7 Paranormal Horror Films To Creep You Out This Halloween

Under the umbrella of horror are several subgenres, whether gory slasher flicks starring favorites like Jason Voorhees or monster flicks that star creepy figures like Alien’s Xenomorph. Many of these subgenres tend to feel quite campy. Still, paranormal horror movies continue to reign supreme during the Halloween season. These movies tap into our primal fears of the unknown, the supernatural, and the unexplained – the unseen threats that linger outside our vision. That’s why movies like The Exorcist remain top-tier views during this time of year. So, with Halloween just around the corner, we’ve created a list of 7 paranormal horror movies you should watch. 

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The Exorcist (1973)

A masterclass in horror, The Exorcist stands as one of the greatest films in the genre. The film surrounds the story of a mother, Chris Macneil (Ellen Burstyn), who seeks the help of two priests after she rightfully believes that her daughter, Regan Macneil (Linda Blair), was possessed by a malevolent entity. The special effects might not create the same level of fear as modern horror flicks. However, it’s a classic movie that delivers on all fronts: chilling atmosphere, iconic moments, and powerful performances. To this day, it’s a terrifying film that feels even spookier during the Halloween Season.

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The Shining (1980)

Based on Stephen King’s 1977 novel of the same name, The Shining stands as one of Stanley Kubrick’s greatest films of all time. The movie follows the story of Jack Torrence (Jack Nicholson), a recovering alcoholic and writer who takes a job as an off-season caretaker at the Overlook Hotel. Little does he know that his new place of employment is actually haunted. Throughout the film, Torrence’s sanity deteriorates as supernatural forces manipulate him. It’s an iconic movie that provides an unsettling mood that’ll keep you on the edge of your seat throughout its nearly two-and-a-half-hour run-time. 

Poltergeist (1982)

Poltergeist follows the story of a suburban family who faces the threat of violent ghosts who invade their home and abduct their daughter. This film contrasts the bone-chilling aspects of paranormal horror with family dynamics for an eerie movie for the Halloween season. The film stars Craig T. Nelson as Steve Freeling and JoBeth Williams as Diane Freeling, with support from Beatrice Straight as Dr. Martha Lesh (credited as “Dr. Lesh”), Dominique Dunne as Dana Freeling, Oliver Robins as Robbie Freeling, Heather O’Rourke as Carol Anne Freeling, and Michael McManus as Ben Tuthill. Poltergeist is a quintessential watch for the 2023 Halloween horror season. 

Insidious (2010)

Easily considered a modern-day classic, Insidious dives into the troubles that married couple Josh and Renai Lambert (played by Patrick Wilson and Rose Byrne, respectively) encounter once their son Dalton (Ty Simpkins) falls into an inexplicable coma and is seemingly under the possession of several demonic entities in a paranormal realm called “The Further.” It’s a great scare that combines the family dynamic and supernatural elements, tied together with jump scares and psychological horror. Ultimately, you need a bit of Insidious for the perfect Halloween thrills. 

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The Conjuring (2013)

When it comes to the paranormal scares, The Conjuring executes on a high level. That said, we highly recommend you don’t watch it at home alone. The movie follows the story of real-life paranormal investigators Ed Warren (Patrick Wilson) and his wife, Lorraine (Vera Farmiga), who take on a case that involves a haunted farmhouse and an evil presence that torments the family that lives there. The movie is based on a true story and contains a perfectly creepy atmosphere to set the tone for Halloween.

Crimson Peak (2015)

Crimson Peak takes you back to the early 1900s with a creepy gothic tale of romance that only Guillermo del Toro could execute with such prestige. The movie takes place in Edwarian-era England, where Edith Cushing (Mia Wasikowska), an aspiring writer, travels to Cumberland, England, with her husband and sister, only to discover some haunting secrets about her partner’s family. With a bit of ghostly horror and dark romance, Crimson Peak serves as an excellent Halloween choice.

Read More: HotNewHipHop’s October Halloween Horror Movie Countdown

Hereditary (2018)

The scariest of films often dive into the unknown, but as you can see by this list, the incorporation of family drama raises the stakes. In Hereditary, a family of four is tormented by a spirit following the death of their grandmother, whose secret past comes back to haunt them. Filled with twists, turns, and a slow-burning emotional plot, Hereditary is definitely a must-watch this Halloween.

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7 Times Hip-Hop Referenced “The Exorcist”

The Exorcist continues to haunt viewers to this day. Fifty years after its initial theatrical release, it still stands as a seminal piece of work in the horror genre. However, beyond horror, its long-lasting impact on pop culture remains prominent. By extension, hip-hop has similarly immortalized the film’s legacy over the years, whether referencing Linda Blair’s portrayal of Regan or samples of “Tubular Bells Pt. 1″ by Mike Oldman.” So, with Exorcist: The Believer hitting theatres on Friday, Oct. 6th, we decided to round up 7 times hip-hop has referenced the iconic horror film.

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Jay- Z – “D’Evils”

My flesh no n***a could test, my soul is possessed
By D’evils in the form of diamonds and Lexuses
The Exorcist got me doin’ sticks
Like, “Homie, you don’t know me
But the whole world owe me, strip!”

On the highlight from Reasonable Doubt, Jay-Z references the iconic horror film but not in a way that discusses exercising demons. Instead, he speaks on the lust for material possessions and the lengths people will reach to obtain luxury goods. 

