10 Best Horror Movie Moments of the 1970s
2. Alien (1979) – Chest Burster
Alien Review
The success of Ridley Scott’s Alien can be found in its ongoing cultural relevance as a pop culture commodity over 40 years after its release in 1979. That, and how it has also been the subject of many rounds of cinematic analysis throughout the years, make this horror/sci-fi hybrid a staple of film study, just about every “best ever” list, and an enduring go-to for thrills.
This iconic film has many moments of interest, but none so sickening as the chest burster scene. After experiencing a ‘Facehugger’ attack, Kane (John Hurt) unknowingly becomes the Host for an Alien foetus. Whilst eating dinner with his fellow shipmates, Kane begins choking and convulsing before the Alien bursts from his chest, instantly killing him. The scene appears incredibly real and gruesome, and has proven so inspired that few moments in film history have taken their viewers by surprise in quite the same way; this moment being nothing short of unforgettable, a classic of the genre.
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1. The Exorcist (1973) – Crucifix Scene
The Exorcist Review
And last but not least, the number one spot in our list of Horror Movie Moments goes to William Friedkin’s The Exorcist. Filled with particularly horrific scenes of gore, abuse and mutilation, The Exorcist has become a staple horror film since its release way back in 1973. One scene in particular puts this film right at the helm of our list.
Regan (Linda Blair), a 12-year-old girl seemingly possessed by the Devil, begins tormenting her family and those who intend to help her. In one scene, her mother runs to Regan’s room after hearing her screams, only to find her room being ransacked by an unseen force and Regan mutilating herself with a crucifix. The possessed Regan attacks her mother (Ellen Burstyn), before turning her head 180 degrees in a disturbing and menacing demeanour. This scene still terrifies audiences to this day, the loss of innocence and sheer evil represented through the character’s brutality and contortions being a deserving number one for such a remarkably strong list of classic horror moments.
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