Hey there, Scaredy cat. Are you the type of person who loves the idea of a good scare but can’t quite stomach the gore? Do you find yourself intrigued by the suspense and psychological elements of horror, but would rather not have nightmares for a week? Well, my friend, you’ve come to the right place. This list is specially curated for those who want to experience the thrill of horror movies without (too much) blood and guts.
From suspenseful thrillers to horror comedies, these films offer a gentler introduction to the genre. So buckle up, and trust that you’ll be given a gently spooky ride into the world of horror!
Little Shop of Horrors (1986)
Little Shop of Horrors is a horror comedy musical that’s more likely to make you tap your feet than hide behind your sofa. The film follows the story of Seymour, a florist shop worker who raises a plant that feeds on human blood. The plant, named Audrey II, grows into a talking, singing, carnivorous creature. With a man-eating plant, catchy tunes, and a star-studded cast, this film is a fun and light-hearted introduction to the horror genre.
What We Do in the Shadows (2014)
This mockumentary-style horror comedy from New Zealand is a hilarious take on the vampire genre. The film follows the lives of three vampire roommates trying to cope with the complexities of modern life and shows a funny and different side of vampire life. It’s more likely to make you die laughing than die of fright. If you’re a fan of Flight of the Conchords, you’ll love this one.
Death Becomes Her (1992)
Death Becomes Her is a dark comedy about vanity, immortality, and, well, death. The film follows two rivals, played by Meryl Streep and Goldie Hawn, who drink a magic potion that promises eternal youth, but experience unforeseen side effects. With a stellar cast, this film is more quirky than scary, offering a satirical take on society’s obsession with youth and beauty.
The Watcher in the Woods (1980)
This Disney film is a family-friendly horror movie that’s perfect for beginners. It’s got a creepy atmosphere and some supernatural elements, but it’s not too intense or gory. The film follows a family who moves into a country home, where their young daughter begins to see mysterious apparitions and the older daughter becomes possessed by a dark presence. Plus, we covered it on the podcast!
The Faculty (1998)
The Faculty is a sci-fi horror film that’s more thrilling than terrifying. It’s got a high school setting, alien parasites, and some young stars, like Elijah Wood and Josh Hartnett. The film follows a group of high school students who suspect their teachers are aliens after bizarre occurrences. It’s a fun and thrilling ride that combines teen drama with an alien invasion.
Barbarian (2022)
Barbarian is a unique, recent horror that combines suspense, mystery, and a touch of the bizarre. The film follows a young woman who discovers that the rental home she booked is already occupied by a stranger. Despite her initial reservations, she decides to spend the night, only to find that there’s a lot more to fear than just an unexpected house guest. With its wild and weird twists, you’ll be too busy keeping up and trying to absorb the plot than being terrified. Plus, it has Justin Long, so you know you’re in for a silly ride.
Something Wicked This Way Comes (1983)
Based on the novel by Ray Bradbury, Something Wicked This Way Comes is a dark fantasy film that’s more eerie than horrifying. It’s got a creepy carnival, a mysterious proprietor, and a sense of childhood wonder. The film follows two boys who become fascinated by a mysterious carnival that promises to grant their deepest wishes, only to discover its dark secrets.
Tremors (1990)
Tremors is a horror comedy about giant, underground worms. It’s more fun than frightening, and it’s got a great cast including Kevin Bacon and Fred Ward. The film follows a small desert town that becomes infested with carnivorous underground creatures. It’s a fun and thrilling ride that combines humor with creature horror.
The Frighteners (1996)
Directed by Peter Jackson, The Frighteners is a horror comedy about a man who can see ghosts (played by Michael J. Fox!). It’s got some spooky moments, but it’s also got a lot of humor and heart. The film follows a man with the ability to communicate with the dead, who becomes the prime suspect in a series of mysterious deaths.
Drag Me to Hell (2009)
Drag Me to Hell is a supernatural horror film from Sam Raimi that’s more gross than scary. It’s got a cursed button, a creepy old lady, and a lot of jump scares. The film follows a loan officer who evicts an old woman from her home and finds herself the recipient of a supernatural curse. It’s a thrilling ride that combines suspense with a touch of the grotesque.
So, there you have it, a beginner’s guide to horror that won’t leave you sleepless. These films offer a taste of the genre’s suspense, humor, and psychological depth, without the graphic content. They prove that horror can be thrilling, thought-provoking, and even fun, without having to be terrifying.
So, why not give them a try? Dim the lights, get cozy, and prepare yourself for a night of gentle frights. Who knows, you might just find yourself falling in love with the genre. Happy watching!
Do you have more Scaredy Cat recommendations you’d like to share? Start a conversation in the Nightmare on Film Street Discord! We’d love to have you!
