There's something uniquely terrifying about the idea of a film reel that captures more than just images. These movies delve into the dark side of cinema, where the film itself becomes a conduit for terror, curses, or supernatural phenomena. This curated list of horror films about cursed film reels is perfect for those who love a good scare and appreciate the meta-narrative of horror within horror.

The Last Broadcast (1998)
Description: A documentary crew investigates the Jersey Devil legend, but their footage reveals something far more sinister. This film is one of the earliest examples of found footage horror involving cursed media.
Fact: It was one of the first films to use the internet as a promotional tool, creating a website to build hype before its release.


The Ring (2002)
Description: A journalist investigates a mysterious videotape that kills viewers seven days after watching it. This film is a cornerstone of the cursed film reel subgenre, blending urban legend with supernatural horror.
Fact: The film was a remake of the Japanese horror film "Ringu" and was directed by Gore Verbinski, known for his work on the "Pirates of the Caribbean" series.


The Cabin in the Woods (2012)
Description: While not exclusively about film reels, the film features a control room where the horrors are orchestrated, including a reel of film that plays out the scenarios. It's a meta-horror film that plays with the tropes of the genre.
Fact: The film was co-written by Joss Whedon, known for his work on "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" and "The Avengers."


Sinister (2012)
Description: A true-crime writer discovers a series of disturbing home movies that unleash an ancient entity. The film's use of Super 8 film reels adds a layer of eerie authenticity to the horror.
Fact: The film was inspired by the director Scott Derrickson's own childhood fascination with home movies and the fear of what might be lurking in the unseen frames.


V/H/S (2012)
Description: A group of misfits are hired to steal a VHS tape from an abandoned house, only to find a collection of bizarre and terrifying tapes. Each segment of this anthology film explores different aspects of found footage horror.
Fact: The film was shot entirely on VHS tapes to give it an authentic, grainy look, enhancing the horror experience.


The Borderlands (2013)
Description: A team of investigators from the Vatican use film reels to document paranormal activity in an old church, only to uncover something far more sinister. The film's use of found footage adds to the realism of the horror.
Fact: The film was shot in a real church, adding to the authenticity of the setting.


The Autopsy of Jane Doe (2016)
Description: While not directly about film reels, the film features a mysterious corpse that seems to have a supernatural connection to an old film reel, leading to a chilling discovery. It's a blend of horror and mystery.
Fact: The film was praised for its suspenseful build-up and the chilling performance of Olwen Catherine Kelly as Jane Doe.


The Taking of Deborah Logan (2014)
Description: A documentary crew captures the descent into madness of an elderly woman, revealing a demonic possession linked to an old film reel. The film uses the concept of cursed media to explore themes of aging and memory.
Fact: The film was praised for its realistic portrayal of Alzheimer's disease, adding depth to the horror narrative.


The Devil's Doorway (2018)
Description: Two priests investigate a miracle in 1960s Ireland, capturing their findings on film, which later reveals a horrifying truth. The film uses the concept of cursed film to explore themes of faith and sin.
Fact: It was inspired by real-life events and the Magdalene Laundries scandal in Ireland.


The Video Dead (1987)
Description: A cursed TV set brings forth zombies from a video tape, leading to a night of terror for those who encounter it. This film plays with the idea of media as a portal for evil.
Fact: The film has gained a cult following over the years for its unique blend of horror and dark comedy.
