Top Horror Films Of 2017: A Scary Good Year!

Hey there, horror fans! Ready for a trip down memory lane filled with screams, chills, and maybe a few sleepless nights? Let's dive into the best horror films of 2017. 2017 was a fantastic year for horror, delivering a diverse range of films that catered to all sorts of fright aficionados. From supernatural scares to psychological thrillers and good old-fashioned slashers, there was something for everyone. So grab your popcorn, turn off the lights, and let's get started!

Why 2017 Was a Stellar Year for Horror

2017 stands out as a particularly strong year for horror cinema for a multitude of reasons, making it a noteworthy period for both filmmakers and fans of the genre. One of the primary factors contributing to this was the willingness of studios and independent producers alike to take risks with their storytelling. Instead of relying solely on jump scares and tired tropes, many films delved into deeper, more complex themes, such as grief, trauma, societal anxieties, and the human condition itself. This thematic richness elevated the horror genre beyond mere entertainment, transforming it into a vehicle for exploring profound and often uncomfortable aspects of life.

Moreover, 2017 saw a surge in creative and innovative approaches to filmmaking within the horror genre. Directors and writers experimented with unconventional narrative structures, visual styles, and sound design to create truly unique and unsettling cinematic experiences. Some films embraced a slow-burn approach, gradually building tension and dread through atmosphere and character development, while others opted for a more visceral and intense onslaught of scares. This diversity in style and pacing ensured that there was something to appeal to a wide range of horror sensibilities.

Another significant factor that contributed to the success of horror films in 2017 was the rise of female voices both in front of and behind the camera. Many of the year's standout horror films were directed, written, or starred women, bringing fresh perspectives and nuanced portrayals to a genre that has historically been dominated by male perspectives. These female-driven narratives often explored themes of female empowerment, resilience, and the unique challenges faced by women in a patriarchal society, adding layers of depth and complexity to the horror genre.

Furthermore, the horror films of 2017 benefited from a confluence of cultural and social factors that made audiences particularly receptive to stories that tapped into their deepest fears and anxieties. In a world grappling with political uncertainty, social unrest, and technological disruption, horror films provided a safe and cathartic space for audiences to confront their collective anxieties and explore the darker aspects of the human experience. By reflecting and amplifying these fears, horror films offered a sense of validation and catharsis, allowing audiences to process their emotions in a controlled and imaginative environment.

Finally, the horror films of 2017 were bolstered by a vibrant and passionate online community of fans who eagerly shared their thoughts, theories, and recommendations with one another. Social media platforms, online forums, and dedicated horror websites provided spaces for fans to connect, discuss, and celebrate their favorite films, creating a sense of camaraderie and collective excitement around the genre. This online buzz helped to amplify the visibility and impact of the year's best horror films, ensuring that they reached a wider audience and left a lasting impression on the cultural landscape.

Must-See Horror Films from 2017

Alright, let's get to the good stuff! Here’s a rundown of some of the absolute best horror movies that 2017 had to offer. Trust me; these are the ones you don’t want to miss!

Get Out

Jordan Peele’s directorial debut, Get Out, is more than just a horror film; it's a cultural phenomenon. This movie masterfully blends horror with social commentary, creating a chilling and thought-provoking experience that stays with you long after the credits roll. The story follows Chris Washington (Daniel Kaluuya), a young Black man who visits his white girlfriend's family estate for the weekend. What starts as an awkward introduction quickly spirals into a terrifying nightmare as Chris uncovers a dark secret lurking beneath the surface of their seemingly progressive facade.

Get Out succeeds on multiple levels. First and foremost, it's a genuinely scary movie with plenty of suspense, tension, and shocking moments. Peele expertly uses horror tropes to create a sense of unease and dread, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats from beginning to end. But what truly sets Get Out apart is its incisive and unflinching exploration of race, class, and identity in America. The film tackles complex issues such as systemic racism, white privilege, and cultural appropriation with nuance and intelligence, prompting viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about themselves and the society they live in.

