12 Best Horror Movie Franchises Of All Time, Ranked

While horror franchises can lose their impact over time with numerous sequels, there are some that have endured, solidifying themselves as the best in cinematic history. These enduring series have captivated audiences for decades, consistently delivering thrills and unforgettable characters that keep viewers coming back. From the iconic Halloween franchise, which redefined the slasher subgenre, to the nightmarish world of Hellraiser, these horror franchises have left a lasting impact on the genre. What sets these series apart is their ability to ramp up the terror with each installment, creating a sense of anticipation and dread that keeps fans hooked.

The best horror movies from every decade offer something for every type of horror enthusiast, whether it’s through blood-curdling gore, supernatural hauntings, or psychological terror. Exploring these series reveals a mix of beloved classics and hidden gems that have earned their place among the greatest horror franchises of all time, cementing their status as true icons of the genre. From the meta-horror brilliance of Scream to the groundbreaking found-footage terror of Paranormal Activity, these franchises have pushed the boundaries of what is possible in horror cinema.

12
Final Destination Franchise (2000-Present)

Revolutionized the genre with a fresh concept

The Final Destination franchise, spanning five films over 11 years, revolutionized the horror genre with its innovative concept, turning Death itself into each movie’s antagonist. Its simple premise has made it a standout series in the realm of horror, captivating audiences with its edge-of-the-seat thrills. Although the formula may have lost some of its freshness over time, the franchise’s influence on subsequent horror films like Saw and Hostel is undeniable. With Final Destination 6 confirmed, the franchise lives on, solidifying its place as a trailblazer that ushered in a new era of visceral and uncompromising horror cinema.

11
Universal Classic Monster Movies (1923-1960)

A pioneering force within the horror genre

The Universal Monsters franchise, which began in 1923 with silent films like The Hunchback of Notre Dame and The Phantom of the Opera, is a pioneering force in the horror genre. Introducing iconic characters such as Dracula, Frankenstein, The Mummy, The Invisible Man, The Wolf Man, and Creature from the Black Lagoon, every Universal Classic Monster movie has left a significant impact on the landscape of horror cinema. Spanning over several decades and featuring legendary actors like Bela Lugosi, Boris Karloff, and Lon Chaney, Jr., the Universal Monsters franchise has explored various subgenres of horror, setting the stage for future films.

10
Paranormal Activity Franchise (2007-2021)

A low-budget pioneer in found footage horror

A low-budget horror movie that exceeded all expectations, the Paranormal Activity franchise redefined the haunted house subgenre and revitalized the found footage style of horror. By placing the audience in the front-row seat of Katie and Micah’s terrifying ordeal, the series tapped into the primal fear of the unknown, proving that what lurks in the shadows can be far more unsettling than any tangible monster. The franchise’s ability to consistently deliver strong scares throughout its sequels and prequel demonstrates its understanding that the human imagination is the most potent tool in crafting truly frightening experiences.

9
Hellraiser Franchise (1987-Present)

Recognizable and iconic characters

The Hellraiser franchise, spanning over three decades and boasting 10 main entries plus a reboot, has left a huge mark on the horror genre with its unparalleled depiction of the grotesque and the masochistic. Adapted from Clive Barker’s acclaimed work, the series introduced some of the most iconic and terrifying creatures in cinematic history, such as the Cenobites, and multiple forms of the iconic Pinhead, becoming instantly recognizable figures. Hellraiser‘s enduring impact as one of the most significant horror franchises remains undeniable.

8
Evil Dead Franchise (1981-Present)

Does horror and comedy like no other

Seamlessly blending terror and comedy, the Evil Dead series has consistently pushed the boundaries of the horror genre like few others. The groundbreaking 1981 original set the stage for a series that never shied away from reinvention. Evil Dead II, the 1987 sequel, redefined the horror-comedy subgenre, showcasing the franchise’s ability to balance scares and laughs. With the 2023 installment, Evil Dead Rise further demonstrated its capacity for evolution, setting a new standard for brutality in horror. Though relatively small, the films in this series stand tall as some of the most influential and entertaining entries in history.

