Embrace the fantastical and suspenseful universe of creature features with this extensive selection of the finest monster movies. This riveting collection encapsulates an array of films that will take you on a thrilling ride through eerily captivating narratives and pulse-racing fear.
Our curated roster opens a window to the eerie creatures that have made their mark on the big screen. We invite you to explore gripping tales intertwined with spectacular visual effects, creative plot twists, and staggering performances. Like revered media outlets EW and TimeOut, we delve into what particularly sets these films apart from the rest.
Immerse yourself in the world of terrifying beasts and outlandish monsters. These horror films delve into our deepest fears, making the unimaginable spring to life. Learn about the visionaries who daringly brought these narratives to life and the significant cultural impact they've had.
Our streamlined viewing infrastructure makes it easy for you to switch from exploration to watching these chilling tales unfold. Uncover convenient streaming links for each listed film, available on Amazon Prime, Disney+, Max, Netflix, Hulu, or Paramount+. This ensures a smooth transition, allowing you to eliminate the search and jump right into the entertainment.
Get drawn into discussions with fellow Ranker community members, discovering a plethora of films that continue to redefine the monster genre. Whether you're a seasoned fan or just venturing into the world of creature features, our list offers an eclectic mix to suit your taste. From timeless classics to contemporary creations, discover the heart-pounding excitement of the greatest monster movies. Let imagination run wild through the realm where monsters rule. Prepare not just for a selection of movies, but an unforgettable viewing experience.
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As an exhilarating fusion of sci-fi horror and intense action sequences, John McTiernan's 1987 classic Predator showcases Arnold Schwarzenegger at his finest amidst a lethal game of cat-and-mouse against an advanced alien hunter. Set in Central America's dense jungle terrain where guerilla warfare meets extraterrestrial prowess, this pulse-pounding thriller highlights captivating creature design and expertly paced suspense.
- Released: 1987
- Directed by: John McTiernan
- 1John Rambo160 Votes
- 2John Wick177 Votes
- 3Batman181 Votes
- 4Din Djarin106 Votes
- 2
A monumental example of science fiction horror, Ridley Scott's 1979 masterpiece, Alien, continues to astound and terrify viewers with its chilling atmosphere and spine-tingling suspense. The film follows the crew of the Nostromo as they awaken from hypersleep and face a deadly extraterrestrial lurking in the shadows. Complemented by H.R. Giger's nightmarish creature design and Sigourney Weaver's tenacious performance as Ellen Ripley, Alien remains an essential viewing experience for fans of monster movies.
- Released: 1979
- Directed by: Ridley Scott
3John Carpenter's 1982 opus, The Thing, is a harrowing tale of isolation and paranoia set amidst the desolate landscape of Antarctica. When a shape-shifting alien infiltrates a research station, the film delves into the depths of fear and distrust among its ensemble cast led by Kurt Russell. Featuring groundbreaking special effects that still hold up today, The Thing is an enduring testament to both body horror and atmospheric tension.
- Released: 1982
- Directed by: John Carpenter
- 1MacReady346 Votes
- 2Childs222 Votes
- 3Blair203 Votes
- 4Fuchs56 Votes
4Riding high on the success of its predecessor, James Cameron's 1986 sequel Aliens elevates the stakes with heart-pounding action and relentless terror. Sigourney Weaver reprises her role as Ellen Ripley, who joins forces with marines to rescue colonists from deadly xenomorphs on planet LV-426. With its striking blend of character-driven storytelling and adrenaline-fueled thrills, Aliens has earned a place as one of the greatest monster flicks in cinema history.
- Released: 1986
- Directed by: James Cameron
- 1Lt. Ellen Ripley811 Votes
- 2Pvt. Jenette Vasquez831 Votes
- 3Cpl. Dwayne Hicks772 Votes
- 4Pvt. Mark Drake631 Votes
5Ishirō Honda's seminal 1954 production, Godzilla, King of the Monsters!, birthed an entire genre of kaiju films and propelled a colossal franchise that persists to this day. As an allegory for nuclear devastation, this monumental film combines striking visual effects with haunting themes of destruction and danger. The mighty Godzilla ravages Tokyo in a display of unparalleled power that continues to resonate with audiences over six decades later.
- Released: 1956
- Directed by: Terry O. Morse, Ishirō Honda
6A foundational classic in both horror cinema and monster movie lore, James Whale's 1931 adaptation of Frankenstein unravels the tragic tale of Dr. Henry Frankenstein (Colin Clive) and his misguided quest for scientific discovery by creating life from death itself. Featuring Boris Karloff's chilling performance as the misunderstood creature brought to life against his will, this iconic film delves into themes of morality and humanity amidst monstrous consequences.
- Released: 1931
- Directed by: James Whale
- 7
Steven Spielberg's groundbreaking 1993 epic, Jurassic Park, redefined special effects in cinema by seamlessly combining practical animatronics with cutting-edge CGI technology. Exploring the ethical implications of reviving long-extinct creatures through genetic engineering, the film follows paleontologist Dr. Alan Grant (Sam Neill) and his team as they navigate the treacherous dinosaur-inhabited theme park. Jurassic Park captivates viewers with its awe-inspiring visuals and thrilling action sequences while igniting curiosity about these prehistoric giants.
