Horror movies have always been at the forefront of cinema, cultivating fear and dread in their viewers. Over time, some of these movies have been transformed into thriving franchises, returning again and again with unforgettable characters, lots of gore, and immersive stories. If you enjoy the darker side of film, check out these six best horror movie franchises and see what the genre offers.
6. Friday the 13th
Starting our list of the best horror movie franchises is Friday the 13th. Premiering in 1980, the film quickly became one of the most successful horror movies with Jason Voorhees and his iconic hockey mask and machete at the center. Between the camp setting, teenage victims, and creative kills, the franchise has 12 films, including a crossover with A Nightmare on Elm Street.
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5. Child’s Play
Fifth on the list of best horror movie franchises is Child’s Play, with our favorite possessed doll, Chucky. The film introduced viewers to Chucky, who has an affinity for murder. Starting as a slasher series, the franchise turned into a dark comedy. Chucky has been present in several sequels, a reboot, and a TV series, proving this doll is scary enough to return to the big screen.
4. The Conjuring Universe
Next on our list of the best horror movie franchises is The Conjuring. While not as straightforward as other franchises, it is a powerhouse in modern horror. The first film, created by James Wan in 2013, expanded into several sequels and spin-offs, including Annabelle, The Nun, and The Curse of La Llorona. The films are known for their supernatural elements, strong storytelling, and connected universe.
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3. A Nightmare on Elm Street
Rounding out the top three best horror movie franchises is A Nightmare on Elm Street. The film introduced Freddy Krueger, a supernatural killer who haunts teenagers in their dreams. The franchise has expanded into many sequels, a crossover with Friday the 13th, a TV series, and a 2010 remake. Viewers enjoy the movies for the creative kills, psychological horror, and Robert Englund’s performance as Freddy.
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2. Scream
Second on our list of the best horror movie franchises is Scream. One of the most recognizable characters in the horror genre, Ghostface, continues to appear on the big screen ever since his first appearance in the 1990s. The series has a great blend of scares, humor, and self-awareness that has prompted several sequels, the most recent coming out in 2022.
1. Halloween
Last but not least on our list of the best horror movie franchises is Halloween. Premiering in 1978, John Carpenter’s film instantly became one of the most iconic horror films in history. At the center is Michael Myers, the silent but destructive killer. Over a dozen films have been made with Myers, including sequels and reimaginations. There’s something about a ruthless killer tearing apart a small town that has become synonymous with the horror genre, and makes viewers beg for more.
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