With the semester starting, one some of the best ways to unwind is watching films with friends or with a large group of people. These choices include horror, thrillers, comedies and action movies that are sure to all be loved by new viewers.

Evil Dead II (1987)

The pinnacle of horror comedy is definitely a crowd pleaser. Of course, you should watch the whole series, but this film is a filmmaker’s favorite movie, such as Quentin Tarantino and Guillermo del Toro, for a reason. From practical effects, camera tricks and the unique blend of slapstick humor with grotesque horror is a must-watch.

Cure (1997)

Shocking murders plague Tokyo as a detective uncovers why complete strangers are dying the same exact way across the city. Starring “Perfect Days” (2023) Koji Yakusho, Detective Takabe encounters suspects with memory loss, eerie coincidences and a potential mastermind that is part of these murders.

Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels (1998)

A British black comedy/crime film that focuses on a card shark losing a rigged game against a crime boss, in which he gets his friends to do deeds to pay off his £500,000 debt. Guy Richie’s abrasive direction leads to an off-the-wall film with crimes going wrong and ploys that has the gang attempt to keep from the crime boss.

Kung Fu Hustle (2005)

Stephen Chow’s stars, directs, wrote, etc. in a martial arts film, with comedy in the forefront. Two petty thieves aspire to be part of the infamous Axe Gang in 1940s Shanghai. The combo of comedic bits and amazing fight scenes poke fun of martial arts movie archetypes while also paying homage, making this amazingly zany comedy.

The Raid (2011)

An action packed film, mixing fight scenes with shootouts, all entirely localized in an apartment building owned by a drug lord. Indonesian special forces attempt to lock down a building harboring the drug lord, which leads to absolutely unbelievable action scenes that leave you wanting more.

Prey (2022)

This film takes place in 18th century America, focusing on a Comanche girl training to be a hunter. What the Natives discover is that a “demon” lurks in the shadows, ruthlessly killing animals and people, which turns out to be the first “Predator” that comes in contact with humans.