- Released: 1993
- Directed by: Steven Spielberg
- 1King Kong101 Votes
- 2Lake Placid79 Votes
- 3The Lost World53 Votes
- 4Deep Blue Sea20 Votes
- 8
As part of Universal Studios' pantheon of legendary monsters, Jack Arnold's 1954 masterpiece Creature from the Black Lagoon adds a touch of aquatic horror to its roster with its grotesque half-human-half-amphibian Gill-man lurking beneath murky waters. This atmospheric thriller sees a group of scientists encountering deadly peril when they stumble upon an ancient terror dwelling within the depths of the Amazon rainforest. The film's alluring mixture of suspense, terror, and exploration into mysterious territories stands as an influential work in the monster movie genre.
- Released: 1954
- Directed by: Jack Arnold
9A timeless masterpiece from Universal Studios' golden age of horror cinema, George Waggner's 1941 film The Wolf Man explores themes of identity and self-discovery through Lon Chaney Jr.'s enigmatic performance as Larry Talbot, who becomes cursed to transform into a werewolf upon each full moon. This stirring exploration of duality amidst classic gothic horror remains essential viewing for fans of monster movies and genre enthusiasts alike.
- Released: 1941
- Directed by: George Waggner
10Blending elements of science fiction and western adventure with earth-shaking thrills, Ron Underwood's 1990 cult classic Tremors pits Kevin Bacon against massive subterranean worm-like creatures known as Graboids that terrorize a remote desert town. Despite its modest budget, this horror-comedy boasts memorable characters and imaginative creature designs that have earned it legions of dedicated fans.
- Released: 1990
- Directed by: Ron Underwood
11Ray Harryhausen's stop-motion animation wizardry takes center stage in Eugène Lourié's 1953 feature The Beast from 20,000 Fathoms. Inspired by Ray Bradbury's short story The Fog Horn, the film follows the disastrous consequences of an atomic bomb test awakening a prehistoric monster known as Rhedosaurus from its icy slumber. Combining captivating creature design with nail-biting suspense, this classic monster flick is an essential addition to any kaiju fan's collection.
- Released: 1953
- Directed by: Eugène Lourié
12A progenitor to countless creature features, Gordon Douglas' 1954 atomic-age thriller Them! deals with the horrifying consequences of nuclear testing gone awry. When colossal mutated ants threaten to overrun Los Angeles, a team of unlikely heroes must band together and fight for survival amidst this chilling tale of scientific recklessness. As one of the earliest entries in the giant bug subgenre, Them! deftly balances suspenseful storytelling with thought-provoking social commentary.
- Released: 1954
- Directed by: Gordon Douglas
- 13
A riveting addition to the ever-expanding MonsterVerse franchise, Jordan Vogt-Roberts’ action-packed 2017 epic Kong: Skull Island introduces viewers to an uncharted island brimming with monstrous terrors led by none other than King Kong himself. With an ensemble cast featuring Tom Hiddleston, Brie Larson, Samuel L. Jackson, John C. Reilly, and John Goodman, the film delves into themes of human ambition, nature’s wrath, and a monstrous ecosystem that keeps viewers on tenterhooks.
- Released: 2017
- Directed by: Jordan Vogt-Roberts
- 14
John Carpenter's 1978 slasher classic Halloween not only launched Jamie Lee Curtis into stardom as the original "scream queen" but also introduced audiences to one of cinema's most terrifying monsters: Michael Myers. This highly influential film follows Myers' murderous rampage in his hometown of Haddonfield after escaping from a mental institution; setting the template for countless slashers that would follow in its wake. With suspenseful pacing and unnerving tension, Halloween remains an essential watch during the spooky season.
- Released: 1978
- Directed by: John Carpenter
15James Whale returns to his hallowed creation with 1935's Bride of Frankenstein, crafting an electrifying sequel that surpasses its predecessor in many aspects. By expanding upon themes of morality and responsibility while maintaining an atmosphere steeped in gothic horror, this groundbreaking film solidifies Elsa Lanchester's place among the pantheon of immortal monster icons as she portrays both Mary Shelley and her eponymous monster bride.
- Released: 1935
- Directed by: James Whale
16A quintessential B-movie from the 1950s, Irvin S. Yeaworth Jr.'s The Blob offers a chilling premise involving a corrosive alien life form that devours everything in its path while growing exponentially larger. Starring a young Steve McQueen in his debut leading role, this cult classic effectively melds science fiction with horror elements to provide an engaging tale of extraterrestrial menace that borders on campy nostalgia.
- Released: 1958
- Directed by: Irvin S. Yeaworth
- 17
David Cronenberg's 1986 body horror masterpiece, The Fly, sees Jeff Goldblum giving a career-defining performance as eccentric scientist Seth Brundle who becomes genetically fused with a housefly after an experiment goes awry. As Brundle slowly loses his humanity while transforming into a grotesque hybrid creature, viewers are treated to groundbreaking special effects and an emotionally charged narrative that explores themes of identity and obsession.
