13 Scariest TV Shows You Should Rewatch In Time for Halloween

Horror movies have been a part of the cinematic landscape since the turn of the (last) century. But don't count out TV when it comes to frightening yourself silly. Here are 13 of television's scariest and, at times, unsettling shows that you should watch in preparation for Halloween.

'American Horror Story' (FX, 2011 - Present)

The modern horror anthology to end all modern horror anthologies is still going strong. Whether you're a "Coven" person or you preferred "Hotel," there's something for everyone who likes a good, campy scare.

'Bates Motel' (A&E, 2013 - 2017)

It's a tale as old as "Psycho," with a contemporary prequel twist. And it's creepy AF.

'Black Mirror' (Channel 4 and Netflix, 2011 - Present)

The dangers of technology in this smart anthology range from being dangerously consumed with virtual validation to getting trapped in an old TV show. You might want to destroy your devices after watching, but it's worth it.

'Buffy the Vampire Slayer' (WB, 1996 - 2003)

More interesting Big Bads than you can shake a stake at, Buffy has thrills to spare. It's also witty and fun and serves as a layered commentary on the pitfalls of adolescence... so there's that.

'Penny Dreadful' (Showtime, 2014 - 2016)

The riveting Victorian psychological thriller explored the stories of some of literature's most notable monsters. It supernatural, spooky, and unfortunately only ran for three seasons.

'Scream Queens' (Fox, 2015_

Ryan Murphy's kitschy, stylish, and splashy collegiate horror series didn't make it to Season 2 (many of its characters wouldn't have anyway), but it managed to develop a cult following. Chock full of classic horror references, the show bordered on ridiculous. That doesn't mean it wasn't a scream anyway.

'Are You Afraid of the Dark?' (Nickelodeon, 199 - 2000)

Don't kid yourself. This show's demo wasn't adults, but it was terrifying. That "Laughing in the Dark" clown was no joke.

'Stranger Things' (Netflix, 2016 - Present)

"Stranger Things" has critical and widespread appeal thanks to its '80s nostalgia, compelling performances, and stunning cinematography. It's also legitimately spine-chilling at times.

'Tales From the Crypt' (HBO, 1986 - 1996)

Yup, "Tales From the Crypt" overflowed with guest directors and actors from Brad Pitt to Tom Hanks to Isabella Rossellini. Stunt gimmicks aside, it was a gory, grotesque, and a goulash good time.

'The Twilight Zone' (CBS, 1959 - 1964)

There's still nothing like "The Twilight Zone" today. Sure -- it's been copied and there's a reboot on the way. It's still hard to touch the eerie magic of Rod Serling's thrilling anthology. Broken glasses never seemed so sinister. Can't wait for Jordan Peele's reboot.

'Hannibal' (NBC, 2013 - 2015)

A show based on Hannibal Lecter is obviously not for the faint of heart. The stunning TV take unfortunately got the boot after three blood-soaked seasons.