Michael Jackson's Thriller

1983 • 14 min • Horror · Music · Thriller

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Synopsis

A night at the movies turns terrifying when Michael and his date are attacked by zombies. Released at the height of Thriller’s success, the short film redefined the music video, broke racial barriers, and became the first inducted into the U.S. National Film Registry.

Our family guide

Best from age 9

Movie Knight Score

785 reviews

83 Audience · 785 · 100%

Michael and his date are enjoying a night out when he transforms into a werewolf, then later, zombies emerge from their graves to terrorize them. It's a groundbreaking music video that blends horror and dazzling choreography.

Violence & peril: 5/10
Language: 1/10
Drinking, drugs & smoking: 0/10
Romance & sensuality: 1/10
Scary moments: 6/10

Heads up

Jump scares and horror imagery
Zombies and werewolf transformations
Some intense chase sequences

What it models well

Creativity and artistic expression
Pushing boundaries in art
The power of music

Talk about it after

What makes something scary?
How do special effects and makeup create a mood?
The historical impact of this music video

Written by the Movie Knight editorial team for Michael Jackson's Thriller. Our own words, our own scoring — always double-check against your family's standards.