- Released: 1986
- Directed by: David Cronenberg
18Karl Freund's gothic masterpiece released in 1932 sees Boris Karloff taking on another legendary role as Imhotep/The Mummy, who returns from the dead after thousands of years to wreak havoc upon those who dare disturb his eternal resting place. This atmospheric chiller showcases early special effects mastery and serves as one of Universal Studios' most beloved entries in their pantheon of iconic monsters.
- Released: 1932
- Directed by: Karl Freund
- 19
Frank Darabont's chilling adaptation of Stephen King's novella, The Mist (2007), follows Thomas Jane as he leads a group of survivors trapped inside a supermarket after being enveloped by an ominous mist filled with deadly creatures from another dimension. With its haunting atmosphere and terrifying monsters lurking within the foggy abyss, this psychological thriller is lauded for its thought-provoking commentary on human nature in times of crisis.
- Released: 2007
- Directed by: Frank Darabont
20With stop-motion animation maestro Ray Harryhausen at the helm for one final time before retirement, Desmond Davis' 1981 mythological epic Clash of the Titans weaves together various tales from Greek mythology to create an action-packed extravaganza. Featuring a star-studded cast that includes Laurence Olivier, Maggie Smith, and Harry Hamlin, this film offers an enchanting journey through ancient mythology filled with deities, heroes, and fantastical monsters.
- Released: 1981
- Directed by: Desmond Davis
21Hugh Jackman tackles multiple iconic monster threats in Stephen Sommers’ 2004 action-adventure epic Van Helsing. Drawing inspiration from classic Universal Studios monsters like Dracula, Frankenstein's Monster, and the Wolf Man, this film offers captivating reinterpretations of these timeless characters through impressive special effects and high-energy action sequences set amidst spectacular Gothic landscapes.
- Released: 2004
- Directed by: Stephen Sommers
22Colin Trevorrow's 2015 reinvigoration of Steven Spielberg's iconic series, Jurassic World, brings the prehistoric action to new heights with state-of-the-art visual effects and a fresh cast led by Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard. As the titular park continues to play God with genetic engineering, it leads to disastrous consequences when a newly created hybrid dinosaur, the Indominus Rex, threatens to wreak havoc upon visitors and inhabitants alike. With heart-pounding action sequences amidst stunning visuals, Jurassic World is an exhilarating addition to the pantheon of monster movie hits.
- Released: 2015
- Directed by: Colin Trevorrow
- 1Pandora307 Votes
- 2Starbucks299 Votes
- 3Ben & Jerry's272 Votes
- 4Mercedes-Benz291 Votes
23As the first in a long line of crossover events for Universal Studios' legendary monsters, Roy William Neill's 1943 classic Frankenstein Meets the Wolf Man pairs Bela Lugosi's iconic portrayal of the Frankenstein Monster with Lon Chaney Jr.'s tormented werewolf Larry Talbot. This ambitious cinematic endeavor enthralls audiences by merging elements of horror and adventure to create a thrilling spectacle that leaves viewers craving more monstrous encounters.
- Released: 1943
- Directed by: Roy William Neill
24With plenty of dark humor and sharp wit interwoven into its horrific premise, Steve Miner's Lake Placid (1999) introduces viewers to a quaint lakeside setting where grotesque terror awaits beneath tranquil waters. Starring Bridget Fonda, Bill Pullman, Oliver Platt, and Brendan Gleeson, this thrilling and hilarious creature feature pits its protagonists against a colossal crocodile. Its blend of comedy and suspense offers an entertaining ride that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
- Released: 1999
- Directed by: Steve Miner
25This 1955 creature feature directed by Robert Gordon follows attempts to halt an enormous radioactive octopus threatening San Francisco's coastlines after being awakened by hydrogen bomb testing. With Ray Harryhausen at the helm for special effects mastery, It Came from Beneath the Sea is a prime example of essential mid-century science fiction cinema with strong overtones cautioning against atomic experimentation.
- Released: 1955
- Directed by: Robert Gordon
26Guillermo del Toro's visually stunning adaptation of Mike Mignola's comic book series, Hellboy (2004), brings the titular demon-turned-hero to life in grand fashion with Ron Perlman in the lead role. As Hellboy battles various supernatural creatures like ancient gods, undead Nazis, and monstrous hounds while attempting to uncover his own origins, viewers are treated to a captivating fusion of mythology, folklore, and Lovecraftian horror that showcases del Toro's signature style.
- Released: 2004
- Directed by: Guillermo del Toro
- 27
Don Siegel's chilling 1956 classic Invasion of the Body Snatchers explores themes of paranoia and conformity with an eerie tale involving alien "pod people" replacing human beings while maintaining their physical appearance and memories. As Dr. Miles Bennell (Kevin McCarthy) uncovers this sinister plot threatening his small California town, viewers are treated to a suspenseful narrative filled with social commentary that remains relevant today.
