There's something inherently chilling about a house with a dark past or a mysterious presence. These films delve into the supernatural, the unexplained, and the downright terrifying, offering a mix of horror, suspense, and sometimes even a touch of the paranormal. Whether it's a ghostly apparition or a sinister secret hidden within the walls, these movies are perfect for those who love a good scare or a deep dive into the unknown. Here are 10 must-watch haunted house movies that will make you think twice about that old, creaky mansion down the street.

The House on Haunted Hill (1959)
Description: A millionaire offers a group of people $10,000 each to spend the night in a haunted house. What starts as a gimmick turns into a night of terror as the house's dark history comes to life.
Fact: The film was remade in 1999 with a modern twist, but the original is known for its campy charm and Vincent Price's iconic performance.


The Haunting (1963)
Description: This classic film is based on Shirley Jackson's novel "The Haunting of Hill House." It explores the psychological horror of a group of people who stay in a notorious haunted mansion to investigate paranormal activity. The film's eerie atmosphere and subtle scares make it a standout in the genre.
Fact: The film was remade in 1999, but many fans argue that the original captures the essence of the novel better. Also, the house used in the film, Ettington Park, is said to be haunted in real life.


The Legend of Hell House (1973)
Description: A physicist, his wife, and two mediums are hired to investigate the infamous Belasco House, known as the "Mount Everest of haunted houses." Their mission is to prove or disprove the existence of life after death.
Fact: The film was based on the novel "Hell House" by Richard Matheson, who also wrote the screenplay.


The Amityville Horror (1979)
Description: Based on the alleged real-life haunting of the Lutz family, this film tells the story of a family moving into a house where a mass murder took place. The house seems to have a life of its own, tormenting the new residents with supernatural occurrences.
Fact: The house's iconic "eye" windows have become synonymous with horror. Also, the film spawned numerous sequels and a remake in


The Others (2001)
Description: Set in post-World War II England, this film follows Grace, who lives in a secluded mansion with her two photosensitive children. As strange events unfold, Grace begins to suspect that they are not alone. The twist ending is one of the most memorable in horror cinema.
Fact: The film was shot in Spain, despite its English setting, and the mansion used was actually a set built for the movie.


The Orphanage (2007)
Description: Laura returns to her childhood home, now an orphanage, with her family. Her son's disappearance leads her on a haunting journey through her past, uncovering the secrets of the house.
Fact: This Spanish film was produced by Guillermo del Toro, who is known for his work in dark fantasy and horror.


The Haunting in Connecticut (2009)
Description: Based on a true story, this film follows a family who moves into a house that was once a funeral home, only to discover it's haunted by spirits with unfinished business.
Fact: The film was inspired by the Snedeker family's claims of paranormal activity, which were later debunked, but the movie still offers a chilling narrative.


The Conjuring (2013)
Description: Inspired by the real-life paranormal investigations of Ed and Lorraine Warren, this film focuses on the Perron family's haunting in their Rhode Island farmhouse. It's not just the house but the land itself that seems to be cursed.
Fact: The film's success led to a franchise, including several sequels and spin-offs. The real Perron family was involved in the film's production.


The Woman in Black (2012)
Description: A young lawyer travels to a remote village where he discovers a vengeful ghost haunting an old mansion. His investigation into the house's history leads to chilling encounters.
Fact: The film is based on Susan Hill's novel of the same name, and it was adapted into a successful stage play before the movie.


Crimson Peak (2015)
Description: This gothic romance by Guillermo del Toro features a young author who marries a mysterious aristocrat and moves into his decaying family mansion, where she uncovers dark secrets.
Fact: The film's production design was heavily inspired by Gothic literature, with the house itself being a character in the story.
