Hey there, horror enthusiasts! 👻 Are you curious about how horror movies have evolved over the decades? Strap in and get ready for a spine-chilling ride as I take you through the rich history of horror films! 🎬

Silent Era (1895-1927)

Believe it or not, horror movies actually started in the late 19th century! 🧟‍♂️ Silent horror films, such as Nosferatu and The Cabinet of Dr. Caligari, were popular during this era. Horror filmmakers often used exaggerated settings and makeup to create a haunting atmosphere. 🎭

A black and white image of Max Schreck as Count Orlok from the 1922 movie, Nosferatu

Pre-Code Era (1930-1934)

During this era, horror films began to incorporate more graphic violence and sexual themes. This was known as the “pre-code” era, a period before the implementation of the Motion Picture Production Code, also known as the Hays Code. Some notable movies from this era include Dracula (1931) and Frankenstein (1931). 🧟‍♀️

A black and white image of Dracula (Béla Lugosi) and Mina (Helen Chandler) from the 1931 movie, Dracula

Golden Age (1935-1956)

The 1940s and 1950s are considered the golden age of horror movies. During this time, horror films began to use special effects and creature makeup to create more realistic monsters. This era saw the rise of gothic horror and psychological horror, with films like Psycho and The Thing from Another World. 🌃

A black and white image of Norman Bates (Anthony Perkins) from the 1960 movie, Psycho

Modern Era (1957-1979)

In the 1960s, horror movies became more experimental and diverse. Filmmakers began to experiment with different styles and techniques, resulting in horror classics like Night of the Living Dead and Rosemary’s Baby. This era also saw the rise of “exploitation” films, which were low-budget movies that focused on violence and sex. 🎥

A color image of zombies from the 1968 movie, Night of the Living Dead

Slasher Era (1980-1999)

The 1980s and 1990s are often referred to as the “slasher era”. These films include iconic horror franchises such as Halloween, Friday the 13th, and A Nightmare on Elm Street. This era also saw the rise of horror-comedies, such as Scream and Evil Dead II. 🔪

A color image of Michael Myers from the 1978 movie, Halloween

Modern Era (2000-Present)

In recent years, horror movies have become more diverse and realistic. Films like Get Out, Hereditary, and A Quiet Place have received critical acclaim and commercial success. This era has also seen the rise of “found footage” horror films, such as The Blair Witch Project and Paranormal Activity. 🎬

A color image of Chris Washington (Daniel Kaluuya) from the 2017 movie, Get Out

That’s it for our journey through the history of horror movies! Did any of your favorite films make the list? Let us know in the comments! 🔮

A spooky image of a haunted house with thunder and lightning in the background