- Released: 1978
- Directed by: Philip Kaufman
28Stephen Sommers' high-octane revamp of Universal Studios’ classic monster tale, The Mummy (1999), brings the titular creature to life with a fresh and thrilling new approach. Starring Brendan Fraser as the swashbuckling adventurer Rick O'Connell, who battles the resurrected ancient Egyptian priest Imhotep (Arnold Vosloo) bent on world domination, this action-packed film is filled with captivating special effects and pulse-pounding suspense that have cemented it as a beloved staple in modern monster movie lore.
- Released: 1959
- Directed by: Terence Fisher
29Directed by Nathan H. Juran and featuring special effects wizardry from Ray Harryhausen, 20 Million Miles to Earth (1957) is a thrilling sci-fi adventure that sees humanity facing off against a rapidly growing reptilian extraterrestrial known as Ymir. As this monstrous alien wreaks havoc across Rome following its hatching from an egg retrieved during a Venusian space expedition, viewers are treated to captivating creature design and gripping confrontations against mankind.
- Released: 1957
- Directed by: Nathan Juran
- 30
Matt Reeves' groundbreaking 2008 found-footage monster flick Cloverfield presents a first-person perspective on a terrifying alien invasion set against New York City's familiar skyline. As a group of friends navigates their way through chaotic city streets while attempting to save one of their own, viewers are plunged into an immersive experience filled with tension, panic, and stunning special effects that bring this massive extraterrestrial threat to life.
- Released: 2008
- Directed by: Matt Reeves
- 31
Michael Dougherty’s 2019 entry into Legendary Pictures’ MonsterVerse franchise ups the ante of kaiju-driven destruction with Godzilla: King of the Monsters. Featuring an all-star cast including Kyle Chandler, Vera Farmiga, Millie Bobby Brown, and Ken Watanabe, the film sees humanity caught in the crossfire as Godzilla faces off against titanic foes like Mothra, Rodan, and King Ghidorah. With its jaw-dropping visuals and monumental clash of iconic creatures, this film is a testament to the enduring legacy of Godzilla.
- Released: 2019
- Directed by: Michael Dougherty
32As the second entry in Toho's legendary franchise featuring the colossal kaiju king himself, Motoyoshi Oda's 1955 film Godzilla Raids Again pits Godzilla against his spiky-shelled nemesis Anguirus amidst a backdrop of urban destruction. While continuing to explore themes of nuclear devastation established in its predecessor, this sequel introduces audiences to the concept of monstrous duels that would become synonymous with future installments in the series.
- Released: 1955
- Directed by: Eiji Tsuburaya, Motoyoshi Oda
33Lewis Teague’s 1980 creature feature Alligator blends elements of horror and dark humor with an ecological warning as it follows the titular reptilian menace that grows to monstrous proportions after being exposed to experimental growth hormones in discarded lab animals. Starring Robert Forster as a detective attempting to stop the colossal alligator's rampage through Chicago, this thrilling B-movie classic offers engaging suspense and biting social commentary on environmental negligence.
- Released: 1980
- Directed by: Lewis Teague
34Legendary comedy duo Bud Abbott and Lou Costello face off against an ensemble of Universal Studios’ iconic monsters in Charles Barton’s 1948 horror-comedy mashup, Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein. This delightful collaboration sees the comedic pair encountering Dracula (Bela Lugosi), Frankenstein's Monster (Glenn Strange), and the Wolf Man (Lon Chaney Jr.) as they attempt to thwart a diabolical plot involving brain-swapping experiments. With its laugh-out-loud humor and endearing performances from both comedians and monster icons, this film is an essential watch for fans of classic cinema.
- Released: 1948
- Directed by: Charles Barton
35Steven Spielberg revisits his groundbreaking dinosaur-driven franchise with 1997’s The Lost World: Jurassic Park, which adapts Michael Crichton’s follow-up novel to further explore the ethical implications and disastrous consequences stemming from mankind’s meddling with genetic engineering. Starring Jeff Goldblum reprising his role as Ian Malcolm alongside Julianne Moore and Vince Vaughn, this action-packed sequel offers heart-pounding thrills amidst prehistoric peril on Isla Sorna – Site B for InGen’s dinosaur cloning experiments.
- Released: 1997
- Directed by: Steven Spielberg
36Ishirō Honda's star-studded 1968 kaiju extravaganza Destroy All Monsters sees Earth's mightiest monsters – led by Godzilla, Mothra, and Rodan – banding together against an alien force controlling them to wreak havoc upon humanity. As the ultimate showdown unfolds with breathtaking special effects and a rousing score by Akira Ifukube, this film offers a thrilling spectacle for all fans of colossal creature carnage.
- Released: 1968
- Directed by: Ishirō Honda
37As one of Universal Studios' contributions to the giant bug subgenre popularized during the 1950s atomic age era, Jack Arnold's Tarantula (1955) explores themes of scientific hubris gone awry when an experiment to create oversized animals results in a colossal arachnid terrorizing an Arizona desert town. Combining elements of horror with thrilling action sequences involving mankind's efforts to stop this eight-legged menace, Tarantula endures as a captivating journey into classic monster lore.
