Horror Movies Based On True Crime And Actual Events

Immerse yourself in the chilling world of true crime horror movies, where real events are transformed into cinematic masterpieces. Our carefully curated selection of horror films based on actual cases invites you to explore the dark side of human nature and the mysteries that lie within. From notorious serial killers to haunting, almost unbelievable investigations, these movies blend fact with fiction to create a viewing experience that’s both terrifying and tantalizingly true to life. Join us as we delve into the depths of depravity and courage in the face of unimaginable horror.

Horror Movies Based On True Crime

Consider one of the following scary movies if you want a horror film to watch tonight based on true stories and actual events. Real events about real people often inspire writers to recreate their interpretations into what we know today as most horror classic favorites.

Here are true story horror movies to add to your binging list:

The Exorcist (1973)
- Director: William Friedkin
- Year: 1973
- Description: This groundbreaking horror film, based on the real-life exorcism of a young boy in 1949, unfolds the harrowing tale of a young girl named Regan, who becomes possessed by a malevolent demon. The film, celebrated for its innovative special effects and compelling narrative, showcases the intense battle between good and evil, as two priests confront the demon in a desperate bid to save Regan’s soul.
The Conjuring (2013)
- Director: James Wan
- Year: 2013
- Description: This film introduces audiences to the thrilling work of paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren. Tasked with aiding the Perron family, who are terrorized by a dark presence in their farmhouse, the Warrens encounter one of their most malevolent entities. Based on a true story, this gripping tale masterfully blends supernatural horror with the personal struggles of both the family and the investigators.
The Amityville Horror (1979)
- Director: Stuart Rosenberg
- Year: 1979
- Description: Following the Lutz family’s move into a new home, the scene of a brutal murder, they experience disturbing supernatural phenomena. This classic horror film delves into their terrifying encounters with the unknown, marking a seminal entry in haunted house cinema.
Zodiac (2007)
- Director: David Fincher
- Year: 2007
- Description: This suspense-filled thriller explores the enigmatic case of the Zodiac Killer, a serial murderer who eluded capture in the San Francisco Bay Area in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Through the lens of investigators and journalists obsessed with the case, the film captures the paranoia and fear that gripped the city.
The Entity (1982)
- Director: Sidney J. Furie
- Year: 1982
- Description: Based on the chilling Doris Bither case, this film recounts the story of a woman who alleges she is repeatedly assaulted by an invisible force. Her terrifying ordeal, investigated by paranormal experts, explores themes of vulnerability and the unknown.
The Haunting in Connecticut (2009)
- Director: Peter Cornwell
- Year: 2009
- Description: Drawing inspiration from the alleged haunting experiences of the Snedeker family, this film portrays their battle with malevolent forces in their new home, which has a dark connection to its past use as a mortuary. It’s a tale of supernatural horror intertwined with a family’s fight for survival.
Wolf Creek (2005)
- Director: Greg McLean
- Year: 2005
- Description: Loosely inspired by the notorious Australian serial killer Ivan Milat, this harrowing film follows a group of backpackers in the Australian outback who encounter a menacing predator. The film’s stark realism and suspenseful narrative offer a grim exploration of human evil.
The Rite (2011)
- Director: Mikael Håfström
- Year: 2011
- Description: This film is inspired by the true experiences of Father Gary Thomas and his journey into the realm of exorcism. As a skeptical seminary student sent to study exorcism at the Vatican, he encounters a faith-testing battle against demonic possession, challenging his beliefs and understanding of the supernatural.
Open Water (2003)
- Director: Chris Kentis
- Year: 2003
- Description: Based on the harrowing true story of two scuba divers accidentally left behind in shark-infested waters, this film captures the sheer terror of their fight for survival. With a focus on the psychological and physical ordeal faced by the couple, it’s a gripping tale of survival against the odds.
Veronica (2017)
- Director: Paco Plaza
- Year: 2017
- Description: Inspired by the mysterious “Vallecas Case” in Spain, this film follows a young girl who, after using a Ouija board, becomes the target of terrifying supernatural forces. The film blends traditional horror elements with a coming-of-age story, set against the backdrop of 1990s Madrid.
The Mothman Prophecies (2002)
- Director: Mark Pellington
- Year: 2002
- Description: Loosely based on the real-life Mothman sightings in Point Pleasant, West Virginia, this film combines elements of horror, mystery, and psychological thriller to explore the eerie phenomena leading up to a catastrophic event. It delves into themes of obsession, grief, and the unexplainable.
The Girl Next Door (2007)
- Director: Gregory Wilson
- Year: 2007
- Description: This film is a harrowing adaptation of the true story of Sylvia Likens, who was tortured and murdered in 1965. It portrays the unimaginable cruelty and abuse inflicted upon Sylvia by her caregiver and neighborhood children, examining the dark depths of human depravity.
An American Crime (2007)
- Director: Tommy O’Haver
- Year: 2007
- Description: Offering an alternative perspective on the Sylvia Likens case, this film delves into the tragic events and subsequent legal battle that followed. It’s a poignant and disturbing examination of abuse, responsibility, and the failure of community and society to protect a vulnerable child.

