1. Annabelle 2014，IMDB Rating: 5.4, IMDB Votes: 177262, ID: 3322940 Photo by WordPress.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Annabelle (2014) captivates audiences with its spine-chilling tale inspired by the actual investigation of a possessed doll by the renowned paranormal experts Ed and Lorraine Warren. The film’s unsettling atmosphere and haunting supernatural occurrences elevate it to a standout position in the horror genre, while the reality behind the story injects an additional layer of fear, making Annabelle an absolute must-see for any horror aficionado.
2. The Haunting in Connecticut 2009，IMDB Rating: 5.8, IMDB Votes: 65523, ID: 0492044 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Haunting in Connecticut is a chilling tale based on the true story of the Snedeker family, who experienced terrifying paranormal activities after moving into a former funeral home. Despite its reliance on ghost movie clichés, the film manages to deliver some genuine scares and creepy imagery. The actors’ performances and the eerie atmosphere make it a reasonably effective horror movie, even if it doesn’t break new ground in the genre.
3. The Possession 2012，IMDB Rating: 5.9, IMDB Votes: 63570, ID: 0431021 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Possession, inspired by the true story of a cursed Dybbuk box, follows a young girl who becomes possessed by a malevolent spirit. While the film boasts a capable cast and some genuinely creepy moments, it ultimately falls short due to its predictable plot and lack of character development. Nevertheless, it remains a moderately entertaining horror movie with a few memorable scares.
4. The Texas Chain Saw Massacre 1974，IMDB Rating: 7.4, IMDB Votes: 186451, ID: 0072271 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, loosely based on the crimes of serial killer Ed Gein, is a nightmarish assault on the senses that has become a horror classic. Its raw, gritty atmosphere and relentless tension make it one of the most influential horror films of all time. The film’s portrayal of a cannibalistic family and the iconic character Leatherface continue to haunt audiences to this day.
5. The Silence of the Lambs 1991，IMDB Rating: 8.6, IMDB Votes: 1566670, ID: 0102926 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Silence of the Lambs brilliantly illustrates how real-life serial killers inspired its creation, crafting a masterful psychological thriller that intricately examines the minds of both the predator and the prey. Anthony Hopkins delivers a chillingly brilliant performance as Hannibal Lecter, complemented by Jodie Foster’s exceptional portrayal of Clarice Starling, resulting in a film that boasts an intense atmosphere and a gripping narrative, solidifying its status as a timeless classic.
6. The Exorcist 1973，IMDB Rating: 8.1, IMDB Votes: 460172, ID: 0070047 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Exorcist is a chilling masterpiece that still holds up after nearly five decades. Based on the true story of Roland Doe, a boy who underwent a harrowing exorcism in 1949, the film’s disturbing visuals and intense performances make it a timeless horror classic. The blend of William Friedkin’s meticulous direction, detailed makeup, and Jack Nitzsche’s eerie score creates an atmosphere of pure terror. The Exorcist is not just a horror film; it’s an exploration of faith, fear, and the unknown.
7. The Hills Have Eyes 1977，IMDB Rating: 6.3, IMDB Votes: 39665, ID: 0077681 Photo by wikipedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Wes Craven’s The Hills Have Eyes presents a disturbing survival tale that delves into the heart of savagery. Drawing inspiration from the haunting true story of a Scottish clan that preyed on unsuspecting travelers, the film compellingly follows a family stranded in the vast Nevada desert, pursued by a horrifying group of cannibalistic mutants, with its gritty realism and relentless suspense offering a harrowing experience that explores the fragile boundary between civilization and barbarism.
8. Psycho 1960，IMDB Rating: 8.5, IMDB Votes: 725561, ID: 0054215 Photo by caitlinduffy.hcommons.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho stands as a groundbreaking thriller that forever changed the horror landscape. Based on the chilling true story of Ed Gein, whose gruesome acts inspired the character of Norman Bates, the film’s shocking plot twists and masterful direction create an unforgettable experience. The iconic shower scene and Bernard Herrmann’s haunting score contribute to the film’s lasting influence and continued relevance in the world of cinema.