- Released: 1955
- Directed by: Jack Arnold
38As a direct sequel to the original 1954 classic that introduced audiences worldwide to the mighty King of the Monsters, Koji Hashimoto's The Return of Godzilla (1984) revitalizes the franchise by bringing Godzilla back to his destructive roots while still providing contemporary commentary on nuclear armament during the Cold War era. This critically acclaimed film reignited interest in Toho Studios' iconic kaiju creation and spawned numerous sequels throughout the Heisei era.
- Released: 1984
- Directed by: Koji Hashimoto
39Chuck Russell’s 1988 update on Irvin S. Yeaworth Jr.’s 1958 cult classic The Blob offers a thrilling modern take on the corrosive extraterrestrial threat that devours everything it encounters while growing exponentially larger. Starring Kevin Dillon and Shawnee Smith as unlikely allies facing off against this gelatinous menace that threatens their small town, this remake boasts impressive practical effects and tense action sequences that pay homage to its B-movie roots.
- Released: 1988
- Directed by: Chuck Russell
40Ishirō Honda helms Toho Studios' 1962 spectacle King Kong vs. Godzilla featuring two of cinema's most iconic giant monsters clashing in an epic duel for supremacy. As King Kong awakens after being transported from his secluded island home to Japan, the titanic ape must face off against Godzilla in a series of battles that leaves destruction in their wake. This thrilling kaiju crossover combines elements of fantasy, action, and science fiction to create a monumental clash worthy of its monstrous combatants.
- Released: 1963
- Directed by: Tom Montgomery, Ishirô Honda
41Rowland V. Lee's 1939 horror film Son of Frankenstein marks the third installment in Universal Studios' iconic Frankenstein series, featuring Basil Rathbone as the titular scientist's son who inherits his father's castle and becomes entangled in a deadly plot involving Boris Karloff's return as the Monster alongside Bela Lugosi's enigmatic turn as Ygor. With its gothic atmosphere and compelling performances from its ensemble cast, this sequel stands tall alongside its predecessors as an essential entry in the pantheon of monster movie classics.
- Released: 1939
- Directed by: Rowland V. Lee
42A chilling example of 1950s creature features spawned from atomic age paranoia, Nathan H. Juran's The Deadly Mantis (1957) follows a team of scientists attempting to thwart a gigantic prehistoric praying mantis awakened by volcanic activity near the Arctic Circle. With its impressive special effects for its time and engaging suspense surrounding mankind's battle against this enormous insectoid terror, The Deadly Mantis remains a beloved entry in monster movie history.
- Released: 1957
- Directed by: Nathan Juran
43Ishirō Honda directs 1964’s Godzilla vs. Mothra (also known as Mothra vs. Godzilla), which sees two of Toho Studios’ most beloved kaiju icons face off in an awe-inspiring battle for supremacy. When Mothra attempts to reclaim her stolen egg from greedy human exploiters, she must confront Godzilla himself amidst a landscape fraught with destruction. This film combines captivating creature designs, heart-pounding action sequences, and cautionary themes surrounding mankind’s interference with nature into an enthralling entry in kaiju cinema history.
- Released: 1992
- Directed by: Takao Okawara
44In the cinematic showdown, Alien vs. Predator, an unexpected collision of two iconic extraterrestrial species unfolds. A group of archaeologists, led by Alexa Woods (Sanaa Lathan), stumbles upon an ancient pyramid in Antarctica, unwittingly triggering a deadly interstellar contest. The relentless Predators (Ian Whyte) and the vicious Aliens (Tom Woodruff Jr.) engage in a brutal battle, with humanity caught in the crossfire. This science-fiction thriller, directed by Paul W.S Anderson, offers a chilling blend of action and suspense as it explores the primal struggle for survival.- Released: 2004
- Directed by: Paul W.S. Anderson
45Japanese scientists create a robotic creature to fight a destructive monster.- Released: 2002
- Directed by: Masaaki Tezuka
- 46
Guillermo del Toro’s action-packed love letter to both kaiju films and mecha anime, Pacific Rim (2013), takes viewers on a thrilling ride filled with larger-than-life battles between colossal sea monsters known as Kaiju and human-piloted robotic warriors called Jaegers. With its captivating visual effects and engaging storyline centered around humanity's fight for survival against overwhelming odds, this international blockbuster is a must-see for monster aficionados and sci-fi enthusiasts alike.
- Released: 2013
- Directed by: Guillermo del Toro
47George P. Cosmatos' deep-sea horror flick Leviathan (1989) plunges viewers into claustrophobic terror as an underwater mining crew encounters a monstrous aquatic creature spawned from genetic experimentation gone awry. Featuring an ensemble cast including Peter Weller, Richard Crenna, Amanda Pays, Daniel Stern, and Ernie Hudson, this chilling tale of human survival against insurmountable odds delivers gripping suspense that will leave audiences breathless.
