10 Fantasy Films Where Torture Takes Center Stage

Description: This horror classic delves into the realm of sadomasochistic pleasure and pain, with the Cenobites, otherworldly beings who explore the limits of human experience through extreme torture.

Fact: Clive Barker, the creator of the Hellraiser series, also directed the first film. The iconic puzzle box, known as the Lament Configuration, was designed by Barker himself.

Description: Although more of a supernatural thriller, it includes scenes where the devil, played by Al Pacino, uses psychological and physical torture to manipulate and test the protagonist.

Fact: The film was originally conceived as a sequel to "The Exorcist," but the idea was scrapped, leading to this standalone story.

Description: Johnny Depp stars as a book dealer who uncovers a series of rituals and torture scenes linked to a mysterious book that might summon the devil.

Fact: The film was based on the novel "El Club Dumas" by Arturo Pérez-Reverte, but significantly deviates from the source material.

Description: While not strictly fantasy, this psychological thriller uses dream-like sequences to explore the mind of a serial killer, where scenes of torture are depicted in a surreal, fantastical setting.

Fact: Jennifer Lopez's character uses a futuristic technology to enter the mind of a comatose serial killer, leading to visually stunning but disturbing scenes.

Description: This dark fairy tale intertwines the brutal reality of post-Civil War Spain with a magical underworld where the protagonist faces trials that include elements of torture.

Fact: The film won three Academy Awards, including Best Art Direction, Best Cinematography, and Best Makeup.

Description: This found-footage horror film includes scenes where a supposed exorcism turns into a terrifying ordeal involving psychological and physical torment.

Fact: The film was shot in a documentary style, giving it a raw, realistic feel, and it spawned a sequel.

Description: While not fantasy in the traditional sense, this horror film involves a supernatural element where the torture is more psychological, as the characters uncover the dark secrets of a mysterious corpse.

Fact: The film was praised for its suspenseful build-up and the chilling performance of Olwen Catherine Kelly as Jane Doe.

Description: Set in 1630s New England, this film explores witchcraft and the psychological torment of a family, with scenes of implied torture and psychological horror.

Fact: The film was shot in a remote location to maintain authenticity, and the dialogue was based on historical research into the language of the time.

Description: This sequel to the iconic horror film features a detective investigating a series of murders with supernatural elements, including scenes of torture and possession.

Fact: William Peter Blatty, who wrote the original novel "The Exorcist," directed this film, and it's considered by many to be a more faithful adaptation of his sequel novel, "Legion."

Description: Set during the English Civil War, this film follows a witch-hunter who uses torture to extract confessions, blending historical drama with elements of the supernatural.

Fact: Vincent Price gives a memorable performance as the ruthless Matthew Hopkins, and the film was directed by Michael Reeves, who tragically died at a young age.