Conferences are supposed to be about networking, learning, and professional growth. However, in the realm of horror cinema, these events can quickly turn into terrifying experiences. This curated list of 10 horror movies explores the dark side of conferences, where the attendees face supernatural or psychological horrors. Whether it's a haunted hotel, a cursed convention, or a sinister seminar, these films offer a chilling twist on what should be a routine business or academic event. Here's your guide to the most spine-chilling conference horror movies, perfect for those who love a good scare with a professional backdrop.

The Dead Zone (1983)
Description: Johnny Smith, a teacher, wakes up from a coma with psychic abilities. His visions lead him to a political conference where he must stop a potential disaster. The conference setting is pivotal to the plot.
Fact: Stephen King, the author of the novel, was initially unhappy with the film's ending but later changed his mind.


The Faculty (1998)
Description: A high school faculty conference turns into a battle for survival when the teachers are taken over by alien parasites. This film blends horror with sci-fi, making it a unique entry.
Fact: The movie features a young cast that would later become stars, including Josh Hartnett and Elijah Wood.


The Crazies (2010)
Description: A small town's annual town hall meeting turns into chaos when a biological weapon causes residents to go insane. The conference setting is used to escalate the horror.
Fact: The film was remade from George A. Romero's 1973 original, updating the story for modern audiences.


The Signal (2007)
Description: A horror anthology where one segment features a conference of scientists who are exposed to a mysterious signal that alters their behavior. The conference setting adds to the eerie atmosphere.
Fact: The film was shot in a non-linear fashion, with each segment filmed by a different director.


The Cabin in the Woods (2012)
Description: While not a traditional conference, the film involves a group of friends who are unknowingly part of a larger, sinister experiment orchestrated by a secretive organization. The setting and theme fit the list's premise.
Fact: The film was initially shelved due to MGM's financial issues but was later released to critical acclaim.


The Invitation (2015)
Description: While not strictly a conference, this film involves a dinner party that turns sinister, reminiscent of the social dynamics at professional gatherings. The setting and theme make it a fitting addition to this list.
Fact: The film was shot in just 20 days, creating an intense, claustrophobic atmosphere.


The Invitation (2015)
Description: A dinner party with ex-spouses and friends turns into a psychological horror, reminiscent of the tension at professional conferences. The film's setting and dynamics make it a compelling addition.
Fact: The film was shot in a real house, adding to the authenticity of the setting.


The Conference (2023)
Description: A group of municipal employees attend a conference at a remote hotel, only to find themselves trapped with a killer among them. The film cleverly uses the setting to build tension and paranoia.
Fact: This Swedish film was inspired by real-life corporate retreat horror stories, adding a layer of realism to the terror.


The Dead Zone (2016)
Description: A group of business professionals attend a conference in a secluded location, only to find themselves hunted by a mysterious figure. The film uses the isolation of the conference setting to build suspense.
Fact: This film shares its title with the 2023 Swedish film but offers a different take on the conference horror theme.
