This curated list of horror films delves into the theme of atheism, exploring the existential dread and philosophical questions that arise when faith is absent or questioned. These movies not only entertain with their horror elements but also provoke thought on the nature of belief, the supernatural, and the human psyche. They are valuable for viewers interested in horror cinema that goes beyond mere scares to challenge and reflect on the absence of divine intervention or the presence of doubt.

The Exorcist (1973)
Description: While not explicitly about atheism, it features a character, Chris MacNeil, who initially dismisses the idea of demonic possession, reflecting a secular worldview. The film explores the clash between faith and skepticism.
Fact: The film was nominated for 10 Academy Awards, winning two, and is considered one of the greatest horror films ever made.


The Omen (1976)
Description: This film deals with the Antichrist, but it also subtly explores the theme of disbelief and the struggle of faith when confronted with undeniable evil, challenging the characters' and audience's beliefs.
Fact: The film's eerie score by Jerry Goldsmith won an Academy Award for Best Original Score.


The Exorcism of Emily Rose (2005)
Description: This film, based on a true story, explores the legal and moral implications of exorcism, with characters debating the existence of the supernatural, thus touching on atheistic themes.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life case of Anneliese Michel, whose exorcism led to her death.


The Possession (2012)
Description: This film deals with a family's struggle with a demonic entity, where the father, initially skeptical, must confront his disbelief in the face of undeniable evil.
Fact: The film was inspired by a real-life story of a haunted box known as the "Dibbuk Box."


The Rite (2011)
Description: The film follows a skeptical seminary student who becomes an exorcist, confronting his doubts about faith and the supernatural, making it a compelling watch for those interested in atheism in horror.
Fact: The movie was inspired by the book "The Rite: The Making of a Modern Exorcist" by Matt Baglio.


The Last Exorcism (2010)
Description: A documentary-style film where a pastor, who no longer believes in the supernatural, performs what he believes to be his final exorcism, only to be confronted with real evil, challenging his atheistic stance.
Fact: The film was shot in a found footage style, adding to its realism and intensity.


The Devil Inside (2012)
Description: A documentary-style film about a woman investigating exorcism, which leads her to question her own beliefs and the existence of the devil, touching on themes of atheism and doubt.
Fact: The film's ending was controversial, leading to much discussion among viewers.


The Autopsy of Jane Doe (2016)
Description: While not directly about atheism, the film's premise involves a coroner and his son who, through their scientific examination, are forced to confront the supernatural, challenging their rational worldview.
Fact: The film was praised for its unique approach to horror, focusing on the autopsy process.


The Exorcism of Molly Hartley (2015)
Description: This film explores the psychological and supernatural horror of possession, with characters grappling with faith and the absence of it, making it relevant to the theme of atheism.
Fact: The film was a direct-to-video release, but it garnered a cult following for its intense horror elements.


The Witch (2015)
Description: Set in the 1630s, this film examines the loss of faith and the rise of doubt in a family isolated from their Puritan community, leading to supernatural horror that questions belief.
Fact: The film uses authentic 17th-century English dialects for historical accuracy.
