However, some movies and characters are consistently mentioned as being particularly disturbing or effective in eliciting fear:
Movies:
* The Exorcist (1973): Known for its realistic depiction of demonic possession and its disturbing imagery.
* The Shining (1980): Jack Nicholson's chilling performance and the film's psychological horror are widely considered terrifying.
* Hereditary (2018): This movie's slow-burn dread and disturbing family dynamics are incredibly unsettling.
* The Conjuring (2013): Based on true events, this film effectively uses jump scares and the threat of the unknown.
* The Babadook (2014): The monster in this film is a representation of grief and trauma, making it both terrifying and psychologically resonant.
Characters:
* Pennywise (It, 1990/2017): The clown's terrifying appearance and ability to exploit children's fears make him a truly frightening antagonist.
* Hannibal Lecter (The Silence of the Lambs, 1991): His intelligence, ruthlessness, and cannibalistic tendencies make him a chilling villain.
* Freddy Krueger (A Nightmare on Elm Street, 1984): His ability to terrorize victims in their dreams is truly disturbing.
* The Babadook (The Babadook, 2014): The monster's design and its connection to grief and trauma make it a unique and disturbing figure.
* The Pale Man (Pan's Labyrinth, 2006): This creature's unsettling appearance and grotesque rituals make it a terrifying antagonist.
Ultimately, the scariest movie or character is the one that resonates most with you and triggers your own personal fears and anxieties.