One of the key strengths of Get Out is its ability to subvert expectations and challenge conventional horror tropes. Peele avoids relying on cheap jump scares or gratuitous violence, instead opting for a more subtle and psychological approach to horror. He creates a sense of mounting dread through clever use of dialogue, body language, and symbolism, gradually ratcheting up the tension until it reaches a fever pitch. The film's memorable imagery, such as the sunken place and the eerie smiles of the Armitage family, has become iconic in its own right, cementing Get Out's place in horror history.

Beyond its social commentary and scares, Get Out is also a masterclass in storytelling and filmmaking. Peele demonstrates a keen understanding of pacing, suspense, and character development, crafting a narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking. The film's performances are uniformly excellent, with Daniel Kaluuya delivering a breakout performance as Chris, capturing his vulnerability, fear, and eventual defiance with remarkable depth and nuance. The supporting cast, including Allison Williams, Bradley Whitford, and Catherine Keener, is equally impressive, each bringing their own unique brand of creepiness to the Armitage family.

In the years since its release, Get Out has had a profound impact on the horror genre and popular culture as a whole. It has inspired countless filmmakers to tackle social issues through the lens of horror, paving the way for a new wave of socially conscious horror films. The film has also sparked important conversations about race, representation, and cultural appropriation, prompting viewers to examine their own biases and assumptions. Get Out is not just a great horror movie; it's a cultural touchstone that will continue to be studied, analyzed, and celebrated for years to come.

It

Andy Muschietti's It brought Stephen King's iconic novel to a new generation of horror fans. This adaptation focuses on the Losers' Club, a group of misfit kids in Derry, Maine, who are terrorized by a shape-shifting entity known as Pennywise the Dancing Clown. As the children confront their personal demons, they must also band together to defeat Pennywise before he claims more victims.

It is a masterclass in suspense and atmosphere, creating a sense of dread and unease that permeates every scene. Muschietti expertly captures the small-town setting of Derry, Maine, imbuing it with a sense of foreboding and decay. The film's visual style is striking, with vivid colors and haunting imagery that linger in the mind long after the credits roll. From the decaying carnival to the storm drains that echo with Pennywise's laughter, every element of the film is designed to unsettle and unnerve the audience.

One of the key strengths of It is its ensemble cast of young actors, who deliver phenomenal performances as the members of the Losers' Club. Each actor brings their own unique personality and vulnerability to their respective roles, creating a sense of camaraderie and genuine affection among the group. The chemistry between the young actors is palpable, making the audience root for them as they face their fears and confront the ultimate evil. Finn Wolfhard, Sophia Lillis, Jaeden Martell, and Jeremy Ray Taylor are just a few of the standouts, each capturing the spirit and essence of their characters with remarkable depth and nuance.

Of course, no discussion of It would be complete without mentioning Bill Skarsgård's terrifying portrayal of Pennywise the Dancing Clown. Skarsgård's performance is nothing short of iconic, reimagining Pennywise as a truly malevolent and unpredictable force of nature. He captures the character's childlike demeanor and playful tone, while also conveying a sense of primal hunger and unbridled rage. Skarsgård's Pennywise is not just a monster; he's a symbol of childhood fears and anxieties, embodying the darkness that lurks beneath the surface of innocence.

It is more than just a horror movie; it's a coming-of-age story about friendship, courage, and the power of imagination. The Losers' Club must overcome their personal demons and band together to defeat Pennywise, learning valuable lessons about themselves and each other along the way. The film's themes of trauma, loss, and resilience resonate deeply, making it a powerful and emotional experience for audiences of all ages. It is a reminder that even in the face of overwhelming darkness, hope and friendship can prevail.

Split

M. Night Shyamalan made a triumphant return to form with Split, a psychological thriller that explores the fractured psyche of Kevin Wendell Crumb (James McAvoy), a man with 23 distinct personalities. When Kevin kidnaps three teenage girls, they must find a way to escape before the emergence of a terrifying 24th personality known as