10 Best ’80s Horror Movies on Tubi

As a seasoned horror enthusiast who’s spent countless nights huddled under blankets while watching every slasher and supernatural flick that comes my way, I must say, these hidden gems are just what the witch doctor ordered!

By providing an extensive library of renowned horror masterpieces, Tubi has emerged as a preferred destination for many aficionados of the genre. This free, ad-supported streaming giant houses a wide range of terrors, spanning from light-hearted B-movies to spine-chilling Hollywood blockbusters. Yet, for dedicated horror enthusiasts, there’s an iconic period in filmmaking that holds a special place.

As a dedicated movie enthusiast, let me tell you that the 1980s were a golden age for horror! It was during this decade that some of the most influential names in the genre emerged, gracing both the screen as actors and behind the camera as directors. The ’80s also brought us some of the most outstanding practical effects, making every flick a visual feast. From hilarious horror-comedies to gut-wrenching slashers, there was no shortage of blood, suspense, and terror. Films like ‘Videodrome’ pushed the boundaries of what could be shown on screen, offering a unique blend of metaphysical horror that still sends chills down my spine today. If you haven’t already, I highly recommend giving these ’80s horror movies available on Tubi a watch – they truly capture the essence of the era and are definitely worth revisiting or discovering for the first time.

10 Henry Portrait of a Serial Killer (1986)

Henry Portrait of a Serial Killer: A Fictional Account is inspired by the notorious serial killers, Henry Lee Lucas and Ottis Toole. This film narrates the chilling tale of Henry and Otis, as they embark on a murderous journey, starting with the targeting of sex workers before moving onto home invasions. The movie predominantly forgoes a traditional narrative structure, instead providing an unflinching portrayal of the duo’s criminal exploits. It features lengthy scenes of graphic violence, reflecting Henry and Otis’ growing comfort and immersion in their heinous activities.

Horror as Realistic as it Gets

Although it didn’t appear on home video until January 1990, the film “Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer” had already been screened as early as 1986 at various festivals, causing quite a stir among audiences. The movie gained notoriety for its shockingly realistic violence; it was initially given an X rating but later switched to NC-17.

Speaking of which, among numerous ’80s horror films, there is a widespread admiration from both fans and critics for how this particular movie revolutionized the horror genre and left an indelible impact. If you haven’t watched ‘Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer’, be warned that it offers an intense, unflinching portrayal of horror inspired by real-life crimes, placing you right in the thick of it.

9 Demons (1985)

A group of people who don’t know each other get an invitation to the inaugural performance at the Metropol Theater, where a frightening movie is scheduled. Unfortunately, once the film starts, havoc ensues in the theater as audience members transform into ferocious demons and start attacking one another. Realizing they’re trapped inside, the remaining attendees engage in a desperate struggle against the demons while searching for an exit.

An Ancient Evil Terrorizes a Movie Theater

If you’re in the mood for a thrilling ride packed with plenty of action and gruesome scenes, then Lamberto Bava’s film, titled “Demons,” is definitely worth watching. This Italian horror production offers an exciting, over-the-top experience, as its demons share similarities with the deadites from Evil Dead, demonstrating a delight in interacting with their victims.

1980s horror classic “Demons” boasts one of the most remarkable final scenes, seamlessly blending camp, action, and fear to create an indelible impact. The film inspired a sequel, titled “Demons 2“, as well as a darkly atmospheric follow-up called “The Church” (1989), which is also available on Tubi.

8 The Slumber Party Massacre II (1987)

According to Courtney Bates, the last girl from the original movie, now in her senior year of high school, grapples with the emotional scars of past incidents. To lift her spirits, Courtney arranges a birthday getaway at a condo for herself and friends, including Matt, her crush. However, Courtney’s peaceful weekend is disrupted as she starts having nightmares about a spectral killer who disguises himself as a foul-mouthed rockabilly and slaughters his victims using an electric guitar with a drill attached to it.

