Top Horror Films Of 2017: A Year Of Scares

Hey guys, let's dive into the chilling world of horror films from 2017! This year was a real treat for those of us who love a good scare. We saw everything from terrifying clowns to mind-bending thrillers, and a whole lot in between. 2017 brought us some seriously memorable moments in the genre, and I'm stoked to break down some of the best flicks that kept us on the edge of our seats. Whether you're a seasoned horror aficionado or just getting your feet wet, there was definitely something for everyone. So, grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and let's take a trip back to a year when the screams were loud, and the scares were plenty. Ready to revisit the best horror films of 2017? Let's get started!

The Terrifying Clown: It (2017)

Okay, let's start with a big one: It! This movie, based on Stephen King's iconic novel, took the world by storm and brought a whole new level of fear to our collective consciousness. Remember those creepy clowns that used to show up at your birthday party? Well, Pennywise, the dancing clown, made them look like a joke! It is an absolute must-watch for any horror fan, and it absolutely deserves its place at the top of the list. The film brilliantly captured the essence of childhood fears and the power of facing your demons, both literal and metaphorical. The Losers' Club, a group of misfit kids, band together to fight a shape-shifting entity that preys on their deepest fears, and this is where the real horror begins. The film not only delivers on the scares but also has a surprisingly heartwarming story about friendship and courage.

What made It so effective? Well, the acting was superb, with Bill Skarsgård's portrayal of Pennywise being truly terrifying. He embodied the clown's unsettling nature perfectly. The film was also beautifully shot, with stunning visuals that enhanced the atmosphere of dread and suspense. The director expertly built tension throughout the film, leading to some truly heart-stopping moments. And let's not forget the practical effects, which added to the realism and visceral impact of the horror. It wasn't just jump scares; it was a slow burn of psychological terror that got under your skin and stayed there. The child actors delivered exceptional performances, allowing us to connect with their fear and resilience. From the chilling sewer scenes to the haunted house, every frame of It felt like a nightmare brought to life.

But It isn't just about scares; it's also a coming-of-age story. The Losers' Club learn to overcome their individual fears and, in the process, build an unbreakable bond. The film reminds us that sometimes, the scariest things are those we face within ourselves. This is what sets It apart from other horror films: it explores themes of trauma, loss, and the power of friendship in the face of absolute terror. It became a cultural phenomenon, inspiring countless cosplays, memes, and discussions. It's a reminder of why we love horror: it confronts our deepest fears while also entertaining us. The film was a massive hit, proving that a well-crafted horror film can resonate with a wide audience. Overall, It is a cinematic triumph that redefined the modern horror landscape and solidified its place as one of the best horror films of 2017. So if you haven't seen it yet, do yourself a favor and prepare to be terrified!

Get Out: A Socially Conscious Horror Masterpiece

Alright, let's switch gears and talk about Get Out. This movie wasn't just a horror film; it was a cultural phenomenon. Directed by Jordan Peele, Get Out is a brilliant blend of horror, social commentary, and suspense, and it's a must-watch for anyone who appreciates smart filmmaking. The story follows Chris, a young Black man who visits his white girlfriend's family estate and quickly realizes that something sinister is lurking beneath the surface. The film masterfully explores themes of racism, microaggressions, and the insidious nature of privilege. The genius of Get Out lies in its ability to make the audience uncomfortable, forcing us to confront the uncomfortable truths of our society. The tension builds slowly, with subtle clues and eerie interactions that keep you guessing until the shocking climax.

The performances in Get Out are phenomenal, with Daniel Kaluuya delivering a stunning portrayal of Chris. His ability to convey fear, confusion, and resilience is truly captivating. The supporting cast is equally impressive, with each character adding layers of depth and intrigue to the story. The film's use of symbolism and imagery is also noteworthy, with Peele incorporating subtle details that enhance the film's message. From the tea cup to the hypnotizing tea cup scene, every element of Get Out is carefully crafted to create a sense of unease. Get Out doesn't rely solely on jump scares; instead, it builds tension through dialogue, atmosphere, and the unsettling behavior of the supporting characters.

