Best Horror Movies Of 2017: A Spine-Chilling Guide

Hey horror fans! Ready to dive into the scariest and most unforgettable horror films of 2017? This year was packed with creepy clowns, eerie mysteries, and supernatural thrills that kept us on the edge of our seats. So, grab your popcorn, turn off the lights, and let's explore the best horror movies 2017 had to offer.

Why 2017 Was a Great Year for Horror

2017 was a banner year for horror, marked by a resurgence of creative storytelling, innovative filmmaking techniques, and a mix of both original concepts and successful adaptations. The horror genre saw a blend of mainstream successes and indie gems that catered to a diverse range of tastes. From psychological thrillers that messed with your mind to gore-filled spectacles that left you gasping, 2017 delivered horror in spades.

One of the key reasons for this golden age was the willingness of filmmakers to take risks. We saw directors experimenting with different sub-genres, blending horror with comedy, drama, and even social commentary. This experimentation led to a refreshing wave of films that weren't just about jump scares but also offered deeper, more meaningful narratives. The audience, in turn, rewarded these efforts by turning out in droves, proving that there was a hunger for smart, well-crafted horror movies.

Moreover, the rise of streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime played a significant role in boosting the visibility of horror films. These platforms provided a stage for indie horror movies to reach a wider audience, bypassing the traditional gatekeepers of Hollywood. This democratization of distribution meant that smaller, more niche horror films could find their audience and gain a cult following. Social media also played a crucial role, with horror fans sharing their thoughts, reviews, and recommendations, creating a buzz around certain films and driving up their popularity.

Top Horror Films of 2017

Let's get to the meat of the matter – the top horror films of 2017 that you absolutely need to watch. These aren't just your run-of-the-mill scary flicks; they're the films that left a lasting impact on the horror genre. I'll break down a few of the must-see movies.

It

Based on Stephen King’s iconic novel, It was one of the biggest horror sensations of 2017. Directed by Andy Muschietti, the film follows a group of kids in Derry, Maine, as they face their worst fears in the form of Pennywise, a terrifying clown.

The movie’s success wasn’t just due to its source material. The filmmakers did an excellent job of capturing the essence of King’s novel while also updating it for a modern audience. The young cast delivered stellar performances, and Bill Skarsgård's portrayal of Pennywise was nothing short of iconic. He managed to bring a new level of creepiness to the character, making him both terrifying and strangely captivating.

It also resonated with audiences because of its themes of childhood trauma, friendship, and overcoming fear. The Losers' Club, as the group of kids is known, banded together to face a common enemy, and their bond was something that many viewers could relate to. The film was a critical and commercial success, proving that well-made adaptations of classic horror novels could still draw huge crowds. It also revitalized the killer clown trope in horror, leading to a resurgence of clown-themed horror movies in the years that followed. For anyone who loves a good scare and a compelling story, It is a must-watch.

Get Out

Jordan Peele's directorial debut, Get Out, was more than just a horror film; it was a cultural phenomenon. This socially conscious thriller follows Chris, a young African-American man who visits his white girlfriend's family for the weekend and uncovers a dark and disturbing secret.

Get Out stood out because of its unique blend of horror, comedy, and social commentary. Peele masterfully used the horror genre to explore themes of race, privilege, and cultural appropriation. The film was both terrifying and thought-provoking, leaving audiences with plenty to think about long after the credits rolled.

One of the things that made Get Out so effective was its ability to create a sense of unease and paranoia. From the very beginning, Chris feels out of place and uncomfortable around his girlfriend's family. As the film progresses, the tension builds, and Chris discovers that he is in grave danger. The movie was full of memorable scenes and chilling moments, and it kept audiences guessing until the very end. Get Out was a critical darling, earning Peele an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay, and it cemented his place as one of the most exciting voices in modern horror. It's a film that is both entertaining and important, and it's a must-see for anyone who wants to experience horror that is both smart and scary.

Split

M. Night Shyamalan made a triumphant return to form with Split, a psychological thriller about a man with 24 distinct personalities who kidnaps three teenage girls. James McAvoy delivers a tour-de-force performance as Kevin, the man with multiple personalities, each more disturbing than the last.

Split was a masterclass in suspense and character development. Shyamalan created a compelling and unsettling story that kept audiences on the edge of their seats. McAvoy's performance was particularly noteworthy, as he seamlessly transitioned between different personalities, each with its own unique quirks and mannerisms. The film explored themes of trauma, identity, and the power of the human mind. Split was a critical and commercial success, and it revitalized Shyamalan's career after a series of missteps. It also set the stage for a sequel, Glass, which brought together characters from Split and Shyamalan's earlier film, Unbreakable. If you're a fan of psychological thrillers with strong performances and twisty plots, Split is definitely worth a watch.

Annabelle: Creation

A prequel to the Annabelle film from The Conjuring universe, Annabelle: Creation tells the origin story of the creepy doll. Directed by David F. Sandberg, the film follows a group of orphans who are terrorized by Annabelle after they move into the home of a dollmaker and his wife.

Annabelle: Creation was a surprisingly effective horror film, given that it was part of a larger franchise. Sandberg created a genuinely scary atmosphere, and the film was full of suspenseful moments and jump scares. The young cast delivered strong performances, and the story was well-crafted and engaging. The film also expanded on the lore of The Conjuring universe, providing more background on the demonic forces at play. Annabelle: Creation was a commercial success, proving that there was still plenty of life left in The Conjuring franchise. If you're a fan of supernatural horror with creepy dolls and haunted houses, Annabelle: Creation is a must-see.

Raw

Raw, a French-Belgian horror drama directed by Julia Ducournau, tells the story of a young vegetarian who develops a taste for meat after starting veterinary school. The film is a coming-of-age story with a gruesome twist, exploring themes of sexuality, identity, and the dark side of human nature.

Raw was a critical darling, praised for its originality, its strong performances, and its visceral imagery. The film was both disturbing and thought-provoking, and it left a lasting impression on audiences. Ducournau's direction was confident and assured, and she created a unique and unsettling atmosphere. Raw was a bold and daring film, and it established Ducournau as one of the most exciting new voices in horror. If you're a fan of art-house horror that pushes boundaries and challenges conventions, Raw is a must-see.

Other Notable Horror Films from 2017

Beyond these headliners, 2017 had plenty more to offer. Here are a few other films that deserve a mention:

• Happy Death Day: A fun, slasher flick with a time-loop twist.
• The Babysitter: A horror-comedy that's both gory and hilarious.
• Better Watch Out: A Christmas-themed horror that subverts expectations.

The Impact of 2017 on the Horror Genre

The horror films of 2017 had a significant impact on the genre, influencing the types of stories that were being told and the way they were being told. The success of films like Get Out demonstrated that horror could be used to explore complex social issues, while the popularity of films like It showed that well-made adaptations of classic horror novels could still resonate with audiences. The rise of streaming services also played a role, providing a platform for indie horror films to reach a wider audience.

One of the lasting legacies of 2017 was the emergence of a new generation of horror filmmakers. Directors like Jordan Peele and Julia Ducournau made their mark with their innovative and daring films, and they have continued to push the boundaries of the genre in the years since. The success of these filmmakers has inspired others to take risks and experiment with different approaches to horror, leading to a more diverse and exciting landscape for horror fans.

Conclusion

So there you have it, horror hounds! 2017 was a killer year for horror movies, offering a mix of scares, thrills, and thought-provoking stories. Whether you're into creepy clowns, social thrillers, or psychological mind-benders, there's something for everyone in this lineup. So, which of these films are you adding to your watchlist? Happy screaming, guys!