As a child of the ’80s myself, Stranger Things is like a dream come true for me. It’s as if Netflix took a trip down memory lane, grabbed all my favorite childhood memories, and turned them into an enthralling, terrifying, and heartwarming series that I can’t get enough of. The show feels like a love letter to the era, and it’s no wonder why it’s Netflix’s flagship series – it’s simply the best thing they’ve ever made.
Hello there, young friends! I trust you’re up for an eerie experience as I present to you TopMob’s compilation of the most chilling horror television series.
Absolutely! It’s indeed the most thrilling and delightful time for those who love a good scare: Halloween! We aim to make this eerie season extraordinary, so TopMob is preparing a variety of exciting surprises (and maybe a few unexpected twists) as we embrace Terror-Tober.
Instead of offering a list of 102 terrifying horror films for Halloween viewing, let’s focus on those who find chills more comfortably from the small screen. If you are one who prefers Netflix-style nightmares over traditional cinema frights, then this post is tailored just for you!
Over the course of preparation for Halloween, our passionate group of horror aficionados has meticulously assembled an ultimate guide to the most terrifying television series you can marathon. Be cautious though, as these shows might just stir up some nightmares!
30. Extreme Ghostbusters (1997)
Cast: Tara Strong, Maurice LaMarche, Jason Marsden
As a fervent admirer, let me share that the story revolves around me joining an energetic crew of Ghostbusters, just like last time when spooky spirits were causing chaos in the heart of New York City once more.
Why we like it: It is patently absurd the level of mediocrity we’ve had to endure from the Ghostbusters movies when the ideal sequel came out in 1997. The group of Gen-Xers brings a refreshing modernity to the business of busting ghosts, and the phantoms they’re put up against are often legitimately chilling.
Words by Anthony McGlynn
29. The Watcher (2022)
As a gamer, I’d rephrase it like this: Myself and my family have just moved into our ideal home, but little do we know that a chilling watcher lurks in the shadows, sending us ominous messages. The tension rises as we begin to unearth sinister truths about our new abode and neighbors. Meanwhile, the psychological strain of being under constant surveillance takes its toll, making every day a nerve-wracking challenge.
To be honest, The Watcher isn’t likely to be remembered for its complex handling of a shocking true tale or even among the top-notch productions by Ryan Murphy. Of course, there’s always room for improvement.
Although it might not be terrifying in the traditional sense, this production offers a lot of fun if you approach it with a playful perspective. Stars like Watts, Cannavale, and Farrow deliver passionate performances, while Coolidge as our White Lotus protagonist provides plenty of humor, even portraying a character reminiscent of a stereotypical Karen. The suspense is definitely there, which makes it an intriguing choice for your viewing list this Halloween.
Words by Daisy Phillipson
28. Alfred Hitchcock Presents (1955-1962)
Cast: Alfred Hitchcock (the host), Harry Tyler, Lillian O’Malley, John Williams, Patricia Hitchcock
Why we like it: For top-tier high-brow horror, you’ve gotta go straight to the source. Hitchcock is one of the greatest directors of all time, so having him spoon-feed us more scares than we ever saw on the big screen is a special experience. The format also set an important precedent for horror to come; remember how The Simpsons presented those early Treehouse of Horror episodes?
Words by Jasmine Valentine
27. The Haunting of Bly Manor (2020)
Cast: Victoria Pedretti, Oliver Jackson-Cohen, Amelia Eve, Henry Thomas
Main Idea: A young American woman takes a job caring for two orphaned children at the spooky Bly Manor. However, she soon learns that this estate is inhabited by ghosts with incomplete business from their pasts. As she delves into the troubled history of the house, it becomes increasingly difficult to distinguish between the living and the deceased.
As a devoted gamer, I’ve got to say, Mike Flanagan never disappoints! His Haunting anthology series is a testament to his genius in the modern era. While Bly Manor might be a bit slower than Hill House, it more than compensates with its captivating gothic romance. Don’t fret, there are still plenty of chilling moments to keep the adrenaline pumping. Prepare yourself for a visually stunning narrative that delves into love, loss, and regret, making it a hauntingly beautiful and emotionally poignant journey.
