There's something inherently eerie about a shopping mall after hours, when the lights dim and the silence is broken only by the hum of the escalators. This collection of horror movies takes full advantage of this setting, turning the everyday experience of shopping into a spine-chilling adventure. From ghostly apparitions to zombie outbreaks, these films will make you think twice about your next shopping trip.

Dawn of the Dead (1978)
Description: This classic zombie film by George A. Romero uses a shopping mall as a fortress against the undead, exploring consumerism and survival in a uniquely terrifying way.
Fact: The mall scenes were shot in the Monroeville Mall in Pennsylvania, which was still under construction at the time, allowing for unique filming opportunities.


The Dead Zone (1983)
Description: While not entirely set in a mall, a pivotal scene involves a psychic vision in a shopping mall, adding to the film's eerie atmosphere.
Fact: The film is based on Stephen King's novel and features Christopher Walken in one of his most memorable roles.


Chopping Mall (1986)
Description: In this '80s horror-comedy, a group of teenagers are trapped in a mall with killer security robots, turning a night of fun into a fight for survival.
Fact: The film was originally titled "Killbots" and features a mix of horror and humor, making it a cult classic.


Phantom of the Mall: Eric's Revenge (1989)
Description: A disfigured man takes revenge on those who wronged him by haunting a shopping mall, blending elements of horror and thriller.
Fact: The film was originally intended as a direct sequel to "The Phantom of the Opera" but was retooled into a standalone story.


Mallrats (1995)
Description: While primarily a comedy, this Kevin Smith film includes a horror element when a character dresses up as a villain from a comic book, leading to some scary moments in the mall.
Fact: The film was a box office disappointment but has since gained a cult following.


Night of the Comet (1984)
Description: After a comet turns most of humanity into zombies, survivors find refuge in a shopping mall, combining elements of sci-fi and horror.
Fact: The film features a memorable scene where the survivors use the mall's PA system to play '80s hits.


The Dead Next Door (1989)
Description: This low-budget zombie film features scenes set in a mall, where survivors attempt to barricade themselves from the undead.
Fact: The film was directed by J.R. Bookwalter, who was only 21 at the time, making it one of the youngest directorial debuts in horror.


Dead Rising: Watchtower (2015)
Description: Based on the video game, this film follows a group of survivors in a mall overrun by zombies, offering a modern take on the classic "Dawn of the Dead" setting.
Fact: The film was released directly to video and features a cameo by the game's protagonist, Frank West.


The Mall (2019)
Description: This indie horror film revolves around a group of friends who encounter supernatural forces while exploring an abandoned mall.
Fact: The film was shot in a real abandoned mall, adding authenticity to the eerie setting.
