Slasher films killed in the '80s, but their violence, perceived misogyny, and endless sequels almost ended the genre. Supernatural killers Chucky and Freddy saved them from extinction.Mature Audiences advisory on episode.

Slashers got sophisticated in the '90s, evolving from Freddy Krueger to Candyman to the terrifying Hannibal Lector. The 2000s brought "torture porn" – a response to post-9/11 panic.

The fear that demons will enter our bodies and make us do terrible things has inspired some of the most frightening films ever made, including the masterpieces Rosemary's Baby and The Exorcist.