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Reviews forAnnabelle Comes Homehave been pretty mixed, but theConjuringuniverseshows no signs of slowing anytime soon.
For example, something likeGhostbustersleans more towards action, and theres no end of childrens tales that follow suit.
So, here are the top ten frightening ghost movies of all time, as ranked on IMDb.
Firstly, its horror is bolstered by the True Story inspiration.
It had two leads with great chemistry to represent actual paranormal investigators.
Secondly, its actually a story of two everyday families.
They have financial problems, vulnerable children, and personal squabbles.
The film also goes out of its way to depict the paranormal as a true phenomena.
It addresses false accounts that can be attributed to shaky pipes.
With several daughters, and a frequently absent father, the Perron family is easy to sympathize with.
Also, Wans careful camera lingers in just the right way to convince you something frightening is there.
It builds up to some of the best jump scares of all time.
That vintage look has been an effective tool of horror since German Expressionism.
It allows directors to play with shadows in a way that color simply cant.
To be honest, its a little unfair thatThe Sixth Sensehad been released so recently.
This film was just as effective in its twist, and has an equally skilled cast.
The story is driven byNicole Kidmansgreat performance and acclaimed director Alejandro Amenabar.
It has engaging tension, and an appropriate slow-burn pace.
Its also another anthology film, which is mostly known for its evil ventriloquist dummy.
So enjoy that, all youAnnabellefans.
The framing machine of the story is all about the protagonists inability to separate his nightmares from reality.
All of this goes as far back asThe Cabinet of Dr. Caligariin 1920.
Still, the performances are good enough, and the directing is tidy.
Also, Bruce Campbell was absolutely born for this role.
Its an absolute travesty thatthe TV serieswhich continued Ashs story is gone.
The Innocents
An adaptation ofThe Turn of the Screw, this is clearly the precursor forThe Others.
It is tasteful, artful, and altogether another breed of British horror films.
It truly set itself apart from Hammer productionsalthough those are fun in their own way.
Kwaidan
When most people think ofAsian horror, their minds will probably veer towardsJu-on: The GrudgeorRingu.
The four tales are mostly inspired by written works from around 1900.
They feature interactions with spirits that are actually fully involved relationships.
Its unique, but it counts as horror thanks to the first two stories.
The Exorcist
This film was far ahead of its time.
With Linda Blairs traumatic transformation, her performance is nothing less than astonishing.
Of course, the film features dynamic performances from every single member of the cast.
The evil force does not just attack the characters physically, but also psychologically.
This is the ultimate battle of faith, and for the purity of family.
The Sixth Sense
This is the film that perfectly encapsulates everythingM.
Night Shyamalanever had to say.
But first and foremost, its very psychological.
Any ghost story is firing on all cylinders when the paranormal sits passenger to the drama.
The film also boasts one of James Newton Howards most incredible scores, next toThe Village.
Thats because the movie is deeply rooted in Jacks strained relationship with his family.
It establishes his abusive past right at the onset.
Ghosts have always served as manifestations of the past, but they particularly do here.
They feed on Jacks violent tendencies and easily manipulate him with it.
But aside from the very real threat of a terrorizing father, the paranormal elements themselves are visually iconic.
NEXT:The 10 Most Haunting Ghost Movies Of The 2010s, Ranked
