Nothing sends shivers down your spine quite like the spine-chilling laughter of a horror movie villain. The knowledge that they’re reveling in your terror adds a whole new level of fear. From throaty chuckles to insane cackles, the scariest laughs require more than just a little practice. We’ve compiled our top ten scariest horror movie character laughs, based on those who went above and beyond the call of duty. Be warned, there are spoilers ahead and possibly some nightmares as well.
10. Sheriff Winston Hoyt AKA Charlie Hewitt – Texas Chainsaw Massacre
The moment you realize there’s no one coming to save you in Texas Chainsaw Massacre is when you learn the true identity of Sheriff Winston. The distrust of police officers has its roots in many places, but none quite as re-watched as this. Discovering the sheriff is a lunatic killer is part of what makes TCM a worthy watch. Actor Ronald Lee Ermey’s memorable laugh at the protagonists’ expense earns him a spot on our list.
9. Mason Verger – Hannibal
Mason Verger’s laugh isn’t deep or mysterious, but it’s memorable due to the character himself and the reason for his laughter. Mason is laughing at the sound of pigs being trained to eat human flesh as he plots his revenge against the charmingly psychotic Hannibal Lecter.
8. Orin Scrivello, DDS – Little Shop of Horrors
Steve Martin’s portrayal of a dentist who lives to cause harm in Little Shop of Horrors is both kitschy and terrifying. The freakishly insane laugh of Orin Scrivello can still freak us out even now.
7. Satan – Al Pacino in Devils Advocate
Al Pacino’s rich, throaty, fully developed laugh in Devils Advocate is a testament to his skill and talent. His evil laughter is worthy of inclusion on any list.
6. The Crypt Keeper
The Crypt Keeper’s epic shrill evil laugh in Tales From the Crypt is both iconic and terrifying. His ability to freak us out when we were young made him a fan favorite.
5. Wicked Witch of the West
The original Wizard of Oz movie featured a scary laugh from the Wicked Witch of the West, earning her a spot in our top five. While not everyone will consider this movie a horror, we’re going to allow it.
4. Pennywise – Stephen King’s It
Tim Curry’s portrayal of Pennywise in Stephen King’s It is both eerie and unforgettable. Despite the clown’s ridiculous appearance, Curry sells the character in a way only he can.
3. Chucky
Chucky, the evil doll, has one of the most memorable maniacal laughs in horror movie history. Though other well-known dolls such as Annabell, Jigsaw, and the Puppet Master toys all have their place in great horror, it’s Chucky who pulls off the laugh we remember.
2. Dracula – Braham Stoker
The laugh in Braham Stokers Dracula is elevated by the sinister background music. The laugh itself is exceptionally well executed and lingers in the mind long after the sound has faded.
1. Gage – The Kid from Pet Sematary
The creepy laughter of an undead toddler stalking you through your own house in Pet Sematary is the epitome of terror. Gage’s freakishly charming baby-giggle earns him the top spot on our list.
The Runners Up
Not every one of the best evil laughs in the business can make a top ten list. Here are our top three non-horror movie favorites.
Fantasy Favorite – The Devil From Legend
Tim Curry’s deep-throated laugh in Legend is haunting regardless of context. His portrayal of the devil is one of the best we’ve seen.
Music Video Favorite- Vincent Price as Michael Jackson as a Zombie (Thriller Video Ending)
Vincent Price’s brilliant evil laugh track at the end of Michael Jackson’s iconic Thriller music video is unforgettable.
Web Series and Failed Attempt Favorite – Dr. Horrible
Dr. Horrible may have a long way to go in perfecting his evil laughter, but Neil Patrick Harris, who plays the role, does an awesome evil laugh.
Final Thoughts
An amazing laugh is infectious, whether it’s a sound of pure joy or the sinister laughter of a horror movie villain. An outstanding evil laugh requires some extra element to put it over the top, from amazing actors to chilling backstories. It’s all about standards.
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