This season remains the prime-time for horror film buffs to get their scare on. Characterized by flesh-eating monsters to terrorizing killers, this genre makes its comeback at no better time than the present. To replace your seasonal party going, sit back for a contactless change of pace. Get comfortable, grab some popcorn, and enjoy some classic and underrated flicks recommended by some of our students this spooky season!

Hereditary: 2018 – Recommended by Elise Taylor

Stirring away from the classic horror movie template defined by jump scares and haunting, “This isn’t your typical horror movie,” says Elise. This thriller finds its scare in the unsettling nature of the ever so common feelings of grief, resentment, and dysfunctional family dynamics. “It made me appreciate my family on a whole other level,” Elise adds. All the while, it includes hidden backstories and lore about each element of the story and its characters. Its level of complexity makes it a great second watch if you have previously seen it. Directed by Ari Aster starring Toni Collete, Alex Wolff, and Milly Shapiro. (Available Amazon Prime Video)

 Jennifer’s Body: 2009 – Recommended by Ashley Rivas

Starring the 2000s sex symbol, Megan Fox, as Jennifer, a demon who has to eat teenage boys to remain beautiful and Mean Girls star, Amanda Seyfried, as her nerdy best friend Needy, this movie is nothing short but nontraditional. While tackling typical teen girl topics such as the battle for popularity and boy trouble, Jennifer’s Body brings the stabbing to back-stabbing best friends. Ashley notes, “It pretty much comments on typical gender stereotypes… the promiscuous teenage girl and the blinded by lust teenage boys.” This horror-comedy will be sure to leave you glued to the screen. Directed by Karyn Kusama and screenplay by Oscar awarded Diablo Cody of “Juno” (2008). (Available on Hulu)

Over the Garden Wall: 2014 – Recommended by Alana Clark

This 10 episode series drops viewers right into a surreal autumnal realm of fantasy, where two lost brothers walk into a vast forest full of strange people and creatures. It’s a journey-of-discovery tale where nearly every element has to be uncovered from its core. It’s mysterious and creepy yet silly and heart warming at the same time. “Since this is a series targeted at a younger audience, it relies on actually building important horror elements like its setting and ominous mood instead of relying on things like jumpscares or gore to achieve a scary feel,” Alana commented. Not to mention this series also has an amazing soundtrack, perfectly suited for  its unique atmosphere. (Available on HBO Max)

You’re Next: 2011 – Recommended by Ethan Aguilera 

When a secluded family getaway comes under attack during their wedding anniversary celebration, the gang of mysterious killers soon find out that one of their victims harbors a secret talent for fighting back. If you’re searching for a horror movie with competent characters, this is for you. This slasher/thriller will have you both shouting a wincing in your seat so strap in. A few strong plot twists are dumped before its complete demise, changing this from a visceral night of carnage into a low-key clever satire. “This movie is basically a horror version of Home Alone.” Instead of goofy burglars, meet terrifying masked assailants.  (Available to Buy or Rent on Amazon Prime Video/Youtube)

The Birds: 1963 – Recommended by Shelby Jandreski 

A wealthy San Francisco socialite pursues her romantic interest to his small Northern California town. But upon her arrival, the bird population runs amok. Suddenly, the townsfolk face a massive avian onslaught, with the feathered fiends inexplicably attacking people all over Bodega Bay. This 60s staple showcases truly horrifying forces of nature. This movie includes feats of a romantic comedy at times but meshes it brilliantly with true suspense and fear in the second half. “I sort of have a funny fear of birds so this movie was genuinely a horror movie to me,” Shelby comments. This probably is a movie for the faint of feathers. (Available to Buy or Rent on Amazon Prime Video/Youtube)