Imagine checking into a hotel expecting a peaceful retreat, only to find yourself in the midst of a whirlwind of chaos. From fires and floods to ghostly apparitions and criminal activities, hotels have been the backdrop for some of cinema's most gripping emergencies. This curated list of 10 films dives into the heart of these high-stakes scenarios, offering viewers a thrilling escape into the world of hotel disasters. Whether you're a fan of suspense, horror, or just love a good old-fashioned disaster flick, these movies will keep you on the edge of your seat, making you think twice about your next hotel stay.
The Shining (1980)
Description: Jack Torrance becomes the winter caretaker at the isolated Overlook Hotel, where he, his wife Wendy, and their son Danny experience supernatural forces that drive Jack to madness. The hotel itself becomes a character in this chilling tale of isolation and terror.
Fact: The film was shot at the Timberline Lodge in Oregon, but the interior scenes were filmed at Elstree Studios in England. Stanley Kubrick famously used over 1,300 takes for certain scenes, including the famous "Here's Johnny!" moment.
Watch Now 
The Hotel New Hampshire (1984)
Description: This quirky adaptation of John Irving's novel follows the Berry family as they manage various hotels, each with its own set of bizarre and often tragic events, culminating in a hotel in Vienna that becomes a refuge for radicals.
Fact: The film features a young Jodie Foster in one of her early roles. The movie's ending was changed from the book to provide a more uplifting conclusion.
Watch Now 
1408 (2007)
Description: A skeptical author who debunks paranormal events checks into the Dolphin Hotel's room 1408, which is rumored to be haunted. What follows is a harrowing night of supernatural terror that tests his disbelief.
Fact: The film is based on a Stephen King short story, and the room number was changed from 1408 in the story to 1309 in the film to avoid legal issues with a real hotel. However, the original number was reinstated for the DVD release.
Watch Now 
The Last Exorcism (2010)
Description: While not set in a hotel, the film involves a pastor who agrees to document his final exorcism, which takes place in a remote farmhouse. The situation escalates into a terrifying ordeal, akin to being trapped in a haunted hotel.
Fact: The film was shot in documentary style, adding to its realism and tension. It was also the first film to be released in the U.S. with a PG-13 rating for "intense thematic material, disturbing sequences of violence and terror, and brief language."
Watch Now 
The Innkeepers (2011)
Description: Two employees at the Yankee Pedlar Inn, which is about to close for good, decide to investigate the hotel's rumored hauntings. Their curiosity leads them into a chilling encounter with the supernatural.
Fact: The film was shot in the actual Yankee Pedlar Inn in Torrington, Connecticut, which is reputed to be haunted. Director Ti West also played a role in the film as a guest at the hotel.
Watch Now 
The Grand Budapest Hotel (2014)
Description: While not a traditional emergency, the film features a series of chaotic events at the titular hotel, including theft, murder, and political upheaval, all revolving around the legendary concierge Gustave H. and his lobby boy Zero Moustafa.
Fact: The film was shot in Germany, with the exterior of the hotel being a purpose-built set. Wes Anderson used a unique aspect ratio for different time periods in the film, reflecting the changing cinematic styles.
Watch Now 
Hotel Artemis (2018)
Description: In a dystopian future, a nurse runs a secret, members-only hospital for criminals in a fortified hotel. When a riot breaks out, the hotel's security is compromised, leading to a series of intense and dangerous situations for its residents.
Fact: The film was written and directed by Drew Pearce, who also wrote the screenplay for "Iron Man
Watch Now 
The Night Clerk (2020)
Description: A hotel night clerk with Asperger's syndrome becomes embroiled in a murder investigation when he inadvertently records a crime. His unique perspective and the hotel setting create a tense atmosphere.
Fact: The film was shot in Utah, with the hotel scenes taking place at the historic Hotel Monaco in Salt Lake City. The lead actor, Tye Sheridan, also served as an executive producer.
Watch Now 
The Haunting of Hill House (2018)
Description: While not a film, this Netflix series captures the essence of hotel emergencies through its portrayal of the Crain family's haunting experiences in the Hill House, which they convert into a hotel.
Fact: The series was inspired by Shirley Jackson's novel but significantly expanded upon it. The show's creator, Mike Flanagan, is known for his work in horror, including "Doctor Sleep," which connects to "The Shining."
Watch Now 
The Hotel (2002)
Description: A group of friends checks into a hotel for a weekend getaway, only to find themselves trapped in a nightmarish scenario when the hotel's staff and guests turn out to be part of a sinister cult.
Fact: This low-budget horror film was shot in a real hotel in Los Angeles, adding to its eerie authenticity. It was released directly to video.
30 Days Free 