Just When You Thought it Was Safe to Have a Slumber Party

The original “Slumber Party Massacre” (1982) stands out with its distinctive viewpoint (being written by Rita Mae Brown and directed by Amy Holden Jones as a satire on the slasher genre, it’s definitely worth watching), whereas the sequel provides different chills that fans of 80s campy B-horror will enjoy.

A person wielding a unique guitar equipped with a drill at its end might draw quite a crowd, but the true charm of this film lies in its dialogue and portrayal of teenage life. With humor that’s absurd and delightfully excessive, The Slumber Party Massacre II makes for an ideal movie night with friends.

7 Basket Case (1982)

Duane Bradley shows up in New York City, accompanied only by a pile of money and a big wicker basket that piques curiosity, as the film’s tagline suggests “What’s inside the Basket?”. Duane is an unpolished individual, yet he gradually forms friendships, all while quarreling with a being from the basket who seeks vengeance for past experiments that transformed him. As a series of murders targeting New York doctors unfold, Duane struggles to reconcile his actions and his long-standing bond with a monster he’s known since birth.

What’s in the Basket?

“One reason Basket Case and many films directed by Frank Hennenlotter stand out is their portrayal of the gritty, seedy side of New York’s 42nd Street, filled with drug addicts, sex workers, and other unsavory characters. This grimy backdrop fits perfectly with the low-budget, darkly comedic, gory style of Basket Case. The creature design is grotesque, the acting is exaggerated in a good way, and the violence is messy and blood-splattered. The movie was successful enough to spawn two sequels, which are also available on Tubi, and they have a more campy tone compared to the original.

6 The Beyond (1981)

In the sweltering heart of Louisiana, I find myself the new owner of an aged inn, oblivious to the fact that its very ground conceals one of the Seven Gates of Hell. As I embark on the renovation journey, strange occurrences begin to unfold around me, hinting at a malevolent force awakened by my arrival. It soon becomes clear that I’ve inadvertently summoned an all-powerful evil. Joined by my companions, we scramble to decipher the means to seal these infernal gates, but the clock is ticking ominously – it may already be too late.

A Gore-Soaked Nightmare from Italy

Are you up for witnessing five minutes of a man being gradually devoured by tarantulas, or a woman expelling her internal organs using actual animal entrails to make the scene feel authentic? After all, Lucio Fulci earned his title as the ‘Godfather of Gore’ for good reason – his films consistently pushed the limits of practical effects, and you could always expect gruesome eye damage in a Fulci production. Despite their excessive violence, there is an undeniable artistry to these movies that makes it difficult not to appreciate them.

Going beyond its grisly depictions, The Beyond delves deep into a haunting exploration of dark dimensions. The fear it invokes transcends ordinary levels, mirroring the intense cosmic dread found in an H.P. Lovecraft novel. Its conclusion is equally memorable and has been echoed in various films. Despite its bleak violence and discomfort, The Beyond remains a remarkable watch for dedicated horror enthusiasts seeking a chilling experience.

5 Maniac (1980)

Frank Zito, who’s of both Italian and American heritage, resides in the bustling city of New York, is a notorious serial killer driven by harrowing memories from his past, particularly those involving his mother. His dark deeds against women have led him to create a macabre sanctuary within his own quarters, where mannequins are arranged and their heads are replaced with the grisly trophies of his victims. This grim practice only serves to deepen his solitude and foster delusions. Yet, an encounter with a woman offers him a glimmer of hope for change. Regrettably, his deteriorated mental state only serves to hasten his downfall and intensify his homicidal impulses instead.

Don’t Go Out Alone Tonight

An absolutely phenomenal performance from Joe Spinell that won him a cult following, Maniac is a deep and disturbing dive into the mind of a deranged killer. Tense and uncomfortable, the movie also features flares of unforgettable violence made by veteran Tom Savini (who also appears in the movie). Maniac has maintained a cult following thanks to its gritty and greasy performance from Joe Spinell and wonderfully constructed moments of extreme violence. In 2012, Elijah Wood stepped into the shoes of a killer when Maniac was remade; a shocking horror movie in its own right.

