Action Films About Religious Cults

Description: This cult classic follows a police sergeant investigating the disappearance of a young girl on a remote Scottish island, only to find himself ensnared by a pagan cult with sinister intentions. The film's blend of folk horror and action makes it a unique entry in this list.

Fact: The film was initially panned by critics but has since gained a cult following, and its ending is considered one of the most shocking in horror cinema.

Description: Johnny Smith, a schoolteacher, wakes up from a coma with psychic abilities, leading him to confront a politician with cult-like followers. This film combines psychological horror with action, as Johnny tries to prevent a catastrophic future.

Fact: The film is based on Stephen King's novel, and Christopher Walken's performance was critically acclaimed.

Description: While primarily a dystopian drama, this film adaptation of Margaret Atwood's novel features a totalitarian regime with religious overtones, where women are subjugated into a cult-like society. The resistance against this regime provides action elements.

Fact: The film was released before the book became widely recognized, and it received mixed reviews but has since gained a cult following.

Description: An archangel comes to Earth to find a human soul to end a war in Heaven, leading to a series of action-packed confrontations with other angels and humans. This film delves into religious mythology with a gritty, action-oriented approach.

Fact: Christopher Walken's portrayal of the archangel Gabriel was both chilling and charismatic, adding depth to the film's supernatural elements.

Description: While not strictly about a religious cult, this film features a law firm run by the devil himself, exploring themes of temptation, power, and the corrupting influence of belief. It's a legal thriller with supernatural elements that fits into our theme.

Fact: Al Pacino's portrayal of the devil earned him a Golden Globe nomination for Best Supporting Actor.

Description: This film blends courtroom drama with supernatural horror, focusing on the trial of a priest accused of negligent homicide after performing an exorcism on a young woman believed to be possessed. The film explores the intersection of faith, law, and the supernatural.

Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life case of Anneliese Michel, whose exorcism led to her death.

Description: A documentary crew travels to a remote commune to investigate a friend's disappearance, uncovering a sinister religious cult. The film's found footage style adds to the realism and tension, making it a gripping watch for action and horror fans alike.

Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life events of the Jonestown massacre.

Description: A dinner party turns into a psychological thriller when the host reveals her involvement with a mysterious cult. While not an action film in the traditional sense, it builds tension through the fear of what the cult might do, culminating in a dramatic climax.

Fact: The film was praised for its slow-burn approach to horror, making the eventual action sequences all the more impactful.

Description: A group of friends hiking in Sweden encounter a malevolent cult practicing ancient rituals. The film combines elements of survival horror with action, as the friends fight to escape the cult's grasp.

Fact: The film was adapted from Adam Nevill's novel of the same name and was praised for its atmospheric tension and the portrayal of the cult's rituals.

Description: A group of friends must fight for survival when they stumble upon a secretive cult in the woods. This low-budget film delivers high-octane action and suspense, exploring the dark side of religious fervor.

Fact: The film was shot in just 15 days, showcasing the director's ability to work under tight constraints.