Anniversaries are supposed to be times of celebration, but in the world of horror cinema, they often mark the beginning of terror. This curated list of 10 horror films delves into the dark side of anniversaries, where past events come back to haunt the present. From cursed birthdays to haunted weddings, these films explore the eerie and often deadly consequences of marking time. Whether you're a horror aficionado or just looking for a thrilling watch, these movies offer a unique twist on the traditional anniversary narrative, making for a spine-chilling viewing experience.

The Haunting (1963)
Description: A group of people gather in a haunted house on the anniversary of a tragic event, leading to psychological terror and supernatural phenomena.
Fact: The film was remade in 1999, but the original is often considered superior for its subtlety and psychological horror.


The Return of the Living Dead (1985)
Description: While not directly about an anniversary, the film features a group of friends who accidentally release toxic gas on the anniversary of a military experiment, leading to a zombie outbreak.
Fact: The film was inspired by George A. Romero's "Night of the Living Dead," but it takes a more comedic and punk rock approach to the zombie genre.


The Others (2001)
Description: A woman living in a dark, old house with her photosensitive children experiences strange occurrences on the anniversary of her husband's departure to war.
Fact: The film was shot in chronological order to capture the emotional journey of the characters authentically.


The Skeleton Key (2005)
Description: A hospice nurse takes a job at a plantation house on the anniversary of a tragic event, only to discover that the house holds dark secrets involving voodoo and the supernatural.
Fact: The film was shot in New Orleans, utilizing the city's rich history and folklore to enhance its eerie atmosphere.


The Exorcism of Emily Rose (2005)
Description: Based on a true story, this film follows the trial of a priest accused of negligent homicide after performing an exorcism on a young woman on the anniversary of her possession.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life case of Anneliese Michel, whose exorcism and subsequent death caused a legal and religious controversy.


The Babadook (2014)
Description: On the anniversary of her husband's death, a widow and her son are haunted by a sinister presence from a children's book. This film explores themes of grief and fear.
Fact: The film was initially banned in some countries due to its intense psychological horror elements.


The Invitation (2015)
Description: A man attends a dinner party hosted by his ex-wife on the anniversary of their son's death, only to suspect that the gathering has a more sinister purpose.
Fact: The film was praised for its slow-burn tension and its exploration of grief and paranoia.


The Autopsy of Jane Doe (2016)
Description: Two coroners perform an autopsy on a mysterious body found on the anniversary of a town's tragic event, uncovering supernatural horrors.
Fact: The film was shot in a real morgue, adding to its chilling authenticity.


The Witch (2015)
Description: Set in 1630s New England, this film explores the dark side of a family's life after they are banished from their Puritan plantation on the anniversary of a significant event.
Fact: The film uses authentic 17th-century language and was praised for its historical accuracy.


The Anniversary (1968)
Description: This British horror film revolves around a family gathering to celebrate the 35th wedding anniversary of the domineering matriarch, Mrs. Taggart. However, the celebration quickly turns sinister as dark family secrets are revealed.
Fact: Bette Davis, known for her iconic roles in horror, delivers a chilling performance as Mrs. Taggart. The film was directed by Roy Ward Baker, who also directed "A Night to Remember."
