A study conducted by VIP Grinders analyzed the number of horror features to the gross earnings of each movie to rate the actors of the horror genre. This included data from Scary Meter, which asked horror fans to rank movies on how ‘creepy’, ‘jumpy’, and ‘gory’ they are.

The horror film is a sequel to 2022’s Smile, in which a demonic presence infects people, causing them to smile creepily before committing violence and spreading to the next victim. It attracted a lot of attention for viral marketing which hired actors to creepily smile while frozen in place at places like baseball games, which made it to TV.

According to Screen Boston, there are more than 40 frightening films showing at area indie theaters over the 10 days between now and Halloween. Here are a handful of highlights to check out from film critic Sean Burns.

I have broken down the horror/thriller options on the different streaming platforms for your viewing pleasure. I can't say all these titles are my cup of cider, but you do you this spooky season and use this guide if you dare.