Jaws

Steven Spielberg's first big success redefined the term "blockbuster". As scary as Psycho was in the 60s, Jaws made many fearful of going to the beach. Spielberg's genius is in not showing the shark until midway through the film, when its entrance produces the classic quote, "We're gonna need a bigger boat." I saw this when I was 6 and I had a nightmare that night while dreaming of the scene with the tooth in the hull. Full review.

The Exorcist

Scary, shocking and suspenseful, William Friedkin's screen adaptation of William Peter Blatty's novel is horror filmmaking at its best. An ordinary American girl is possessed by the Devil, and it is up to a troubled priest and an ailing exorcist to drive the evil spirit from her. A host of memorable scenes; not for those with weak stomachs. Full review (director's cut).

Poltergeist

A refreshingly modern horror story, penned by Steven Spielberg. A family's house is taken over by ghosts, who kidnap their young daughter. Great special effects, with nice touches of humour. The suburban setting makes it feel like it could be happening next door.

Psycho (1960)

Arguably Hitchcock's most famous film. A secretary absconds with a large sum of money, but makes the mistake of stopping at the Bates Motel. Influential camerawork and editing, allied to a classic score by Bernard Hermann. Contains the infamous shower scene.

Dawn of the Dead

George Romero's sequel to his budget classic Night of the Living Dead is even better. Corpses are rising from their graves, with an insatiable appetite for human flesh. Amidst the widespread panic, four humans hole up in an abandoned shopping mall. Many tense moments; Tom Savini's trademark gore effects are appropriately bloody.