What makes a horror film truly terrifying? Does it always need to be visually scary, with grotesque-looking bad guys running around remote and run-down locales? Is it a requirement to have a motley cast of characters killed off one by one? While audiences recognize many familiar tropes within the horror genre that have developed throughout the years, each film has its own unique way of creeping out its audience.The best horror moviesare often amalgamations of typical horror elements, combined to create effective scares.
One of the most important factors in creating a genuinely spooky atmosphere within a movie is sound. The right soundtrack can immerse viewers in the world of the story, making them look over their shoulders even though they’re safe in their own homes. The musical component of a horror film can put anew spin on recognizable tunes– like Jordan Peele’s remix of “I Got 5 On It” inUs– or create a sense of anxiety in the background with an original score. Some of the most iconic horror films have relied on all-new auditory styling that stays cemented in pop culture, decades after their releases. With that said, here are some of the best musical scores in horror movies, ranked.
Updated on October 3rd, 2023, by Danilo Raúl:This article has been updated with additional content to keep the discussion fresh and relevant with even more information and new entries.
15Hereditary (2018)
Ari Aster’sHereditarytook the film industry by storm. The gut-punching nature of the story takes a deep look at family dynamics, infusing horror elements in the most unexpected places and making a mother question her love for their sons. The film has become a cultural staple, dubbed by critics as “The Exorcistfor the 21st Century.”
Of course, the movie wouldn’t have accomplished all this without the atmospheric and chilling score composed by Collin Stetson, from Arcade Fire’s fame. Pay close attention to the song “Reborn,” the track used in the last portion of the film, as it helps you realize everything set in motion to take you there.
14Candyman (1992)
Candymanis a movie franchise that still feels lacking in potential. The original trilogy passes as a mere decent slasher, and while the remake did try to do something great and different, it doesn’t look like we are getting another entry soon. Philip Glass was lured to the prospect of making an artsy and slow-paced horror story filled with the nuances Clive Barker is known for.
The composer handed over a minimalist, gothic score filled with ongoing structures and overtly reliant on three essential elements: a classical piano, an organ, and a looping chorus. Sadly,the film was transformed in the cutting room, and while the original score remains, it stands out for feeling a bit off with the film’s themes.
13The Invisible Man (2020)
Each time Universal Studios takes a swing atThe Invisible Man, they deliver an absolute banger. Paul Verhoeven’s remake of the early 2000s was a fine film. Still, director Leigh Whannell’s recent offering ditches the story’s sci-fi aspects to tell something more supernatural and grounded in reality.
An abusive husband makes life hell for his former wife using technology to become invisible. Benjamin Walfisch gives us a score that matches the film’s tone, with a tense line of music filled with heavy bass lines and synthesizers that help build tension when necessary and keep you on your toes when nothing happens.
12Nope (2022)
Jordan Peele aims to become the new master of horror for the new century, and we are thrilled with each offering he sends our way. Taking a cue from filmmakers such as Martin Scorsese and Spike Lee, the director is known for working with an established network of creatives that help shape his vision for each project more efficiently.
Just as Daniel Kaluuya leads almost all of Peele’s films, Michael Abels has been the composer forGet Out,UsandNope. In the latest offering, the composer chose to go for something that encompassed the danger present in the story without actually using the music for jump scares, with a series of strings and horns at different tempos to make the story more immersive.
11Suspiria (2018)
Everyone knows that quite a few rock stars have used their talents in the film industry, the most famous being Trent Reznor with partner in crime Atticus Ross fromNine Inch Nails. We are pretty sure not many people know Thom Yorke ofRadioheadfame has also dipped his toes in the score arena.
The composer made something extraordinary when he was given the chance to score the most recent remake of the filmSuspiria, released in 2018, choosing to ditch the old aesthetic of Italian prog rock band Goblin and go with something more passive and droning, a style of music filled with a mix of classic piano and synthesizersthat creeps up inside your earsand make the experience of watching the events unfolding on the screen something desperate, immersive and gripping.
Jason Lives Director Discloses Ideas for a Pamela Voorhees Friday the 13th Prequel
Jason Lives director Tom McLoughlin and writing partner have enough material for a Pamela Voorhees limited series and prequel.
George Romerodecided to return to the world of zombies in 2005 after an extended leave, and he didn’t disappoint.Land of The Deadfeatures all the tropes of the directors, such asdeep explorations of inequalityand the cost of survival in a barren land with limited resources where those who have more take more.
Reinhold Heil and Johnny Klimek did the honors with their ominous score for this film, flooding each scene with a mix of synths, strings, and percussion that hammer your senses, making you feel every moment of tension and every kill that takes place in the story.
9Saw (2004)
The originalSawholds up as one of the great horror films of the 2000s. The score for the whole series was the brainchild of Charlie Clouser, a previous member of the hard rock band Nine Inch Nails. Applying his musical expertise to the films helped to develop an unsettling atmosphere to complement Jigsaw’s horrifying games.
The swelling string instruments increasing in intensity as the soundtrack goes on gives the audience a sense of time running out, complemented by the pounding of drums. This score is perfect for the happenings within the plot, seeing as the characters are in a race against the clock against insurmountable odds.
8Rosemary’s Baby (1968)
Composed by Krzysztof Komeda, the score forRosemary’s Babyjuxtaposes the haunting voice of the titular Rosemary (Mia Farrow) against occasionally happy classical music that definitely sounds a bit “off.” Made to sound like a lullaby, the main titles of the film draw the viewer into what initially sounds like a mother’s love for her child.
But, as the film progresses, chanting, choral music, and spooky strings are introduced into the soundtrack, welcoming Rosemary’s devilish new arrival into the world. Given the famous “gotcha” moment in this film, the score conjures up a sinking feeling for viewers as they make the horrifying realization right along with her.
7A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
The musical component of the originalA Nightmare on Elm Streetexpertly combines the futuristic synth typical of ’80s films with some classic auditory elements found in horror films. The resounding percussion within this score is peppered with whispers, gasps, electrical fizzles, breaking glass, and other stunning sounds.
Altogether, it encapsulates the essence of this iconic film as Freddy Kreuger (Robert Englund) chases his victims through dreamscapes and waking nightmares. Equal parts campy and creepy, this soundtrack composed by Charles Bernstein definitelydoes the entire franchise justice.
6Friday the 13th (1980)
Thanks to its music, the firstFriday the 13thfilm can make even summer camp scary. With its piercing violin notes punctuated by trumpet blasts, and of course, its trademark “chh-chh-chh, aah-aah-aah” vocal backing, Harry Manfredini’s score will have you hiding out in the nearest canoe.
Developing a feeling of unease among campers and viewers alike, the spooky segments within this score are full of minor keys and dabble in synth sounds – and let’s not forget the twang of the banjo that briefly creates a false feeling of down-home safety. It’s no wonder theFriday the 13thfranchise is heralded as one ofthe best of all time.
10 Most Frightening Horror Movies From the ’80s
These are the scariest films from a decade of unique originals, enhanced effects, and influential artistry.
