Horror Films About Singers and Musicians

Description: The silent film classic where Lon Chaney Sr. stars as the Phantom, whose haunting presence and love for Christine Daaé, a young singer, creates a chilling atmosphere.

Fact: This was one of the first films to use the "Phantom" character, setting a precedent for future adaptations. Chaney's makeup was so effective that it shocked audiences at the time.

Description: While not a horror film per se, this biopic about the Belgian singer-songwriter Soeur Sourire includes elements of psychological tension and the darker side of fame, fitting our theme.

Fact: The film was based on the real-life story of Jeanine Deckers, who became famous for her song "Dominique." Her life took a tragic turn, adding a layer of darkness to her story.

Description: While primarily a thriller, this Stephen King adaptation includes a scene where the protagonist, Johnny Smith, has a vision of a singer's death, blending horror with psychic phenomena.

Fact: Directed by David Cronenberg, known for his body horror films. Christopher Walken stars as Johnny Smith, delivering a memorable performance.

Description: This film adaptation of Gaston Leroux's classic novel tells the tale of a disfigured musical genius who haunts the Paris Opera House. His obsession with a young soprano leads to a series of chilling events, making it a perfect fit for our list.

Fact: The film was directed by Joel Schumacher, known for his work on "Batman Forever" and "Phone Booth." The Phantom's mask was designed to be as realistic as possible, taking inspiration from real-life medical conditions.

Description: While not strictly a horror, this film features a writer with a skin disease who imagines himself in a 1940s noir detective story, where he sings and dances, blending reality with a nightmarish fantasy.

Fact: Robert Downey Jr. stars in this adaptation of Dennis Potter's TV series. The film includes musical numbers that are both surreal and darkly comedic.

Description: A horror-comedy about a Broadway musical production that turns deadly when a killer starts picking off the cast. The film features a singer who must use her wits and voice to survive.

Fact: The film was produced by the same company behind "Saw" and "Insidious." It was shot in Canada, using real Broadway performers to add authenticity to the musical numbers.

Description: Based on the life of Niccolò Paganini, this film explores the dark side of fame and talent, with Paganini rumored to have made a pact with the devil for his virtuosity.

Fact: David Garrett, a renowned violinist, plays Paganini and performs all the violin pieces in the film. The movie was shot in various historic locations in Italy.

Description: A morgue worker encounters the body of a young woman who was killed during an exorcism. The film features eerie singing and supernatural occurrences, tying into our theme.

Fact: The film was initially titled "The Offering." It was shot in a real morgue to add to the film's chilling authenticity.

Description: This sequel features a chilling scene where a choir sings during an exorcism, blending the sacred with the profane in a terrifying manner.

Fact: George C. Scott, who plays the lead, was initially reluctant to star in a horror film but was convinced by the script's quality.

Description: A modern take on the urban legend of Sweeney Todd, where a masseuse with a dark past uses her skills in a more sinister way, all while singing her way through the horror.

Fact: The film is based on a podcast of the same name, which itself was inspired by the story of Sweeney Todd. It explores themes of gentrification and survival.