4 Blood Hook (1986)

A fishing celebration is about to commence in a quaint little town up north in Wisconsin, serving as the town’s main tourist draw. Yet, just before the event, a chilling murder takes place. The town leaders attempt to hush the news to keep the festivities running smoothly. However, when the festival commences and bodies start accumulating, it becomes evident that a murderer is at large.

Fishing for Horror

The horror film “Blood Hook” has some problems with pace, as its runtime over two hours can feel draggy for an ’80s slasher. However, there’s plenty to enjoy about it, including the outlandish weapon of the massive bobbing fishing lure and its subtle mockery of the genre.

Blood Hook delivers a hilarious mix of terror and laughter. To give you a sense of the humor it provides, it was helmed by John Mallon, a key figure in the creation of the popular TV series Mystery Science Theater 3000. Tubi is filled with numerous ’80s slasher flicks that are offbeat, and if you enjoy this one, don’t forget to explore Blades, a movie about a lethal lawnmower.

3 Intruder (1989)

Jennifer and her co-workers are working past closing time at the supermarket, performing an overnight inventory in preparation for a going-out-of-business sale. As the hours tick by and tensions rise due to a vindictive ex-partner’s threats, the workers grow increasingly uneasy. However, all semblance of order is lost when a string of murders takes place, causing the team to descend into chaos as they quarrel amongst themselves in fear and confusion while attempting to evade the killer or discover his identity.

A Solid Slasher

1) It’s truly enjoyable to see Sam Raimi and Bruce Campbell join the cast, and their presence will undoubtedly draw in fans based on their names alone. But what makes “Intruder” a standout is its well-crafted slasher formula, which masterfully taps into our deep-seated fears of the unknown.

This film eschews campiness and excessive violence in its kills. Instead, it presents characters that seem genuine for their time period rather than caricatures of teen stereotypes. If you’re looking for an authentic ’80s horror experience, Intruder is a hidden treasure worth discovering.

2 Video Violence (1987)

A duo thinks starting a video rental shop in a quaint town will help them bond with the locals and provide a platform for a long-time resident movie enthusiast to share his love for cinema. Yet, the townsfolk seem more inclined towards gruesome horror flicks and are wary of newcomers. However, things take a darker turn when the owner begins receiving disturbing videos, and authorities question his credibility. In response, he decides to conduct his own probe into these videos.

A Standout of Z-Grade Horrors

If you’re a fan of raw, gritty horror that feels more real than most Hollywood productions, then Tubi might just be your new favorite streaming platform. It’s become a sanctuary for the outsider films that used to only surface on dusty VHS tapes among collectors. A film like “Video Violence” truly delivers on its title, making the most of its limited budget with an over-the-top gore fest and exploitative scenes. It’s not for everyone, but if you’re one of those hardcore horror enthusiasts who thinks they’ve seen it all, this might just be the next gruesome gem to satisfy your insatiable appetite for fear.

1 Next of Kin (1982)

Linda Stevens acquires a countryside manor following her mother’s bequest in her will. Originally serving as a retirement home, the property finds Linda assuming the caretaker duties, pondering its future. As she invests more time on the property, eerie occurrences begin unfolding, such as the enigmatic deaths of its inhabitants. When Linda discovers her mother’s old journal entries hinting at a malevolent presence lurking on the land, she develops growing apprehensions.

An Atmospheric Gem from Australia

In contrast to our usual list filled with intense horror, Next of Kin stands out for its heavy emphasis on eerie ambiance and enigma. For contemporary horror enthusiasts who appreciate production companies like A24 and Neon and their unique approach to the genre, which involves a slow-building, stylishly chilling narrative, Next of Kin is certain to be a refreshing find. Rather than relying on jump scares or gore, this film offers a gradual descent fueled by paranoia and the supernatural. Australian horror from the ’80s may not always receive recognition, but this supernatural thriller showcases some of the finest work that emerged from the era.

2024-09-10 02:02