When you hear the phrase Movie of the Week it normally doesn’t bring to mind horror films. But made-for-TV horror movies are actually not all that uncommon. Before every family had a VCR and a Blockbuster appeared on every corner, made for TV movies were the only way people could see feature length films without going to the theater. These movies were never known for being the most groundbreaking films, but that did not stop families across the country from tuning into their major networks or basic cable station to watch them each week. Like everything else in the movie world the films were mostly dramas or kid friendly, but there were also your occasional thriller and horror feature from time to time. So Horror Yearbook and NBC’s Fear Itself proudly presents Ten Great Made For TV Horror Movies – from the mind of Brain Hammer written by WIL.

#1. Salem’s Lot (originally aired 11/17/79, 11/18/79) Based on the Stephen King book with the same name, and directed by Texas Chainsaw Massacres’ Tobe Hooper, Salem’s Lot is a creepy vampire tale that takes place in a small town in New England. It boasts a large cast of weird characters, vampires and James Mason. What more could you ask for?

Brain Hammer says, “My pick for the all time greatest. Scared the crap out of me as a wee Brain Hammer.”

#2. Devil Dog: The Hound of Hell (10/31/78) Directed by Curtis Harrington (Who Slew Auntie Roo?) a family adopts a dog that is a minion of Satan. A great cast and a German shepherd with glowing eyes makes for one of the greater late 70’s entries in the killer animal genre.

Brain Hammer says, “A personal favorite. I am in love with Kim Richards. Last year she wanted a dollhouse, this year she wants her ears pierced.”

#3. Helter Skelter (4/1/76, 4/2/76) An investigation into the Manson cult from the famous Tate murders to the trial that rocked the world. Steve Railsback turns in one of the best and most disturbing performances of Charles Manson ever.

Brain Hammer says, “A close runner up for greatest of all time. I think Steve Railsback is amazing in this.”

#4. Dark Night of the Scarecrow (10/24/81) When a mentally challenged man is falsely accused of killing a little girl the townsfolk take justice into their own hands, executing him while he is hiding disguised as a scarecrow. Soon after, the perpetrators are killed off one by one as the Scarecrow(?) gets his revenge. Surprisingly violent for TV. The execution scene is one that will stay with you for a long time.

Brain Hammer says, “Excellent movie. Arguably the creepiest made for TV horror flick ever made.”

#5. Gargoyles (11/21/72) “They’re coming for you!” An anthropologist/paleontologist and his daughter unleash a group of gargoyles on a small town.

Brains Hammer says, “Very cool monster movie with early Stan Winston effects.”

#6. Trilogy of Terror (3/4/75) A horror anthology where Karen Black plays three tormented women in all three segments, possibly one of her best and most memorable performances. The third tale where Black battles a Zuni fetish doll is what makes the movie worth watching. So popular is spawned a sequel in the 90s.

Brain Hammer says, “Another all time classic. Karen Black battling that warrior doll is hilarious.”

#7. The Moon of the Wolf (9/26/72) When people in a small Louisiana town start popping up dead, the local sheriff must figure out who is behind the murders. But who in their right mind would ever expect a werewolf?

Brains Hammer says, “Very good, bayou-werewolf flick with a cool-looking creature and Geofrey Lewis. This is really easy to find on DVD and well worth a look.”

#8. Satan’s School For Girls (9/19/73) The title doesn’t sound like this was made for TV, but it was, and in 1973 no less! A woman takes on a satanic cult at a private school while investigating her sister’s suicide.

Brain Hammer says, “The name alone makes this a classic. But it’s also a cool flick with Kate Jackson trying to find the satanic secret behind her sister’s suicide.”

#9. Killdozer (2/2/74) A work crew discover a meteorite that causes their bulldozer to come alive and start killing. Need I say more?

Brain Hammer says, “Arguably the greatest film ever made about a killer bulldozer. Also the name of a cool band.”

#10. This House Possessed (2/6/81) A haunted house with feelings, and one that can kill miles away, make for one deadly combination.

Brain Hammers say, “Finally, I end my top ten with this awesome haunted house flick. This has more quality shocks than The Amityville Horror. I wish I could get this on DVD. The bricks breathe! They breathe!”

More Great Made for TV Horror Movies here