Scarecrows have been around for thousands of years. And it should be no surprise that they would appear in our stories and movies as fictional characters that may come alive. The idea is rife with storytelling power, especially if you want to lean into the horror of it all. So what if you’re in the mood for some scarecrow movies to jump into?
Well, strap in. Here we will take a look at scarecrows movies available to watch, from older flicks to modern horror masterpieces. Get ready.
A List of Scary Scarecrow Movies
- Scarecrows (1988)
In Scarecrows (1988), after a group of intoxicated teenagers unintentionally unleash the spirit of a malevolent warlock, it seizes control of a scarecrow. The possessed scarecrow embarks on a gruesome killing spree, targeting the descendants of the individuals responsible for the warlock’s demise a century ago. Now, a newcomer to the town and the mayor’s daughter team up to halt the deadly rampage before it becomes too late, preventing the warlock from achieving reincarnation and perpetuating its reign of terror. The movie’s eerie atmosphere, combined with practical effects and creepy sound design, makes Scarecrows a cult classic in the horror genre and one of the examples of scarecrow movies that genre enthusiasts often think of when putting together a list. - Dark Night of the Scarecrow (1981)
In this chilling TV movie, a mentally challenged man named Bubba Ritter befriends a young girl in a small town. When the girl is found murdered, a vengeful mob assumes that Bubba is the killer. In a panic, Bubba hides in a nearby scarecrow, but the mob tracks him down and brutally kills him. As a dark twist of fate, the scarecrow comes to life, embodying Bubba’s spirit, seeking revenge on those who wronged him. This atmospheric and haunting made-for-TV scarecrow movie explores themes of injustice, vengeance, and the consequences of prejudice. Watch it below.
- Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark (2019)
In Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark a group of teenagers in the small town of Mill Valley discovers a mysterious book in an abandoned mansion. The book belonged to Sarah Bellows, a troubled girl from the past who was locked away by her family. As the friends start reading the book, they unwittingly release a vengeful spirit that begins writing terrifying stories featuring the characters’ worst fears.
The scarecrow element comes into play through the story of Harold, a sinister scarecrow brought to life by the malevolent spirit. Harold becomes a nightmarish presence in one of the stories, tormenting a young man named Tommy. The terrifying tale unfolds as Harold seeks to get revenge on those who mistreated him and caused his creation.
As the group tries to unravel the mystery behind the book and the ghostly occurrences, they find themselves facing not only Harold but also other nightmarish creatures from the stories. The teens must confront their fears and work together to break the curse before they become victims of the vengeful spirits themselves.
Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark masterfully blends urban legends, folklore, and horror elements to create a spine-chilling scarecrow movie within a larger anthology. The film captures the essence of the beloved children’s Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark book series by Alvin Schwartz and Stephen Gammell, bringing its terrifying illustrations to life on the big screen. The movie’s atmospheric setting and well-crafted scares make it a must-watch for horror enthusiasts and fans of the scarecrow subgenre.
- Jeepers Creepers (2001) and Jeepers Creepers 2
Jeepers Creepers follows siblings Darry and Trish as they encounter a horrifying scarecrow-like creature while driving through the countryside. Intrigued by the mysterious figure disposing of bodies down a sewer pipe, they become targets of this ancient monster. The creature, known as the Creeper, awakens every 23 years to feed on human flesh, and Darry and Trish are now in a desperate fight for their lives, including a great scene featuring the Creeper’s scary-looking truck. The film combines elements of road trip horror and supernatural terror.While the first Jeepers Creepers does not deal with the scarecrow element much, the sequel Jeepers Creepers 2 distinctly establishes him as a scarecrow and has him attacking a group of teenagers on a bus. So the sequel is a more solid example of scarecrow movies and similar to other films on this list.
- Husk (2011)
A group of friends embarks on a road trip but ends up stranded in the cornfields after hitting a scarecrow while driving. Seeking help, they stumble upon a farmhouse, only to discover that the scarecrow is no ordinary decoration. It soon becomes apparent that the scarecrow’s haunting presence is linked to a malevolent force. As the friends try to escape, they are confronted by the sinister truth behind the scarecrow’s origin. As far as more modern scarecrow movies Husk delves into psychological horror and rural terror, showcasing the unsettling nature of seemingly innocent objects.
- Night of the Scarecrow (1995)
When a murdered man’s ashes are scattered over a cornfield, an ancient curse is awakened, and a terrifying scarecrow comes to life seeking revenge. The film follows a group of unsuspecting locals who must face the wrath of the vengeful scarecrow. As the deaths pile up, they must uncover the secret behind the curse and find a way to stop the monstrous entity. As an example of scarecrows movies, Night of the Scarecrow weaves together supernatural elements and slasher-style horror to create a solid, 90s-style fun experience.
- Tales from the Crypt’s Four-Sided Triangle
In amongst a list of scarecrow movies it’s important to note that horror TV shows have made a few gems featuring scarecrows. The most prominent perhaps comes from one of the best that TV horror has to offer, Tales from the Crypt.
Season 2’s Four-Sided Triangle is a delicious tale. And it is a great departure from the perfectly fine but perhaps well-worn path of having the scarecrow come to life and hack up a bunch of people. This story is a bit different. It features Patricia Arquette and Chelcie Ross in a couple of great performances, and is directed by Tom Holland of Child’s Play and Fright Night fame. It’s often considered one of the best Tales from the Crypt episodes out there. And you can watch it below.
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Last Updated on July 20, 2023.