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What Scares West High?

What are the most popular horror movies among West High students right now? What are their favorite scary movies? Are they into slasher films, found footage, folk horror, or something with a humorous twist? Let’s find out what our students are loving and what’s currently trending!
Horror movie poster collage
All posters found on IMDb.com
Horror movie poster collage All posters found on IMDb.com
"Friday the 13th" poster from IMDb.com
Friday the 13th

“Friday the 13th,” the fifth top-ranked film voted by the West High students, only had 10% of students who took the test vote for “Friday the 13th.” It is a slasher movie released in 1980 and directed by Sean S. Cunningham. Known for its suspenseful atmosphere and iconic antagonist, Jason Voorhees, the story unfolds at Camp Crystal Lake, where a mysterious killer seeks revenge. The film is celebrated for its effective use of tension-building techniques and memorable death scenes that set a new standard for the genre.

“Friday the 13th” has grown into a cultural phenomenon, cementing its place as a cornerstone of the slasher genre. Its influence can be seen in countless horror films, spawning a franchise with multiple sequels and a reboot. With its chilling score, shocking finale and compelling characters, the film continues to be studied and celebrated by filmmakers and fans alike, solidifying its status as a true horror classic.

“Friday the 13th” poster from IMDb.com
"Halloween" poster found on IMDb.com
Halloween

The movie “Halloween” is ranked 4th on the top 5 list, with 12% of students voting for it. On a chilly Halloween night in 1963, six-year-old Michael Myers murdered his 17-year-old sister, Judith. Locked away for 15 years, he escaped on October 30, 1978, while being transferred for a court date. The 21-year-old steals a car and flees from Smith’s Grove.

Michael returns to his quiet hometown of Haddonfield, Illinois, where he seeks his next victims. This sets the stage for a terrifying saga that has captivated horror fans for decades, establishing Michael Myers as one of cinema’s most iconic and enduring villains.

“Halloween” poster found on IMDb.com
"A Quiet Place" poster found on IMDb.com
A Quiet Place

“A Quiet Place” secured the third spot in the top 5 favorites at West High, with 13.3% of the student body casting their votes for the film. The movie’s storyline unfolds in a post-apocalyptic world where enigmatic creatures hunt using sound, compelling a family to maintain complete silence in order to evade them. Faced with the constant threat of death from the slightest noise, parents Evelyn and Lee are resolute in safeguarding their children and devising a strategy to resist the creatures.. The film boasts outstanding performances from the cast and resonates deeply with audiences.

Eva Bell, a student at West High, shared her enthusiasm for the film, highlighting its capacity to explore beyond the frightening aspects and illuminate the challenges of surviving in a society where maintaining silence is crucial. She remarked, “The movie resonated with me because it goes beyond just being scary. It effectively portrays the hardships of survival in a world where making any noise could be fatal.”

“A Quiet Place” poster found on IMDb.com
"IT" poster found on IMDb.com
IT

“IT” is ranked second in the list of most popular movies among students, with 16% of the student body voting for it. The movie revolves around the experiences of seven young outcasts in Derry, Maine, as they confront their worst nightmare. An ancient, shape-shifting evil emerges from the sewers every 27 years to prey on the town’s children. During one terrifying summer, these friends come together to overcome their personal fears and confront Pennywise, a murderous, bloodthirsty clown. The narrative delves into themes of friendship, courage and the strength that comes from facing one’s deepest fears.

Layla Shannon, a student at West High, expresses her fondness for “IT” by stating, “‘IT” is one of my favorite horror movies because it is both scary and funny. I laughed and screamed throughout the entire movie, and I believe that balance is what makes “IT” the perfect horror movie.” It’s evident that many students at West High share an enthusiasm for horror movies.

“IT” poster found on IMDb.com
The Conjuring

“The Conjuring” tops the list of favorite movies among West High students. Set in 1970, this horror film follows paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren as they’re summoned to the home of Roger and Carolyn Perron. The Perron family, including their five daughters, have recently moved into a secluded farmhouse where a supernatural presence makes itself known.

At first, the manifestations seem relatively harmless. However, events soon escalate terrifyingly, especially after the Warrens uncover the house’s dark history. This chilling narrative keeps viewers on the edge of their seats, making it a standout choice for horror enthusiasts at West High.

“I chose ‘The Conjuring’ because it’s a classic movie and it always scares you, especially when watching with friends!,” said sophomore Aebry Caughron. West High students clearly favor “The Conjuring” above all other horror movies.

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About the Contributor
Mackenzie Johnson
Mackenzie Johnson, Reporter
(she/her) Mackenzie Johnson is a sophomore at West High and this is her first year as part of the Insider staff. Outside of Wahawk Insider, she can be found spending time with friends, hiking, and working out at the gym. She loves reading, her cat, and listening to music.
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