10 Creepy Teen Horror Films That Still Hold Up

Teen horror films have a special knack for capturing the raw energy of adolescence while tossing in a hefty dose of scares. They tap into the chaos of high school life—cliques, crushes, and insecurities—and mix it with monsters, killers, or supernatural curses. What makes these films timeless is their ability to blend relatable coming-of-age struggles with heart-pounding terror, keeping audiences hooked decades later.

I’ve rounded up ten creepy teen horror films that still hold up, delivering thrills and chills just as powerfully today as when they first hit screens. These picks span slashers, supernatural tales, and quirky horror-comedies, all centered on teens facing nightmarish threats. Each one has a unique vibe, but they share one thing: they still make you want to check under the bed.

The Faculty (1998)

A group of high school misfits uncovers a bizarre secret: their teachers are being taken over by alien parasites. This sci-fi horror blend, directed by Robert Rodriguez, throws teens into a fight for survival against body-snatching invaders. The cast, packed with future stars like Elijah Wood and Josh Hartnett, brings a gritty edge to the battle against conformity turned deadly.

What keeps ‘The Faculty’ fresh is its sharp take on teenage rebellion. The idea of adults being replaced by something sinister hits hard, especially when paired with the film’s dark humor and fast-paced action. It’s a wild ride that feels like a love letter to both teen angst and classic invasion stories.

I Know What You Did Last Summer (1997)

A group of teens accidentally kills a man and tries to cover it up, only to be stalked by a hook-wielding killer a year later. This slasher, starring Jennifer Love Hewitt and Sarah Michelle Gellar, leans into guilt and paranoia, with a mysterious figure hunting down the group one by one. The coastal setting adds a moody vibe to the suspense.

‘I Know What You Did Last Summer’ still grips you with its relentless pacing and iconic villain. The film’s strength lies in its simple yet effective premise—secrets don’t stay buried. It’s a perfect mix of 90s nostalgia and creepy thrills that still feels relevant for a spooky movie night.

Ginger Snaps (2000)

Two outcast sisters obsessed with death face a new kind of horror when one starts turning into a werewolf. This Canadian gem ties lycanthropy to puberty, creating a bloody metaphor for growing up. Katharine Isabelle and Emily Perkins shine as the sisters, balancing dark humor with visceral scares.

‘Ginger Snaps’ stands out for its bold take on female friendship and transformation. The werewolf effects hold up surprisingly well, and the story’s raw emotional core keeps it compelling. It’s a cult classic that’s as much about sisterhood as it is about monstrous change.

Final Destination (2000)

A teen’s premonition saves his friends from a deadly plane crash, but death doesn’t like being cheated. This unique horror flick follows a group of high schoolers as they’re hunted by grim, creative accidents. Devon Sawa leads a cast that captures the panic of trying to outrun fate itself.

The inventive death scenes in ‘Final Destination’ are what make it unforgettable. Each trap feels like a twisted puzzle, blending suspense with morbid creativity. It’s a film that still makes you second-guess every creaky floorboard or flickering light.

The Craft (1996)

Four teenage girls dabble in witchcraft, forming a coven to gain power over their high school lives. But their spells spiral into chaos, unleashing dark forces and personal betrayals. Starring Fairuza Balk and Neve Campbell, this supernatural thriller dives into the allure and danger of unchecked power.

‘The Craft’ remains a standout for its gritty portrayal of teen outcasts and the seductive pull of magic. Its themes of friendship, revenge, and consequence still resonate, especially with its iconic 90s aesthetic. The creepy rituals and intense showdowns keep it a fan favorite.

It Follows (2014)

A teen is cursed after a romantic encounter, pursued by a slow-walking, shape-shifting entity that never stops. This indie horror hit uses a simple premise to build relentless dread, with Maika Monroe leading a group of friends trying to outsmart an unstoppable force. The eerie score and retro vibe amplify the tension.

‘It Follows’ is a masterclass in creating fear from minimalism. Its exploration of guilt and intimacy, paired with a haunting visual style, makes it feel timeless. You’ll still find yourself looking over your shoulder long after the credits roll.

Scream (1996)

A masked killer terrorizes a small town, targeting high schooler Sidney Prescott and her friends. Directed by Wes Craven, this slasher redefined the genre with its witty, self-aware take on horror tropes. Neve Campbell, Courteney Cox, and a stellar cast bring both heart and screams to the story.

‘Scream’ still feels fresh thanks to its clever dialogue and unpredictable twists. It’s as much a love letter to horror fans as it is a gripping thriller. The Ghostface mask and those chilling phone calls remain iconic, making this a must-watch for any scare seeker.

Jennifer’s Body (2009)

A cheerleader becomes a demonic succubus after a botched ritual, preying on her small town’s boys. Megan Fox and Amanda Seyfried anchor this horror-comedy, blending sharp wit with gory kills. Written by Diablo Cody, it’s a feminist spin on teen horror with a biting edge.

‘Jennifer’s Body’ has aged into a cult classic, thanks to its bold humor and commentary on female friendship. The mix of campy fun and genuine scares keeps it engaging. It’s a perfect pick for those who love their horror with a side of dark comedy.

A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)

Freddy Krueger, a razor-gloved killer, stalks teens in their dreams, where no one can escape. Wes Craven’s classic introduces one of horror’s most iconic villains, with Heather Langenkamp as the fierce final girl. The dreamworld setting turns everyday fears into surreal nightmares.

‘A Nightmare on Elm Street’ still terrifies with its blend of psychological horror and gruesome creativity. Freddy’s twisted humor and the concept of death in dreams keep it chilling. It’s a landmark film that proves some nightmares never fade.

Carrie (1976)

A shy teen with telekinetic powers faces bullying at school and abuse at home, leading to a catastrophic prom night. Sissy Spacek delivers a haunting performance as Carrie White, backed by a gripping story from Stephen King. The film’s raw emotion and shocking climax are unforgettable.

‘Carrie’ remains a powerhouse for its blend of horror and heartbreak. It captures the pain of being an outsider while building to one of cinema’s most iconic revenge scenes. Its emotional depth and eerie atmosphere ensure it still hits hard.

Which creepy teen horror film still gives you goosebumps, or did I miss a hidden gem? Drop your thoughts in the comments!