Scary Movies I Watched As A Kid That Scarred Me For Life

I am often reminded how impressionable the minds of young kids are. My oldest, Chica, is very very sensitive. I quickly learned that she takes in everything she sees on TV shows and movies, and internalizes it emotionally. If something is remotely sad, tense, or scary, she puts up a wall and essentially freaks out. I don't think that's a bad thing, but I do try to screen movies first to anticipate things that she might not be ready for. As you might imagine, we have to steer clear of most Disney movies. No we haven't even touched Frozen yet.

I believe I am similar to my daughter in this way. I am too easily swept into a storyline, whether it's a television show, a movie or a book. When I'm really entrenched in a plot, I struggle to discern reality from fantasy. I mourn television series that come to an end (Oh, Walter White and Jesse Pinkman, how I miss thee!).


And I attribute the fact that I am the biggest scaredy cat you'll ever meet to the fact that I watched some scary movies as a child that scarred me for life.

I am a scaredy cat like whoa.

This is in no way a slight to my parents, who were as protective parents should be. I wasn't allowed to watch The Simpsons or Beavis and Butthead, and I was only allowed to eat the non-sugary boring cereals like Cheerios and Rice Krispies.

But for some reason, I found myself unmonitored at times in the movie realm. And because of this, my young eyes encountered some scary movies that messed me up. That now, as an adult, makes me jump at small sounds and check under the bed before I get in and walk up stairs with my back against the wall when it's nighttime.

Don't judge.

Here is a sampling, in no particular order, of some of the scary movies that haunted my childhood:

Gremlins

I guess as an adult I can see how this would be a scary comedy (scromedy?). But as a child, the idea of somewhat mean small reptilian creatures overtaking my house (or, gasp, living under my bed) scared the living poop out of me.

Killer Klowns from Outer Space

To this day I cannot stand being around clowns. Or words that should begin with C that are misspelled with a K.

Critters

I only vaguely remember this movie. But seriously. Just look at them. That is all.

Tremors

I can look back on this now as truly a ridiculous film. And I should have found solace in the idea that I could have been trapped on a rooftop with Kevin Bacon (no degrees of separation here, baby!) But people: They were giant worms. That could eat whole buildings alive. 

Child's Play

I won't. I can't. Let's just say I was a kid with no lack of dolls and stuffed animals, and after accidentally viewing this movie, I could never look at them the same again.

The Shining

There were so many sup rising jolts and scary images in this movie, and one of the main characters was a kid my age at the time. Who says murder backwards. Why wouldn't I be scared?!

The Neverending Story

I know, I know. It's a classic. But can we all agree The Nothing big black dog thing is super creepy?


::sigh:: 

I may never like scary movies. But perhaps these engrained fears have made me the amazing successful woman I am today.

Ha.

What scary movies scarred YOU as a kid?