While it may not be the most recognizable as the other films on this list, “Scanners” has built a strong fanbase since being released in the early 1980s. Scanners mostly revolve around psychic powers and how hard dealing with those powers can be. We don’t want to spoil it for you, but the following scene has been paused countless amounts of times due to its gory nature.
It entails the typical 1980s horror tactics, including the explosion of someone’s head, complete with ketchup and ground beef. Even to this day, the opinions vary, and the only good thing about this movie (according to critics) is the special effects. We feel there is more.
Deadpool 2 (2018)
Cameos can frequently be the thing that makes or breaks a film. As for "Deadpool 2", there was a cameo that made the action movie even more compelling. Once we figured out who this cameo was made by - many movie watchers felt the need to pause and contemplate. The character in question, Vanisher, accidentally guides himself into a set of electrical wires.
As a result, he is, unfortunately, electrocuted to death. In the process, we are shown that the invisible man is portrayed by none other than...wait for it, Brad Pitt! Yes, we know "Deadpool" is not one of the movies Pitt is most associated with, but trust us when we say he was there.
Signs (2002)
As well as being one of M. Night Shyamalan's better films, "Signs" was one of Mel Gibson's more prominent roles before he experienced a downpour of negative publicity. In one creepy moment of the film, we are exposed to footage showing the alien caught on tape. The eerie creature is delivered, lurking in an alley in Mexico.
The briefness of the sequence has caused many fans to stop and pause the scene. Shyamalan's deft direction and Gibson's compelling performance are amplified by this unforgettable glimpse into the unknown, adding another layer of intrigue to an already captivating cinematic experience
Toy Story 3 (2010)
The Toy Story gang can't stay out of trouble - no matter how hard they try. In the third movie, they are donated to daycare. One scene in this animated wonder has caused many people (old and young) to stop the film immediately. In this scene, a villain from one of the past movies is now shown as the sanitation worker. You have to be pretty sharp to notice, but when you do, the pause button comes in handy!
Such meticulous attention to detail is a testament to the craftsmanship behind the Toy Story franchise, where even the most fleeting references contribute to the rich tapestry of its storytelling, enhancing the enjoyment for both devoted fans and newcomers alike.
Beauty and the Beast (1991)
Some movies add such a subtle form of foreshadowing we can't help but admire them for it. "Beauty and the Beast" is one of those films. This very tactic has also earned it a spot on our list of most-paused movie moments. In this climactic scene, Gaston tries to attack The Beast, and a moment of subtle brilliance unfolds.
As he approaches, little skulls are placed into his eyes moments before he’s thrown from the ledge. It immerses audiences in a world where symbolism and visual storytelling coalesce. Each frame becomes a canvas of hidden treasures awaiting discovery and admiration. This subtle artistry is worthy of pause.