supernatural entity from various cultures and traditions. By featuring a diverse range of genres, styles, and themes, “Monsters of the World” would offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of horror cinema from around the world.
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Episode 1: “The Japanese Onryo”
This episode would feature a short film based on the Japanese folklore of the Onryo, a vengeful spirit that haunts the living. The story would be set in a creepy abandoned mansion in rural Japan. -
Episode 2: “The Mexican La Llorona”
This episode would feature a short film based on the Mexican folklore of La Llorona, a ghostly figure who haunts rivers and lakes. The story would be set in a rural Mexican town, where a group of friends are terrorized by the female specter. -
Episode 3: “The Indian Asura”
This episode would feature a short film based on the Indian folklore of the Asura, a group of powerful demons from Hindu mythology. The story would be set in a bustling city in India, where a group of friends are hunted by the Asura.
By featuring international horror shorts in a anthology series like “Monsters of the World,” we can:
-
Provide a platform for underrepresented voices
This series would offer a platform for filmmakers and writers from diverse backgrounds to share their unique perspectives and experiences. -
Explore the complexities of global culture
Each episode would offer a lens through which to explore the complex cultural and social dynamics of different countries and regions. -
Enrich the horror genre
“Monsters of the World” would bring new ideas, perspectives, and styles to the horror genre, enriching it and pushing the boundaries of what is possible.
By embracing the diversity of our global community, we can create a more inclusive and dynamic horror genre that reflects the complexities and fears of our interconnected world.
Creating Frightful Worlds
In the realm of horror movies, the art of creating a chilling atmosphere is paramount. While a spine-tingling plot can send shivers down the viewer’s spine, it is the setting, costumes, and makeup that transport us to a realm of unease. This is where the magic unfolds, as the art and design of good scary movies become an integral part of the viewer’s experience.
Set design plays a crucial role in establishing the tone and atmosphere of a horror movie. A well-crafted set can evoke a sense of dread, unease, or even eeriness. From the dimly lit corridors of a haunted asylum to the foreboding atmosphere of a creepy mansion, the set design sets the stage for a truly terrifying experience.
Costume design is another vital aspect that contributes to the overall horror experience. From the rags of a zombie apocalypse to the elaborate attire of a supernatural entity, costumes can add an extra layer of depth to the characters and the world they inhabit. Furthermore, makeup techniques can transform actors into terrifying creatures, making the experience even more vivid and terrifying.
The Significance of Practical Effects
When it comes to horror movies, practical effects often take center stage. These methods offer a level of realism and texture that cannot be replicated using CGI. From the gooey blood of a horror classic to the unsettling makeup of a creature feature, practical effects contribute to the overall atmosphere of a horror movie. Not only do they add to the visual appeal, but they also create an immersive experience that draws the viewer into the world of the film.
Examples of Well-Crafted Horror Sets
* The Shining (1980) – The Overlook Hotel’s decaying grandeur is a masterclass in set design, evoking a sense of isolation and unease. The dimly lit corridors and eerie atmosphere create a sense of dread that permeates the entire film.
* The Exorcist (1973) – The set design of the possessed Regan’s bedroom is a testament to the power of practical effects. The creepy atmosphere, combined with the disturbing makeup and special effects, create a truly terrifying experience.
* The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974) – The set design of the farmhouse and surrounding environment is a masterclass in creating a sense of unease. The use of natural lighting and practical effects adds to the sense of realism, making the experience even more terrifying.
Creating a Frightful Setpiece
In a fictional horror movie, let’s say we have a setpiece where a group of friends stumbles upon an abandoned asylums. The goal is to create a sense of unease and dread as they explore the decaying halls. Here’s how we can achieve this using practical and CGI techniques:
* Practical effects: We can use a combination of practical makeup and prosthetics to create the illusion of the characters’ faces and bodies being covered in cobwebs and dirt.
* Set design: The abandoned asylum would be designed to look like it has been left untouched for decades. The walls would be cracked, the furniture would be broken, and the atmosphere would be thick with dust and decay.
* CGI: We can use CGI to enhance the practical effects, adding more depth and texture to the characters’ appearances and the environment. This would include adding more cobwebs, dust, and debris to the set, as well as enhancing the lighting to create an eerie atmosphere.
This combination of practical and CGI techniques would create a truly terrifying experience, transporting the viewer into a world of unease and dread.
