Best Jump Scare Movies: 20 Super Jumpy Movies

The best jump scare movies are so good that they can make you scream even if you know it’s coming.

A lot of these films will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end, while others will give you a good scare with one horrific jump scare that keeps you up at night.

The best jump scares in horror movies have been captured in this list. These terrifying moments have become iconic to their respective film and have left audiences in shock for decades.

We’ve included both classic jump scare movies and recent ones, so there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

Jump scares are effective, whether you’re watching a good or bad movie. And not only do you want to be scared, but you also want to be invested in the characters and their story.

Best Jump Scare Movies

The best jump scare movies will make you jump, scream, and maybe even change your pants.

The following films are some of the scariest to ever hit the big screen, and they all include a surprising moment that will make you leap out of your seat in terror.

Paranormal Activity (2007)

Paranormal Activity is a horror film that revolutionized the found footage genre.

The film follows a young couple, Katie and Micah, who move into a new home where they begin to experience strange and terrifying events.

The film is shot entirely through handheld cameras and security footage, creating a sense of realism that immerses the viewer in the story.

The slow build-up of tension is brilliantly executed, with the audience being kept on the edge of their seats throughout the film.

The use of sound effects and jump scares are particularly effective, and the climax of the film is truly terrifying.

The performances of the two leads, Katie Featherston and Micah Sloat, are convincing and natural, adding to the sense of realism that the film creates.

The simple yet effective plot and the use of minimal special effects make this film a standout in the horror genre.

Creep (2014)

Creep is a spine-chilling found-footage horror film that will leave you feeling uneasy long after the credits roll.

The movie follows the story of a videographer, Aaron, who is hired by a mysterious man named Josef to document his life for a day.

What starts as a simple job quickly turns into a nightmare as Josef’s behavior becomes increasingly erratic and unsettling.

The film’s strength lies in its ability to create tension and fear with minimal jump scares or gore.

Instead, the movie relies on the performances of its two leads, Mark Duplass as Josef and Patrick Brice as Aaron, to carry the story.

Duplass’s performance as the titular “creep” is particularly impressive, as he seamlessly transitions from charming to menacing in a matter of seconds.

The found-footage style of the film adds to the overall sense of unease, as it feels like we are watching something we shouldn’t be.

The use of natural lighting and sound also adds to the realism of the movie, making it feel like we are watching real people in a real situation.

 

 

Hush (2016)

Hush is a heart-pumping thriller that will have you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

The film follows Maddie, a deaf writer who lives in a secluded cabin in the woods, as she becomes the target of a masked killer who is determined to hunt her down.

What makes Hush so effective is its use of sound, or lack thereof.

The fact that Maddie is deaf adds a unique layer of tension to the film, and director Mike Flanagan does an excellent job of keeping the audience engaged by using sound to manipulate our emotions.

The performances in Hush are also top-notch, with Kate Siegel delivering a standout performance as Maddie.

She manages to convey a wide range of emotions without the use of dialogue, and her physicality is both impressive and convincing.

 

The Babadook (2014)

The Babadook is a horror film that will leave you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

Director Jennifer Kent does an exceptional job of building tension and creating a sense of dread that permeates every scene.

Essie Davis delivers a stunning performance as Amelia, a grieving mother who becomes increasingly unhinged as she tries to cope with the death of her husband and the growing terror of the titular Babadook.

The Babadook himself is a masterpiece of practical effects and design, with his top hat, coat, and long fingers adding a layer of creepy elegance to his terrifying presence.

But what really sets this film apart is its exploration of the psychological toll of grief and the way it can manifest as a literal monster.

Kent’s script is both haunting and deeply empathetic, giving us a protagonist whose struggles we can all relate to.

The film’s climax is a tour-de-force of horror filmmaking, with a finale that will stick with you long after the credits roll.

The Lazarus Effect (2015)

“The Lazarus Effect” is a horror film that tries to blend science with the supernatural, but ultimately falls short of its potential.

The plot follows a team of scientists who discover a way to bring the dead back to life, but their experiment goes horribly wrong when they resurrect a colleague who comes back with a malevolent spirit.

The film starts off with a promising premise and a talented cast, including Olivia Wilde and Mark Duplass, but it quickly devolves into a cliché horror movie with cheap scares and predictable plot twists.

