If you're a fan of the chilling horror film The Heretics (2017), you're likely craving more movies that deliver its unique blend of psychological terror and supernatural dread. This article curates 10 gripping films and shows that share similar themes of cults, dark rituals, and mind-bending horror, ensuring you'll find your next nightmare-inducing watch.

Rosemary's Baby (1968)
Description: A psychological horror masterpiece about paranoia and satanic cults, with a focus on slow-building dread.
Fact: The film was controversial for its satanic themes but is now considered a classic. Mia Farrow's iconic pixie cut was done without her consent during filming.


The Exorcist (1973)
Description: A classic horror film that delves into demonic possession and the battle between good and evil, featuring intense psychological and supernatural elements.
Fact: The movie was based on a novel inspired by a real-life exorcism case. It was the first horror film to be nominated for the Best Picture Oscar.


The Wicker Man (1973)
Description: A folk horror film that explores pagan rituals and the clash between modernity and ancient beliefs.
Fact: The film was heavily edited for its initial release, with some footage believed to be lost forever. It has since become a cult classic.


The Omen (1976)
Description: A chilling tale about the Antichrist's rise, featuring religious horror and ominous prophecies.
Fact: The production was plagued by strange accidents, leading some to believe it was cursed. The famous decapitation scene used real footage from a French train accident.


The Last Exorcism (2010)
Description: A found footage film about a fraudulent preacher facing a real demonic possession, blending mockumentary style with supernatural horror.
Fact: The film's ending was reshot after test audiences found the original too bleak. It was marketed as based on true events, though entirely fictional.


The Conjuring (2013)
Description: Centers around paranormal investigators confronting malevolent spirits, blending psychological horror with supernatural terror.
Fact: The film is based on the real-life case files of Ed and Lorraine Warren. It spawned a successful cinematic universe.


Sinister (2012)
Description: Focuses on a writer uncovering gruesome home movies that lead to supernatural horrors, blending found footage with traditional horror.
Fact: The film's creepy home movies were inspired by real snuff films. It features one of the most statistically scary soundtracks according to scientific studies.


The Babadook (2014)
Description: A psychological horror film that uses a monstrous entity as a metaphor for grief and mental illness.
Fact: The Babadook became an unlikely LGBTQ+ icon due to its themes of repression and acceptance. The creature's design was inspired by early 20th-century horror.


A Dark Song (2016)
Description: A slow-burning occult horror film that meticulously depicts a grueling magical ritual with psychological and supernatural consequences.
Fact: The film's ritual sequences were based on actual occult practices from the Abramelin operation. It was praised for its realistic portrayal of magic.


Hereditary (2018)
Description: Explores family trauma intertwined with occult themes, delivering a slow-burning, deeply unsettling narrative.
Fact: The film's disturbing imagery and themes led to walkouts during its premiere. It was A24's highest-grossing horror film at the time.
