10 Horror Films Set in the 15th Century

Description: Set during the Black Death, this film explores themes of death, faith, and the supernatural, all of which were central to the 15th-century mindset.

Fact: Ingmar Bergman's masterpiece features a famous chess game with Death, symbolizing the struggle between life and mortality.

Description: Based on Edgar Allan Poe's story, this film captures the essence of medieval dread with its tale of a plague and a prince's attempt to escape it.

Fact: Vincent Price delivers a memorable performance as Prince Prospero. The film was shot in England, enhancing its gothic atmosphere.

Description: This film, while not directly set in the 15th century, explores themes of demonic possession and the supernatural, which were prevalent fears during that time.

Fact: The film includes a cameo by Burgess Meredith, who plays a character with a connection to the supernatural. It was one of the first horror films to use a real-life model for a demon.

Description: Although set in the 14th century, this film's themes of religious intrigue, murder, and the fear of knowledge fit well with the 15th-century's atmosphere of superstition and religious fervor.

Fact: The film is based on Umberto Eco's novel, which itself delves into medieval philosophy and theology. It features Sean Connery in one of his most memorable roles.

Description: Set in the 17th century, this film's portrayal of the Salem witch trials reflects the hysteria and fear of witchcraft that was prevalent in the 15th century.

Fact: The film is based on Arthur Miller's play, which was a commentary on McCarthyism but uses historical events from the 17th century.

Description: Though set in modern times, the film's themes of temptation, the devil, and moral corruption echo the 15th-century's preoccupation with sin and damnation.

Fact: Al Pacino's portrayal of the devil was inspired by Milton's "Paradise Lost," which was written in the 17th century but reflects earlier medieval themes.

Description: Based on a true story from the 1970s, the film delves into exorcism, a practice deeply rooted in the medieval period, making it relevant to our theme.

Fact: The film was inspired by the case of Anneliese Michel, whose exorcism was performed in the 1970s but mirrors medieval exorcism practices.

Description: While set in the 14th century, this film's themes of plague, superstition, and the hunt for a necromancer resonate with the 15th-century mindset, making it a compelling addition to our list.

Fact: The film was shot in various locations in Germany to capture the medieval atmosphere. It features Sean Bean, known for his roles in historical dramas.

Description: Set in 1630s New England, this film captures the essence of 15th-century fears of witchcraft and the devil, making it a fitting entry in our list. It explores the disintegration of a Puritan family due to supernatural forces.

Fact: The film was shot entirely on location in a remote forest, enhancing its authentic feel. The dialogue is based on historical texts, giving it an eerie, period-specific authenticity.

Description: Although set in the 17th century, the film's depiction of witch hunts and the fear of witchcraft resonates with the 15th-century's witch hysteria.

Fact: Vincent Price stars as the infamous Matthew Hopkins, known as the Witchfinder General. The film was banned in the UK for its violent content.