We asked Rio’s teachers for their favorite scary movie. They chose some classics and a lot of the thrillers that were in the theaters when they were in high school. Scream took top place with the Shining right behind.
Scream (5 votes)
Scream: It’s the best because of the unexpected plot twist of two killers, and the fact that the routine “rules of horror films” are incorporated with Randy’s character. -DeAndre B.
The Shining (4 votes)
The first time I saw it, I was babysitting my little brother (he was asleep in his room). It was late at night when it finished and I had to watch a couple of hours of cartoons to work up the bravery to walk down the long, dark hallway to my bedroom–Nicole Brashear
The actors make this movie! The location is perfect for the setting. –Ms. Rodericks
Anything by Stephen King is going to be freaky. – Matt Cole
The Thing (1982) (3 votes)
Mr. Applebaum — The Thing is a masterpiece in tension and has some of the most incredible practical effects ever captured on film.
Jaws (2)
The Silence of the Lambs
Alien
Nightmare on Elm Street/Friday the 13th
I was kid when I watched. I was so scared to sleep by myself or walk around in the dark. The music score was so scary in Friday the 13th
Shelly Melgoza
Julia’s Eyes (Los ojos de Julia)
Gremlins
The Birds (3)
“The Birds” is more of a psychological horror film than a classic slasher. Bonus points for a great cast! -Ms. Adams
Vertigo
On Golden Pond
Cabin in the Woods
Midsommar
I will never watch it again, but I think about it all the time – Victor San Pedro
The Ring
The Ring: I couldn’t be around TVs that were off in the dark for years without getting scared!- Mrs. Taunque
Rosemary’s Baby
A Quiet Place
Halloween
The original Halloween. Very eerie and spooky – perfect for this time of year! — Mr. Glasgow
Prince of Darkness
For millions of years, Satan has been kept in a canister–and now the canister is leaking. The religious aspect scared me more than any blood and gore could. –Darren Miller
The Conjuring (2)
The Conjuring: It’s based on a true story, which makes it more intriguing. Movies that use psychological fear are the scariest and most suspenseful. — Andi Ocken-Taylor
Psycho
The Thing (1982),
A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
X (2022),
Weapons (2025)
Scary Movie 4
It’s so funny, honestly not a horror horror movie but absolutely one that I watch every Halloween. Declan Miller
Smile
“Smile” is a true thriller and it’s really unpredictable and grotesque with random changes in tempo. -Santino
Polar Express
Polar Express: This move is completely random and unpredictable; the random jump scares really get my adrenaline pumping. The quality of the animations was otherworldly and adds a tone of realism and eeriness. -William Taghavian
Leprechaun
The Final Destination series
The Final Destination series: While it is not the scariest, most horrific or even goriest horror movie, it has always been a favorite for me because I love the psychological aspect of it. Each movie has a different way it entertains the audience and keeps them on their toes. – LP Befay
Night of the Living Dead
Night of the Living Dead (1968): “I love Night of the Living Dead because it proves that in any crisis, the zombies aren’t half as scary as the people arguing in the living room.” Gary Blenner
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