5. Giant Spiders
I genuinely believe that deep down, everyone is scared of spiders. I've yet to know anyone who doesn't suddenly start disco dancing when they unexpectedly walk through a web. Which is probably why the idea of giant spiders is so fascinating to us. From Harry Potter to Eight-Legged Freaks, the image of a huge arachnid trying to suck the life out of the hero is pretty much the height of scary. In LOTR, Shelob's appearance is one of the best moments and most people watch through their fingers in horrified fascination as she tries her best put an end to Frodo and Sam. We continue this vein in The Hobbit, where we have not one but dozens of them. I didn't ever think there would be a time when I'd be wishing for the home-spun comfort of Shelob, but in contrast to the nasties in Desolation, she looks pretty good. Get ready to peek out from behind your fingers again folks...