The best of Wes Craven: Five films every horror movie fan should watch this Halloween

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Wes Craven, a true pioneer of the horror genre, created some of the most memorable and terrifying experiences in cinema history. Born in 1939 in Cleveland, Ohio, Craven made his mark by challenging conventions and reshaping the landscape of horror through his innovative storytelling and compelling characters. From introducing iconic villains to exploring psychological terror, Craven's films have left a lasting impact on audiences and filmmakers alike. With a career that spanned decades, his ability to blend fear with social commentary set him apart as one of horror's most influential figures.

Today, we would like to talk about five of Craven's best films, ranked from fifth to first, showcasing the director's skill and versatility in delivering spine-chilling cinematic experiences. So let's not waste any more time. Here's what we consider to be the best of Wes Craven.

5. Red Eye (2005)

In Red Eye, a young woman named Lisa (Rachel McAdams) boards a red-eye flight and encounters a charming but sinister stranger, Jackson (Cillian Murphy), who reveals a chilling plan to assassinate a VIP unless she helps him. Trapped in a confined space, Lisa must use her wits and courage to outsmart her captor before it's too late.

Red Eye is a masterclass in psychological thriller, emphasizing the tension that can arise in the most ordinary situations. The film deftly explores themes of fear, trust, and survival, demonstrating how quickly normalcy can spiral into terror. Craven uses the confined setting of an airplane to heighten the sense of claustrophobia and urgency, reminding us that danger can lurk in even the most mundane circumstances. With strong performances and a tightly woven plot, Red Eye showcases Craven's ability to evoke suspense while maintaining a relatable narrative.

4. The Last House on the Left (1972)

The Last House on the Left tells the harrowing story of two teenage girls who are kidnapped, brutalized, and ultimately murdered by a group of criminals. When the perpetrators unknowingly seek refuge in the home of one of the victim's parents, the parents take horrific revenge.

This film is one of Craven's earliest works and remains a controversial and impactful entry in the horror genre. It confronts the brutal reality of violence and the moral dilemmas that arise in the face of tragedy. Craven's unflinching portrayal of human depravity and the primal instincts for revenge pushes boundaries and invites reflection on the nature of evil. While disturbing, The Last House on the Left also serves as a commentary on society's desensitization to violence, exploring how ordinary people can be driven to monstrous acts when pushed to their limits. This film solidified Craven's reputation for tackling dark and uncomfortable themes.

3. The Hills Have Eyes (1977)

In The Hills Have Eyes, a family on a road trip becomes stranded in the desert, where they are stalked by a group of cannibalistic mutants living in the nearby hills. As they fight for survival, the family must confront their own darkest instincts.

The Hills Have Eyes is a gritty survival horror film that reflects the primal fears of isolation and the unknown. Craven uses the desolate desert setting to amplify the sense of vulnerability and hopelessness, portraying a world where civilization breaks down and savagery reigns. The film explores themes of survival, morality, and the thin veneer of societal norms that can be stripped away in extreme circumstances. It challenges us to consider how ordinary people might respond when faced with extreme threats, making it a thought-provoking entry in Craven's oeuvre. The film's commentary on the breakdown of family dynamics under pressure adds a layer of emotional depth, making the horror all the more impactful.

2. Scream (Saga)

Scream reinvigorated the slasher genre with its self-aware characters and clever meta-commentary. The film follows high school student Sidney Prescott (Neve Campbell) as she becomes the target of a masked killer known as Ghostface, who terrorises her town while referencing classic horror films.

Scream is not only a masterclass in horror but also a brilliant satire that critiques the genre itself. By blending humour with genuine scares, Craven explores themes of fear, mortality, and the impact of media on real-life violence. The film's iconic opening scene and its clever subversion of horror tropes established a new standard for slasher films, inspiring a resurgence in the genre throughout the 1990s and beyond. Scream invites us to engage in a dialogue about our own expectations of horror, blurring the lines between fiction and reality. With its sharp writing and memorable characters, it remains a cultural touchstone, spawning a successful franchise that continues to resonate with fans today.

1. A Nightmare on Elm Street (Saga)

A Nightmare on Elm Street introduces the terrifying character of Freddy Krueger (Robert Englund), a disfigured child murderer who stalks and kills teenagers in their dreams, turning sleep into a deadly battleground. The series follows various characters as they confront Freddy and his nightmarish realm.

A Nightmare on Elm Street revolutionised horror by transforming the very concept of fear and dreams. Craven's brilliant idea of a killer who attacks victims in their sleep plays on the universal vulnerability of dreaming, creating a unique sense of dread. The saga delves into themes of guilt, trauma, and the consequences of past actions, reflecting the darker aspects of suburban life. Freddy Krueger became an iconic figure in horror, embodying our fears of childhood trauma and the loss of innocence. The series' blend of supernatural horror with psychological depth has made it one of the most enduring franchises in horror history, solidifying Craven's legacy as a master of the genre.

And that's all for today! Wes Craven's contributions to horror are unparalleled, showcasing his ability to blend fear with social commentary, psychological depth, and sharp wit. Craven's genius lies in his capacity to tap into our deepest fears while challenging the conventions of the genre. His work not only entertains but also provokes thought and reflection, ensuring that his legacy as a master of horror will endure for generations to come.

Now we would love to hear about your experiences with Wes Craven's work! Which of his films do you consider the best? Would you rearrange the list or add any others? We can't wait to read your thoughts in the comments!