Annoying Horror Movie Characters: The Worst of the Worst

Horror movies are always intended to frighten and unsettle viewers, but some characters take it too far. Here, we delve into some of the most exasperating characters that have left audiences puzzled, frustrated, and exasperated throughout the years. From Erin in ' Texas Chainsaw Massacre' to Micah in 'Paranormal Activity,' these characters embody the very worst of horror movie tropes. Let’s take a closer look at these memorable (or rather, memorable for all the wrong reasons) characters and why they stand out in the annals of horror cinema.

1. Erin – Texas Chainsaw Massacre (2003)

Erin from 'Texas Chainsaw Massacre' (2003) is a prime example of a character whose poor decisions and inability to recognize danger bring absolutely everyone to their doom. Her actions, motivated by melodrama and a misplaced sense of loyalty, repeatedly place her and her group in perilous situations. The mistakes and sadly misguided choices she makes contribute to the film’s disregard for any semblance of logic or common sense.

2. Rachel and Robbie – War of the Worlds (2005)

In 'War of the Worlds' (2005), Rachel and Robbie’s teenage antics and the general annoyance they bring to the screen is almost comically frustrating. Rachel’s perpetual teenage drama and Robbie’s evident adolescent foolishness make it difficult to care about their survival. The realization that Rachel is a flighty and reckless individual, and Robbie is, quite frankly, a mild brat, leads to the point where the audience starts to hope they are met with swift and unpleasant consequences.

3. Trent Sutton – Friday the 13th Remake (2009)

Trent from the 'Friday the 13th' remake is a character so detestable that the audience feels relief when he meets an untimely end. His inconsiderate and selfish behavior – like his poor treatment of his girlfriend and his friends – makes him a terrible person to have around in a horror movie scenario. His character development is either non-existent or laughable, fitting into the category of the worst written horror movie characters.

4. Micah – Paranormal Activity (2007)

Micah’s decision to engage with a demonic entity in 'Paranormal Activity' (2007) because of his girlfriend’s terrifying experience only proves his lack of common sense and responsibility. Despite warnings from the psychic, Micah’s reckless actions exacerbate the situation and put everyone in grave danger. His inability to heed advice from experts and his eagerness to feed the entity power highlights his character’s negative traits.

5. Jamie The Pit – The Pit (2008)

While 'The Pit' (2008) attempts to make Jamie’s bullying situation redeemable, the character’s dark desires and unhealthy fixation on his babysitter overshadow any positive aspects. His obsession with the babysitter and subsequent actions to become more like a monster – possibly to feed humans to flesh-eating Trodologs – make him one of the most controversial and disturbing horror characters in recent years.

6. Nicole – Dawn of the Dead (2004)

Nicole, in 'Dawn of the Dead' (2004), is a quintessential example of a character who exhibits overzealous and irrational behavior despite the dire circumstances. Her deep connection to Chips, the dog, and her willingness to put everyone in harm’s way to help her with a strange delivery, display an impulsive and illogical response to a hopeless reality. Her selfish actions ignore logic and common sense and significantly harm the group’s survival chances.

7. Kate – Army of the Dead (2021)

In 'Army of the Dead,' Kate’s hyperactive and overconfident nature often puts the group in unnecessary danger. Her presence is a constant reminder of how unprepared and impulsive one can be in a zombie apocalypse. Her overzealous actions, like her aggressive attempts to secure the group's perimeter, often increase their risks. Her character is a cautionary tale of how vigilance and rational planning are crucial in horror scenarios.

These characters in horror movies are not just about adding drama or conflict; they often serve as cautionary tales about human behavior. The mistakes and poor decisions these characters make serve as a stark reminder of the importance of critical thinking and rational action in life-threatening situations.