Amusement parks are supposed to be places of joy, laughter, and thrills, but what happens when the fun turns into fear? This curated list of 10 thrilling films set in amusement parks delves into the dark side of these entertainment hubs. From roller coaster disasters to haunted attractions, these movies will keep you on the edge of your seat, offering a unique blend of suspense, horror, and sometimes even dark comedy. Whether you're a fan of psychological thrillers or enjoy a good scare, this collection promises to deliver chills and thrills in equal measure.

The Funhouse (1981)
Description: A group of teenagers decide to spend the night in a carnival funhouse, only to discover they are not alone. This film captures the eerie atmosphere of an abandoned amusement park, making it a quintessential entry in this list.
Fact: The film was directed by Tobe Hooper, who also directed "The Texas Chain Saw Massacre." The funhouse set was built specifically for the movie and was quite elaborate, featuring many hidden passages and secret rooms.


The House of the Dead (2003)
Description: Based on the popular video game, this film features a rave party on an island that turns into a nightmare when zombies attack. The amusement park setting comes into play with the carnival-like atmosphere of the rave.
Fact: The film was critically panned but has since become a cult classic for its over-the-top action and unintentional humor.


Final Destination 3 (2006)
Description: This sequel in the popular horror franchise features a group of friends whose day at an amusement park turns deadly when a roller coaster derails, setting off a chain of gruesome events. It's a perfect fit for this list as it showcases the terror that can lurk in the most unexpected places.
Fact: The film was originally planned to be a direct-to-video release but was upgraded to a theatrical release due to the success of the previous films. The roller coaster crash was created using a combination of practical effects and CGI.


The Dark Ride (2006)
Description: This German film follows a group of friends who enter a haunted attraction at an amusement park, only to find themselves trapped in a real-life horror scenario. It's a lesser-known gem that fits perfectly into this theme.
Fact: The film was released directly to video in many countries but gained a cult following for its unique setting and suspenseful plot.


Dark Ride (2006)
Description: A group of college students take a job at an abandoned amusement park, only to find out it's haunted by the spirits of its dark past. This film uses the park's eerie setting to great effect.
Fact: The film was shot at the abandoned Six Flags New Orleans, adding an authentic, creepy atmosphere.


Zombieland (2009)
Description: While not exclusively set in an amusement park, the film's climax takes place in a zombie-infested theme park, providing a thrilling backdrop for the characters' final stand against the undead. It's included for its unique take on the amusement park setting.
Fact: The amusement park scenes were filmed at Wild Adventures Theme Park in Valdosta, Georgia. The film's success led to a sequel, "Zombieland: Double Tap," released in


The Funhouse Massacre (2015)
Description: A group of escaped mental patients hide out in an amusement park, turning it into a deadly playground. This film directly plays with the theme of amusement parks as a setting for horror.
Fact: The film features a mix of comedy and horror, with a cast of well-known horror genre actors.


The Amusement Park (1975)
Description: Directed by George A. Romero, this film explores the darker side of an amusement park through the eyes of an elderly man, showcasing the neglect and mistreatment of the elderly. While not a traditional thriller, its unsettling atmosphere makes it a unique addition.
Fact: The film was thought to be lost for many years and was only recently restored and released.


The Park (2017)
Description: A group of friends visit an abandoned amusement park for a birthday celebration, only to find themselves in a deadly game orchestrated by a mysterious figure. The film uses the park's dilapidated state to build tension.
Fact: The film was shot in an actual abandoned amusement park in Thailand, adding to its authenticity.


The Roller Coaster (1999)
Description: This made-for-TV movie features a roller coaster malfunction at an amusement park, leading to a series of suspenseful events. It's a straightforward thriller that captures the fear of amusement park rides gone wrong.
Fact: The film was part of a series of disaster movies made for television in the late '90s, focusing on different types of disasters.
