From people being possessed by demons to brutal murders, these films show you the shocking and disturbing things that can happen in real life. Some of the movies, like “Psycho” and “The Conjuring,” will have you on the edge of your seat, wondering what’s going to happen next.
These stories are all based on real events, which makes them even more scary. They show how people can do truly horrible things and how the world can be a dark and frightening place. But don’t worry, these movies are just for entertainment – the real-life events they’re based on are very rare.So if you’re a fan of horror movies and want to see some of the scariest true stories ever told, check out this list.
Just be prepared to be shocked, scared, and maybe even a little disturbed. These movies will take you on a thrilling and chilling journey through the darkest corners of human experience.
The Exorcist (1973)
Based on real events from 1949, this film tells the story of a young girl named Regan who starts displaying strange behaviors. Her desperate mother seeks the help of two priests who believe Regan is possessed by a demonic entity. Their only hope is to perform an exorcism. The movie delves deep into the psychological and physical battles faced during the exorcism, highlighting the priests’ struggle with their own faith and fears.
The Amityville Horror (1979)
This horror classic is based on the Lutz family’s supposed experiences in their new home in Amityville, New York. After moving into a house where a mass murder was committed, they experience terrifying supernatural occurrences. The film explores the psychological torment and haunting events that drive them to the brink of madness.
The Conjuring (2013)
Set in 1971, it follows Ed and Lorraine Warren, paranormal investigators, as they assist the Perron family who are experiencing disturbing events in their farmhouse in Rhode Island. The movie captures the terrifying encounters with a dark presence and the Warrens’ desperate attempts to cleanse the house.
Psycho (1960)
Inspired by the crimes of Ed Gein, this Alfred Hitchcock classic follows Marion Crane who steals a large sum of money and ends up at the Bates Motel, run by Norman Bates. The story unfolds with eerie tension and shocking revelations, highlighting Norman’s descent into madness.
Zodiac (2007)
Focusing on the true story of the Zodiac Killer, a serial killer who terrorized Northern California in the late 1960s and early 1970s, the film follows the detectives and reporters who become obsessed with the case. The killer’s cryptic messages to the police and newspapers create a haunting saga of fear and obsession.
Wolf Creek (2005)
Based on the backpacker murders by Ivan Milat and the murder of Peter Falconio by Bradley Murdoch, this film follows three backpackers who become prey to a sadistic hunter in the Australian Outback. The movie is intense and brutal, capturing the harrowing fight for survival.
The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974)
Loosely inspired by the crimes of Ed Gein, this film is about a group of friends who fall victim to a family of cannibals in rural Texas. The film is renowned for its intense horror, unsettling atmosphere, and the iconic villain, Leatherface.
The Girl Next Door (2007)
A horrifying adaptation of the real-life torture and murder of Sylvia Likens, this film tells the story of a young girl who is brutally tortured by her caregiver and the caregiver’s children. The film explores themes of cruelty and the disturbing capabilities of ordinary people.
Open Water (2003)
Based on the tragic story of Tom and Eileen Lonergan, who were left behind in the open sea by their scuba diving group, this film captures the couple’s ordeal as they drift in shark-infested waters. The movie is a chilling tale of survival and despair.
The Strangers (2008)
Loosely based on the Manson family Tate murders and a series of break-ins, this film features a couple isolated in a vacation home who are terrorized by three masked assailants. The movie dives into the fear of random acts of violence and the terror of being hunted.
Monster (2003)
This film portrays the life of Aileen Wuornos, a prostitute turned serial killer who murdered seven men in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The story explores her troubled life, her relationship with her girlfriend, and her descent into murder.
127 Hours (2010)
Based on Aron Ralston’s autobiography, this film recounts his harrowing ordeal trapped by a boulder in an isolated canyon. The film is a gripping survival story, showcasing his determination and the drastic measures he takes to escape.
The Snowtown Murders (2011)
Also known as “Snowtown,” this film is based on the true story of the bodies-in-barrels murders that occurred in South Australia in the 1990s. It follows the relationship between a vulnerable teenager and his charismatic but dangerous mentor who draws him into his sadistic activities.
The Serpent and the Rainbow (1988)
Inspired by the experiences of ethnobotanist Wade Davis in Haiti, this film delves into the world of voodoo and zombies. It combines anthropological exploration with supernatural horror as the protagonist encounters the dark forces of the voodoo culture.
Compliance (2012)
Inspired by the true events of a hoax caller who impersonated a police officer leading to the abusive interrogation of a fast-food worker, this film explores the disturbing levels of obedience to perceived authority. It’s a psychological thriller that questions morality and human vulnerability.
The Changeling (1980)
After his family’s tragic death, a composer moves into a historic mansion, only to find it haunted by the spirit of a child who reveals a chilling secret. The film is a classic haunted house story with a heart-wrenching twist.
Borderland (2007)
Inspired by the real-life horrors committed by a Mexican cult in the late 1980s that practiced human sacrifice for protection, the film follows three American friends who encounter the cult during a trip to Mexico. The movie explores the intersection of belief, evil, and the supernatural.
An American Crime (2007)
Another film based on the murder of Sylvia Likens, it focuses more on the court case and the testimonies of those involved, providing a stark look at human cruelty and the justice system.
The Sacrament (2013)
Inspired by the Jonestown Massacre of 1978, this film follows journalists documenting their friend’s search to find his sister at a remote commune. The film portrays the lead-up to a mass suicide event orchestrated by the cult’s charismatic leader.
Ed Gein (2000)
This film delves into the life of Ed Gein, whose crimes inspired numerous horror films. It focuses on his grave-robbing, creation of items from human remains, and his murders, presenting a psychological exploration of his disturbed mind.
Well, these 20 movies are all based on real-life horror stories!In “Open Water,” a couple gets left behind by their diving group and has to survive in the open ocean. “The Snowtown Murders” is about a man who commits terrible crimes. These movies show us that the scariest things can actually happen in real life.
When you watch these films, you’ll feel like you’re right there with the characters, facing their terrifying situations. You’ll be on the edge of your seat, wondering what’s going to happen next.
These movies make you think about how strong and brave people can be, even when they’re in the scariest situations. They also make you wonder about the darkest parts of human nature – how can people do such horrible things?Even though these stories are hard to believe, they’re all based on real events. That’s what makes them so scary and powerful.
They show us that the world can be a very dangerous place, and that we need to be careful and brave, just like the characters in the movies.
So if you’re a fan of scary movies, check out these 20 films. They’ll give you chills, but they’ll also make you think about the real-life horrors that can happen in the world
I am Jeremy Jahns – Your Cinematic Explorer
Immerse in movie reviews, Hollywood insights, and behind-the-scenes stories.