Words by Daisy Phillipson
26. Interview with the Vampire (2022–Present)
Cast: Jacob Anderson, Sam Reid, Bailey Bass/Delainey Hayles
Overview: Drawing inspiration from Anne Rice’s renowned novel, this series narrates the intricate journey of the immortal vampire Louis, as he shares his eventful life with the captivating and enigmatic Lestat. The narrative unfolds in New Orleans, where their unique family – including adolescent Claudia – comes together.
The appeal of Interview with the Vampire: Adapting horror classics for small screens is always a challenge, but Interview with the Vampire manages to preserve the gothic charm of Rice’s original narrative while incorporating the queer themes present in the book. This TV series offers a blend of emotional depth, captivating performances, and visually stunning settings, all while balancing humor and terror effectively. In essence, it breathes new life into the classic vampire story.
Words by Daisy Phillipson
25. Bates Motel (2013-2017)
Cast: Freddie Highmore, Vera Farmiga
In essence: This prequel delves into the story of how Norman Bates, under the oppressive influence of his manipulative mother Norma, gradually slips into madness. Their troubling bond paves the way for Norman’s transformation into the infamous serial killer, while a tangled web of local crime further entangles their lives.
Why we like it: Bates Motel does something that’s very hard to achieve – it gets better from season to season. Not only that, but it also breathes new life into an old classic, which also is a tricky thing to get right. How does it do this? A combination of rich character development and outstanding performances, particularly from leads Farmiga and Highmore. Trust me, this is one prequel you don’t want to sleep on.
Words by Daisy Phillipson
24. Inside No 9 (2014–2024)
Cast: Reece Shearsmith and Steve Pemberton
In a Nutshell: Inside No 9, a series similar to Black Mirror, is the creative offspring of Reece Shearmsith and Steve Pemberton. Each episode features distinct characters in unique settings, but they all share a mysterious connection – somehow, each narrative includes the number nine.
What makes it great: One of the standout British TV series, this eccentric anthology delights in dabbling with various genres and spinning unique, intriguing tales. Although not every episode is frightening, the writers’ dark humor and affinity for the grotesque provide the show with a chilling ambiance that horror enthusiasts will appreciate. If you need suggestions, we’d highly recommend watching ‘The 12 Days of Christine’ or the Halloween special, ‘Dead Line.’
Words by Tom Percival
23. Attack on Titan (2013–2023)
Characters voiced by: Yuki Kaji, Yui Ishikawa, Hiroshi Kamiya in Japanese and Bryce Papenbrook, Trina Nishimura, Matt Mercer in English.
The inhabitants of a fortified urban area are petrified by colossal, monster-like beings resembling humans, which consume them entirely, as a fresh batch of soldiers start uncovering the mystery behind these beasts.
With its daring and brutal opening episodes, it’s not surprising that Attack on Titan became a standout anime of the 2010s. The series is unforgiving and nerve-wracking for four seasons, evolving from a story about survival to one centered around war and genocide. It’s visually stunning, especially when we witness the Survey Corps in action at full strength.
Words by Anthony McGlynn
22. The Shivering Truth (2018–2020)
Cast: Jonah Hill, Janeane Garofalo, Trey Parker, Jordan Peele, Julia Davis, Josh Gad
In essence: The Shivering Truth is an intricate stop-motion series that delves into the darkest corners of life, encompassing our fears, desires, and the strange threads that unravel reality.
Why we like it: It’s basically The Twilight Zone and Don’t Hug Me I’m Scared’s love child, an onslaught of diabolical and hilarious “what the f**k?” vignettes that feel tailor-made to be forwarded in hush-hush messages to your best sicko mates. But it’s not hollowly twisted; prepare for it to linger like an earwig that’s scurried inside your head.
Words by Cameron Frew
21. Tales From the Crypt (1989-1996)
Cast: John Kassir
As a devoted admirer, let me share what this is all about: It’s an exhilarating horror anthology series where the host, a witty yet decayed zombie named the Cryptkeeper, regales us with spine-chilling tales that keep us on the edge of our seats! Whether we’re good ghouls or boils, his stories are a delightful fright!
