Hall Pass to Hell: 5 Underrated Back-to-School Horror Movies That’ll Have You Terrified Of Homeroom
Pack your backpack and sharpen those pencils, and don’t forget your crucifix because school is officially back in session! For decades, filmmakers have turned the classroom into a breeding ground of academic nightmares where bullies turn into monsters, and study sessions turn into deadly games of survival. So crack open your notebooks and take notes, because if you miss these horror movie recommendations, your next hall pass might lead straight to Hell.
Midnight Offerings (1981)
Directed by: Rod Holcomb
Where You Can Watch: YouTube
Melissa Sue Anderson playing a witch? Sign me up! Midnight Offerings is a 1981 made-for-television movie that follows Vivian (Anderson), a seemingly perfect cheerleader who also happens to be a ruthless witch. When her ex-boyfriend starts falling for the new girl on campus, Vivian uses her powers to destroy anyone who gets in her way. Now, I know made-for-television horror movies can be a hit or miss, but this one right here is a hit. Midnight Offerings might not be scary, but if you’re a fan of vintage occult stories, definitely look into this one. Oh, did I mention that Melissa Sue Anderson plays a witch??
Fear No Evil (1981)
Directed by: Frank LaLoggia
Where You Can Watch: Tubi, PLEX, and Amazon Prime
Director Frank LaLoggia’s debut, Fear No Evil, is what happens when you take Carrie and The Omen and throw in an extra dash of weirdness and a killer soundtrack into the mix. The story centers on Andrew, a shy and awkward teenager who just happens to be the Antichrist. On his 18th birthday, not only does puberty kick in for Andrew, but so do his supernatural powers. Soon, Andrew is unleashing his demonic heritage on those in his way. Like most supernatural films, LaLoggia builds his horror through mood and atmosphere. I will admit, this film is uneven at times, but it adds some extra charm to the story.
One Dark Night (1982)
Directed by: Tom McLoughlin and Michael Schroeder
Where You Can Watch: Tubi, Pluto TV, and Amazon Prime
How far would you go to get a cool jacket and be part of the cool girl gang? Julie (Meg Tilly) is a shy high schooler who wants to shed her good girl image. Desperate to impress “The Sisters”, Julie is tasked with spending the night in a mausoleum as part of her initiation into the clique. Unfortunately for her, that same night, the body of a recently deceased psychic is interred there, and let’s just say his telekinetic powers don’t stay buried. If you’re looking for more of an atmospheric deep cut, grab your yellow toothbrush (wink wink) and add this gem to your queue.
Death Bell (2008)
Directed by: Chang
Where You Can Watch: VOD
Who knew that being top ranking in class could be deadly? 20 elite students are chosen for a weekend study session at their prestigious academy, only to find themselves trapped in a deadly game. Each test question is tied to one of their classmates’ lives; answer correctly, or watch someone die in a gruesome way. Death Bell is a standout when it comes to school horror. If you thought exam week was stressful, just wait to see what’s in store for you in this classroom.
The Final (2010)
Directed by: Joey Stewart
Where You Can Watch: Tubi, Amazon Prime, Fandango at Home, and PLEX
What happens when the bullied students band together and decide that enough is enough? Well, you get a night of brutal payback with The Final. The plot is simple, but effective. A group of bullied outcasts, tired of being humiliated, decides to strike back in the most extreme way possible. They lure their tormentors to what seems like a harmless costume party, only to reveal a meticulously planned night of sadistic retribution. The Final is a bleak and brutal reminder to its viewers that actions towards others do have consequences.
Categorized: News
