Paranormal Horror films are the highest-grossing horrors ever.
I went over this a little in “The Haunted Playlist”, so I won’t rehash it too much.
The highest-grossing horror franchise of all time, as of October 2023, is The Conjuring Universe, with over $2 billion. And the highest-grossing horror movie of all time, currently, is IT (Chapter One).
If that’s not impressive enough to make you want to watch Paranormal horror films, then I don’t know what is.
But, it’s time for some recommendations!
The Nun (2018)
Easily the best film in the entire Conjuring Universe. It’s got my favourite characters – Frenchie, Sister Irene and Father Burke. The film takes place in Romania for the most part and explores a convent of Nuns with a demonic presence.
The film’s music is fantastic, the lingering presence, and the foreboding atmosphere is horrific and it’s easily the best and my favourite.
Honourable Mention: The Nun 2 (2023)
This has only just come out, and I genuinely enjoyed it. It’s not as good as the first one, but it’s far better than The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It.
I’d highly recommend giving The Nun 2 a watch. Frenchie and Irene are back, but Father Burke isn’t.
IT (2017)
The highest-grossing horror film of all time, and there’s good reason for it. I must admit, when it was announced I was sceptical since I was a massive fan of the miniseries – featuring Tim Curry – however, Bill Skarsgård did a fantastic job as Pennywise.
If you’re afraid of clowns, I don’t recommend it. But if you want to develop a weird combination of Coulrophobia and Coulrophilia… This is where to get it.
Honourable Mention: IT – Chapter Two (2019)
It is a fantastic follow-up with a fantastic cast. Honestly, I’m surprised it didn’t do as well as the first half – but that’s not entirely uncommon.
Skarsgård reprised his role, of course. And it was beautiful. Skarsgård has said he’s willing to do a third film, and – I don’t know about you – but I’m hoping for a Pennywise Origin Story.
Dead Silence (2007)
Suppose you grew up watching Goosebumps and have a slight phobia of puppets due to Slappy. In that case, you’ll probably shit yourself over this film. Dead Silence follows a man who receives a puppet, leading to the death of his partner. I won’t ruin it too much, but… There are a lot of silent moments in which you’ll likely scream in.
One Missed Call (2003)
Paranormal Entities plus technology is never a good combination. This is one of those films! A missed call from the future featuring your own death.
Of course, this is in Japanese – and challenging to locate in the Western world, sadly – but if you can get your hands on it, it’s a fantastic watch, guaranteed.
Not So Honourable Mention: One Missed Call (2008)
This film was moderately successful in theatres, and as its own thing, it’s a good watch. But in comparison to the original from 2003, it is the worst J-Horror Remake America has ever produced… Even after the most recent Grudge remake.
If you can get your hands on it, it’s still entertaining.
Truth or Dare (2018)
Potentially the creepiest film on the list. It’s not particularly scary, but the smile morphed onto the actors’ faces is something else – even I can see it.
Following the idea that everyone has to play truth or dare or die, it’s a great premise and a funny film – though I doubt it was intended that way.
And that’s the list! If you’ve got some recommendations for me, please let me know. I’m always looking for new films to watch.
I’ll see you tomorrow for some more spooky season content.
Take care!
Support My Content
I’m a firm believer in free content – specifically when it comes to news. Everyone should have the ability to educate themselves without putting themselves in debt. That’s why my content on current events, experiences, and advocacy is free!
Though, hosting a website and producing content regularly costs time and money. So, if you like my work and want to support me, consider tipping me! You can pick a price; even £1 can help! This isn’t a reoccurring tip – this is a one-time-only cost!