Why we like it: As a kid, I was always weirdly fascinated with the hideous Cryptkeeper puppet (hardly surprising, I mean, look at him!), but as an adult, I’ve come to appreciate the terrifying tales he told. In particular, the episode Forever Ambergris has served as potent fuel for several recurring nightmares, and it’s hardly surprising that other episodes have gone on to inspire horror movies like Terrifier 3!
Words by Tom Percival
20. Scream Queens (2015-2016)
Characters: Emma Roberts, Billie Lourd, Abigail Breslin, Lea Michele, Keke Palmer, Glen Powell, and Jamie Lee Curtis
As a gamer diving into this narrative: The Storyline: I find myself thrust into the role of a sorority sister at Wallace University’s Kappa House, where an influx of new members is causing quite the stir – and not in a good way for our leader, Chanel No. 1. The tension escalates to chilling heights when a series of murders rock the house, leaving me to unravel the mystery before it’s too late.
What we appreciate most: I find myself resembling Chanel No. 6 because the show Scream Queens significantly impacted my life. Although Season 2 didn’t quite measure up, let’s instead focus on the brilliance of Season 1 forevermore. I could commend any member of its talented cast for their acting, but the trio that stands out to me is Lea Michele in a neck brace, Abigail Breslin, and the infamous rumors about her toothy smile, and Emma Roberts, who never seemed to run out of snarky remarks.
Words by Jasmine Valentine
19. Dexter (2006-2013)
Cast: Michael C. Hall, Jennifer Carpenter, James Remar
Main Topic: Dexter Morgan, a forensic technician for the Miami Police Department, conceals a sinister truth: besides his official work, he is a serial killer targeting criminals who have escaped justice from his colleagues.
Why we like it: The idea of a blood spatter analyst who spends his working hours solving crimes and his spare time committing them proved to be irresistible for audiences, so much so that the Dexter show ran for eight seasons and was followed by a sequel series, as well as a forthcoming prequel. Michael C. Hall was born to play the deeply weird title character, while the undoubted highlight was Dexter going toe-to-toe with John Lithgow’s ‘Trinity Killer’ in Season 4.
Words by Chris Tilly
18. Yellowjackets (2021–Present)
Cast: Melanie Lynskey, Ella Purnell, Christina Ricci
As a gamer, I’d put it like this: “Yellowjackets is all about navigating two timelines. It follows the story of a soccer team whose plane crashes in the Canadian wilderness back then, and how the teenage girls onboard managed to survive. But the real twist comes when we catch up with some of these survivors in 2021, dealing with the long-term effects of their past decisions.
“We enjoy it because Yellowjackets combines elements similar to Lost and Lord of the Flies, adding a touch of cannibalism for added intrigue. It is both a daring comedy that challenges societal norms and a thrilling horror series. The young actors, including Sophie Thatcher and Ella Purnell, deliver standout performances, while Christina Ricci, Melanie Lynskey, and Juliette Lewis relish their roles as the older characters. Additionally, Season 2 fulfills the cannibalistic promise established in Season 1.
Words by Chris Tilly
17. Black Mirror (2011-Present)
This anthology series delves into the sinister aspects of technology and society, offering self-contained episodes that depict either a dystopian or futuristic setting. These episodes frequently illustrate the unexpected, alarming effects that technological progress can have on human interactions and behaviors.
Why we like it: What other TV show could depict the UK Prime Minister f**king a pig on national television in the first episode? Charlie Brooker is a different breed, and though many compare his dystopian masterpiece to the likes of The Twilight Zone, Black Mirror has established itself as a genre of its own.
Apart from its brutal critique of contemporary life, the anthology series captivates us in every season due to its innovative storytelling, powerful acting, and shocking plot twists. What’s more, Brooker consistently adapts with the times, making it a rare show I eagerly anticipate will never conclude.
Words by Daisy Phillipson
16. Channel Zero (2016–2018)
Cast: Paul Schneider, Fiona Shaw, Jeff Ward, Rutger Hauer
Overview: Four spine-chilling urban legends – Candle Cove, No-End House, Butcher’s Block, The Dream Door – are brought to life on the horror anthology series Channel Zero, which adapts the most popular and terrifying internet creepypastas for television.