- Released: 1989
- Directed by: George P. Cosmatos
48Steven Spielberg's visually stunning adaptation of H.G. Wells' classic novel, War of the Worlds (2005), follows Tom Cruise as he struggles to protect his family amidst an apocalyptic alien invasion. With its heart-pounding action sequences and mesmerizing special effects that bring the terrifying extraterrestrial tripods to life, this modern take on a timeless tale effectively combines science fiction with suspenseful horror elements to create a truly compelling experience for viewers.
- Released: 2005
- Directed by: Steven Spielberg
49Godzilla vs. Destoroyah, was a 1995 Japanese science fiction kaiju film produced by Toho Co., Ltd.. Directed by Takao Okawara, with special effects by Koichi Kawakita, the film starred Takuro Tatsumi, Yasufumi Hayashi, and Megumi Odaka. The film also featured a cameo by Momoko Kōchi, reprising her role from the original Godzilla. This 22nd installment in the Godzilla franchise was the final film in the Heisei, or second, series of films. The film received publicity around the world for Toho's announcement that they would kill Godzilla. Toho ended the series to make way for an American Godzilla film, which was ultimately produced in 1998. He would begin a new series of Godzilla films in 1999 with the film Godzilla 2000, which began the Millennium series. The film was released direct to video in the United States in 1999 by Columbia TriStar Home Video.- Released: 1995
- Directed by: Takao Okawara
50In 1944 Spain young Ofelia (Ivana Baquero) and her ailing mother (Ariadna Gil) arrive at the post of her mother's new husband (Sergi López), a sadistic army officer who is trying to quell a guerrilla uprising. While exploring an ancient maze, Ofelia encounters the faun Pan, who tells her that she is a legendary lost princess and must complete three dangerous tasks in order to claim immortality.- Released: 2006
- Directed by: Guillermo del Toro
51A flying monster terrorizes Japan after a nightclub owner kidnaps two tiny princesses from their island paradise.- Released: 1961
- Directed by: Ishirô Honda
52Ishirō Honda’s 1964 film Ghidorah, the Three-Headed Monster marks another monumental crossover in Toho Studios' expanding kaiju universe by introducing audiences to King Ghidorah –a three-headed dragon-like space beast bent on destruction. As Earth's mightiest monsters – Godzilla, Mothra, and Rodan – band together to combat this formidable alien threat, viewers are treated to an action-packed spectacle filled with breathtaking special effects and heart-pounding battles that have solidified King Ghidorah's place among kaiju cinema's most iconic villains.
- Released: 1964
- Directed by: Ishirô Honda
53Careless American military personnel dump chemicals into South Korea's Han River. Several years later, a creature emerges from the tainted waters and sinks its ravenous jaws into local residents. When the creature abducts their daughter (Go Ah-sung), a vendor (Song Kang-ho) and his family decide that they are the only ones who can save her.- Released: 2006
- Directed by: Bong Joon-ho
54An Okinawan monster-god helps Godzilla defeat his bionic double.- Released: 1974
- Directed by: Fukuda Jun
55The residents of a rural mining town discover that an unfortunate chemical spill has caused hundreds of little spiders to mutate overnight to the size of SUVs. It's up to mining engineer Chris McCormack (David Arquette) and Sheriff Sam Parker (Kari Wuhrer) to mobilize an eclectic group of townspeople into battle against the bloodthirsty eight-legged beasts.- Released: 2002
- Directed by: Ellory Elkayem
56Godzilla vs. Biollante is a 1989 Japanese science fiction kaiju film produced by Toho. The film was written and directed by Kazuki Ōmori, and stars Kunihiko Mitamura, Yoshiko Tanaka, Masanobu Takashima, and Megumi Odaka. The seventeenth installment in the Godzilla series, the film is a belated sequel to The Return of Godzilla from 5 years earlier. This was the first "monster vs monster" film from this rebooted series. It featured a new monster called Biollante, with producer Tomoyuki Tanaka desiring new monster opponents for Godzilla rather than using characters from the original films. As part of pre-release publicity, Tanaka solicited script ideas from the public with 5,000 entries being received. The winning entry that was selected was from Shinichiro Kobayashi, a dentist and occasional science fiction writer. Director Ōmori then adapted it into the film's script. The film was released direct to video in the United States in November 25, 1992 by HBO Video. This work was selected as the best Godzilla film, based on a vote by fans and judges, on Nihon Eiga Satellite Broadcasting, in July 19, 2014.- Released: 1989
- Directed by: Kazuki Ōmori
57After meteors enter Earth's atmosphere, blinding much of the planet's population in the process, plantlike creatures known as Triffids emerge from the craters and begin to take over. Military officer Bill Masen (Howard Keel), one of the few sighted people left alive, meets with other survivors in England and tries to find a safe haven from the vicious vegetation, as scientist Tom Goodwin (Kieron Moore) desperately seeks a way to defeat the leafy extraterrestrials.- Released: 1963
- Directed by: Steve Sekely
58After escaping from prison, the evil Dr. Niemann (Boris Karloff) and his hunchbacked assistant, Daniel (J. Carrol Naish), plot their revenge against those who imprisoned them. For this, they recruit the powerful Wolf Man (Lon Chaney), Frankenstein's monster (Glenn Strange) and even Dracula himself (John Carradine). Niemann pursues those who wrong him, sending each monster out to do his dirty work. But his control on the monsters is weak at best and may prove to be his downfall.- Released: 1945
- Directed by: Erle C. Kenton
59It has razor sharp teeth in a gargantuan mouth; claws that can cut through steel; a roar that echoes back through the centuries; dorsal fins that resemble crimson lightning bolts; and fiery breath that incinerates everything it comes into contact with. Soon, all in the creature's wake is utterly destroyed, and a terrified Japan can only wonder where this monstrous beast will next appear. Godzilla, king of the monsters, is back.- Released: 2000
- Directed by: Takao Okawara
60Chihara Niiyama, Ryudo Uzaki, Masahiro KobayashiWhen an American submarine is mysteriously destroyed, all evidence points to the return of Godzilla, and an investigative journalist sets out to cover the story.- Released: 2001
- Directed by: Shusuke Kaneko
- 61
Adam Wingard’s highly anticipated 2021 entry into Legendary Pictures’ MonsterVerse franchise pits two of cinema's most iconic behemoths against each other in a monumental showdown that transcends generations: Godzilla vs. Kong. With its jaw-dropping visual effects and titanic battles showcasing the raw power of these legendary creatures, this epic clash pushes the boundaries of kaiju cinema while paying homage to their storied history.
