Do you have what it takes to watch the Top 25 Horror Films chosen by the film enthusiasts at artsandfaith.com?

With Halloween coming right up, a lot of people are looking for scary movies. Is that really such a good idea? Is horror as a genre really worth our attention, especially in such troubling times?

It will, of course, depend on the movie. And it depends on the viewer too — so keep in mind that what scares you may not scare others. And what may seem like intelligent satire to your friends may still give you nightmares. I can think of a lot of scary movies that do me good. I can think of quite a few I wish I’d never seen.

And then, well… there are plenty of horror movies that are a complete waste of time.

So before you choose your Halloween movies, I encourage you to consider these terrifying, troubling, and yet surprisingly thought-provoking films.

Then join the discussion at artsandfaith.com.

And keep in mind: Moviegoers who have a “whatever” attitude about what they watch are like the ignorant buffoons in horror movies who act like there’s no danger out there in the darkness. And you know what always happens to them.

Proceed with caution. Find a film that exposes, without contributing to, the darkness.

What horror movies have been most thought-provoking for you?

Which do you wish you’d never seen?