One way to rephrase the given text might be:
Words by Cameron Frew
15. The Last of Us (2023–Present)
Cast: Pedro Pascal, Bella Ramsey, Nick Offerman, Anna Torv, Gabriel Luna
The story revolves around an event that happened twenty years ago, where a fungal outbreak turned countless individuals into mindless, monstrous creatures. Now, a man named Joel consents to travel across the country, accompanying a 17-year-old girl named Ellie who might hold the key to a potential cure within her blood.
What makes it appealing: The Last of Us manages an extraordinary feat: converting one of the finest – arguably the finest – games ever made into a compelling TV series with grace, style, and exceptional acting performances. It boasts a deeply moving episode that stands alongside classics like Ozymandias and Pine Barrens in the pantheon of elite television. Without a doubt, it’s the best video game adaptation yet.
Words by Cameron Frew
14. Fall of the House of Usher (2023)
Cast: Bruce Greenwood, Carla Gugino, Henry Thomas
The Story’s Overview: The tale of Fall of the House of Usher unfolds across three time periods: a long-past era depicting the ascent of pharmaceutical tycoon, Roderick Usher; a more recent period marked by the tragic loss of all six of his children in rapid succession; and the present day, where Roderick finally unveils the House of Usher’s grim secret.
Why we like it: Modern’ Master of Horror’ Mike Flanagan tackles Edgar Allan Poe using his regular ensemble, and the result is something very special. The Netflix series adapts the story from which it takes its title in an entertaining fashion, modernizing and extending the central tale in sick and twisted directions. But Flanagan also cleverly weaves in most of Poe’s classics in frequently shocking fashion, including The Black Cat, The Tell-Tale Heart, The Masque of the Red Death, and The Pit and the Pendulum.
Words by Chris Tilly
13. Dead Set (2008)
Cast: Riz Ahmed, Davina McCall, Jaime Winstone
In the middle of a season on the reality TV show Big Brother, a cluster of competitors remain blissfully oblivious as a terrifying zombie apocalypse sweeps through the outside world.
If Big Brother isn’t part of your pop culture vocabulary yet, it’s high time you learned about it before diving into this chilling satire that reimagines the hit reality TV show in a terrifying zombie apocalypse setting. The blend of reality TV elements with a genuine horror scenario is brilliant and offers a unique perspective within the subgenre. Yet, it’s not all doom and gloom; there are plenty of Big Brother references and awkward situations that will keep you entertained like nothing else than a detached limb could!
Words by Jessica Cullen
12. Hannibal (2013–2015)
Cast: Mads Mikkelsen, Hugh Dancy, Gillian Anderson
What it’s all about: As I delve into a chilling string of gruesome murders, I find myself teamed up with the enigmatic Dr. Hannibal Lecter, a forensic psychiatrist, unbeknownst to me that this seemingly helpful ally is actually a cunning serial killer who indulges in his victims as meals.
Reason for our fondness: Thomas Harris introduced ‘Hannibal the Cannibal’ to an unsuspecting audience in 1981 through the novel Red Dragon. Since then, we’ve been captivated by two chilling portrayals of the character, delivered by actors Brian Cox and Anthony Hopkins.
However, Mads Mikkelsen breathed fresh life into the series Hannibal over three seasons, a show that dared to explore extreme levels of violence on network television. His portrayal of Lecter was sophisticated and refined, exuding elegance in his attire and mastery in the kitchen. Yet, he also presented a chilling sexuality, adding an unsettling depth to the dynamic between Hannibal and Will.
Words by Chris Tilly
11. Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997–2003)
Cast: Sarah Michelle Gellar, Alyson Hannigan, Nicholas Brendon
Main Theme: Buffy Summers becomes destined as the Slayer, tasked with vanquishing evil forces. However, this role makes it challenging for her to uphold good grades and enjoy a typical social life.
“What started as a quirky musical transformed into a memorable ’90s TV series, managing to balance wit with fear and humor. Sarah Michelle Gellar’s portrayal of Buffy created an enduring icon – a smart and resilient hero who also displayed vulnerability. The strength of the show lies in its diverse characters, who provide assistance, challenges, camaraderie, and adversaries for Buffy throughout her journey. To top it off, the theme song is fantastic.
