Dive into the eerie intersection of faith and fear with our curated list of horror films that explore the dark corners of religious institutions. From haunted cathedrals to demonic possessions, these films delve into the unsettling mysteries that can lurk within the sacred walls of churches. Whether you're a horror aficionado or a curious viewer, this collection promises to send shivers down your spine with its blend of supernatural terror and psychological dread.

The Exorcist (1973)
Description: This classic horror film revolves around the demonic possession of a young girl, with the church's involvement in the exorcism making it a cornerstone of religious horror.
Fact: The film was nominated for 10 Academy Awards, winning two, and was the first horror film ever to be nominated for Best Picture.


Stigmata (1999)
Description: A hairdresser experiences stigmata and other religious phenomena, drawing the attention of the Vatican, who sees her as a potential threat to their doctrine.
Fact: The film was criticized by the Catholic Church for its portrayal of religious themes and practices.


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 an exorcism goes wrong, exploring the legal and spiritual dimensions of church practices.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life case of Anneliese Michel, a German woman who underwent 67 exorcisms.


The Rite (2011)
Description: A skeptical seminary student undergoes an exorcism course in Rome, leading to encounters with true evil, highlighting the church's role in battling demonic forces.
Fact: The film is loosely based on the book "The Rite: The Making of a Modern Exorcist" by Matt Baglio.


The Last Exorcism (2010)
Description: A disillusioned evangelical minister documents what he believes will be his final exorcism, only to encounter a genuine case of demonic possession.
Fact: The film uses a found footage style, adding to its realism and intensity.


The Vatican Tapes (2015)
Description: A young woman becomes possessed by a demon, and the Vatican steps in to perform an exorcism, showcasing the church's secretive battle against evil.
Fact: The film was directed by Mark Neveldine, known for his work on the "Crank" series.


The Devil Inside (2012)
Description: A documentary-style film where a woman investigates her mother's involvement in an exorcism, leading to her own encounters with demonic forces.
Fact: The film ends with a website URL, encouraging viewers to seek more information online, which was a unique marketing strategy at the time.


Deliver Us from Evil (2014)
Description: A New York police officer teams up with an unconventional priest to battle demonic forces, highlighting the church's role in combating supernatural evil.
Fact: The film is based on the book "Beware the Night" by Ralph Sarchie, a real-life NYPD sergeant who performed exorcisms.


The Possession of Hannah Grace (2018)
Description: A morgue worker encounters the body of a young woman who was killed during an exorcism, leading to supernatural events tied to the church's past.
Fact: The film was originally titled "The Heretic" during its development.


The Nun (2018)
Description: Set in a Romanian abbey, this film explores the origins of the demonic nun from "The Conjuring" universe, making it a chilling addition to church-themed horror.
Fact: The film was shot in Romania, utilizing the real-life Corvin Castle for some scenes.
