Classic Horror:
* Halloween (1978): This iconic slasher film launched the "Halloween" franchise and is considered a landmark in horror cinema.
* The Thing (1982): A chilling and visually stunning creature feature about a group of researchers in Antarctica facing a shape-shifting alien.
* Prince of Darkness (1987): A cosmic horror film about a group of scientists investigating a mysterious church and the ancient evil within.
* They Live (1988): A sci-fi horror film that uses satire and action to explore themes of consumerism and media manipulation.
Other Horror-Influenced Films:
* Assault on Precinct 13 (1976): While considered an action thriller, it features strong elements of horror and suspense.
* Christine (1983): A supernatural horror film about a possessed car.
* In the Mouth of Madness (1994): A Lovecraftian horror film that blurs the line between reality and fiction.
Carpenter also directed several other films that are not typically classified as horror, but they often have elements of suspense, violence, and the macabre.
It's important to note that while these films are widely considered horror, Carpenter himself has said he doesn't like to label his work. He prefers to focus on creating suspenseful and engaging stories.