8 Day Horror Movie Challenge #nogutsnogory

Growing up in the big city, I never got to participate in Halloween. It just wasn’t really a thing in Hong Kong.

While the kids in the movies were out trick-or-treating and egging houses on Halloween night, my great eggspectations of Halloween were no match for the realities of life in an apartment building. One time, I got in trouble for decorating my front door... And my neighbors’ front doors. Let’s just say they weren’t very happy with me.

Eager to join in on the fun of it all, I discovered the joy of horror movies. It was my way of celebrating this spooktacular season the only way I could, in the comfort of my own home! With 8 days left to Halloween, I challenge you all to join in on our 8 day horror movie challenge. After all, it’s not really Halloween without a good scare!

8. Splinter (2008) (Rated R)
A deadly parasite traps its victims in a gas station, turning them into deadly hosts. I can’t think of a better way to kick off the list with none other than the spine-chilling, bone-breaking Splinter. I dare you to watch this fast-paced thriller without hiding behind your hands!

7. Raw (2017) (Rated R)
This smart French-Belgian flick serves as a fantastic horror film and a metaphor for adolescence, boosted by strong performances and nauseating visuals.

6. The Gift (2015) (Rated R)
Looking for horror that’s more psychological? The Gift follows a young married couple whose lives are turned upside down after a chance encounter with a past acquaintance. Don’t let the cheesy title fool you, The Gift’s chilling story will linger with you long after the credits roll.

5. It Follows (2014) (Rated R)
Daringly original with a fittingly bold electronic soundtrack. It Follows is an urban legend come true in this 80s horror homage about a seemingly unescapable supernatural force.

4. The Loved Ones (2009) (Rated R)
Prom night gets ruined in this no-holds-barred Australian horror film. This high school drama turned horribly wrong manages to up its ante every chance it gets!

3. The Children (2008) (Rated R)
If you’re a parent, this horror movie might just be your nightmare come true! A family vacation turns into a fight for survival as a virus slowly turns the children against their parents.

2. Don’t Breathe (2016) (Rated R)
Filled with so much dread and suspense that you literally hold your breath for the entire movie, it’s not a surprise that early reports of the movie screening had people walking out of the theatre. This movie about a trio of thieves trapped in a house with a blind man is not for the faint of heart.

1. INSIDE (2007) (Rated R)
This movie about a pregnant widow fighting for survival against a delusional stalker has traumatized me since the day I screened it at a horror movie marathon. The collective screams of terror from my friends will forever be one of my most cherished memories. The best horror movie to come out of the French New Extremity genre, INSIDE proves why the French remain the kings of quality horror cinema.

Honorable Mention: The Descent (2005) (Rated R)
A horror movie list isn’t quite as official without a classic. The Descent has been favorite amongst horror fans since it first came out in 2006. The movie follows a group of spelunkers trapped in a cave, only to find out they’re not alone. Are you claustrophobic? Afraid of tight spaces? I recommend this movie for you!

Honorable Mention: Drag Me to Hell (2009) (PG-13)
Looking for something that’s not as scary? Drag Me to Hell is definitely a guaranteed thrill ride for those who like a mix of comedy-horror, about a desperate loan officer hell-bound under a dark supernatural spell. Directed by Sam Raimi (director of the original Evil Dead Series), fans of the Evil Dead will have a blast watching this horror movie that never takes itself too seriously.