- Released: 2021
- Directed by: Adam Wingard
62When an undersea volcano sends tremors throughout the Atlantic, aquatic creatures come out of hiding. Merchant seamen Joe Ryan (Bill Travers) and partner Sam Slade (William Sylvester) harness the most unusual of the lot, a massive beast that looks like a Tyrannosaurus Rex. The enterprising sailors deliver their quarry to a British circus, but it turns out that the animal is a newborn. And, when his much larger mother arrives in London to rescue her son, the city feels her wrath.- Released: 1961
- Directed by: Eugène Lourié
63Godzilla fights pollution in the form of living sludge found by a scientist (Akira Yamauchi) and his son (Toshie Kimura).- Released: 1971
- Directed by: Yoshimitu Banno
- 64
Also known as Godzilla vs. The Thing or simply Mothra vs. Godzilla (1964), Ishirō Honda's thrilling entry into Toho Studios’ kaiju oeuvre sees two iconic behemoths crossing paths when Mothra's egg washes ashore near where Godzilla emerges from hibernation beneath sandy soil. Combining captivating practical effects with awe-inspiring battles between these legendary monsters, this film is a must-see for all fans enthralled by colossal creature conflicts.
- Released: 1964
- Directed by: Ishirô Honda
65A cinematic gem from Toho Studios' golden age, Ishirō Honda’s 1966 film The War of the Gargantuas explores themes of duality as two colossal humanoid creatures - one benevolent, one malevolent - battle each other across Japan in a titanic struggle for survival. As an engaging narrative filled with captivating kaiju designs unfolds before the viewer’s eyes, this cult classic remains an essential watch for fans of monster cinema.
- Released: 1966
- Directed by: Ishirô Honda
66The Ghost of Frankenstein, is an American monster horror film released in 1942. The movie is the fourth in a series of films produced by Universal Studios based upon characters in Mary Shelley's novel Frankenstein and features Lon Chaney Jr. as the Monster, taking over from Boris Karloff, who played the role in the first three films of the series, and Béla Lugosi in his second appearance as the demented Ygor. The supporting cast features Lionel Atwill, Cedric Hardwicke, Ralph Bellamy and Evelyn Ankers.- Released: 1942
- Directed by: Erle C. Kenton
67After using a hot air balloon to escape from a Confederate prison camp, Capt. Harding (Michael Craig), Cpl. Neb Nugent (Dan Jackson) and Sgt. Pencroft (Percy Herbert) crash into the ocean and are later washed up on the beach of a strange island. The men soon run afoul of the local wildlife, which include giant crabs and prehistoric creatures. To make matters worse, the island's central volcano begins to erupt, threatening to take the whole island down with it.- Released: 1961
- Directed by: Charles De Latour
68After a volcano erupts south of the border, people and animals begin inexplicably dying. Earth scientists Hank (Richard Denning) and Arturo (Carlos Rivas) travel to the small town of San Lorenzo, Mexico to investigate. They soon discover that the eruption cracked open an underground cave that contained hordes of giant prehistoric insects, including the scorpions that have been responsible for the killings. Soon, Hank and Arturo come up with a plan to take these monsters down once and for all.- Released: 1957
- Directed by: Edward Ludwig
69Reptilicus, a giant monster film about a fictional prehistoric reptile, is a Danish-American co-production, produced by American International Pictures and Saga Studio, and is—upon close examination—two distinctly different films helmed by two different directors. The original version, which was shot in Danish, was directed by Danish director Poul Bang and released in Denmark on February 25, 1961. The American version, which was in English with a nearly identical cast, was directed by the film's American producer-director Sidney W. Pink; this version was initially deemed virtually unreleasable by American International Pictures and had to be extensively reworked by the film's Danish-American screenwriter, Ib Melchior, before being finally released in America in 1962. Pink was angry at the changes and wound up in a legal dispute with AIP. After Pink and others viewed the English-language version, the lawsuit was dropped.- Released: 1961
- Directed by: Sidney W. Pink, Poul Bang
- 70In the heart of the action-packed film Godzilla, we find a monumental creature, Godzilla (designed by Patrick Tatopoulos), rising from the ocean's depth, bent on destruction. The city of New York becomes an unwilling host to this leviathan, with chaos ensuing in its wake. Driven by a desire to protect humanity, scientist Niko Tatopoulos (Matthew Broderick) and French secret agent Philippe Roaché (Jean Reno) join forces. They strive against odds and time, attempting to quell the beast's rampage. Directed by Roland Emmerich, Godzilla is an unforgettable foray into the realm of monster movies, delivering thrilling spectacle without sacrificing narrative coherence.
