Friday the 13th is here! That means it’s the perfect time to dim the lights, grab some popcorn, and settle in for a night of spooky fun. But with so many horror movies out there, where do you even begin? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. This guide is packed with the best “one-night horror” movies to make your Friday the 13th a truly terrifying (and enjoyable!) experience.
Classic Slashers for a Classic Scare
Let’s start with the movies that made Friday the 13th famous! These are the must-see slashers that every horror fan should know.
Friday the 13th (1980)
Of course, we have to start with the original! This is where it all began. A group of camp counselors are terrorized by a mysterious killer at Camp Crystal Lake. It’s a classic for a reason – the suspense, the atmosphere, and the shocking twist ending all make it a must-watch.
Friday the 13th Part 2 (1981)
Now that Jason Voorhees is avenging his mother’s death, he is wearing a sack mask and he hunts the camp counselors five years after the events of the original movie. Prepare for more scares and a look at the vengeful Jason’s deadly beginnings.
Friday the 13th: The Final Chapter (1984)
Don’t let the title fool you, this wasn’t really the end! But it’s still a great installment. Jason is back and causing havoc. This movie is known for its inventive kills and features a young Corey Feldman.
Halloween (1978)
Okay, technically not a Friday the 13th movie, but it’s a slasher icon! Michael Myers escapes from a mental institution and returns to his hometown to terrorize Laurie Strode (Jamie Lee Curtis). It’s a masterclass in suspense and jump scares.
Hidden Gems and Underrated Horrors
Want to go beyond the obvious? These are some lesser-known horror movies that deserve a spot on your Friday the 13th watchlist.
The Babadook (2014)
This Australian horror film is about a widowed mother who is struggling to raise her troubled son. A creepy pop-up book appears, unleashing a terrifying creature into their lives. It’s a psychological horror that explores themes of grief and trauma.
It Follows (2014)
After a sexual encounter, a young woman is cursed and haunted by a relentless, shape-shifting entity. It’s a suspenseful and atmospheric horror movie with a unique premise and a chilling score.
The Witch (2015)
Set in 17th-century New England, this folk horror film tells the story of a Puritan family who are tormented by dark forces in the woods. It’s a slow-burn horror with a creepy atmosphere and a focus on religious paranoia.
Train to Busan (2016)
A zombie outbreak occurs on a train from Seoul to Busan in South Korea. Passengers must fight for their survival against hordes of the undead. It’s an action-packed and emotional zombie movie with impressive special effects.
For the Gorehounds: Extreme Horror Picks
If you’re looking for something truly shocking and disturbing, these movies will definitely deliver the scares (but be warned, they’re not for the faint of heart!).
Terrifier (2016)
Art the Clown terrorizes a group of young women on Halloween night. It’s known for its graphic violence and practical effects. If you enjoy slasher films that push the boundaries of gore, this is one to watch.
Saw (2004)
Two strangers wake up in a locked room and are forced to play a deadly game by a mysterious killer known as Jigsaw. It’s a suspenseful and gruesome horror movie with a twist ending.
The Descent (2005)
A group of female cave explorers become trapped in a vast, uncharted cave system and must fight for their survival against monstrous creatures. It’s a claustrophobic and terrifying horror movie with impressive creature design.
A Touch of Humor: Horror Comedies
Sometimes, you need a laugh with your scares! These horror comedies offer a lighter take on the genre.
Shaun of the Dead (2004)
A man decides to turn his mundane life around by winning back his ex-girlfriend and repairing his relationship with his family, all during a zombie apocalypse. It’s a hilarious and clever zombie comedy from Edgar Wright.
Tucker & Dale vs Evil (2010)
Two well-meaning but socially awkward hillbillies are mistaken for killers by a group of college students. It’s a hilarious and gory comedy with plenty of slapstick and witty dialogue.
Friday the 13th Movie Marathon: A Suggested Schedule
Want to make a whole night of it? Here’s a suggested schedule for your Friday the 13th movie marathon:
- 7:00 PM: Friday the 13th (1980) – Start with the classic!
- 9:00 PM: Halloween (1978) – Another essential slasher film.
- 11:00 PM: It Follows (2014) – For a more modern scare.
- 1:00 AM: Shaun of the Dead (2004) – Lighten the mood with some comedy.
FAQ: Your Burning Horror Movie Questions Answered
What makes a good “one-night horror” movie?
A good “one-night horror” movie should be engaging, suspenseful, and leave you feeling satisfied (or terrified!) by the end. It should be something you can easily watch in one sitting without feeling overwhelmed.
Are there any Friday the 13th movies worth skipping?
Some fans find certain installments of the Friday the 13th franchise to be weaker than others. Friday the 13th Part VIII: Jason Takes Manhattan is often criticized for not actually taking place in Manhattan for the majority of the film. However, everyone has different tastes, so it’s worth checking out the reviews and deciding for yourself!
Where can I watch these movies?
Many of these movies are available on streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Shudder. You can also rent or buy them on platforms like Apple TV and Google Play Movies.
How can I make my movie night extra spooky?
Dim the lights, light some candles, make some themed snacks, and invite some friends over to share the scares! Creating a spooky atmosphere can enhance the viewing experience.
Conclusion: Happy Screaming!
So, there you have it! Your ultimate guide to making this Friday the 13th a night to remember (or maybe forget, depending on how scary the movies are!). Whether you’re a fan of classic slashers, hidden gems, or extreme horror, there’s something on this list for everyone. Grab your popcorn, turn off the lights, and prepare to scream! Happy Friday the 13th!
