Top Horror Movies Of 2017: Must-See Scary Films

Hey guys! Ready for a trip down memory lane into the horror flicks that had us all jumping in 2017? Let's dive into some of the best horror movies of 2017, exploring why they were so spine-chilling and why they've stuck with us. Whether you're a seasoned horror aficionado or just looking for a good scare, this list has something for everyone. So, grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and let's get started!

Why 2017 Was a Great Year for Horror

2017 was a banner year for horror, marked by a resurgence of creativity and a willingness to explore deeper, more complex themes within the genre. What made 2017 so special? Several factors contributed to its standout status. First off, there was a notable shift towards elevated horror, films that aimed to do more than just deliver jump scares. These movies often tackled social issues, delved into psychological depths, and presented compelling narratives that resonated with audiences long after the credits rolled. Think about it – it’s not just about the thrill of being scared; it's about the story that haunts you afterward.

Another key aspect was the rise of new voices and perspectives. We saw more diverse filmmakers bringing their unique visions to the screen, resulting in a broader range of stories and styles. This injection of fresh talent helped to revitalize the genre, pushing boundaries and challenging conventions. Plus, there was a savvy use of nostalgia, with some films cleverly referencing classic horror tropes while still feeling fresh and modern. The combination of these elements created a fertile ground for innovative and memorable horror movies. So, in summary, 2017 delivered a blend of smart storytelling, diverse perspectives, and a touch of nostalgia, making it a truly exceptional year for horror fans.

IT: A Clown That Terrorized a Generation (Again)

Let's kick things off with a bang, shall we? IT, based on Stephen King’s iconic novel, IT absolutely dominated the horror scene in 2017. Directed by Andy Muschietti, this movie brought Pennywise the Dancing Clown back into our nightmares, and boy, did it deliver! The story follows a group of misfit kids, the Losers Club, in Derry, Maine, as they face their deepest fears in the form of a shapeshifting entity that often takes the form of a clown. What made IT so effective was not just the terrifying portrayal of Pennywise by Bill Skarsgård (though that was definitely a huge part of it), but also the strong emotional core of the story. The Losers Club felt like real, relatable kids, and their bond was what ultimately gave them the strength to fight back against evil.

Skarsgård's performance as Pennywise was truly something special. He managed to capture the playful yet utterly menacing nature of the character, creating a clown that was both terrifying and strangely fascinating. The way he moved, spoke, and even just smiled sent chills down our spines. But IT wasn't just about a scary clown. It was also about childhood trauma, facing your fears, and the power of friendship. These themes resonated deeply with audiences, making the movie a critical and commercial success. The cinematography, the pacing, and the overall atmosphere of the film were all top-notch, creating a truly immersive and terrifying experience. If you haven't seen IT yet (and seriously, where have you been?), it’s a must-watch for any horror fan. It’s a perfect example of how to blend scares with substance, making it a standout in the horror genre.

Get Out: Social Commentary Meets Horror

Jordan Peele's directorial debut, Get Out, wasn't just a horror movie; it was a cultural phenomenon. This film brilliantly blended horror with sharp social commentary, tackling issues of race and privilege in a way that was both terrifying and thought-provoking. The story follows Chris, a young black man who visits his white girlfriend's family for the weekend, only to discover a dark and disturbing secret beneath their seemingly progressive facade. Get Out stands out because it's not just about cheap scares. The horror in the film comes from the insidious ways in which racism can manifest, even in seemingly liberal environments. Peele masterfully uses horror tropes to explore these themes, creating a movie that's as intellectually stimulating as it is frightening.

Daniel Kaluuya's performance as Chris is phenomenal, capturing the character's growing sense of unease and paranoia. The supporting cast is equally brilliant, with each actor contributing to the film's unsettling atmosphere. What makes Get Out so impactful is its ability to make you question your own assumptions and biases. It forces you to confront uncomfortable truths about society and the ways in which race continues to be a factor in our lives. The Sunken Place, a metaphorical representation of the silencing and marginalization of black voices, is one of the most haunting images in recent horror cinema. Get Out is a groundbreaking film that transcends the horror genre, cementing Jordan Peele as a major voice in contemporary cinema. If you're looking for a horror movie that will make you think long after the credits roll, Get Out is an absolute must-see.

