Horror Films Based on True Stories

There is something to be said for a really terrifying horror film. But even more can be said for horror movies which are based on real events. Many people say that real life is often stranger than fiction. In the case of these types of films, nothing could be further from the truth. People are frightened by all sorts of things---monsters, ghosts, and especially each other. The following films, as terrifying as they may be are rooted in events that have taken place at one time or another. Some of these films involve supernatural phenomenon, and some are based on cold-blooded killers. In any event, these films have made millions as a result of their shocking and thrilling nature.

Jaws (1975)

Many horror movie buffs today had not even been born when this thrilling piece of cinema was released. Though the story in general was grossly glamorized for the big screen, this tale is ultimately based on the Jersey Shore shark attacks which occurred in 1916. That year, four individuals were killed, and one injured during a heat wave in July. Docudrama "12 Days of Terror," released in 2004 is also another account of these infamous shark attacks.

Citizen X (1998)

Perhaps nothing is more chilling than a person who has a thirst for the blood (and body parts) of small children. But during the 1980's Russian authorities got a taste (no pun intended) of just how twisted one of their own citizens could be. Andrei Chikatilo, an unassuming, yet quirky individual, had a penchant for kidnapping runaways and small children near train stations, and taking them to the woods for his own perverse pleasures. Stephen Rea provides a stoic performance in this cable-based film, as the detective bent on bringing Chikatilo to justice.

An American Haunting (2006)

Some of the scariest tales of all time take place long ago. The story behind the 2006 fllm "An American Haunting" reveals the torments inflicted by the infamous Bell Witch during the late 1800's. In fact, this story represents the only documented case in United States history in which a spirit caused a man's death. The movie takes a few creative liberties (as many films tend to do); but the things which happened to the Bell family in this movie are very closely paralleled by the actual events.

The Exorcism of Emily Rose (2005)

The name Annaliese Michel doesn't ring a bell with many people; the name Emily Rose however, does. Michel was a German woman whom many said was possessed by multiple demons. Through the process of having her demons exorcised, she ultimately met with her death in 1976. This film, many compared to the 1973 blockbuster "The Exorcist." But this account, reconfigured for American audiences dove much more deeply into Emily Rose's (Annaliese Michel's) personal experiences leading up to her death.

The Amityville Horror (1979)

There is still much controversy surrounding the events occurring at 112 Ocean Avenue in Amityville, New York. However, there is one thing that everyone can agree on: the fact that in 1974, a man named Ronald DeFeo, Jr. violently murdered his entire family in that house. The film follows the incidents which happened to the Lutz family upon their moving into the ill-fated home. Though the debate continues as to whether their story is true, the horror surrounding this particular house remains valid in the minds of many.

Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer (1986)

Perhaps one of the bloodiest films to come out of the 80's was that which loosely outlined the crimes of late serial killer Henry Lee Lucas. A brief history lesson dictates that Lucas not only murdered (and dismembered) his girlfriend in 1982, but also his mother, in 1960. This gruesome film starring Michael Rooker has enough gore and disturbing situations to turn anyone's stomach.

Open Water (2003)

Not completely considered a horror film by most, this movie provides an agonizing depiction of events which happened to an American couple: Tom and Eileen Lonergan. Though in reality, the Lonergans' ultimate whereabouts were never confirmed, the tale of their being lost at sea amongst hungry sharks was. Costing only $130,000 to make, "Open Water's" realistic camcorder-like presentation, and real-time feel made it one of the most horrific movies of all time. The ending itself is incredibly chilling.

Girl Next Door (2007)

In 1965, a 16 year-old girl named Sylvia Likens met her death at the hands of her "caretakers" after being abandoned by her carnival working parents. The death was brutal, with Likens having been beaten multiple times and starved. Ultimately Sylvia succumbed to a brain hemorrhage and malnutrition as a result of her abuse. The 2007 film, "Girl Next Door" takes a slightly different spin, as the story is told through the eyes of a young man who becomes the main characters' neighbors in the 1950s.

Borderland (2007)

Unpopular religions always seem to make for frightening horror movie fare. This "re-telling" of the 1989 killings of American college students in Matamoros, Mexico is no different. The film practically mirrors the killings committed by a Mexican cult which practiced Brujeria, led by real-life leader Adolfo Constanzo. The movie, "Borderland" has been compared to films like "Turistas" and "Hostel" because of its extreme, realistic violence. The fact that the movie deviates very little from the actual crimes often leaves audiences chilled to the bone.