The pacing is off, with the first half of the film feeling slow and the second half feeling rushed and chaotic.

The special effects are decent, but they can’t make up for the lackluster storytelling and underdeveloped characters.

The film’s attempts to explore the ethical implications of bringing the dead back to life are superficial at best, and the supernatural elements feel forced and contrived.

 

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A Quiet Place (2018)

A Quiet Place is a masterclass in tension and atmosphere, a horror movie that relies on silence rather than jump scares.

The film follows a family in a post-apocalyptic world where noise attracts deadly monsters, forcing them to live their lives in complete silence.

Director John Krasinski does an excellent job of creating a world where every creak, rustle, and breath could mean death, building the suspense to almost unbearable levels.

The performances are top-notch, particularly Emily Blunt as the mother who is pregnant and must give birth in complete silence.

The children, played by Millicent Simmonds and Noah Jupe, are also impressive, conveying fear and desperation without the use of words.

The film’s sound design is exceptional, with the absence of sound being just as important as the few moments of music or noise.

The creatures are terrifying and original, with their design and behavior adding to the tension and horror.

A Quiet Place is an expertly crafted horror movie, a true genre gem that stands out for its unique premise, outstanding performances, and masterful direction.

The Blair Witch Project (1999)

The Blair Witch Project is a groundbreaking horror film that still manages to send shivers down my spine. Shot in a found-footage style, the movie follows a group of film students who venture into the woods to make a documentary about the legendary Blair Witch.

As they delve deeper into the woods, strange things start happening, and tensions between the group members escalate.

This film is a masterclass in minimalist horror.

With no jump scares or gore, The Blair Witch Project relies on atmosphere, sound design, and the power of suggestion to create an overwhelming sense of dread.

The unknown is always lurking just out of frame, and the tension continues to build until the film’s chilling conclusion.

The performances from the three lead actors are impressive, with their improvised dialogue and naturalistic reactions adding to the film’s realism.

The handheld camera work adds to the feeling of being a witness to the events, making the audience feel like they are one of the characters in the film.

While some may argue that the film’s shaky camera work and lack of a traditional narrative structure can be disorienting, I believe that it only adds to the film’s authenticity and immersive experience.

The Blair Witch Project is a horror classic that has stood the test of time and remains a must-watch for fans of the genre.

Hell Fest (2018)

Hell Fest is a thrilling and chilling horror film that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The movie follows a group of friends who attend a popular Halloween amusement park, only to find themselves being stalked by a masked killer.

The setting is a perfect blend of fun and fright, with the elaborate mazes and attractions of the park serving as the perfect backdrop for the terrifying events that unfold.

The cinematography is top-notch, with the use of lighting and color creating a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere that perfectly captures the eerie feel of the park.

The performances from the cast are also impressive, with the characters feeling authentic and relatable, making it all the more terrifying when they are in danger.

What sets Hell Fest apart from other horror films is its clever use of misdirection and suspense.

The film keeps you guessing as to who the killer is, and when they will strike next, creating a sense of unease that stays with you long after the credits roll.

The Conjuring (2013)

“The Conjuring” is a horror masterpiece that will haunt you long after the credits roll.

James Wan’s direction and the stunning cinematography create an eerie atmosphere that sets the tone for the entire film.

The performances from Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga as paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren are captivating and believable, making the audience invested in their quest to rid a family’s home of a malevolent spirit.

The scares are well-crafted and rely on tension-building rather than cheap jump scares, making them all the more effective.

The use of practical effects and minimal CGI add to the authenticity of the film’s haunting.

Dead Silence (2007)

Dead Silence is a horror movie that takes the concept of ventriloquist dummies to a whole new level.

The film follows a young couple who return to their hometown only to be faced with a deadly curse that revolves around a creepy ventriloquist doll named Mary Shaw.

The film is directed by James Wan, who is known for his work on horror classics such as Saw and The Conjuring.

The cinematography is hauntingly beautiful, with dark, eerie shots that add to the overall sense of dread and suspense.

The standout performance in the film comes from Ryan Kwanten, who plays the lead character, Jamie.

