Do you find yourself searching for the next batch of scary movies to cross off your list? Are you tired of mindlessly browsing through streaming apps with no guidance on what’s good and what’s not? Sound familiar? Then, this blog post was made for you. With this list, we’re exploring the best films in the horror genre that start with the sinister letter ‘S.’ We’ve got a top-notch lineup of horror movies that are sure to scare and entertain. From iconic classics to hidden gems, each film in this list has its unique way of leaving your desire for terror satisfied and at bay. So, dim the lights, lock the doors, and prepare yourself for a deep dive into the world of horror movies that start with ‘S.’
Classic Horror Movies That Start With ‘S’
These are some of the movies that first come to viewer’s minds when you mention the horror genre. They all laid the groundwork for some of today’s best horror films. Here are some of the enduring masterpieces that have shaped the genre, starting with the letter ‘S’ of course.
The Shining (1980)
Jack Torrance (played by Jack Nicholson), an aspiring writer, becomes the winter caretaker of the isolated Overlook Hotel with his wife and son. As supernatural forces unleash his latent madness, the hotel’s eerie corridors become the backdrop for a descent into terror, leading to one of the most chilling phrases in cinema history: “Here’s Johnny!” This film is directed by Stanley Kubrick and is based on a novel by Stephen King. When you’re done with this first film, make sure to check out its direct sequel, Doctor Sleep.
The Silence of the Lambs (1991)
Clarice Starling (Jodie Foster), a young FBI trainee, seeks the help of the brilliant but insane serial killer, Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Anthony Hopkins), to catch another cunning murderer known as Buffalo Bill. This psychological thriller will leave you questioning the boundaries between good and evil. The Silence of the Lambs tops every list of the best horror movies of all time, even taking home some Academy Awards, including best actor and best director. We rewatched this gem recently, and it definitely holds up.
The Sixth Sense (1999)
Child psychologist Dr. Malcolm Crowe tries to help a young boy who claims he can see and communicate with the dead. M. Night Shyamalan’s twist-filled masterpiece will keep you guessing until the very end. For fans of classic ghost stories.
SAW (2004)
Two men awaken in a derelict bathroom, chained to pipes by a sadistic serial killer known as Jigsaw. They must navigate a series of gruesome and deadly puzzles to survive, all while uncovering the horrifying truth behind their captor. We’re a little bit biased here at NSH, as this is the beginning of our favorite horror franchise.
Signs (2002)
A farmer and his family members discover mysterious crop circles on their property, signaling an otherworldly invasion. This is M. Night Shyamalan’s 2nd motion picture on this list, and it explores themes of faith and fear. Fun fact, this was the first horror movie I saw in theaters. Mel Gibson and Joaquin Phoenix star.
Other classic horrors you don’t want to miss: Halloween, The Exorcist.
Slasher Horror Movies That Start With ‘S’
Prepare for a blood-soaked rollercoaster ride into the heart-pounding world of slashers. These films are the stuff of nightmares, where relentless killers stalk their prey, and every corner turned could be a deadly trap, making for an adrenaline-fueled descent into terror.
Sleepaway Camp (1983)
After a tragic accident at a summer camp, a young girl and her cousin return years later, only to be plagued by a series of gruesome murders. This cult classic delivers a shocking twist that you won’t see coming.
Scream (1996)
A masked killer terrorizes a small town, targeting high school students and following the rules of horror movie clichés. This meta slasher film, directed by Wes Craven, revitalized the genre and became a cultural phenomenon. If you’ve never seen Scream, you can’t call yourself a horror fan.
More bloody slashers: Friday the 13th, The Texas Chain Saw Massacre.
Vintage | Horror Movies That Start With The Letter ‘S’
These timeless classics have stood the test of time. Join us on this expedition into the heart of vintage horror, where suspense, atmosphere, and storytelling craft reign supreme, reminding us why these films remain beloved and revered to this day.
Suspiria (1977)
A young American dancer joins a prestigious ballet academy in Germany, only to uncover the school’s terrifying and supernatural secrets. Dario Argento’s visually stunning giallo masterpiece is a surreal nightmare. If you want a modern update, check out the remake featuring Mia Goth.
Rent/Buy On Amazon
The Spiral Staircase (1946)
In a remote mansion, a mute woman becomes the target of a serial killer who preys on disabled women. This classic thriller combines atmospheric tension with a memorable heroine.
The Seventh Victim (1943)
A woman searches for her missing sister in New York City, uncovering a web of devil worship, intrigue, and paranoia. This early Val Lewton-produced horror film is a moody and atmospheric gem.
Other horror films older than dirt: Nosferatu, Rosemary’s Baby.
Horror Comedy
After watching some of the more serious films on this list, recharge your fuel tank by loading up some of these horror goofs.
Shaun of the Dead (2004)
In this horror-comedy, Shaun, an aimless electronics store employee, must rescue his friends and family from a zombie apocalypse. With humor as sharp as its undead antagonists, this film adds a hilarious twist to the horror genre.
Scary Movie (2000)
While we’re on the topic of comedies, Scary Movie is another one that should definitely be on your watchlist. If you’re new to the genre, I’d recommend waiting until you’ve seen a good chunk of films (especially ones on this list) before watching it. A group of teenagers is stalked and terrorized by a masked killer in a hilarious parody of classic horror films. Oh yeah, we’ll vouch for the sequels as well.
