Thanksgiving isn't just about turkey and gratitude; it can also be a backdrop for some spine-chilling suspense. This curated list of 10 thriller movies set around Thanksgiving provides a unique twist to your holiday viewing. Each film brings its own blend of tension, mystery, and sometimes, a touch of holiday horror, making them perfect for those who love a good scare with their pumpkin pie.

The House on Sorority Row (1983)
Description: While not explicitly about Thanksgiving, the film's setting during a sorority reunion around the holiday adds a chilling atmosphere. The story revolves around a group of sorority sisters who accidentally kill their housemother and then face deadly consequences.
Fact: The movie was remade in 2009 as "Sorority Row," but the original has a cult following for its eerie Thanksgiving vibe.


Home for the Holidays (1995)
Description: While primarily a comedy-drama, the film includes elements of suspense and family secrets that unfold during Thanksgiving, making it a fitting addition to this list.
Fact: The film was directed by Jodie Foster, who also has a small role in it, showcasing her versatility behind and in front of the camera.


The Ice Storm (1997)
Description: This film captures the dysfunction of a family during Thanksgiving weekend in 1973, with an underlying tension that builds to a dramatic climax.
Fact: The movie was adapted from Rick Moody's novel of the same name and features a star-studded cast including Kevin Kline and Sigourney Weaver.


The Strangers (2008)
Description: Although not directly about Thanksgiving, the film's setting in a secluded house during the holiday weekend adds to the tension. A couple is terrorized by masked strangers with no apparent motive, creating an atmosphere of unrelenting fear.
Fact: The movie was inspired by true events, including the Manson Family murders, adding a layer of realism to its terror.


The Purge: Election Year (2016)
Description: While not Thanksgiving-specific, the film's annual Purge event coincides with the holiday, providing a backdrop for political intrigue and survival horror.
Fact: The film series explores societal issues through the lens of a dystopian future, making it a thought-provoking watch.


The Thanksgiving Day (1990)
Description: A made-for-TV movie that turns into a suspenseful narrative when a family's Thanksgiving celebration is disrupted by a series of mysterious events.
Fact: The film features a plot twist that was quite ahead of its time for television movies of that era.


Black Friday (2004)
Description: Set on the day after Thanksgiving, this film explores the chaos and desperation of Black Friday shopping, turning it into a survival thriller where shoppers must outwit each other to survive.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life Black Friday incidents, highlighting the darker side of consumerism during the holiday season.


The Thanksgiving House (2013)
Description: This Hallmark Channel movie might seem like a cozy Thanksgiving tale, but it quickly turns into a suspenseful journey as a family uncovers the dark secrets of their newly inherited house.
Fact: The film was shot in Vancouver, Canada, despite its American setting. It also features a mix of comedy and thriller elements, making it a unique watch for the holiday season.


The Thanksgiving Promise (1986)
Description: This family drama turns into a suspenseful tale when a young boy must navigate through a series of challenges to keep a promise made on Thanksgiving.
Fact: The film stars a young Neil Patrick Harris in one of his early roles, adding a nostalgic charm for viewers.


The Day After Thanksgiving (2014)
Description: A lesser-known indie film where the aftermath of Thanksgiving dinner leads to unexpected events, blending family drama with thriller elements.
Fact: The movie was shot in a single location, emphasizing the claustrophobic atmosphere of family gatherings.
