Basements, often dark, damp, and isolated, have long been a staple setting for horror films. They provide the perfect backdrop for suspense, fear, and the unknown. This curated list of 10 horror movies set in basements will take you on a spine-chilling journey through some of the most terrifying underground spaces ever captured on film. From psychological thrillers to supernatural horrors, these films explore the depths of human fear and the mysteries that lie beneath our feet.

The Haunting (1963)
Description: While not strictly a basement, the film's setting in a haunted mansion includes scenes in the cellar, where the characters experience paranormal phenomena.
Fact: The film was based on Shirley Jackson's novel "The Haunting of Hill House." It's considered a classic in psychological horror.


The House on Sorority Row (1983)
Description: A group of sorority sisters accidentally kill their housemother and hide her body in the basement, only to be stalked by a killer. The basement becomes a place of dread and secrets.
Fact: The film was one of the first to feature a killer targeting sorority members, influencing later slasher films.


The Descent (2005)
Description: While not exclusively set in a basement, the cave system in "The Descent" acts as an underground labyrinth where a group of women face their worst nightmares. The claustrophobic setting mirrors the oppressive feeling of being trapped in a basement.
Fact: The film was shot in real caves in the UK, adding to its authenticity. It also has a sequel, "The Descent Part 2," released in


The Crazies (2010)
Description: While not entirely set in a basement, the film features scenes where characters are trapped in a basement during a town-wide outbreak of insanity, adding to the claustrophobic horror.
Fact: This is a remake of George A. Romero's 1973 film of the same name. The film's ending was changed for the theatrical release to be more hopeful.


The Collector (2009)
Description: A man breaks into a house to rob it but finds himself trapped in the basement with a serial killer. The basement becomes a deadly maze of traps and terror.
Fact: The film was originally conceived as a prequel to "Saw," but it evolved into its own franchise. A sequel, "The Collection," was released in


The Descent Part 2 (2009)
Description: Continuing from the first film, this sequel brings characters back into the cave system, which can be likened to an expansive basement of terror.
Fact: The film was shot in the same cave system as the original, maintaining continuity and authenticity.


The Belko Experiment (2016)
Description: Although set in an office building, the basement plays a crucial role as characters seek refuge and face horrifying events. The film explores themes of survival and human nature.
Fact: The film was written by James Gunn, known for his work on "Guardians of the Galaxy." It was initially conceived as a short film.


The Autopsy of Jane Doe (2016)
Description: Set in a morgue's basement, this film follows two coroners as they uncover supernatural horrors during an autopsy. The basement setting amplifies the eerie atmosphere.
Fact: The film was praised for its unique take on horror, focusing on the suspense and mystery rather than gore. It has a 90% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.


The Bunker (2001)
Description: A group of German soldiers in a WWII bunker face psychological and supernatural horrors. The bunker's claustrophobic environment heightens the tension.
Fact: The film was shot in a real WWII bunker in Germany, adding to its gritty realism. It explores themes of guilt and paranoia.


The Basement (2018)
Description: This film dives into the psychological horror of a man who finds himself trapped in a basement, facing his own demons and the sinister intentions of his captor.
Fact: The film was shot in a real basement, enhancing the realism of the setting. It also explores themes of isolation and mental breakdown.