Words by Anthony McGlynn
10. The Walking Dead (2010–2022)
Cast: Andrew Lincoln, Norman Reedus, Steven Yeun, Danai Gurira, Jeffrey Dean Morgan
As a diehard fan, I’d say: Waking up from a coma, I found myself thrust into a world overrun by the undead. Now, it’s my mission to guide a band of survivors through this post-apocalyptic nightmare, searching for essentials like food and shelter, and striving for salvation. But the real challenge lies in battling not just the walking dead, but also the living who pose their own threats.
What makes it appealing: Unusual realistic effects, engaging (yet detestable) characters, thoughtfully paced narrative, captivating water-cooler discussions, and authentic fear; when at its peak, The Walking Dead couldn’t be surpassed.
It may have ended in Season 11, but the show reached its zenith with Season 7’s opener, one of the most traumatizingly scary and intense episodes in the history of television. “You can breathe. You can blink. You can cry. Hell, you’re all gonna be doing that.”
Words by Cameron Frew
9. Goosebumps (1995–1998)
Cast: Hayden Christensen, Adam West, Ryan Gosling
This show, based on R. L. Stine’s children’s horror book series called Goosebumps, presents a collection of spine-tingling stories. These range from a mysterious mask refusing to be removed from its wearer, to a unique camera with the power to predict the future.
Why I love it: As a kid who grew up during the golden age of children’s horror, I can’t help but credit Goosebumps for fueling my fascination with all things spine-tingling. It was an anthology series that made horror cool again, weaving genuinely chilling and creative stories that left readers and viewers gripped without ever giving us nightmares so severe they turned us away from the genre entirely. My favorite Goosebumps episode is a testament to its greatness; it wasn’t just a fantastic horror show – it was like an extra parent, guiding me through my darkest fears and helping me embrace the thrill of the unknown.
Words by Jessica Cullen
8. Ghostwatch (1992)
Cast: Michael Parkinson, Sarah Greene, Mike Smith, Craig Charles
This live broadcast of Ghostwatch, by the BBC, delves into a house experiencing an “extraordinary onslaught of supernatural events,” as per host Michael Parkison’s introduction. The footage was considered too unsettling to be shown on British TV ever since.
“What makes it appealing: The UK’s Ghostwatch is a chilling, pulse-racing television production that ranks among legends in its field. More than three decades after its initial release, its vintage presentation adds to the terror. It carries an unsettling feel of forgotten media, but don’t forget, “Pipes wants everyone to see it!
Words by Cameron Frew
7. Supernatural (2005–2020)
Cast: Jensen Ackles, Jared Padalecki, Misha Collins
Why we appreciate it so much: Without delving too far into nostalgia, Supernatural can be summed up as a true icon. It’s a remnant of the Tumblr era and one of the most powerful examples of fandom ever seen. For those who grew up with Goosebumps, Supernatural was an ideal stepping stone from childhood horror to adult-oriented fear.
As a gaming enthusiast, I’d say this weekly monster-slaying format echoed the charm and popularity of Buffy and its peers, all while delving into thoughtful themes like faith, family, and resilience. Not to mention, it was a game-changer when it came to introducing classic rock to a whole new generation of teenage fans – cheers to the Winchester brothers for that!
Words by Jessica Cullen
6. The X Files (1993-2018)
Cast: David Duchovny, Gillian Anderson, Mitch Pileggi, Robert Patrick, William B. Davis
Investigation Topic: Tasked with probing claims of extraterrestrial encounters, two FBI agents find themselves at odds due to one’s disbelief and the other’s faith.
Why I Can’t Get Enough: Two words – Gillian Anderson. For me, nothing has quite captured the essence of extraterrestrial mysteries or supernatural folklore like The X Files did. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its success, and surprisingly, the reboot managed to deliver. Thirty years on, it remains as compelling as ever, and now, I find myself fully convinced.
Words by Jasmine Valentine
5. Midnight Mass (2021)
Cast: Kate Siegel, Zach Gilford, Hamish Linklater
Topic Summary: Following the completion of his prison term for a DUI incident, Riley Flynn revisits his secluded island hometown, but is shocked to discover that fanatical religious beliefs and mysterious figures have infiltrated the townsfolk, transforming them into something horrific.