Please note that some of these films take creative liberties with their source material for dramatic effect.

Movies based on Lorraine Warren

Lorraine Warren was a well-known paranormal investigator and author known for her work in supernatural and paranormal phenomena. She was born on January 31, 1927, and passed away on April 18, 2019. Along with her husband, Ed Warren, she founded the New England Society for Psychic Research, one of the first ghost-hunting organizations in New England.

Lorraine and Ed Warren gained widespread recognition for their investigations into haunted houses and locations, demonic possessions, and cases involving ghosts and malevolent spirits. They were involved in some high-profile cases, including the Amityville Horror haunting and the Enfield Poltergeist case, both of which inspired popular books and films.

Lorraine Warren often served as a consultant for movies and documentaries related to the paranormal, and she wrote several books on her experiences and investigations, including “The Demonologist,” which provided insight into her work. While their work is a subject of fascination for many, it’s also controversial, with skeptics and critics challenging the validity of their claims.

Lorraine Warren’s life and work have left a significant mark on the world of paranormal research and have inspired numerous books, films, and television shows related to the supernatural and the unexplained.

Here are some movies based on Lorraine Warren, along with brief descriptions:

The Conjuring (2013)
- Director: James Wan
- Year: 2013
- Description: This riveting film introduces viewers to the paranormal world of Ed and Lorraine Warren, focusing on their investigation of the haunted Perron family farmhouse. As the Warrens delve into the eerie disturbances terrorizing the family, they encounter a powerful and malevolent force. The movie masterfully portrays the Warrens’ efforts to uncover the dark secrets of the farmhouse and protect the Perron family from the threatening spirits.
The Conjuring 2 (2016)
- Director: James Wan
- Year: 2016
- Description: In this gripping sequel, Ed and Lorraine Warren embark on a paranormal journey to England to assist the Hodgson family, who are confronting a terrifying poltergeist. Drawing from the infamous Enfield Poltergeist case, the film explores the Warrens’ confrontation with one of their most chilling cases, blending intense horror with the emotional depth of the family’s struggle.
Annabelle (2014)
- Director: John R. Leonetti
- Year: 2014
- Description: As a chilling chapter within the Conjuring universe, this film uncovers the sinister origins of Annabelle, a possessed vintage doll that becomes a conduit for unspeakable evil. Investigated by the Warrens, the film reveals the doll’s terrifying backstory and its capacity to unleash horror upon unsuspecting victims, setting the stage for a series of eerie events.
Annabelle: Creation (2017)
- Director: David F. Sandberg
- Year: 2017
- Description: This haunting prequel traces the malevolent origins of Annabelle, delving into the doll’s creation and the tragic events that imbued it with an evil spirit. The film skillfully weaves a tale of loss, despair, and dark forces, offering a deeper understanding of the malevolence that Annabelle harbors and the danger it poses to those who cross its path.
The Nun (2018)
- Director: Corin Hardy
- Year: 2018
- Description: Expanding the Conjuring universe, this film explores the malevolent origins of Valak, the demonic nun that haunted audiences in “The Conjuring 2.” With a backdrop of a remote Romanian abbey, the film combines Gothic horror with the lore of the Conjuring series, revealing the dark history of Valak and the heroic efforts to confront this unholy terror.
The Curse of La Llorona (2019)
- Director: Michael Chaves
- Year: 2019
- Description: Set within the same universe as the Conjuring films, this story follows a Los Angeles social worker who, along with her children, becomes entwined with the terrifying legend of La Llorona. As the weeping specter seeks out children to replace her own, the film intertwines traditional folklore with the chilling suspense and supernatural horror characteristic of the Conjuring series.

