The Conjuring 2

Though there’s a general hatred for horror movie sequels, I happen to believe that the Conjuring franchise is a rare case in which the second film impressed me more than the first. The movie follows paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren yet again as they travel to London to help a family victimized by an unseen poltergeist. The Conjuring series is unique in its ability to balance fear, with a distinct lack of carnage, which is a relatively difficult feat for the modern horror field. So, if you’re a fan of a good scare, but little to no gore, The Conjuring 2 is a perfect fit.

Smile

If you were internet-active in 2022, you probably recall the distinctly disturbing marketing of ‘Smile’: random people hired to sit at football games and streets with a crazed smile plastered on their faces. The content of the movie proved to be equally as frightening as its marketing, as it chronicles a young psychiatrist’s struggle with an ancient curse that leads its victims to their death. Though the plot of ‘Smile’ isn’t particularly unique – with curses of all kinds gracing the silver screen since the 90s – it’s the film’s delivery that makes it truly stand out. ‘Smile’ delivers jump-scares in both unexpected, and nearly nefarious ways, keeping audiences on the edge of their seat for the film’s entire 2 hour run-time. 

Scream V

Now, I understand that the appropriate Scream movie for this list would likely be the very first, 1996 classic, ‘Scream’. However, with the pre-existing understanding and love of this cult classic, I figure it’s time to give its brethren some love.  Scream V enters the world Woodsboro once again, focusing on a new cast of victims, all

relatives of characters in the original films. For being number five in a series of sequels, I appreciate this movie’s ability to keep things original and, somewhat, unexpected. For a classic who-dunnit, Scream V is a perfect choice.

Urban Legend 

If you’ve exhausted the classic 1990s slashers and are looking for more slightly cringey, but nostalgic films, look no further than 1998’s Urban Legend. The movie has a particularly unique plot, following a group of friends fending off a killer lurking around their college campus, claiming victims in the style of classic urban legends. I’ll admit, the movie is most definitely 90s to the core, with leather jackets and young Jared Leto as evidence. However, as a cozy – or as cozy as a horror movie can get – film, Urban Legend is perfect for a night in and a healthy amount of pumpkin-spiced treats.