The 1950s presented a golden era of sorts for horror movies. Huge monsters, Giant bugs, Vampires, Saucer people, and body snatchers found their way to drive-in screens across the country.
While some of the films from this time period may seem more comedic than frightening by today’s standards, many still hold up. Below are some of our favorites.
‘The Curse of Frankenstein’ (1957)
Although the 1930s Frankenstein may be the most celebrated adaptation of Mary Shelley’s work, the iconic Hammer Horror films did something special in the 1950s. Starring horror legends Peter Cushing and Christopher Lee, The Curse of Frankenstein, brought a darker and much more violent version to the silver screen in technicolor.
‘House of Wax’ (1953)
House of Wax was a real turning point for American Horror films. Instead of the common 1950s sci-fi monster movies, this film took a much darker approach and really tapped into fear with the perfect blend of unsettling make up effects and disturbing story that still scares viewers today.
‘House on Haunted Hill’ (1959)
You really can’t beat Vincent Price when it comes to 1950s horror movies. While Price’s performance was incredible as always, this film had a lot more going for it. Many of the effects were advanced for the time while still being practical and grounded enough to make the fantastic story feel very real. Furthermore, the plot had some of the best twists and turns in cinema.
These were our top three, but the 1950s brought us some of the most chilling and though-provoking films of all time. We cant conclude this post without mentioning classics like Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1956), and Creature From the Black Lagoon. Read about these and more on Colider’s list of the 10 most rewatchable 1950s horror movies.
If you enjoy this kind of nostalgia, check out our other throwback posts here.