The Halloween Films Ranked (2024 Edition)

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The Halloween film series, created by John Carpenter, is a cornerstone of the horror genre that first introduced audiences to the iconic character of Michael Myers in 1978. The original film, while not the first of the genre, established many conventions of slasher films, featuring a simple yet effective premise: a masked killer stalking babysitters in a suburban town. Carpenter’s masterful use of his own suspenseful music, particularly the haunting piano theme, has left an indelible mark on audiences, making it a timeless classic that influenced numerous films that followed.

Over the decades, the franchise has expanded to include numerous sequels, reboots, and a remake. Each instalment has explored varying themes, from the nature of evil to the impact of trauma, while maintaining the foundational elements of the original film. The 2018 reboot, which serves as a direct sequel to the original, was particularly well-received and reinvigorated interest in the series. It portrays final girl Laurie Strode, played by Jamie Lee Curtis, as a resilient survivor dealing with the long-term consequences of her past encounter with Myers, bringing depth to the character and the overall narrative.

The Halloween franchise has not only sustained its popularity through its ongoing story but also, like all the best horror, through its social commentary and cultural impact. It reflects societal fears, changes in horror filmmaking, and the evolution of the slasher genre. With each new film, the series invites audiences to confront their fears while simultaneously showcasing the persistence of evil, as encapsulated by Michael Myers. This blend of horror, psychological depth, and cultural relevance ensures that Halloween remains a focal point of horror cinema.

While Halloween ended in 2022, evil never dies and we are bound to see versions of Myers on the big screen for years to come.

Here are our rankings for the Halloween series.

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