From the slasher icons of Jason, Freddy, and Leatherface and the slick horror of Alien, Scream, and The Ring to the cult classics of Dracula, Frankenstein, and The Mummy, horror has earned its place in the movie-going psyche, with many of the key films spawning numerous copycats. This book analyzes the definitive works and the most influential directors of the genre over the last 50 years—from silent Expressionist classics to Hollywood scream queens—looking at the themes and impact of the genre on both the movie-making industry and audiences the world over. Such categories are included as directors, cast, soundtrack, critical reception and marketing. as well as information on the inspiration behind the films, their impact on the industry and the public, and the tales that often surrounded their production and release.