Kwanten’s portrayal of a man haunted by his past and desperate to uncover the truth about the curse is both compelling and sympathetic.

While the film does have its flaws, including some predictable plot twists and uneven pacing, it ultimately delivers a satisfyingly scary experience.

Dead Silence is a must-watch for horror fans who enjoy a good old-fashioned ghost story with a modern twist.

Sinister (2012)

Sinister is a chilling horror flick that will have you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

The film follows true crime writer Ellison Oswalt (Ethan Hawke) as he moves his family into a new home to work on his latest book.

However, things start to go awry when he discovers a box of disturbing home movies in the attic, which seem to be the key to a series of unsolved murders.

Director Scott Derrickson masterfully creates a tense and creepy atmosphere throughout the film, with ominous music and jump scares that will leave you jumping out of your seat.

The use of the home movies as a plot device is both clever and terrifying, as they provide a window into the twisted mind of the killer.

Ethan Hawke delivers a strong performance as the flawed protagonist, adding depth to the character and making him someone the audience can root for.

The supporting cast also shines, with standout performances from Juliet Rylance as Ellison’s supportive wife and James Ransone as the likable deputy.

Insidious: Chapter 2 (2013)

Insidious: Chapter 2 is a spine-tingling horror film that will have you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

The film picks up right where the first Insidious left off, with the Lambert family still plagued by the supernatural forces that have been haunting them.

Director James Wan does an excellent job of creating a tense and eerie atmosphere throughout the film.

The use of shadows and darkness add to the suspense, and the jump scares are perfectly timed. also adds to the overall creepy vibe, with haunting piano melodies and unsettling noises.

The performances are also noteworthy, with Patrick Wilson and Rose Byrne reprising their roles as Josh and Renai Lambert.

They both deliver strong performances, portraying the fear and desperation of a family trying to survive against the forces of evil.

One of the highlights of the film is the exploration of the backstory of the haunting.

The flashbacks add depth to the characters and the overall mythology of the story, making it more than just a typical haunted house tale.

Alone (2007)

Alone is a suspenseful and chilling horror film that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

The story follows a writer who moves to a remote cabin in the woods to seek solitude and inspiration, only to find herself stalked by a mysterious and dangerous stranger.

The film’s minimalist approach to storytelling is its biggest strength, relying on tension and atmosphere to create a sense of dread that builds throughout the film.

The cinematography captures the isolation and eeriness of the setting, while the sound design is masterfully crafted to enhance the scares.

The lead performance by Elizabeth Olsen is excellent, conveying both vulnerability and strength as her character fights for survival.

The supporting cast also delivers solid performances, particularly the actor who portrays the menacing stranger.

While the film’s pacing may be slow for some viewers, it’s a deliberate choice that adds to the overall feeling of unease.

The ending is satisfying and leaves the audience with a sense of closure.

 

 

Rec (2007)

Rec is a thrilling and terrifying found footage horror film that will leave you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

The film follows a television reporter and her cameraman as they accompany a group of an apartment where a deadly virus has broken out.

As they try to uncover the truth behind the outbreak, they soon realize that they are trapped in the building with the infected residents and must fight for their survival.

The handheld camera style of filming adds to the tension and realism of the film, making you feel like you are right there with the characters as they navigate the dark and claustrophobic hallways.

The scares are expertly crafted, with jump scares that will have you jumping out of your seat and a sense of dread that builds throughout the film.

The performances are top-notch, with Manuela Velasco delivering a standout performance as the reporter who must face her fears and fight for her life.

The supporting cast also shines, bringing a sense of humanity and vulnerability to their characters that makes you care about their fates.

The Strangers (2008)

“The Strangers” is a haunting horror film that will chill you to the bone.

The movie follows a young couple, Kristen and James, who retreat to a secluded vacation home in the woods, only to be terrorized by a trio of masked strangers.

What sets this film apart from other horror movies is its ability to create a sense of dread and unease that lingers long after the credits have rolled.

The slow, deliberate pacing of the film builds tension and suspense, leaving you on the edge of your seat.

The performances by Liv Tyler and Scott Speedman are excellent, bringing a sense of realism to their characters and making you feel invested in their survival.

The villains, with their eerie masks and sinister motives, are truly terrifying and leave a lasting impression.

