Anniversaries are supposed to be times of celebration, but in the world of horror cinema, they often mark the beginning of terror. Here's a curated list of 10 horror films where anniversaries play a pivotal role in the unfolding of chilling events. From cursed weddings to haunted birthdays, these films offer a unique twist on the traditional horror narrative, making them perfect for those who love a good scare with a thematic twist.

The Dead Zone (1983)
Description: Johnny Smith wakes from a coma on his anniversary to find he has psychic abilities, leading him to foresee a catastrophic event tied to a political figure.
Fact: Stephen King wrote the screenplay for this adaptation of his novel, and it was directed by David Cronenberg.


The Others (2001)
Description: Grace Stewart and her children live in a secluded mansion, where strange occurrences coincide with her husband's return on their anniversary.
Fact: The film was shot in Spain, and its ending twist has become one of the most discussed in horror cinema.


The Anniversary Party (2001)
Description: While not a traditional horror, this film explores the dark side of relationships and fame during a couple's anniversary party, where tensions and secrets unravel in a suspenseful manner.
Fact: The movie was co-directed by Jennifer Jason Leigh and Alan Cumming, who also star in the film.


The Skeleton Key (2005)
Description: A hospice nurse discovers dark secrets in a Louisiana plantation house during an anniversary of a tragic event, leading to a supernatural showdown.
Fact: The film was shot in New Orleans, and the plantation house used in the movie is the Felicity Plantation.


The Orphanage (2007)
Description: Laura returns to the orphanage where she grew up to celebrate its anniversary, but her son's disappearance leads to uncovering the orphanage's dark past.
Fact: The film was produced by Guillermo del Toro and was Spain's official submission for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 80th Academy Awards.


The Uninvited (2009)
Description: Anna returns home after a stay in a psychiatric hospital, only to find her mother's death anniversary brings forth ghostly presences and family secrets.
Fact: This is a remake of the 2003 South Korean film "A Tale of Two Sisters."


The Haunting of Molly Hartley (2008)
Description: Molly Hartley's 18th birthday becomes a nightmare as she discovers her family's dark secrets and the sinister forces that have been controlling her life.
Fact: The film was originally planned as a direct-to-video release but was given a theatrical run due to its popularity.


The Babadook (2014)
Description: Amelia's son's birthday is overshadowed by the appearance of a sinister children's book, leading to a psychological horror tied to her anniversary of loss.
Fact: The film was made on a budget of just $2 million and became a cult classic, praised for its psychological depth.


The Invitation (2015)
Description: A dinner party for an anniversary turns into a psychological horror as guests begin to suspect their hosts have ulterior motives.
Fact: The film was shot in 20 days, and its ending was kept secret from most of the cast until the day of filming.


The Anniversary (1968)
Description: This British horror film revolves around a family gathering to celebrate the 50th wedding anniversary of a domineering matriarch, whose past secrets come to light, leading to a night of terror.
Fact: The film was directed by Roy Ward Baker, known for his work on "A Night to Remember" and "The Vampire Lovers."
