If you're a fan of the chilling suspense and eerie atmosphere of 'Cries in the Night' (1980), you're in for a treat. This article explores 10 similar movies and shows that capture the same haunting essence, perfect for those who love psychological thrillers and horror. Whether you're looking for hidden gems or classics, this list will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The Last House on the Left (1972)
Description: A brutal and unflinching horror film that explores themes of revenge and survival. The raw, visceral tone and the focus on ordinary people facing extreme violence are key similarities.
Fact: The film was heavily censored upon release due to its graphic content. It was marketed with the tagline 'To avoid fainting, keep repeating, It's only a movie...'.


Black Christmas (1974)
Description: This film is a pioneer in the slasher genre, featuring a mysterious killer stalking victims in a confined setting. The atmosphere of dread and the use of POV shots create a similar sense of unease.
Fact: It's considered one of the first slasher films, predating 'Halloween' by four years. The film's ambiguous ending was controversial at the time of its release.


The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974)
Description: A gritty, low-budget horror film that relies on raw intensity and the terror of being pursued by a relentless killer. The rural setting and visceral violence evoke a similar primal fear.
Fact: The film was marketed as being based on true events to increase its shock value, though it's largely fictional. It was shot on a very tight budget, which contributed to its raw, documentary-like feel.


Halloween (1978)
Description: A masterclass in suspense and the slow build of terror, featuring a silent, stalking killer. The film's use of shadows and music creates a pervasive sense of dread.
Fact: The iconic mask worn by Michael Myers was a modified Captain Kirk mask painted white. The film was shot in just 21 days on a very low budget but became a massive box office success.


The Hills Have Eyes (1977)
Description: A survival horror film that pits ordinary people against savage antagonists in a desolate setting. The tension and brutality mirror the referenced title's approach to horror.
Fact: The film was inspired by the legend of Sawney Bean, a Scottish cannibal. It was shot in the Mojave Desert, which added to the film's harsh, unforgiving atmosphere.


When a Stranger Calls (1979)
Description: A suspenseful thriller that plays on the fear of an unseen threat, much like the referenced title. It builds tension through psychological horror and the terror of being watched or hunted.
Fact: The opening 20 minutes of the film are often cited as one of the most terrifying sequences in horror history. The movie was inspired by an urban legend about a babysitter receiving creepy phone calls.


Maniac (1980)
Description: A disturbing character study of a serial killer, told from his perspective. The film's gritty realism and unrelenting tension make it a standout in the horror genre.
Fact: The film's special effects were created by Tom Savini, who also worked on 'Dawn of the Dead'. The movie was controversial for its graphic violence and first-person perspective of the killer.


The Burning (1981)
Description: A summer camp slasher that features a disfigured killer seeking revenge. The film's use of practical effects and its focus on teenage victims create a similar sense of dread.
Fact: The film features early work by special effects artist Tom Savini. It was based on the urban legend of Cropsey, a boogeyman figure from New York folklore.


The Funhouse (1981)
Description: A horror film set in a carnival, where the bright lights and festive atmosphere contrast with the lurking terror. The film's use of a confined, eerie setting is a key similarity.
Fact: The film's carnival setting was inspired by director Tobe Hooper's childhood fear of funhouses. The movie features elaborate set designs to create its creepy atmosphere.


My Bloody Valentine (1981)
Description: A slasher film set in a small mining town, where a killer returns to exact revenge. The film's blend of holiday cheer and gruesome violence creates a unique tone.
Fact: The film was heavily edited to avoid an X rating, with over 9 minutes of gore removed. The original cut was believed lost until a restored version was released in
