Did You Know These 10 Horror Films Were Actually Books First?
These page-to-screen adaptations actually manage to keep the atmosphere horrifying.
With Halloween just passed and the nights getting darker and eerie, it is the perfect season for watching horror movies and hiding behind pillows as we do so. When we think about horror movies that originated from books, the King of Scare Stephen King is usually who pops to mind, however these 10 horror movies were also actually books first!
How many have you seen?
The Exorcist (1973) adapted from The Exorcist by William Peter Blatty
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The Exorcist is a truly classic horror movie that tells the story of a young girl who becomes possessed by a demon. The film follows the attempts of two priests to exorcise the demon from the girl's body, and the terrifying events that unfold within the home and family as they try to save her soul.
The Silence of the Lambs (1991) adapted from The Silence of the Lambs by William Harris
The Silence of the Lambs is a thrilling psychological crime film that quicly hooks viewers with an intense storyline and truly unforgettable characters. The movie follows the young FBI trainee, Clarice Starling, as she seeks the help of the brilliant psychiatrist and cannibalistic serial killer, Dr. Hannibal Lecter, to catch another notorious serial killer known as Buffalo Bill.
American Psycho (2000) adapted from American Psycho by Bret Easton Ellis
In New York City in 1987, a handsome, young urban professional named Patrick Bateman lives a second life as a gruesome serial killer by night. This darkly humorous narrative delves into the intricate details that define how a man becomes a monster. It explores the psychological and societal factors that contribute to Patrick's transformation from a seemingly normal individual into a chilling predator.
Let the Right One In (2008) adapted from Let the Right One In by John Ajvide Lindqvist
Oskar and Eli, two young friends who were initially reserved with each other, gradually develop a strong bond. However, as they get closer, it becomes clear that Eli is not an ordinary girl. Eventually, she confides in Oskar and reveals her connection to a series of gruesome local murders.
The Amityville Horror (2005) adapted from The Amityville Horror by Jay Anson
After George and Kathy Lutz move into a new home with their kids, they find out the cheap sale was thanks to the house's creepy history: The former tenant murdered his family after supposedly being possessed by the devil. Believing the home is haunted, the couple find a priest to rid the place of lingering evil spirits.
I Am Legend (2007) adapted from I Am Legend by Richard Matheson
Robert Neville is a brilliant scientist who has survived a man-made plague that turns people into bloodthirsty mutants. He navigates the eerie and empty streets of New York City, searching for any remaining survivors, determined to find a cure for the disease using his own seemingly immune blood.
The Conjuring ( 2013) adapted from House of Darkness, House of Light by Andrea Perron
In 1970, Lorraine and Ed Warren, paranormal investigators and demonologists, are called to the home of Carolyn and Roger Perron. The Perrons and their five daughters have just moved into a secluded farmhouse, where they are experiencing the unpleasant company of a mysterious and supernatural presence. This chilling story is inspired by real events.
The Devil All the Time (2020) adapted from The Devil All the Time by Donald Ray Pollock
This story explores the impact of violence on multiple generations in the heartland of America. It delves into the complex relationship between faith and evil, as men of the cloth commit heinous crimes and their followers struggle to understand the meaning of life and death.
Shutter Island (2010) adapted from Shutter Island by Dennis Lehane
The incredible escape of a genius murderer leads U.S. Marshal Teddy Daniels and his new partner to Ashecliffe Hospital, a secure mental institution on a secluded island. The woman seems to have disappeared from a locked room, and there are indications of horrifying acts occurring within the hospital. As they delve deeper into the investigation, Teddy realizes that he must confront his own inner demons in order to survive and leave the island.
Bird Box (2018) adapted from Bird Box by Josh Malerman
When a mysterious force threatens to take down the entire population, the survivors must avoid setting eyes on an unknown evil that manifests as their worst fears. In search of hope and a fresh start, a woman and her children embark on a dangerous journey through the woods and down a river, seeking the one place that may provide safety.