Movies and Shows Like ‘The Children’ to Haunt Your Nights

Description: A psychological thriller that centers on a seemingly perfect child with a dark and murderous side. The film explores themes of nature versus nurture and the inherent evil that can exist in children.

Fact: The movie was based on a Broadway play, which itself was adapted from a novel by William March. The child actor Patty McCormack received an Academy Award nomination for her role.

Description: This film explores the eerie and unsettling nature of children with supernatural abilities, focusing on their mysterious and often malevolent behavior. The atmosphere of dread and the theme of children as otherworldly threats are central to its narrative.

Fact: The film is based on the novel 'The Midwich Cuckoos' by John Wyndham. It was remade in 1995 by John Carpenter.

Description: This psychological thriller involves themes of grief and the supernatural, with a child's presence (or absence) driving the narrative. The film's haunting atmosphere and ambiguous storytelling create a sense of unease.

Fact: The movie is famous for its editing and use of color, particularly the recurring motif of red. The controversial sex scene was one of the most explicit for its time.

Description: This iconic horror film deals with the possession of a young girl, blending supernatural terror with deep psychological and emotional trauma. The transformation of the child into something monstrous is a key element of its horror.

Fact: The movie was based on a true story of a boy's exorcism in the 1940s. It was the first horror film to be nominated for the Academy Award for Best Picture.

Description: A folk horror film that involves children in a sinister pagan ritual, creating an atmosphere of creeping dread and unsettling innocence. The movie plays with the idea of children as part of a larger, malevolent community.

Fact: The film was heavily edited upon its original release, with some scenes only being restored decades later. It has since gained a cult following and is considered a classic of the horror genre.

Description: A chilling tale of a child who may be the Antichrist, this movie delves into themes of parental fear and the supernatural. The suspense and horror stem from the child's unknowable and potentially evil nature.

Fact: The movie's iconic score by Jerry Goldsmith won an Academy Award. The role of Damien was played by Harvey Stephens, who was only five years old at the time.

Description: This film examines the psychological and physical horrors tied to childhood and parental relationships. The story involves children who are the products of extreme emotional trauma, manifesting in violent and disturbing ways.

Fact: The movie was inspired by director David Cronenberg's own experiences with divorce and custody battles. The special effects for the creatures were created using practical effects, adding to the film's visceral impact.

Description: A gothic horror story set in an orphanage, where the ghosts of children play a central role. The film blends supernatural elements with the trauma and innocence of childhood, creating a poignant and terrifying tale.

Fact: The movie is often seen as a companion piece to 'Pan's Labyrinth,' sharing similar themes and settings. It was Guillermo del Toro's first Spanish-language film since his debut.

Description: A haunting story about a mother's search for her missing son in an orphanage filled with ghostly children. The film combines emotional depth with supernatural horror, focusing on the bond between parent and child.

Fact: The movie was produced by Guillermo del Toro, who also served as a creative influence. It won seven Goya Awards, including Best New Director for J.A. Bayona.

Description: This psychological horror film explores the relationship between a mother and her troubled son, with the child's behavior becoming increasingly disturbing. The film uses the metaphor of a monster to represent grief and mental illness.

Fact: The Babadook became a cultural icon and was even embraced by the LGBTQ+ community as a symbol of resilience. The film was made on a modest budget but gained widespread critical acclaim.