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Kanye West – “Mercy” Ft. Pusha T, 2 Chainz & Big Sean

Check the neck, check the wrist
Them heads turnin’: that’s exorcist
My Audemars like Mardi Gras
That’s Swiss time, and that’s excellence

Although a brief mention of The Exorcist, the reference to the infamous scene involving Linda Blair helps Pusha T portray his lavish lifestyle. Not one to hold back on his fashion sensibilities, Pusha T issues a firm reminder that he’s making a massive statement with his jewels every time he steps out.

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Freddie Gibbs – “Forever & A Day”

Taken from his classic 2015 album, Shadow Of A Doubt, producers J Reid and Speakerbomb craft a haunting beat for one of Freddie Gibbs’ most vulnerable cuts in his catalog. The producers chop up Mike Oldman’s “Tubular Bells,” slowing down the sample and transforming it into an even more chilling soundscape. 

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Cypress Hill – Stoned Raiders

While the theme song for The Exorcist has been sampled on numerous occasions – beyond Freddie Gibbs’ “Forever & A Day” – there are a number of artists who’ve sampled the film itself. For example, Cypress Hill’s “Stoned Raiders” from 1995’ III: Temples of Boom. Produced By DJ Muggs, the California weed-smoking group samples Father Lankester Merrin’s dialogue in the middle of the exorcism of Regan. 

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$uicideboy$ – “Memoirs Of A Gorilla”

Perhaps the most subtle reference included in this list comes from the $uicideboy$. On their 2016 project, Radical $uicide, they dished out “Memoirs Of A Gorilla,” which actually samples Regan’s laugh. It’s a subtle sound effect that creeps into the song’s intro, adding eerie textures to the grim soundscape. 

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Nicki Minaj’s 2012 Grammy Performance

What was intended to be a glorious win in Nicki Minaj’s rap career turned into a controversial performance. In 2012, the rapper debuted her single, “Roman’s Holiday,” on the Grammy stage, equipped with a theatrical backdrop that boasted plenty of religious references, including a man dressed as a bishop and a fake priest. But, the performance ultimately centered around her alter-ego, Roman Zolanski, who was in need of an exorcism. Dubbed “The Exorcism Of Roman Zolanski,” Nicki delivered a contentious yet memorable performance that paid homage to the classic horror film.

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Three 6 Mafia – “Threesixafix”

It wouldn’t be right to exclude Three 6 Mafia from this list, especially when you consider their contribution to the horrorcore genre. DJ Paul’s affinity for horror movies has been well-documented throughout the years. “Threesixafix” stands as a notable deep cut in Three 6 Mafia’s vast catalog and appeared on E-40 and B-Legit’s Southwest Riders compilation. On “Threesixafix,” they transform Mike Oldman’s “Tubular Bells Pt. 1” into a gritty Memphis banger filled with ostentatious, murderous bars that are only fitting for Halloween. 

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Ellen Burstyn Net Worth 2023: What Is “The Exorcist” Icon Worth?

In the realm of cinema, certain names transcend the boundaries of time, becoming synonymous with unparalleled artistry. Ellen Burstyn, hailing from Detroit, Michigan, born in 1932 as Edna Rae Gillooly, is an indomitable figure. As a young aspiring artist, Burstyn’s pursuit of the theatrical arts saw her navigating the vibrant streets of New York City, diving headfirst into the world of acting. It wasn’t just raw ambition that propelled her; it was an intrinsic love for storytelling, a passion that would ultimately sculpt her into a cinematic legend. By the time 2023 rolled around, Burstyn’s illustrious career spanned decades, culminating in a net worth reported to be $20 million by Fresherslive.

Career Highlights & Accolades

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Ellen Burstyn plays Lois Farrow in The Last Picture Show (1971). (Photo by �� John Springer Collection/CORBIS/Corbis via Getty Images)

From her Oscar-winning performance in Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore to her heart-wrenching portrayal in Requiem for a Dream, Burstyn’s versatility as an actress remains unparalleled. However, her appearance in The Exorcist further cemented her as a Hollywood horror icon. She possesses the rare ability to immerse herself so profoundly into a role that viewers often forget they’re watching a performance. It’s this innate skill that has garnered her multiple Academy Award nominations and a plethora of other accolades over the years. With her prowess, Burstyn has effortlessly danced between the worlds of film, television, and stage, leaving an indelible mark in each.

Personal Life & Highlights

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LOS ANGELES, CA – MAY 20: (L-R) Common, Isabelle Nelisse, Jennifer Fox, Laura Dern, Ellen Burstyn and Jason Ritter. Attend FYC Screening of HBO’s Film THE TALE at the Landmark Theater. On May 20, 2018 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by FilmMagic/FilmMagic for HBO)

Ellen’s life off the screen is as captivating as her on-screen personas. A staunch advocate for artists’ rights, she served as the first woman president of the Actors’ Equity Association. There, she championed for the rights and welfare of her fellow actors. Further, Burstyn has always been open about her spiritual journey. She explored various faiths and even penned down her experiences in her memoir, Lessons in Becoming Myself. Her life was rife with challenges, from navigating early personal struggles to her journey of self-discovery.

Business Ventures & Philanthropy

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NEW YORK, NY – MARCH 03: Ellen Burstyn attends 2016 John Jay Medal for Justice Award at Gerald W. Lynch Theater at John Jay College of Criminal Justice on March 3, 2016 in New York City. (Photo by Laura Cavanaugh/FilmMagic)

While predominantly known for her acting brilliance, Burstyn’s endeavors extend beyond the realm of cinema. She’s been an active voice in the world of philanthropy, supporting various charitable initiatives and causes over the years. Furthermore, her passion for the arts led her to co-found the renowned Actors Studio, dedicated to cultivating the next generation of talent. This venture underscores not just her entrepreneurial spirit but also her commitment to giving back to an industry that gave her so much.

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