This curated list of 10 thriller films explores the profound and often disturbing impact of childhood trauma. These movies not only entertain but also offer a deep dive into psychological complexities, making them valuable for viewers interested in understanding the long-term effects of early life experiences on mental health and behavior.

The Sixth Sense (1999)
Description: A young boy who communicates with spirits seeks help from a psychologist, revealing deep-seated trauma and psychological issues.
Fact: M. Night Shyamalan wrote the screenplay in just five days, and the film's twist ending has become iconic.


The Others (2001)
Description: A woman living in a darkened old house with her photosensitive children begins to believe the house is haunted, revealing layers of trauma and secrets.
Fact: The film was shot in Spain, despite being set in the Channel Islands, and its ending has become a topic of much discussion among viewers.


The Devil's Backbone (2001)
Description: Set during the Spanish Civil War, this film follows an orphan boy who uncovers the dark secrets of his new home, reflecting on the trauma of war.
Fact: It was directed by Guillermo del Toro, who is known for his gothic storytelling.


The Lovely Bones (2009)
Description: After being murdered, a young girl watches over her family from heaven, dealing with the trauma of her death and its impact on her loved ones.
Fact: The film was adapted from Alice Sebold's best-selling novel and features a unique visual representation of the afterlife.


The Skeleton Key (2005)
Description: A hospice nurse uncovers the dark history of Hoodoo in a Louisiana plantation, where childhood trauma plays a pivotal role in the unfolding mystery.
Fact: The film was shot on location in Louisiana, adding authenticity to its Southern Gothic atmosphere.


The Orphanage (2007)
Description: A woman returns to her childhood home, now an orphanage, and confronts the ghosts of her past, both literal and metaphorical.
Fact: The film was produced by Guillermo del Toro, who also contributed to the story.


The Babadook (2014)
Description: This psychological horror film delves into the life of a widow and her son, whose childhood trauma manifests through a sinister storybook character.
Fact: The film was initially rejected by several film festivals before gaining critical acclaim. It was also praised for its realistic portrayal of grief and mental health.


Goodnight Mommy (2014)
Description: Twin boys begin to suspect their mother, who returns home after facial surgery, isn't who she claims to be, exploring themes of identity and childhood trauma.
Fact: The film was Austria's submission for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 88th Academy Awards.


The Girl with All the Gifts (2016)
Description: In a post-apocalyptic world, a unique child with a traumatic past holds the key to humanity's survival, exploring themes of identity and trauma.
Fact: The film is based on the novel by M.R. Carey, who also wrote the screenplay.


The Perfection (2018)
Description: Two cellists, one a former child prodigy, confront their past traumas and the dark secrets of their music school.
Fact: The film was released on Netflix and received mixed reviews but was praised for its bold storytelling.
