1. The Exorcist 1973，IMDB Rating: 8.1, IMDB Votes: 459611, ID: 0070047 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Exorcist, a horror masterpiece, masterfully uses its supernatural theme to create an atmosphere of terror. The fact that it’s based on true events adds a chilling layer of reality, making the fear it instills even more profound. Its remarkable special effects and the eerie atmosphere it creates are unforgettable, making this film a must-watch for any horror enthusiast.
2. The Texas Chain Saw Massacre 1974，IMDB Rating: 7.4, IMDB Votes: 186175, ID: 0072271 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Texas Chain Saw Massacre 1974 redefines the horror genre with a terrifying narrative as gruesome as its title suggests. Despite its simplicity, the film achieves an off-the-wall accomplishment, making it a classic in low-budget exploitation cinema. Its factual basis adds a layer of chilling realism, reminding us that sometimes, truth can be scarier than fiction, making it a must-watch.
3. Jaws 1975，IMDB Rating: 8.1, IMDB Votes: 667955, ID: 0073195 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Steven Spielberg’s ‘Jaws’ is a masterclass in suspense and character development. The unseen terror of the man-eating shark taps into our primal fear of the unknown, creating a chilling experience that lingers. While not based on a true story, its ability to evoke such raw fear aligns it with the most effective horror movies that are. Its strength lies in its suspenseful storytelling, while its only weakness might be its lack of grounding in true events.
4. The Town That Dreaded Sundown 1976，IMDB Rating: 6.0, IMDB Votes: 9921, ID: 0075342 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Town That Dreaded Sundown is a chilling blend of crime and horror, grounded in the terrifying reality of a true story. Its depiction of a phantom killer’s reign of terror in Texarkana is both horrifying and intriguing. However, the movie’s balance of serious and comedic elements can be jarring, detracting from the overall terror. Despite this, it offers a unique perspective on the horror genre that is worth exploring.
5. The Amityville Horror 1979，IMDB Rating: 6.2, IMDB Votes: 44995, ID: 0078767 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Amityville Horror (1979) is a chilling exploration of the supernatural that leaves a lasting impression. Its strength lies in its eerie atmosphere and the compelling performances of its lead actors. However, its reliance on familiar horror tropes may leave some viewers wanting more. Despite this, the film’s status as a classic in the horror genre and its basis on true events make it a must-watch for any horror enthusiast.
6. The Entity 1982，IMDB Rating: 6.7, IMDB Votes: 18451, ID: 0082334 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Entity (1982) is a chilling exploration of the supernatural, based on true events. The film’s strength lies in its ability to maintain a high level of tension throughout, aided by Barbara Hershey’s compelling performance. However, the dated special effects slightly mar the overall experience. Despite this, it remains a classic in the horror genre, reminding us that sometimes, reality can be as terrifying as fiction.
7. A Nightmare on Elm Street 1984，IMDB Rating: 7.4, IMDB Votes: 265225, ID: 0087800 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 A Nightmare on Elm Street 1984 is a classic horror film that brilliantly blurs the line between reality and dreams, creating an eerie atmosphere that lingers long after the credits roll. The concept of a killer who can attack in dreams adds a unique twist to the traditional horror narrative, making the film not only terrifying but also thought-provoking. Its ability to tap into universal human fears and emotions makes it a timeless classic in the horror genre.
8. Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer 1986，IMDB Rating: 7.0, IMDB Votes: 40862, ID: 0099763 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer, directed by John McNaughton, is a chilling docudrama that delves into the mind of a serial killer. The film’s stark realism and unflinching portrayal of violence make it a standout in the horror genre. Despite its disturbing content, the film’s insightful exploration of its titular character offers a unique perspective on the human capacity for evil.
9. The Serpent and the Rainbow 1988，IMDB Rating: 6.4, IMDB Votes: 27849, ID: 0096071 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 As a student of media and communication, I found ‘The Serpent and the Rainbow’ to be a fascinating exploration of voodoo culture. The film’s realistic portrayal of voodoo, combined with its suspenseful narrative, offers a unique perspective on the horror genre. Its thought-provoking themes and stunning visuals make it a standout among horror movies based on true stories.
10. The Silence of the Lambs 1991，IMDB Rating: 8.6, IMDB Votes: 1564603, ID: 0102926 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 “The Silence of the Lambs” masterfully intertwines fact and fiction, creating a chilling narrative that leaves viewers on the edge of their seats. Hopkins’ portrayal of the infamous Hannibal Lecter is both terrifying and captivating, a testament to his exceptional acting prowess. Foster’s performance as the determined yet vulnerable Clarice Starling adds depth to the film, making it a compelling watch. Despite its fictional premise, the film’s inspiration from real-life individuals adds a layer of authenticity, making it a standout in the horror genre.
11. Fire in the Sky 1993，IMDB Rating: 6.5, IMDB Votes: 28875, ID: 0106912 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 “Fire in the Sky” is a riveting journey into the unknown. Its strength lies in its ability to portray an alien encounter in a way that feels terrifyingly real. The special effects are impressive, creating an atmosphere of dread and fascination. However, the film leaves you yearning for more insights into the alien world. Despite this, it remains a compelling watch for those interested in extraterrestrial phenomena.