Split: A Psychological Thriller That Keeps You Guessing

M. Night Shyamalan made a triumphant return to form with Split, a psychological thriller that delves into the fractured mind of Kevin Wendell Crumb, a man with 23 distinct personalities. James McAvoy delivers a tour-de-force performance as Kevin, seamlessly transitioning between these different personalities, each with their own quirks and mannerisms. The film follows Casey Cooke, played by Anya Taylor-Joy, as she is kidnapped by Kevin and must use her wits to survive. Split is a masterclass in suspense, keeping you on the edge of your seat as you try to unravel the mysteries of Kevin's mind.

What makes Split so compelling is its focus on character development and psychological realism. Shyamalan takes the time to explore the origins of Kevin's condition, giving us insight into the trauma that led to the development of his multiple personalities. McAvoy's performance is nothing short of incredible, showcasing his range and versatility as an actor. He manages to make each personality feel distinct and believable, even the more outlandish ones. Anya Taylor-Joy is equally impressive as Casey, portraying a character who is both vulnerable and resourceful. The film's ending sets up a thrilling connection to Shyamalan's earlier work, Unbreakable, creating a shared universe that has fans buzzing. Split is a smart, suspenseful, and thought-provoking thriller that will keep you guessing until the very end. It's a must-watch for fans of psychological horror and anyone who appreciates a great performance.

Annabelle: Creation: A Prequel That Delivers the Scares

Annabelle: Creation served as a prequel to the Conjuring universe, exploring the origins of the creepy Annabelle doll. Directed by David F. Sandberg, the film tells the story of a dollmaker and his wife who, years after the tragic death of their daughter, welcome a group of orphaned girls into their home. Of course, this being a horror movie, things quickly take a dark turn as Annabelle sets her sights on the innocent children. Annabelle: Creation is a classic haunted house story, filled with jump scares, creepy atmosphere, and a palpable sense of dread. Sandberg expertly builds tension throughout the film, creating a truly terrifying experience.

What sets Annabelle: Creation apart from other haunted doll movies is its attention to detail and its strong character development. The film takes the time to establish the relationships between the characters, making you care about their fate. The performances are all solid, with the child actors delivering particularly strong performances. The film also benefits from its connection to the Conjuring universe, adding an extra layer of depth and mythology to the story. While some may dismiss it as just another horror sequel, Annabelle: Creation is a well-crafted and genuinely scary film that will satisfy fans of the genre. It’s a great example of how to do a prequel right, expanding on the mythology of the original while still delivering plenty of scares.

Happy Death Day: A Time-Loop Horror Comedy

For a lighter, yet still thrilling, take on horror, Happy Death Day offered a unique blend of slasher and time-loop comedy. The movie follows Tree Gelbman, a college student who is forced to relive the same day over and over again, each time ending with her murder. To break the cycle, she must figure out who her killer is and stop them. Happy Death Day is a fun and inventive take on the slasher genre, injecting a healthy dose of humor and heart into the mix. Jessica Rothe shines as Tree, bringing both comedic timing and emotional depth to the role.

What makes Happy Death Day so enjoyable is its self-aware humor and its willingness to poke fun at horror tropes. The film doesn't take itself too seriously, embracing its absurdity and delivering plenty of laughs along with the scares. Rothe's performance is key to the film's success, as she manages to make Tree a likable and relatable character, even as she's being chased by a masked killer. The time-loop element adds an extra layer of intrigue to the story, as Tree must learn from her mistakes and become a better person in order to survive. Happy Death Day is a refreshing and entertaining horror movie that will appeal to fans of both the slasher and comedy genres. It’s a perfect example of how to blend genres in a way that feels fresh and original.

Honorable Mentions

Before we wrap up, let's give a shout-out to some other great horror movies from 2017 that deserve your attention:

• Raw: A French horror film about a veterinary student who develops a taste for human flesh.
• The Blackcoat's Daughter: A slow-burn horror film with a creepy atmosphere and a shocking twist.
• Better Watch Out: A home invasion thriller with plenty of surprises.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, guys! 2017 was a fantastic year for horror, offering a diverse range of films that catered to all tastes. From terrifying clowns to thought-provoking social commentary, these movies left a lasting impact on the genre. Whether you're looking for a good scare or a deeper, more meaningful experience, the horror movies of 2017 have something to offer. So, go ahead and revisit these classics or discover them for the first time. You won't be disappointed!