10 Best TV Series Based On Horror Movies

1. Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997 - 2001)

Buffy the vampire slayer
The WB

Possibly the most popular television adaption ever, the series was a darker take on the moderately successful 1992 film.

Joss Whedon saw the potential of the concept and realised it could be much improved by making it less comedic and emphasising the horror side. The show also made Buffy a much deeper character and explored more of the mythology of the Slayer, with Buffy’s strength and agility more akin to superpowers rather than just fitness gained from cheer-leading. The humour was still there, it was just more edgy than in the film.

One of the most endearing aspects to the TV show was the relationships between the characters.

Each person had their own issues to deal with, but they all worked together bringing their own strengths to defeat the monsters. The characters were very well developed over the seasons, particularly Willow’s transition into a witch and coming to terms with her sexuality, and Cordelia’s realisation that she liked being friends with people who weren’t the popular crowd.

Another obvious benefit to remaking the film was the advances in special effects, meaning the vampires could be normal looking and blend in until they were about to attack.

Other monsters were also quite terrifying to watch, notably The Gentlemen, in a story that is still regarded as one of the most frightening TV episodes. This episode was especially innovative as it was mostly presented in silence. By contrast, another episode was completely told in song!

After seven seasons, the series ended in typical dramatic fashion as Sunnydale collapsed into the Hellmouth beneath it, leaving the sister show Angel to continue for another year.

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xander cordelia Buffy
The WB

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Acclaimed horror novelist and screenwriter... just kidding, eats pizza and watches horror movies with her cat