New research shows that horror films are increasingly popular as a way for Brits to unwind, with over half of film enthusiasts saying they reach for thrillers when they need to relax. The survey, conducted by Beavertown with a sample of 2,000 film buffs, reveals that 54% of respondents view horror films as a stress reliever. For many, the suspenseful scenes and chilling stories provide not only a thrill but also a comforting escape from everyday worries.
The study highlights that horror films are more than just a seasonal indulgence, with fans watching an average of 36 horror films annually and increasing their viewing by 53% during October. This rise in interest has also led to new fans of the genre, with a quarter of horror lovers having developed their appreciation for the genre within the last three years.
Beyond the genre’s escapist appeal, horror’s unique storytelling elements are a major draw. A significant 41% of fans say they enjoy the adrenaline rush provided by horror films, and another 38% point to the thrill and suspense that keeps them coming back. Around 31% of respondents cited tension as their favourite feature, while 27% said they love the jumps and scares that add to horror’s excitement.
As for the most memorable fright scenes, classics have left a lasting impact. The infamous chestburster scene in Alien (1979), the unsettling head spin in The Exorcist (1973), and Jack Nicholson’s “Here’s Johnny!” moment from The Shining (1980) were voted as the top jump scares of all time. These films are part of a broader list of all-time favourite horror titles, topped by The Silence of the Lambs (1991), with Alien and The Exorcist rounding out the top three.
When it comes to viewing preferences, horror films offer something for everyone, whether watched solo or in company. While 19% of viewers prefer to watch horror alone for maximum impact, almost half (46%) enjoy sharing the experience with friends or family. Preferences also vary in terms of film style; psychological fear is the top element, with 49% choosing it as the key to a good horror film. Other popular features include eerie atmospheres (44%) and the presence of paranormal entities (27%).
This growing enthusiasm for horror is being celebrated by Beavertown in a week-long Halloween film series. The “Beavertown Screamings” kicked off with a “Dead Carpet” event at London’s Prince Charles Cinema, where horror icons like Dracula and Frankenstein walked a blood-red carpet. The series will screen horror classics from 23rd to 31st October and features immersive touches like a vintage video-store-themed cinema bar and live interactions that bring viewers closer to the action on screen.
A spokesperson for Beavertown remarked, “Halloween and horror are core to Beavertown’s spirit, and this year we wanted to truly celebrate the nation’s love for spookiness on the big screen.” They added, “Our special screenings combine our passion for horror with immersive experiences to bring horror to life in the best way possible.”
Beavertown’s celebration taps into the UK’s passion for horror, offering fans the chance to relive classic scares in a way that unites nostalgia with the excitement of live cinema events. With October’s spike in horror viewership, the Beavertown Screamings promise a fitting tribute to the nation’s love for all things spine-chilling. Tickets for the Beavertown Screamings Event are available now and can be purchased here
