What truly elevates a horror movie to cult status? The answer lies in its enduring rewatchability. With Halloween just around the corner, the question of which frightening, shocking, or even campy films to revisit repeatedly is at the forefront of our minds. Here at Vogue, we believe a truly great cult horror movie goes beyond just scaring; it also boasts captivating visuals and a lasting impact on fashion and style.
Take Dario Argento’s “Suspiria,” for instance. Its vibrant color palette and haunting imagery have inspired designers like Nicolas Ghesquière and the Rodarte sisters. The blood-soaked romance “The Hunger” showcased Yves Saint Laurent’s masterful costume design for Catherine Deneuve. And Eiko Ishioka’s striking Japanese-influenced creations in “Bram Stoker’s Dracula” remain as captivating today as they were in the 1990s.
In this spirit, Vogue presents a curated list of 40 cult horror movies, encompassing both new and classic titles. We’ve chosen films that are not only terrifying but also visually stunning and aesthetically influential. Prepare to be frightened, captivated, and perhaps even inspired by these cinematic masterpieces.