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The Sixth Sense (1999): A Twist that Redefined Supernatural Horror
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Published in Automotive and Transportation on Friday, November 28th 2025 at 4:31 GMT by ELLE- 🞛 This publication is a summary or evaluation of another publication
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A Quick‑Fire Guide to the Supernatural Flicks That Keep Us on the Edge of Our Seats
If you’re looking for a definitive list of the best supernatural movies to binge‑watch, look no further than Elle’s recent roundup of the genre’s most iconic, terrifying, and downright mind‑blowing titles. The article, which sits on Elle’s “Movies & TV” section, isn’t simply a nostalgia‑filled nostalgia list; it’s a curated collection of films that span decades, genres, and cultural moments, all united by one thing: a supernatural hook that pulls you in, keeps you guessing, and leaves you thinking about what lies beyond the veil long after the credits roll.
1. The Sixth Sense (1999)
No supernatural roundup would be complete without a nod to the masterclass of M. Night Shyamalan. “The Sixth Sense” opened a new chapter in the horror‑psychological hybrid by turning the classic “spirit” trope on its head. The film’s gentle pacing, haunting score, and a twist so iconic it became shorthand for “plot‑twist” cemented it as the 1990s’ defining supernatural film.
2. The Others (2001)
J. J. Abrams’ directorial debut is a slow‑burn, atmospheric thriller starring Nicole Kidman as a mother in a creepy 1940s manor who suspects the house is haunted. The film’s minimalistic style and use of light and shadow create a palpable dread that pays off with a twist that re‑frames every scene in a new light.
3. Poltergeist (1982)
An early ‘80s cult classic directed by Tobe Hooper (under the helm of Steven Spielberg’s “E.T.”), “Poltergeist” is a blend of domestic drama and bone‑chilling hauntings. Its influence ripples across the genre: the notion that a family can become a battleground for otherworldly forces, and the eerie “the lights in the living room turned on” sequence are still quoted in horror circles.
4. The Exorcist (1973)
No list of supernatural films is complete without the horror titan. William Friedkin’s adaptation of William Peter Blatty’s novel set a new standard for on‑screen terror. Its raw depiction of demonic possession and a soundtrack that’s almost a character on its own keeps it in the conversation even 50 years after its premiere.
5. Insidious (2010)
James Wan’s “Insidious” introduced the concept of a “dark realm” that can be accessed through sleep. With a focus on atmospheric tension rather than jump‑scares, it helped revitalize the supernatural horror genre in the 2010s, proving that the unseen can be more frightening than a visible monster.
6. The Ring (2002)
The American remake of the Japanese horror classic, “The Ring” turned the supernatural into an internet‑age legend. The cursed videotape concept created a pervasive dread that was almost as viral as the film’s “1‑2‑3‑4” opening sequence, and it spawned a whole sub‑genre of “cursed media” movies.
7. The Conjuring (2013)
James Wan’s “The Conjuring” re‑ignited a love for haunted house movies in the 2010s. With a focus on real‑life paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren, the film’s mix of credible characters and truly frightening moments earned it both commercial success and cult status.
8. Sinister (2012)
“Sinister” takes a darker route: it’s a film about a true‑crime writer who uncovers a box of home‑video footage that chronicles supernatural murders. The use of found‑footage aesthetics, combined with an eerie, slow‑building dread, makes it a modern horror staple.
9. The Babadook (2014)
An Australian gem that marries psychological terror with supernatural folklore. The film tells the story of a mother and son haunted by a sinister children's book character. Its exploration of grief and the supernatural resonates deeply with viewers.
10. A Quiet Place (2018)
Director John Krasinski’s “A Quiet Place” presents a unique take on supernatural horror: the world’s creatures hunt via sound. The film’s tense silence, the family’s survival tactics, and the strong emotional core make it a standout in the genre.
Why These Films Stick
The Elle article is careful to highlight why each of these movies is worth watching:
- Historical Significance: The list includes films that have shaped the supernatural genre’s conventions (e.g., Poltergeist introduced the “house is haunted” trope, The Ring set the viral‑cursed‑media template).
- Narrative Innovation: Many films present the supernatural not as a mere gimmick but as a narrative driver—The Sixth Sense uses the ghost as a catalyst for personal revelation.
- Cultural Resonance: Movies like The Conjuring and Insidious are not just scares; they reflect contemporary anxieties about faith, media consumption, and the unknown.
- Diverse Sub‑Genres: From cosmic horror (The Ring), psychological drama (The Babadook), to supernatural thriller (The Others), the list underscores the breadth of the genre.
Expanding the Horizon
While the article offers a robust starting point, Elle’s authors also point readers toward related works that share thematic or stylistic elements. For example, fans of The Others may enjoy The Haunting (1963) for its Victorian gothic mood, while The Exorcist devotees might explore The Exorcism of Emily Rose (2005) for its legal‑drama approach to demonic possession. The article’s links provide quick dives into these secondary references, allowing readers to expand beyond the primary list.
How to Use This Guide
- Binge Night: If you have a weekend free, pick three films from different decades to see the evolution of supernatural storytelling.
- Film Studies: If you’re a student, this list offers a curated curriculum—study the shifts in narrative style, technology, and cultural commentary.
- Rewatch for Context: Even if you’ve seen the films, watching them with a focus on the themes highlighted in Elle’s article can reveal new layers.
Final Thoughts
Elle’s article is more than a simple “best of” list; it’s a snapshot of how the supernatural genre has mirrored our deepest fears and aspirations over time. Whether you’re a long‑time horror aficionado or a newcomer looking to get the “right” first watch, these ten films provide an excellent roadmap. From chilling hauntings to psychological hauntings, they remind us that sometimes, the most terrifying things are the ones that slip beyond our perception—just waiting for a curious mind to look.
Read the Full ELLE Article at:
[ https://www.elle.com/culture/movies-tv/g69545488/best-supernatural-movies/ ]