7
The Ring Franchise (1991-Present)

A cross-cultural series that taps into universal fears

The Ring and all of its films have carved its place in horror history, thanks to its haunting premise and the terrifying figure of Sadako, one of the best female horror villains. By weaving together elements of Japanese folklore and the anxieties surrounding modern technology, the series taps into universal fears that transcend cultural boundaries. The cursed videotape at the center of the story heightens the tension as characters desperately seek to unravel the mystery before succumbing to Sadako’s vengeance. While the franchise’s cultural impact is significant, its true power lies in its ability to create a sense of dread.

6
Saw Franchise (2004-Present)

Diabolical and twisted horror at its finest

In the realm of extreme horror, the Saw franchise dissects the depths of human depravity through its intricate web of crime thriller storytelling and shocking, gore-filled set pieces. From the groundbreaking first film, which introduced audiences to the Jigsaw killer and his sadistic games, the series has consistently pushed the boundaries of what the genre can achieve. Each entry in the franchise upped the ante with increasingly elaborate traps, making the Saw films a macabre annual tradition for horror enthusiasts. While the non-linear storytelling and convoluted timeline may muddle the overarching narrative, the franchise’s impact on the genre is undeniable.

5
The Conjuring Universe (2013-Present)

Emotionally resonant ghost stories

Despite its relatively small number of films released over a decade, the Conjuring franchise has firmly established itself as a powerhouse in the horror genre. This revolutionary series has redefined mainstream horror, setting a new standard that countless imitators have sought to replicate, often falling short of capturing the same magic. At the heart of The Conjuring‘s success lies its blend of terror and emotional depth, crafting ghost stories that are as emotionally resonant as they are frightening. The franchise’s impact on the horror landscape is undeniable, cementing its position as one of the most influential series in recent years.

4
Friday The 13th Franchise (1980-Present)

Reigns supreme in the slasher subgenre

A true titan of the slasher subgenre, the Friday the 13th franchise has forever changed the face of horror. At the center of its enduring legacy stands the iconic Jason Voorhees, whose popularity has transcended the realm of horror to become a cultural phenomenon. The franchise’s influence on subsequent generations of horror creators and enthusiasts is a testament to its ability to consistently deliver thrills and a sense of morbid joy. While later installments may have ventured into more outlandish territory, the series’ unwavering commitment to entertaining and terrifying makes it one of the greatest horror franchises of all time.

3
A Nightmare On Elm Street Franchise (1984-Present)

An iconic villain imprinted on pop culture

Inspired by a tragic real-life story of a teen who died in their sleep, Wes Craven’s A Nightmare on Elm Street introduced the world to one of the most iconic and terrifying horror villains: Freddy Krueger. With his razor-sharp claws, this classic creature stalks his victims in some of A Nightmare on Elm Street’s most brutal dream sequences. Freddy breathed new life into the slasher genre, spawning a franchise that would dominate the 1980s. The series’ impact on pop culture is undeniable, with Freddy becoming a household name.

2
Halloween Franchise (1978-Present)

Jump started the slasher craze of the 1980s

The Halloween franchise has secured its place as the second most influential horror series of all time. John Carpenter’s groundbreaking original film not only redefined the slasher subgenre, but it also brought terror to the heart of suburbia, creating a formula that would inspire countless imitators and fuel the slasher boom of the 1980s. Despite the franchise’s numerous reinventions over the years, its cultural impact remains unparalleled. While only one other series may surpass it in terms of overall greatness, the Halloween franchise’s ability to continually captivate and terrify audiences across generations is a testament to its enduring legacy.

1
Scream Franchise (1996-Present)

A genius example of meta-horror

The Scream franchise has solidified its position as the ultimate horror series, thanks to Wes Craven’s ingenious blend of meta-humor, slasher thrills, and gripping murder mystery. Ghostface, the franchise’s iconic villain, has become a symbol of terror, captivating audiences with each installment. The series’ lasting success lies in its ability to reinvent itself while staying true to its core elements, keeping the scares fresh and the humor sharp. With six films spanning over two and a half decades, and no signs of slowing down, Scream has earned its place at the pinnacle of horror cinema.