Every Horror Movie Nominated for Best Picture at the Academy Awards, Ranked from Worst to Best

While the Academy typically steers clear of genre films like horror, some terrifying masterpieces have broken the mold over the years. These movies were so exceptional that they managed to secure a nomination for Best Picture at the Oscars.

While the genre rarely gets its due recognition, there are notable exceptions, including shocking twists and profound social commentary.

From the chilling depths of Jaws to the body horror of The Substance, here’s a look at every horror film nominated for Best Picture, ranked from worst to best.

M. Night Shyamalan’s psychological thriller captivated audiences with its eerie atmosphere and memorable twist. Despite its Best Picture nomination, the film’s plot has holes, especially the revelation that Bruce Willis' character, Malcolm Crowe, is dead. While the movie excels in character-driven drama, its narrative doesn’t always hold up upon closer inspection.

Darren Aronofsky's haunting psychological thriller earned a Best Picture nomination, but its uneven characterization and social commentary don't quite match the depth of other horror nominees. While Natalie Portman’s performance as the fragile dancer Nina earned her an Oscar, the film’s more surreal elements don’t reach the same level of horror greatness as others on this list.

The most recent horror film to receive a Best Picture nomination, Coralie Fargeat’s The Substance is an outlandish body horror film that took the Academy by surprise. Its nominations for Best Director and Best Actress (Demi Moore) prove the movie's boldness, but its bizarre narrative makes it a polarizing choice compared to its predecessors.

The only horror movie to ever win Best Picture, The Silence of the Lambs set a new standard for horror thrillers. Anthony Hopkins’ chilling portrayal of Hannibal Lecter alongside Jodie Foster’s determined Clarice Starling created a tense, unforgettable dynamic. The film remains a masterpiece of psychological horror, blending crime with horrifying psychological depth.

Jordan Peele’s directorial debut redefined the horror genre with its astute social commentary on race relations. Get Out used the conventions of horror to explore systemic racism, earning both a Best Picture nomination and an Oscar for Best Original Screenplay. Its smart mix of horror and thriller elements made it one of the most talked-about films of its year.

A classic in supernatural horror, The Exorcist continues to influence the genre to this day. The Academy recognized it with a Best Picture nomination, though it ultimately lost to The Sting. The film's chilling portrayal of possession, coupled with its haunting performances, especially by Ellen Burstyn, makes it one of the most enduring horror films ever made.

Steven Spielberg’s Jaws changed the film industry, not only becoming one of the first major summer blockbusters but also earning a Best Picture nomination. With unforgettable suspense, a chilling score, and expert pacing, it remains a near-perfect example of horror and thriller filmmaking. Despite losing to One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, Jaws continues to captivate audiences around the world.

These horror films may have terrified audiences, but they also earned their place among the Academy’s finest.