What makes Get Out so special is that it speaks to a very specific cultural experience while also being universally relatable. The film's exploration of race relations is both insightful and thought-provoking, and it encourages us to reflect on the complexities of our society. Peele's vision is both terrifying and brilliant, offering a fresh perspective on the horror genre. Get Out became a box office success and was critically acclaimed, proving that intelligent horror films can captivate a wide audience. The film sparked discussions about race, privilege, and the importance of representation in film. The success of Get Out paved the way for more socially conscious horror films, and it remains a landmark achievement in the genre. Its impact on popular culture cannot be overstated, and it deserves all the accolades it has received. The film is a masterful blend of suspense, horror, and social commentary that will stay with you long after the credits roll. If you're looking for a horror film that challenges your mind and provokes thought, Get Out is the perfect choice.

Annabelle: Creation - A Chilling Prequel

For those who love the Conjuring universe, Annabelle: Creation was a real treat! This prequel dives deeper into the origins of the creepy Annabelle doll, and it's a genuinely terrifying horror film that builds upon the established lore. The film explores the backstory of the doll and the evil entity that inhabits it. The story follows a group of orphans who move into the home of a dollmaker and his wife, unaware of the terror that awaits them. Annabelle: Creation is filled with suspenseful moments, jump scares, and a creepy atmosphere that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The film excels at building suspense, with its slow-burn approach and use of atmosphere. The setting, a secluded farmhouse, adds to the sense of dread and isolation. The doll itself is genuinely unsettling, and the film does a great job of making you fear its presence. The director, David F. Sandberg, expertly utilizes shadows, sound design, and camera angles to create a sense of unease. The practical effects are also impressive, adding to the film's visceral impact. The performances by the young actresses are particularly noteworthy, with their fear and vulnerability adding to the overall horror. The film delves into themes of grief, loss, and the struggle between good and evil. Annabelle: Creation is a well-crafted horror film that delivers on the scares and provides a deeper understanding of the Conjuring universe.

Annabelle: Creation is a great example of how to do a prequel right. It expands on the original story, adds depth to the characters, and enhances the overall lore. The film's success demonstrates the enduring popularity of the Conjuring franchise and the appeal of supernatural horror. If you enjoyed the first Annabelle movie or are a fan of The Conjuring universe, then Annabelle: Creation is a must-watch. It's a genuinely scary film with strong performances, great visuals, and a compelling story. The film's success solidified the Conjuring universe's place as a dominant force in modern horror, and it's a testament to the enduring appeal of the genre. The film knows how to push the boundaries of fear, and it delivers in spades. Overall, Annabelle: Creation is a solid addition to the horror canon, providing scares and a deeper dive into the world of the Conjuring.

Other Notable Horror Films from 2017

2017 was a great year for horror, with several other notable films deserving a shout-out!

• Split: M. Night Shyamalan's Split was a thrilling psychological horror film that kept audiences guessing. The movie stars James McAvoy as a man with multiple personalities, some of whom are very dangerous. It's a suspenseful ride with great performances and a unique premise.
• The Killing of a Sacred Deer: This psychological horror directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, is a dark and unsettling movie about a surgeon forced to make an unthinkable decision. If you're into something different and thought-provoking, this is for you.
• Raw: A French-Belgian coming-of-age horror film about a young vegetarian veterinary student who develops a craving for human flesh after trying meat for the first time. Raw is a visually stunning and disturbing film with a strong emotional core.

Conclusion: The Enduring Appeal of Horror in 2017

So, there you have it, guys! 2017 was a fantastic year for horror films, bringing us a mix of scares, thought-provoking stories, and unforgettable characters. From terrifying clowns to social commentary, the genre offered something for every horror fan. The success of these films proved that horror continues to evolve and captivate audiences. Whether you're a seasoned horror veteran or a newcomer to the genre, this year offered a diverse range of cinematic experiences. These films are a reminder of why we love the thrill of being scared. So, grab some popcorn, dim the lights, and revisit these amazing horror films from 2017. Happy watching, and don't forget to keep the lights on!