10 Best One Scene Performances In Horror Movies

10. Christopher Lee - Sleepy Hollow

In this Washington Irving adaptation, Constable Ichabod Crane (Johnny Depp) is tasked with investigating three decapitations in the town of Sleepy Hollow. During his time there, Crane discovers a startling conspiracy involving the legend of the Headless Horseman. 

Serving as a love letter to 1950s horror, it's no surprise to see Hammer legend Sir Christopher Lee making an appearance in Tim Burton's gothic slasher. Though his time on screen is brief, it's also crucial. Tired of Ichabod's criticisms towards the justice department, Lee's Burgomaster orders the eccentric officer to lead the most dangerous murder case possible.

Though the Burgomaster only appears once, his importance cannot be emphasised enough since he's the one who kickstarts the whole plot. 

Not only that, Lee makes the most of his role, allowing the character to stand out even more as he intonates every syllable so impeccably that he commands his only scene from beginning to end. The iconic actor effortlessly makes the simplest phrases sound immeasurably unsettling. (The way he compares the decapitations to dandelion heads is deeply unnerving.)

Though Sleepy Hollow has some over-the-top performances (especially from Christopher Walken), Christopher Lee showcases how an understated performance can leave an impact.