- Released: 1998
- Directed by: Roland Emmerich
71Godzilla and flying cyborg Jet Jaguar meet a giant cockroach and a big black chicken sent by Seatopians.- Released: 1973
- Directed by: Fukuda Jun
72Godzilla vs. Mechagodzilla II, released in Japan as Godzilla vs. Mechagodzilla, is a 1993 Japanese science fiction kaiju film produced by Toho. Directed by Takao Okawara and featuring special effects by Koichi Kawakita, the film starred Masahiro Takashima, Ryoko Sano, and Megumi Odaka. Despite being produced and released in 1993, this twentieth film in the Godzilla series was marketed as the 40th anniversary Godzilla movie, even though, Godzilla vs Spacegodzilla was actually the 40th anniversary film. The film featured the return of classic characters from the original series such as Rodan and Mechagodzilla, as well as introducing an infant Godzilla named BabyGodzilla. Although it shares its Japanese title with Godzilla vs. Mechagodzilla, the film is neither a remake nor a re-imagining of the earlier film. Despite its North American title, the film is not a sequel to the original Godzilla vs. Mechagodzilla, nor does it share any connections or similarities with it. The film directly follows the events of Godzilla vs King Ghidorah, taking place before 1992's Godzilla vs Mothra.- Released: 1993
- Directed by: Takao Okawara
73The real Godzilla fights a cyborg Godzilla and another monster sent by aliens.- Released: 1975
- Directed by: Ishirô Honda
74Godzilla and Angorus fight three-headed dragon Ghidrah and huge bird Gigan at a cartoonist's theme park.- Released: 1972
- Directed by: Fukuda Jun
75While investigating reports of illegal poaching, three student filmmakers encounter a man (Otto Jespersen) who slays trolls for the Norwegian government.- Released: 2010
- Directed by: André Øvredal
76Invasion of Astro-Monster, known in Japan as Kaijū Daisensō, is a Japanese American science fiction kaiju film directed by Ishirō Honda and featuring special effects by Eiji Tsuburaya. It is the sixth film in the Godzilla film series. The film was co-produced between the Japanese company Toho, and Henry G. Saperstein's American company UPA, marking the first time a Godzilla film was co-produced with an American studio. The cast included American actor Nick Adams and Japanese actors Akira Takarada, Kumi Mizuno and Akira Kubo. The film is the first in the franchise to feature alien invaders, combining the series with outer space themes such as civilizations on other planets and interplanetary space travel. The film was released theatrically in the United States in the summer of 1970 by Maron Films as Monster Zero, where it played nationwide on a double bill with War of the Gargantuas.- Released: 1965
- Directed by: Ishirō Honda
77Godzilla vs. Megaguirus is a 2000 science fiction kaiju film directed by Masaaki Tezuka and written by Hiroshi Kashiwabara and Wataru Mimura. It was the twenty-fourth film released in the Godzilla franchise, and the second film in terms of the franchise's Millenium series, and a reboot of the Millenium series. It premiered at the Tokyo International Film Festival on November 3, 2000. While the film shares the suit used in Godzilla 2000, it is not connected to the previous film.- Released: 2000
- Directed by: Masaaki Tezuka
78Abbott and Costello Meet the Mummy is a 1955 film directed by Charles Lamont and starring the comedy team of Abbott and Costello. It is also the 28th and final Abbott and Costello film produced by Universal-International.- Released: 1955
- Directed by: Charles Lamont
79After a couple of teenagers go missing in a small Texas town, everyone assumes they've run off to the big city. But, when their bodies are found in a nearby creek, the sheriff (Fred Graham) is puzzled as to what could have killed them. Chase Winstead (Don Sullivan), the leader of a local hot rod group, agrees to help the sheriff, and together they discover evidence of a giant lizard roaming the desert. Soon the lizard is terrorizing the town, and only Chase can stop it before it's too late.- Released: 1959
- Directed by: Ray Kellogg
- 80Godzilla and the almighty Kong face a colossal threat hidden deep within the planet, challenging their very existence and the survival of the human race.
- Released: 2024
- Directed by: Adam Wingard
