10 PERFECT Monster Reveals In Horror Movies

One of the most defining moments in horror is when a monster that's been hyped for most of the run-time finally steps into the limelight. Of course, unveiling a big scary creature is more difficult than most people realise, and even if the beastie's design is spot-on, that mightn't be enough to illicit the appropriate reaction.

Rather than showing the monster outright, many films let anticipation do most of the work. A monster that appears for a split-second feels intrusive, as if viewers caught a glimpse of something they weren't meant to see, making it more enticing. Slow camera movement or sudden stillness can be implemented, allowing the audience to register the monster before panic sets in. Sound design is also another crucial element, since silence can intensify a moment, especially if it's followed by a sharp or unnatural noise.

Likewise, the narrative context can't be emphasised enough, as a monster can reflect a film’s themes or the characters’ fears. If the nasty critter symbolises guilt, trauma, or the unknown, its appearance can carry emotional weight rather than being used merely for shock value.

By utilising these techniques well, the ten entries on this list weren't just memorable but iconic.

In Dark Skies, real estate agent Lacy Barrett finds her life being turned upside-down after her family is besieged by unexplained events.

One day, Lacy discovers items in her kitchen have been set in peculiar arrangements. Another time, she suddenly appears outside her home, having no idea how she got there or how much time has passed. And when her son Sammy suffers a seizure at the park, Lacy is no longer confused but petrified.

Although Lacy prays there's a rational explanation, her worst fears are completely warranted. While walking past Sammy's bedroom during the night, she hears him seemingly talking in his sleep. Upon entering, Lacy sees a tall alien looming over her son's bed. When Lacy turns on the light, the extraterrestrial has vanished.

Rather than showing the alien in a flashy way, the space invader is shrouded in darkness, so it's impossible to make out its features. However, the moment is still shocking, since it validates Lacy's concerns that her family is being targeted.

The fact that the alien teleported away elevates the danger, since it highlights that Lacy is up against an enemy whose power dwarfs her own. Though Lacy should be relieved she's discovered the source of the recent phenomena, it instead escalates the stakes significantly.