The Psychology Behind Fright: Unpacking the Mental Health Themes in Good Scary Movies
Good scary movies don’t just terrify us, they also tap into our deepest psychological fears. On HBO Max, you can find a treasure trove of horror movies that explore the complexities of the human mind, often reflecting real-world issues and concerns. From anxiety and trauma to mental illness and the blurring of reality, these films offer a unique window into the psyche.
Mental Health Themes in Horror Movies
Mental health themes are woven throughout many horror movies, offering a reflection of the anxieties and fears that plague our society. Take, for example, the 2018 film “Hereditary,” which explores the devastating effects of grief, anxiety, and trauma on a family. The film’s portrayal of a family’s descent into madness, fueled by a dark family secret, is a testament to the power of horror to expose the deepest psychological wounds.
The Value of Horror as a Tool for Exploring Complex Psychological Topics, Good scary movies on hbo max
Horror movies offer a unique platform for exploring complex psychological topics, tapping into our collective fears and anxieties. By presenting audiences with a controlled environment, horror films can help us confront and process our own psychological demons, offering a cathartic release from the pressures of everyday life. As a tool for exploring the human psyche, horror movies have proven themselves to be a powerful and effective medium.
Examples of Horror Movies on HBO Max that Explore the Intersection of Psychology and Horror
Several horror movies on HBO Max offer a thought-provoking exploration of the intersection between psychology and horror. Here are a few examples:
- Taking the audience on a wild ride of hallucinations and nightmares, the 2014 film “Under the Skin” explores the themes of identity, trauma, and the blurring of reality.
- The 2017 film “A Dark Song” delves into the psychological effects of grief and trauma, as a mother seeks to contact her deceased son through a mysterious ritual.
- The 2018 film “Verónica” offers a haunting exploration of the consequences of trauma, as a teenage girl struggles to cope with the aftermath of a supernatural event.
- The 2019 film “Midsommar” presents a sinister portrayal of the effects of anxiety and paranoia, as a group of friends become trapped in a sinister pagan cult.
The Power of Horror to Reflect Real-World Issues and Concerns
Horror movies don’t just entertain; they also offer a reflection of the real-world issues and concerns that shape our society. By tapping into our collective fears and anxieties, these films offer a unique window into the human psyche, highlighting the complexities and vulnerabilities that make us human. As a tool for exploring the human condition, horror movies have proven themselves to be a powerful and enduring force in popular culture.
Real-World Examples of the Psychological Themes Explored in Horror Movies
While horror movies often present fantastical and exaggerated scenarios, they often draw inspiration from real-world issues and concerns. Here are a few examples of how horror movies reflect and explore real-world psychological themes:
- The fear of mental illness: Films like “Hereditary” and “A Dark Song” explore the devastating effects of mental illness on individuals and families, highlighting the stigma and misconceptions that surround these conditions.
- Anxiety and trauma: Movies like “Under the Skin” and “Verónica” present a powerful portrayal of the effects of trauma and anxiety on the human psyche, echoing the experiences of countless people who have struggled with these conditions.
- The blurring of reality: Films like “Midsommar” and “Hereditary” explore the theme of reality distortion, presenting a world in which the boundaries between reality and fantasy are blurred, echoing the disorienting experiences of people who have struggled with mental health conditions like schizophrenia and psychosis.
Concluding Remarks
In conclusion, Good Scary Movies on HBO MAX offer a treasure trove of content that caters to different tastes and preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned horror fan or just starting to explore the genre, the platform has something for everyone. So, grab some popcorn, settle in, and get ready to experience some of the most terrifying and unforgettable horror movies on the market.
Question & Answer Hub
What types of horror movies are available on HBO MAX?
HBO MAX offers a wide range of horror movies, including classic horror films, modern releases, and even horror anthologies. You’ll find everything from supernatural horror to psychological thrillers, ensuring that there’s something to suit every taste and preference.
Are there any new horror movies available on HBO MAX?
Yes, HBO MAX regularly updates its content, adding new horror movies to its catalog. You can expect to find a mix of recent releases and exclusive content, so be sure to keep an eye on the platform for the latest additions.
Can I stream horror movies in 4K on HBO MAX?
Yes, many horror movies on HBO MAX are available to stream in 4K, providing an immersive viewing experience with crisp visuals and surround sound. Just check the individual movie details to confirm availability.
How many good scary movies are available on HBO MAX?
With new content being added regularly, the exact number of horror movies on HBO MAX is constantly changing. However, the platform boasts an impressive catalog of over 1,000 movies, including many good scary movies that are sure to send chills down your spine.