These films are inspired by the real cases and experiences of Ed and Lorraine Warren, although they do take creative liberties for cinematic effect. Lorraine Warren, portrayed by Vera Farmiga, plays a central role in many of these movies as the compassionate and skilled paranormal investigator.

10 True Crime Horror Movies

Real crime horror movies often combine elements of real-life crime with the horror genre, creating a chilling and terrifying experience. Here are 10 classic film true crime horror movies:

Zodiac (2007)

Director: David Fincher
Year: 2007
Description: This engrossing thriller delves into the mystifying case of the Zodiac Killer, a serial murderer who eluded capture in San Francisco. Through the eyes of a determined cartoonist and two journalists, the film chronicles their obsession with unraveling the killer’s identity, blending meticulous detail with the haunting reality of the unsolved case.

Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer (1986)

Director: John McNaughton
Year: 1986
Description: Offering a chilling glimpse into the psyche of a murderer, this film is loosely based on the life of Henry Lee Lucas. It presents a stark and unsettling portrayal of Henry’s life and his random acts of violence, exploring the depths of human depravity without reservation.

The Snowtown Murders (2011)

Director: Justin Kurzel
Year: 2011
Description: This harrowing film recounts the grim true story of the “Bodies in Barrels” murders, focusing on the charismatic leader who influenced a group to commit atrocious acts. Set in South Australia, it explores the complex dynamics of power, manipulation, and the search for belonging that lead to unthinkable violence.

The Silence of the Lambs (1991)

Director: Jonathan Demme
Year: 1991
Description: Inspired by the real-life crimes of Ed Gein, this iconic film introduces Hannibal Lecter, a brilliant yet psychotic ex-psychiatrist. An FBI trainee seeks his insight to capture another elusive serial killer, leading to a tense and psychological game of cat and mouse that delves into the nature of evil.

Monster (2003)

Director: Patty Jenkins
Year: 2003
Description: This compelling biographical film portrays the tragic life of Aileen Wuornos, a prostitute turned serial killer. It delves into her tumultuous life, the circumstances that led to her crimes, and her complex relationship with her girlfriend, offering a nuanced study of a tormented soul.

Wolf Creek (2005)

Director: Greg McLean
Year: 2005
Description: Loosely inspired by Ivan Milat’s chilling crimes, this film follows backpackers in the Australian outback who become prey to a malevolent hunter. It captures the stark terror of their struggle for survival against a backdrop of isolation and the unforgiving wilderness.

Dahmer (2002)

Director: David Jacobson
Year: 2002
Description: This biographical film provides a disturbing look into the life of Jeffrey Dahmer, one of America’s most infamous serial killers. It explores his troubled psyche, the gruesome nature of his crimes, and the profound loneliness that characterized his existence, offering insight into the mind of a monster.

Ed Gein (2000)

Director: Chuck Parello
Year: 2000
Description: Delving into the life of Ed Gein, whose macabre activities inspired numerous horror tales, this film examines his grave-robbing and murderous acts. It portrays Gein’s twisted reality, marked by a deeply troubled relationship with his mother and a descent into madness that shocked the world.

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011)

Director: David Fincher
Year: 2011
Description: Based on Stieg Larsson’s novel, this gripping mystery follows a journalist and a brilliant hacker as they untangle a family’s dark secrets, leading to a series of murders. The film masterfully combines suspense, intrigue, and dark revelations set against the stark Swedish landscape.

Changeling (2008)

Director: Clint Eastwood
Year: 2008
Description: Set in 1920s Los Angeles, this film is inspired by the true story of the Wineville Chicken Coop Murders. It follows a mother’s relentless quest for the truth after her missing son is replaced by an impostor, leading her into a confrontation with a corrupt police department and a horrifying discovery of murder.

These films explore the darker aspects of true crime, often delving into the minds of serial killers and the impact of their crimes on their victims and society.

Is The Exorcism Of Emily Rose based on true events?

Yes, “The Exorcism of Emily Rose” is loosely based on true events. The film, directed by Scott Derrickson and released in 2005, was inspired by the real-life case of Anneliese Michel, a young German woman who underwent a series of exorcisms in the 1970s. Anneliese Michel’s case became one of the most famous and controversial cases of supposed demonic possession and exorcism in history.

