Article written by Roger Casadejús Pérez
2. Alice Cooper: Halloween (1978)
Alice Cooper, the godfather of shock rock, has expressed his admiration for John Carpenter’s Halloween. The 1978 classic introduced the world to Michael Myers and set the standard for the slasher genre with its suspenseful storytelling and haunting score.
Where to Watch: Peacock, Amazon Prime
3. Ozzy Osbourne: The Exorcist (1973)
Ozzy Osbourne, the Prince of Darkness, is no stranger to the occult and supernatural. It’s no surprise that his favorite horror movie is The Exorcist. William Friedkin’s 1973 film is a timeless tale of possession and exorcism that continues to terrify audiences.
Where to Watch: HBO Max, Amazon Prime
4. Kirk Hammett: Nosferatu (1922)
Kirk Hammett, lead guitarist of Metallica, has a profound appreciation for the silent film era, particularly F.W. Murnau’s Nosferatu. This 1922 German expressionist horror film is a seminal work in the vampire genre, lauded for its eerie atmosphere and innovative cinematography.
Where to Watch: YouTube, Amazon Prime
5. Slash: A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
Legendary guitarist Slash has a penchant for Wes Craven’s A Nightmare on Elm Street. The 1984 film introduced Freddy Krueger, a nightmare-inducing villain who hunts teenagers in their dreams, solidifying its place as a staple of 80s horror.
Where to Watch: HBO Max, Amazon Prime
6. Bruce Dickinson: The Wicker Man (1973)
Iron Maiden’s frontman Bruce Dickinson is an avid fan of Robin Hardy’s The Wicker Man. Released in 1973, this British horror film explores themes of paganism and sacrifice, culminating in one of the most iconic endings in cinema history.
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime, Apple TV+
7. Tom Araya: The Omen (1976)
Tom Araya of Slayer is known for his fascination with dark and apocalyptic themes, making Richard Donner’s The Omen a fitting choice. This 1976 film tells the chilling story of the Antichrist’s rise and is celebrated for its intense narrative and Gregory Peck’s captivating performance.
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime, Hulu
8. Marilyn Manson: Suspiria (1977)
Marilyn Manson’s aesthetic and music often draw from the surreal and the macabre, much like Dario Argento’s Suspiria. The 1977 Italian horror film is a visual and auditory feast, renowned for its vivid color palette and Goblin’s haunting soundtrack.
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime, Shudder
9. Dave Grohl: The Shining (1980)
Foo Fighters’ Dave Grohl admires Stanley Kubrick’s The Shining, a psychological horror masterpiece based on Stephen King’s novel. Released in 1980, the film’s exploration of madness and isolation, coupled with Jack Nicholson’s iconic performance, has left a lasting impact on cinema.
Where to Watch: HBO Max, Amazon Prime
10. Lemmy Kilmister: Hellraiser (1987)
The late Lemmy Kilmister of Motörhead was a fan of Clive Barker’s Hellraiser, a film that delves into the realms of pain, pleasure, and the supernatural. Released in 1987, it introduces the infamous Cenobites and their leader, Pinhead.
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime, Shudder
Conclusion
The intersection of rock music and horror films is a fascinating cultural phenomenon. These movies not only reflect the dark, rebellious spirit inherent in rock music but also provide an escape into worlds where the terrifying and the fantastical reign supreme. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of both genres or just beginning to explore their depths, the films listed here offer something for everyone. So dim the lights, crank up the volume, and prepare for a thrilling cinematic experience.