‘The Exorcist’ has been named the top horror film that viewers find too terrifying to rewatch in a recent study. The 1973 film, which tells the story of a girl believed to be possessed by the devil and features Max von Sydow, was once banned in the UK for 25 years. Following ‘The Exorcist’ in the poll of 2,000 horror film fans were movies like ‘Saw’, ‘The Conjuring’, and ‘Scream’. More contemporary films such as ‘Smile’ and ‘A Quiet Place’ also made it to the list of top 30 horror films that viewers are hesitant to watch again.
A survey conducted by Specsavers revealed that 32 per cent of respondents have decided against rewatching a particular horror film due to its intense scare factor. A significant 45 per cent of viewers expressed a desire to erase specific scenes from their memory, while 37 per cent wished they had never heard certain sounds in the films. The study also found that seven in 10 viewers agree that loud noises are the most startling aspects of horror films, with 38 per cent admitting to either covering their eyes or ears during the most terrifying moments.
Gordon Harrison, the chief audiologist at Specsavers, commented on the findings, highlighting how horror films push viewers’ senses to the limit with their terrifying visuals and spine-chilling soundtracks. The survey further revealed that nearly 59 per cent of participants tend to watch more horror films in the lead up to Halloween, with 67 per cent feeling that the season is incomplete without a dose of terror. On average, a horror film enthusiast watches four movies of the genre per month.
The study also outlined the key elements that viewers consider essential for a perfect horror film, including a suspenseful storyline, eerie music, and an unpredictable ending. These components were highlighted by 49 per cent, 45 per cent, and 40 per cent of respondents respectively. The top 30 horror films that Brits are wary of watching again include classics like ‘A Nightmare on Elm Street’ and ‘The Texas Chain Saw Massacre’, as well as more recent hits like ‘Hereditary’ and ‘A Quiet Place’.
In summary, ‘The Exorcist’ has claimed the top spot as the horror film that viewers find too terrifying to revisit, according to a recent study by Specsavers. The survey highlighted how certain scenes and sounds in horror movies can leave a lasting impact on audiences, with many opting to avoid rewatching particularly intense films. As Halloween approaches, the love for horror films remains strong, with viewers seeking out the perfect combination of suspense, music, and unexpected endings in their movie choices.