Director Bryan Bertino masterfully creates a sense of isolation and vulnerability, making the audience feel just as trapped and helpless as the protagonists.

The film’s haunting score and atmospheric sound design add to the overall sense of dread and unease.

Shutter (2004)

Shutter is a spine-chilling horror film that will leave you with goosebumps long after the credits roll.

The story follows a young couple, Tun and Jane, who accidentally hit a woman with their car while driving home from a party.

As they try to cover up the accident and move on with their lives, strange and unsettling events begin to occur – their photographs reveal ghostly images and they are haunted by the apparition of the woman they hit.

What makes Shutter stand out from other horror films is the way it seamlessly blends elements of supernatural horror with a well-c mystery.

The plot twists and turns and keeps you on the edge of your seat until the very end. Additionally, the film’s setting in Thailand adds an extra layer of intrigue and cultural exploration.

The performances by the cast are top-notch, particularly Ananda Everingham as Tun, who manages to convey a wide range of emotions convincingly.

The film’s cinematography is also noteworthy, with stunning visuals that are both haunting and beautiful.

The Descent (2005)

The Descent is a horror film that will take you on a terrifying journey into the depths of the earth.

Director Neil Marshall creates a claustrophobic atmosphere that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

The all-female cast delivers standout performances, with Shauna Macdonald leading the way as Sarah, a woman struggling to cope with the loss of her family.

The film’s use of darkness and sound design is masterful, creating an unnerving sense of dread that never lets up.

The creatures that inhabit the caves are truly nightmarish, and the gore and violence is not for the faint of heart.

But what sets The Descent apart from other horror films is its exploration of the human psyche.

As the women descend deeper into the caves, they are forced to confront their fears, their pasts, and ultimately their own mortality.

It’s a dark and intense journey that will leave you shaken.

Insidious: Chapter 3 (2015)

Insidious: Chapter 3 is a chilling horror film that is sure to leave you on the edge of your seat.

The third installment in the Insidious franchise, this movie takes a step back in time to tell the story of how psychic Elise Rainier (Lin Shaye) first encountered the supernatural realm known as “The Further.”

Director Leigh Whannell does an excellent job of building tension and suspense throughout the film, creating an atmosphere of dread that is palpable from beginning to end.

The scares come fast and furious, with jump scares and creepy imagery that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

Lin Shaye delivers a standout performance as Elise Rainier, bringing depth and nuance to her character and cementing her status as a horror icon.

The supporting cast also shines, with Dermot Mulroney and Stefanie Scott delivering strong performances as a father and daughter who are haunted by a malevolent entity.

Thesis (1996)

Thesis is a spine-chilling thriller that hooks you from the opening scene and never lets go.

The film follows the story of a film student, Angela, who is doing her thesis on violence in cinema.

Her research leads her to a mysterious tape that contains a brutal murder, and she becomes obsessed with finding out the truth behind the crime.

Director Alejandro Amenábar masterfully builds tension throughout the film, keeping you on the edge of your seat as Angela delves deeper into the dark world of the tape.

The cinematography is stunning, with each shot meticulously crafted to convey the mood and atmosphere of the scene.

Ana Torrent delivers a standout performance as Angela, expertly portraying her descent into obsession and fear.

The supporting cast also shines, with standout performances from Fele Martínez and Eduardo Noriega.

What sets Thesis apart from other thrillers is its exploration of the relationship between violence and cinema.

The film raises thought-provoking questions about the responsibility of filmmakers and the impact of violent media on society.

Vacancy (2007)

“Vacancy” is a heart-pounding thriller that will leave you on the edge of your seat.

Starring the talented Kate Beckinsale and Luke Wilson, this film tells the story of a couple who find themselves stranded at a rundown motel in the middle of nowhere.

As they settle into their room, they soon discover a sinister secret that puts their lives in danger.

The film’s setting is perfect for the suspenseful storyline, with the dark and claustrophobic motel adding to the tension.

The performances from Beckinsale and Wilson are fantastic, with both actors delivering believable and convincing performances that will have you rooting for them until the very end.

Director Nimród Antal expertly builds the suspense throughout the film, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats with each twist and turn.

The pacing is just right, with enough action to keep you engaged without being too overwhelming.

 

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