In the film, the character Emily Rose (played by Jennifer Carpenter) undergoes a similar experience, and the story alternates between courtroom drama and the events leading up to her exorcism. While the movie takes creative liberties for dramatic purposes, it draws on the real-life case to explore the legal and moral questions surrounding the intersection of religion, science, and the supernatural.

Anneliese Michel’s story, as well as the film, has generated significant debate and controversy, with some believing in the authenticity of her possession and others attributing her condition to mental and medical issues. The movie explores these themes, leaving viewers to draw their own conclusions about the events depicted.

10 horror movies based off of serial killers

Horror movies based on serial killers are a subgenre that often combines elements of crime and horror to create terrifying stories. Here are 10 horror movies that revolve around fictional or real serial killers:

The Silence of the Lambs (1991)
- Director: Jonathan Demme
- Year: 1991
- Description: This seminal film introduces Hannibal Lecter, an erudite yet psychotic former psychiatrist, who becomes an invaluable asset to a young FBI agent on the hunt for an elusive serial killer. The intricate dance of intellect and suspense between Lecter and Agent Starling forms the core of this gripping narrative, set against a backdrop of psychological depth and thrilling investigation.
Psycho (1960)
- Director: Alfred Hitchcock
- Year: 1960
- Description: Hitchcock’s masterpiece, inspired by the nefarious deeds of Ed Gein, unfolds the story of Marion Crane, who encounters the enigmatic Norman Bates at the Bates Motel. The film’s exploration of identity, madness, and voyeurism, punctuated by its iconic shower scene, redefined the horror genre and remains a cornerstone of cinematic suspense.
American Psycho (2000)
- Director: Mary Harron
- Year: 2000
- Description: Set in the opulence of 1980s Manhattan, this film follows Patrick Bateman, a polished investment banker with a secret life as a sadistic murderer. The film dissects the veneer of corporate America, juxtaposing Bateman’s outward charm with his inner turmoil and violent tendencies, offering a dark, satirical look at consumerism and identity.
Maniac (1980)
- Director: William Lustig
- Year: 1980
- Description: This gritty horror film delves into the disturbed mind of Frank Zito, a serial killer in New York City who harbors a dark obsession with women. Through a harrowing first-person perspective, the film navigates the blurred lines between trauma, madness, and a chilling compulsion for violence.
The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)
- Director: Tobe Hooper
- Year: 1974
- Description: Drawing loose inspiration from Ed Gein, this horror classic tells the harrowing tale of a group of friends who fall prey to a deranged family in rural Texas. The film’s raw depiction of terror andthe iconic figure of Leatherface have cemented its status as a landmark in the horror genre, known for its intense atmosphere and relentless suspense.
Halloween (1978)
- Director: John Carpenter
- Year: 1978
- Description: Introducing the iconic Michael Myers, this film captures his escape from a psychiatric facility and subsequent return to Haddonfield, where he resumes his murderous spree. Carpenter’s mastery in building suspense and the film’s exploration of pure evil set a new standard for slasher films, making Myers a symbol of Halloween terror.
Scream (1996)
- Director: Wes Craven
- Year: 1996
- Description: This meta-horror film revitalized the slasher genre by blending black comedy, mystery, and horror with a self-aware script that lampoons and adheres to genre conventions. Centered around a masked killer known as Ghostface, the film dissects the fears and follies of its teenage protagonists, offering both thrills and a satirical take on horror tropes.
Summer of Sam (1999)
- Director: Spike Lee
- Year: 1999
- Description: This film captures the palpable tension and paranoia in New York City during the Summer of Sam, when the Son of Sam serial killings gripped the city. Lee’s vibrant storytelling and character-driven narrative paint a vivid picture of a community on edge, set against the backdrop of cultural and social upheaval.
The Poughkeepsie Tapes (2007)
- Director: John Erick Dowdle
- Year: 2007
- Description: In the guise of a documentary, this found footage film purportedly showcases the tapes left behind by a prolific serial killer. The film’s disturbing content and the realistic portrayal of the killer’s psyche and his victims’ suffering make it a deeply unsettling viewing experience, blurring the lines between fiction and reality.
The Strangers (2008)
- Director: Bryan Bertino
- Year: 2008
- Description: This suspenseful horror film follows a couple’s night of terror in their secluded vacation home, orchestrated by three masked assailants. The film’s exploration of random violence, coupled with its tense atmosphere and the feeling of isolation, crafts a haunting narrative of survival and fear, underlining the randomness and brutality of such encounters.