12. The Mothman Prophecies 2002，IMDB Rating: 6.4, IMDB Votes: 85334, ID: 0265349 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Mothman Prophecies, a supernatural thriller based on true events, takes us on a chilling journey into the unknown. The eerie sightings of a moth-like entity in a small West Virginia town create an unsettling atmosphere that lingers long after the credits roll. While the film succeeds in creating suspense, it falls short in fully exploring the tragic dimensions of the story. Nevertheless, it stands as a fascinating example of horror cinema inspired by real-life mysteries.
13. The Exorcism of Emily Rose 2005，IMDB Rating: 6.7, IMDB Votes: 141063, ID: 0404032 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 As Ahmed Ali, a movie enthusiast who likes to watch movies from different perspectives, I find “The Exorcism of Emily Rose” to be a compelling blend of horror and courtroom drama. The film’s exploration of faith and the existence of the spiritual realm is thought-provoking. The performances, particularly by Jennifer Carpenter, are intense and gripping. However, the film could have done better in avoiding some horror clichés. Overall, it’s a movie that challenges your perspective and leaves you pondering long after the credits roll.
14. The Strangers 2008，IMDB Rating: 6.1, IMDB Votes: 147067, ID: 0482606 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 As Maria Garcia, a 35-year-old teacher from Madrid who enjoys meaningful and uplifting movies, I found ‘The Strangers’ to be a chilling exploration of fear and survival. The film’s premise, rooted in a real-life experience, adds a layer of authenticity that amplifies the horror. However, the story could have been developed more to provide a deeper understanding of the characters and their motivations. Overall, ‘The Strangers’ is a well-crafted horror film that effectively utilizes suspense and terror, even if its story leaves something to be desired.
15. The Conjuring 2013，IMDB Rating: 7.5, IMDB Votes: 561393, ID: 1457767 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 As a fascinating blend of horror and reality, ‘The Conjuring’ offers a chilling exploration of the supernatural. The performances are compelling, and the direction effectively builds tension. However, the film’s reliance on jump scares can feel excessive at times. Despite this, it leaves a lasting impression.
16. The Conjuring 2 2016，IMDB Rating: 7.3, IMDB Votes: 304525, ID: 3065204 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Conjuring 2, directed by James Wan, is a chilling journey into the supernatural. The movie, based on true events, masterfully depicts the terror of a family haunted by an evil presence. The performances are compelling, particularly Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga as the Warrens. The film’s strength lies in its ability to create an unsettling mood that lingers long after the credits roll. Despite its horror, the movie also subtly explores themes of faith and courage in the face of fear.
17. Annabelle 2014，IMDB Rating: 5.4, IMDB Votes: 177032, ID: 3322940 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Annabelle, a 2014 horror film, is a chilling tale that taps into the fear of the unknown. Despite its technical flaws and lack of depth, it manages to create a sense of dread with its plot, which is based on true events. The film’s strength lies in its ability to evoke emotions and deliver a message about the dangers of dabbling with the supernatural. However, its weakness is its failure to fully develop its characters, leaving the audience somewhat detached. Overall, Annabelle is a terrifying journey that serves as a stark reminder of the thin line between our world and the realm of the supernatural.
18. Annabelle: Creation 2017，IMDB Rating: 6.5, IMDB Votes: 152610, ID: 5140878 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 Annabelle: Creation is a chilling journey into the origins of the haunted doll from the Conjuring universe. The film’s strength lies in its atmospheric tension and strong visual language, making it a standout in the horror genre. Despite its fictional premise, the movie’s ability to tap into our primal fears gives it a disturbingly realistic edge. It’s a spine-tingling experience that leaves you questioning the boundaries between reality and the supernatural.
19. Deliver Us from Evil 2014，IMDB Rating: 6.2, IMDB Votes: 86353, ID: 2377322 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 As Maria Garcia, a 35-year-old teacher from Madrid who enjoys meaningful and uplifting movies, I found “Deliver Us from Evil” to be a fascinating exploration of the intersection between reality and the supernatural. However, I felt the film could have delved deeper into the psychological aspects of its characters and their struggles with faith and doubt. The performances were commendable, particularly Eric Bana’s portrayal of a haunted police officer. Yet, the film’s over-reliance on genre clichés somewhat diluted its impact. Despite its shortcomings, “Deliver Us from Evil” offers a chilling reminder of the thin line between the natural and the supernatural, making it a noteworthy entry in the canon of horror films based on true stories.
20. The Ritual 2017，IMDB Rating: 6.3, IMDB Votes: 122309, ID: 5638642 Photo by douban movie, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0 The Ritual, a journey into the unknown, masterfully explores the human psyche. Its realistic characters and eerie Scandinavian setting create a chilling atmosphere that keeps you on edge. While not based on a true story, it resonates with real-life fears and emotions, making it a standout in the realm of horror.
20 Terrifying Horror Movies Based on True Stories That Will Haunt You
