Top 5 Slasher Movies That Redefined the Genre Forever
The importance of Wes Craven's Scream to the horror genre is undeniable, but there are also other slasher films that have forever changed cinema.
Since the release of Scream and the Halloween franchise, slasher films have pushed the boundaries of the genre to new heights over the decades. From innovative storytelling to creative plots, here are the top 5 slasher films that have taken the genre to new heights.
1. The Babysitter (2017)
Incorporating comedic elements and a unique premise, McG's horror comedy revolutionized the slasher genre with a fresh twist. The introduction of Samara Weaving as the enigmatic Bee challenges audience notions and lingers long after the film's conclusion, solidifying the actress as a remarkable scream queen.
2. Happy Death Day (2017)
Offering a unique twist on the slasher genre by incorporating the element of time travel, Christopher Landon's horror revitalizes the slasher concept with its inventive approach to storytelling.
The film's clever integration of the Groundhog Day-like repeating of the day trope and Jessica Rothe's standout performance are major contributors to the film's success.
3. Ready or Not (2019)
Taking the slasher genre and the career of Samara Weaving to a whole new level, Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett's horror comedy offers social commentary on wealth and privilege, making it a fresh and engaging addition to the genre.
Adding Weaving to the list of horror's top final girls, Ready or Not shows how the slasher genre can evolve to deliver both unique and entertaining experiences.
4. Black Christmas (1974)
Bob Clark's Black Christmas is considered to be one of the earliest and most influential examples of the slasher genre. Praised for its tense atmosphere, suspenseful storytelling, and innovative cinematography, the film set the stage for many slasher tropes and conventions that would become iconic in the genre, including the "final girl" trope.
5. X (2022)
Ti West's Intense X is notable not only for its familiar slasher elements but also for the unconventional way it chose to release the film. In a departure from traditional slasher roles, the X franchise, with its prequel Pearl and sequel MaXXXine, introduces a unique twist by having one actress, Mia Goth, play both the protagonist and antagonist in the series.
The series created a departure from traditional slasher roles and took modern slasher films to a whole new level.