These horror movies draw on both real-life cases and fictional characters to create terrifying and suspenseful stories centered around serial killers.

30 horror movies based off of real life serial killers

While there are many horror movies inspired by real-life serial killers, it’s important to note that most of these films take significant creative liberties and are not entirely accurate depictions of the actual cases. Here are 30 horror movies loosely based on or inspired by real-life serial killers:

Psycho (1960) – Inspired by Ed Gein.
The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974) – Loosely inspired by Ed Gein.
Deranged (1974) – Based on the crimes of Ed Gein.
The Town That Dreaded Sundown (1976) – Inspired by the Texarkana Moonlight Murders.
Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer (1986) – Loosely based on Henry Lee Lucas.
The Deliberate Stranger (1986) – Based on Ted Bundy.
The Boston Strangler (1968) – Based on the true story of the Boston Strangler.
Monster (2003) – Based on Aileen Wuornos.
Ed Gein (2000) – Inspired by Ed Gein.
Dahmer (2002) – Based on Jeffrey Dahmer.
Zodiac (2007) – Based on the real-life Zodiac Killer.
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (2011) – Features elements of real-life crimes.
The Snowtown Murders (2011) – Based on the Snowtown murders in Australia.
My Friend Dahmer (2017) – Based on the graphic novel and early life of Jeffrey Dahmer.
Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile (2019) – Based on the life of Ted Bundy.
The Haunting in Connecticut (2009) – Inspired by the Snedeker family’s experiences.
Bundy (2002) – Based on Ted Bundy.
The Killer Inside Me (2010) – Based on the novel by Jim Thompson, which was loosely inspired by real-life cases.
The Clovehitch Killer (2018) – Inspired by real-life serial killers, particularly the BTK Killer.
B.T.K. Killer (2005) – Based on the BTK Killer (Dennis Rader).
Gacy (2003) – Based on John Wayne Gacy.
Belle (2013) – Inspired by real-life cases of serial killers.
Borderland (2007) – Loosely inspired by the “Satanic Panic” and real-life drug cartel violence.
Hounds of Love (2016) – Inspired by the Moorhouse murders in Australia.
The House That Jack Built (2018) – Follows a fictional serial killer but draws inspiration from various real-life cases.
Mindhunters (2004) – Inspired by the early days of FBI criminal profiling and real-life serial killers.
Memories of Murder (2003) – Based on the Hwaseong serial murders in South Korea.
The Frozen Ground (2013) – Based on the capture of serial killer Robert Hansen.
Summer of Sam (1999) – Based on the Son of Sam killings in New York City.
The Alphabet Killer (2008) – Loosely based on the Alphabet Murders in Rochester, New York.

These films often take creative liberties to enhance the horror elements and are not strict retellings of the actual cases. Viewer discretion is advised due to the graphic and disturbing content often associated with such films.

Who is the Gainesville Ripper?

The Gainesville Ripper, whose real name is Danny Rolling, was a notorious American serial killer who operated in and around Gainesville, Florida, during the late summer of 1990. He was responsible for a gruesome and horrifying series of murders that terrorized the college town of Gainesville.

Rolling’s killing spree began in late August 1990 when he murdered five college students in their apartments. The victims were brutalized, and the crime scenes were marked by extreme violence. The murders sent shockwaves through the community and left residents in fear.

The Gainesville Ripper’s reign of terror ended in early September 1990 when he was apprehended by law enforcement. Rolling was subsequently convicted of the murders and was sentenced to death. He was executed by lethal injection in 2006. The case of the Gainesville Ripper is considered one of the most disturbing and high-profile serial killer cases in Florida’s history. It also had a significant impact on security and safety measures in college towns across the United States, leading to increased awareness of campus security and student safety.

What movie did the Gainesville ripper inspire?

The Gainesville Ripper, whose real name was Danny Rolling, inspired a 2003 horror movie titled “The Gainesville Ripper” or “Ed Gein: The Butcher of Plainfield.” It’s important to note that this film combines elements of both the Gainesville Ripper case and the notorious serial killer Ed Gein, who inspired several other films, including “Psycho” and “The Texas Chainsaw Massacre.” Most people are shocked to learn that these movies are based on true events.