Are you ready to delve into the dark, mysterious realms hidden beneath the floorboards? This curated list of 10 films will take you on a journey through the shadows of mystical basements, where secrets, spirits, and supernatural phenomena lurk. From psychological thrillers to outright horror, these movies offer a thrilling escape into the unknown, perfect for those who love a good scare or a puzzling mystery.

The Haunting (1963)
Description: A classic horror film where a group of people investigate a haunted mansion, with much of the terror emanating from its eerie basement.
Fact: The film was based on Shirley Jackson's novel "The Haunting of Hill House." It was remade in 1999 with a different approach to the basement scenes.


The Amityville Horror (1979)
Description: The infamous basement of the Amityville house plays a significant role in the family's terrifying experiences with the supernatural.
Fact: The film is based on the alleged real-life haunting of the Lutz family. The house's address, 112 Ocean Avenue, became iconic in horror lore.


The Others (2001)
Description: Although not focused on a basement, the film's eerie atmosphere and the discovery of secrets in the house's dark corners give it a similar feel.
Fact: The film was shot in Spain, despite being set in England. It was nominated for several awards, including Best Film at the European Film Awards.


The Skeleton Key (2005)
Description: A hospice nurse discovers a hidden room in the attic, but the real horror unfolds in the basement, where voodoo rituals and dark magic are practiced.
Fact: The film was shot in New Orleans, utilizing the city's rich history of voodoo and hoodoo practices. The house used in the film is a real mansion known as the Felicity Plantation.


The Descent (2005)
Description: While not exclusively about a basement, this film features a group of women exploring a cave system that feels like an endless, claustrophobic basement, filled with terrifying creatures.
Fact: The film was shot in a real cave system in the UK, adding to its authentic, eerie atmosphere. There are two different endings, one for the UK and one for the US.


The Cellar (2022)
Description: A family moves into a new home, only to discover that the basement holds dark secrets and a malevolent force that threatens their lives.
Fact: The film was directed by Brendan Muldowney, who also wrote the screenplay. It premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival.


The Babadook (2014)
Description: While the basement isn't the primary setting, the film's exploration of grief and fear through a haunting presence in the house resonates with the theme.
Fact: The film was initially banned in some countries due to its intense psychological horror elements. It has since gained cult status.


The Autopsy of Jane Doe (2016)
Description: A father and son coroners uncover supernatural secrets while performing an autopsy in their basement morgue.
Fact: The film was praised for its suspenseful build-up and minimal use of jump scares. It was directed by André Øvredal, known for his work in horror.


The Witch in the Window (2018)
Description: A father and son renovate an old house, uncovering a malevolent spirit in the basement that has a chilling effect on their lives.
Fact: The film was shot in Vermont, using a real abandoned house to enhance its authenticity. It was well-received for its slow-burn horror approach.


The Pact (2012)
Description: A woman investigates her sister's disappearance, leading her to uncover dark secrets in their childhood home's basement.
Fact: The film was Caity Lotz's first starring role, and she performed many of her own stunts. It was well-regarded for its blend of supernatural and psychological horror.