Why we like it: In the scope of Mike Flanagan’s Netflix collection, Midnight Mass doesn’t get much love. This is rather unfair, considering how carefully and beautifully the story of vampires in a quiet coastal town is crafted. In classic Flanagan fashion, there are twists, monsters, and secrets. But more importantly, there are raw human moments of grief, pain, and hope, all of which make him one of the finest horror maestros working today.
Words by Jessica Cullen
4. American Horror Story (2011–Present)
Cast: Sarah Paulson, Jessica Lange, Lily Rabe, Kathy Bates, Angela Bassett, Evan Peters
What it’s about: An anthology series telling a different horrific tale over each season. Think of this revolving cast as a theatre company with Ryan Murphy attached.
What makes it appealing: Even the less popular seasons of American Horror Story have unique attractions. In Hotel, we witnessed Lady Gaga’s acting debut, saw Sarah Paulson portray a two-headed twin in Freak Show, and discovered that “knotty pine” is an offensive term in Coven. Its early tales are considered classics (Asylum is truly unmatched), and it has become deeply embedded in the cultural consciousness. It’s impossible to compile a horror list without this series, you foolish person.
Words by Jasmine Valentine
3. Twin Peaks (1990–1991)
Cast: Kyle MacLachlan, Michael Ontkean, Lara Flynn Boyle
Main Topic: Special Agent Dale Cooper from the FBI gets assigned to the peculiar town of Twin Peaks, which has recently experienced the tragic murder of its popular high school student, Laura Palmer. Upon arrival, he discovers a community teeming with eccentric personalities and dark secrets hidden just beneath the veneer.
Why we like it: Who killed Laura Palmer? That’s the question at the heart of Twin Peaks and one that gripped viewers for the brief period that the show aired. Collaborating with Mark Frost, director David Lynch brought his surreal celluloid style to the small screen in uncompromising fashion, and the result was something unique, hypnotic, and ultimately quite terrifying as Cooper discovered the terrible answer to that question.
Words by Chris Tilly
2. Stranger Things (2016–Present)
Characters: Millie Bobby Brown (Synopsis of Role), Finn Wolfhard (Character’s Name), Gaten Matarazzo (Character’s Full Name), Caleb McLaughlin (Character’s Full Name), Winona Ryder (Synopsis of Role), David Harbour (Character’s Name)
1983 in Hawkins, Indiana: The disappearance of Will Byers is triggered by an ominous, fearsome creature from the Upside Down. At the same time, a girl named Eleven appears with extraordinary psychic powers. Will’s friends come across Eleven, and chaos ensues as they delve into a complex, multi-dimensional secret plot.
Why we like it: I’m a ’90s child, born to parents whose pop culture foundation is rooted in the ’80s. The Goonies, Stand By Me, It, Nightmare on Elm Street, Ghostbusters; it’s all in my DNA. Stranger Things felt like a gift from the TV gods: a heart-rendingly affectionate ode to stories that allow me to null the pain of adulthood and escape into simpler times. It’s Netflix’s flagship series for a reason: it’s the best thing the streaming service has ever made.
Words by Cameron Frew
1. The Haunting of Hill House (2018)
Actors: Michiel Huisman, Carla Gugino, Timothy Hutton, Henry Thomas, Elizabeth Reaser, Kate Siegel, Victoria Pedretti)
Years later, members of the Crain family gather to face the emotional scars and mysterious occurrences they experienced growing up in a supposedly haunted home. The narrative jumps between their past experiences and the present, uncovering the hidden traumas and heartbreaking events that have left both the family and the house shrouded in darkness.
Why we like it: Flanagan’s first The Haunting entry is one of his best, with Hill House proving to be a masterful blend of psychological horror and family drama. It’s also the most rewatchable, with the series packed full of Easter eggs and hidden ghosts (as many as 43, according to some estimates). All of this is anchored by powerful performances and its gothic setting, making it a bone-chilling watch from start to finish.
Words by Daisy Phillipson
Looking for more chilling experiences? We’ve got you sorted! Dive into our collections of top-rated zombie video games or explore our guide to the most terrifying horror anime. If you’re still craving more, don’t miss our exclusive interview with Naomi Scott from Smile 2, discussing the darkest film ending expected in 2024.
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2024-10-30 13:21