Society (1989)
A teenager suspects that his wealthy, upper-class family is involved in a bizarre and grotesque secret society, leading to a nightmarish journey into a world of body horror and surreal conspiracy. While we can’t confidently call this film ‘good’, it has an intense cult following, and it’s quite the conversation piece. Also, this is the best category on this list that I could see this movie fitting into. It’s a weird one. Comment your initial reactions down below after watching.
Keep laughing with these flicks: Cooties, Tucker & Dale Vs. Evil.
Modern Horror
From the 2010s and beyond, filmmakers have been pushing boundaries, redefining fear, and bringing fresh nightmares to life. Delve into the chilling world of contemporary horror, exploring films that reflect the anxieties and terrors of our time while keeping us on the edge of our seats.
Sinister (2012)
A true-crime writer moves his family into a house where the previous occupants met a gruesome end. As he uncovers a series of disturbing home movies, inexplicable occurrences take over, leading to a relentless descent into darkness in this supernatural horror starring legendary actor Ethan Hawke. This is a must-watch for modern audiences.
Superhost (2021)
Two vloggers rent an idyllic vacation home for their travel channel but quickly discover that their eccentric host may have sinister intentions. Found footage takes a terrifying turn in this modern take on the vacation-gone-wrong trope. Part of the new wave of what we like to call “Influencer Horror” or “Social Media Horror”.
The Sacrament (2013)
A Vice media crew visits a remote cult community to document their way of life, but as they delve deeper, they uncover a nightmarish world of manipulation, madness, and mass suicide. group of people
Southbound (2015)
In an anthology of interconnected stories, travelers on a desolate highway encounter supernatural horrors that blur the lines between life and death. This eerie, atmospheric film weaves a web of dread.
Scare Package (2019)
This horror anthology satirizes and pays homage to various horror sub-genres. Each segment offers a fresh twist, delivering laughs and scares in equal measure.
Spiral (2021)
Detective Ezekiel “Zeke” Banks and his rookie partner investigate a series of gruesome murders that seem to be linked to the legacy of the Jigsaw killer. This installment in the “SAW” franchise brings a fresh perspective to the gruesome games. Although it’s far from the best in the franchise, it’s definitely worth watching.
Saint Maud (2019)
A devoutly religious hospice nurse becomes obsessed with saving the soul of her dying patient, leading to a chilling descent into madness and religious fervor. This psychological horror film is a haunting character study. While we weren’t overly impressed with this flick, many modern horror fans speak highly of it.
Speak No Evil (2013)
A family’s road trip takes a horrifying turn when they encounter a mysterious cult with supernatural abilities. As they fight for survival, they must confront their own dark secrets.
The Skin I Live In (2011)
A brilliant plastic surgeon holds a young woman captive in his mansion, subjecting her to experimental surgeries in a quest for perfection. This Spanish psychological thriller explores themes of identity and obsession.
More Modern Horror: It Follows, As Above, So Below
Home Invasion
The Strangers (2008)
A couple’s romantic getaway turns into a night of terror when they are stalked and tormented by masked strangers who have a sadistic appetite for violence.
More movies that will make you lock your doors: Funny Games, You’re Next.
Gothic Horror
Sleepy Hollow (1999)
Constable Ichabod Crane is sent to investigate a series of decapitations in the eerie town of Sleepy Hollow. Tim Burton’s gothic masterpiece blends horror and dark humor into a visually stunning tale.
More gothic horror goodies: The Cabinet Of Dr. Caligari, Sweeney Todd.
Slow Burn Horror Movies That Start With ‘S’
Session 9 (2001)
An asbestos removal crew takes on a job at an abandoned mental hospital, where they unravel the building’s dark history and face their own inner demons. This slow burn psychological horror will leave you breathless. It’s rare to find a slow burn horror movie that doesn’t put us to sleep, but Session 9 kept us engaged the entire time.
Other slow burns we recommend: Hereditary, Midsommar.
Foreign Film
Shutter (2008)
A photographer and his girlfriend discover unsettling images in their photographs, leading them on a chilling journey to uncover a vengeful ghost’s dark secret. This Thai horror film is a haunting experience. Not to be confused with Shutter Island, starring Leonardo DiCaprio.
Creature Feature | Horror Movies That Start With ‘S’
Silent Hill (2006)
A mother searches for her adopted daughter in the eerie, fog-shrouded town of Silent Hill, where nightmarish creatures and a disturbing cult await. Based on the video game series, this adaptation delivers a surreal and unsettling experience for those who enjoy creature features. Fair warning, you may be tempted to distract yourself with the Silent Hill video games after watching.
Other creature features worth checking out: The Descent, A Quiet Place.
Conclusion
Twenty-seven terrifying films that start with the letter ‘S.’ From psychological thrillers to supernatural hauntings, each of these movies offers a unique journey into the heart of darkness. Whether you prefer the classics like “The Shining” or crave something more contemporary like “Spiral,” these films are bound to leave you with a deep appreciation for the horror genre. So, dim the lights and prepare for some horror deliciousness.
Looking for the perfect gift for yourself or another horror fanatic? Check out our blog post about our favorite merch stores.
Remember to come back to this list after each film and let us know what you thought! Can you think of any movies we missed?