9. The Entity 1982，IMDB Rating: 6.7, IMDB Votes: 18478, ID: 0082334 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Entity crafts a deeply unsettling narrative based on the true story of Doris Bither, a woman who claimed to be tormented by an invisible force. Barbara Hershey delivers a powerful performance as Carla Moran, the film’s central character, which adds a haunting intensity to the already disturbing atmosphere. The Entity’s graphic and intense scenes provide a challenging exploration of fear and the unknown that lingers long after the credits roll.
10. The Conjuring 2 2016，IMDB Rating: 7.3, IMDB Votes: 305040, ID: 3065204 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Conjuring 2 serves as a spine-chilling sequel that plunges into the notorious Enfield Poltergeist case, capturing the eerie essence of 1977 England through masterful direction by James Wan. As the Hodgson family grapples with malevolent spirits, the film’s strength lies in seamlessly blending true events with supernatural horror, delivering both terror and emotional depth. Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga shine as Ed and Lorraine Warren, grounding the story and making it a must-see for fans of the genre.
11. The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It 2021，IMDB Rating: 6.3, IMDB Votes: 142214, ID: 7069210 Photo by Wikipedia, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It takes a fresh perspective by highlighting a real-life murder trial where demonic possession was controversially used as a defense. While it may not feature the haunted house frights characteristic of its predecessors, it compensates with a compelling investigative narrative that delves deeper into the darker aspects of human nature and the supernatural. Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga once again deliver stellar performances, ensuring that the audience remains engaged throughout the chilling story.
12. Girl in the Picture 2022，IMDB Rating: 7.3, IMDB Votes: 22205, ID: 21059520 Photo by wikipedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Girl in the Picture is a haunting true-crime documentary that unravels the tragic story of Suzanne Sevakis. Directed by Skye Borgman, the film meticulously pieces together the mystery of Suzanne’s multiple identities and her abuse at the hands of Franklin Floyd. The documentary’s strength lies in its emotional depth and the way it humanizes the victim, making it a compelling and heart-wrenching watch. The twists and turns of the story keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
13. Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey 2022，IMDB Rating: 7.3, IMDB Votes: 16460, ID: 20560404 Photo by wikipedia.org, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey is a haunting docuseries that uncovers the dark realities within the Fundamentalist Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Informative yet deeply unsettling, the series sheds light on systemic abuse and manipulation within the cult, recounting the victims’ harrowing stories in a way that is both heartbreaking and enlightening, making it an essential watch for true crime enthusiasts seeking the truth behind the headlines.
14. Tiger King 2020，IMDB Rating: 7.5, IMDB Votes: 87698, ID: 11823076 Photo by bandadicefali.it, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Tiger King offers a wild and bizarre ride through the chaotic world of big cat breeding and the eccentric individuals tangled up in it. This docuseries is an exhilarating journey filled with true crime elements, including murder plots and arson, featuring an unforgettable cast of characters that keeps viewers captivated. However, the sensationalism occasionally overshadows the serious issues it raises, prompting viewers to reflect on the chaotic narrative presented.
15. The Conjuring 2013，IMDB Rating: 7.5, IMDB Votes: 562256, ID: 1457767 Photo by blogspot.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Conjuring is a masterclass in horror, drawing from the real-life investigations of Ed and Lorraine Warren to create an unforgettable cinematic experience. Directed by James Wan, the film excels in using tension, atmosphere, and classic scares to keep viewers on edge. Vera Farmiga and Patrick Wilson’s performances infuse depth into the chilling narrative, making it an absolute must-watch for horror enthusiasts eager for a captivating and spine-tingling experience.
15 Terrifying Horror Movies Inspired by True Events That Will Chill You to the Bone
