Horror films have a wonderful talent for escorting us to grotesque settings where our worst fears manifest. But what if I told you that some of the worst stories weren’t just made up, but rather were inspired by true incidents?
The top 10 horror films based on true stories will be discussed in this post. Prepare to be frightened, delighted, and mesmerized by the terrifying tales that these films bring to life.
Chandramukhi (2005)
The Tamil film “Chandramukhi” with Rajinikanth and Jyothika is based on the true account of Nagavalli, a dancer who supposedly became possessed. “Chandramukhi” was a commercial success thanks to its compelling plot and standout performances, and its supernatural undertones enthralled viewers.
Psycho (1960)
“Psycho” by Alfred Hitchcock is a classic that revolutionized the horror genre. The movie explores the troubled psyche of Norman Bates, the owner of a hotel with a sinister secret. Norman Bates was loosely based on the real-life murderer Ed Gein. “Psycho” has forever changed cinema with its shocking plot twist and ground-breaking direction, making it one of the most significant horror movies ever.
The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)
“The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)” portrays a group of friends who are victimized by a cannibalistic family and was inspired by the murders of Ed Gein and the atrocities performed by serial killer Elmer Wayne Henley. Tobe Hooper’s masterwork amassed a cult following despite its contentiousness and had a long-lasting effect on the slasher subgenre.
The Stoneman Murders (2009)
“The Stoneman Murders” exposes the seedy side of the city by drawing inspiration from the notorious Stoneman serial killings that took place in Mumbai in the 1980s. The Manish Gupta-directed movie investigates the enigmatic killings that made the city’s citizens afraid. Despite its restricted release, the film won praise for its accurate depiction of a true crime story.
The Amityville Horror (1979)
Enter the scary world of “The Amityville Horror,” a movie based on the DeFeo family’s real-life tales. The terrifying incidents that the Lutz family encountered in their brand-new Amityville, New York home serve as the focal point of this haunted house story. The movie was a commercial success thanks to its supernatural horror and spine-tingling performances and gloomy atmosphere.
The Silence of the Lambs (1991)
The movie “The Silence of the Lambs” has a compelling and psychologically unsettling plot while not being a horror movie strictly speaking. The movie follows FBI trainee Clarice Starling as she enlists the aid of imprisoned cannibalistic serial killer Hannibal Lecter to apprehend another serial killer. Clarice is inspired by real-life murderers like Ted Bundy and Gary Heidnik. This legendary thriller, which was directed by Jonathan Demme and became a cultural sensation, won numerous Academy Awards and had an enduring impression on the annals of film.
Zodiac (2007)
The thrilling thriller “Zodiac” will keep you on the edge of your seat. The David Fincher-directed movie follows the investigations of reporters and police officers seeking to identify the culprit. “Zodiac” won praise for its engrossing depiction of a true mystery because of its rigorous attention to detail and superb cast, which included Jake Gyllenhaal & Robert Downey Jr.
Also, Read 15 Must-Watch LGBTQ+ Movies for Pride Month
The Conjuring (2013)
Watch “The Conjuring,” a movie that will make you shiver. The film follows paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren as they unearth the frightening secrets concealed under a farmhouse. It is based on the true story of the Perron family in the 1970s. Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga gave outstanding performances, and James Wan’s visionary direction helped “The Conjuring” become a huge smash and launch a lucrative series.
The Conjuring 2 (2016)
The Hodgson family is being tormented by a malicious spirit in “The Conjuring 2,” so the Warrens go to London to aid them. As they investigate further, they learn more about the case and the terrible circumstances that led to the ghost’s appearance as well as its past. Faith, family, and the struggle between good and evil are among the topics that are covered in the movie. It is a follow-up to the 2013 horror movie “The Conjuring” and is based on the real-world case records of paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren.
The Exorcist (1973)
The 1973 movie “The Exorcist” is based on actual events that took place in the 1940s and portrays the tale of a little girl who has been possessed by a demonic force. This film not only terrified moviegoers but also received critical acclaim and multiple Academy Award nominations because of the outstanding performances of Linda Blair and Max von Sydow and the superb direction of William Friedkin.
