Hotel Horror Stories: 10 Films to Watch

Description: A widow moves into a seaside cottage, only to find it haunted by the ghost of a sea captain. While not a typical horror, the film explores the supernatural in a hotel-like setting, making it a charming addition.

Fact: The film was remade as a TV series in the 1960s.

Description: Marion Crane checks into the Bates Motel, where she encounters the reclusive Norman Bates, leading to one of cinema's most iconic shower scenes. This film redefined the horror genre and the portrayal of hotels.

Fact: Alfred Hitchcock bought the rights to the novel to prevent the ending from being spoiled, and he insisted that no one be allowed into the theater once the film started.

Description: Jack Torrance takes a job as the winter caretaker of the isolated Overlook Hotel, where he, his wife Wendy, and son Danny are subjected to the hotel's sinister influence, leading to a descent into madness. This film is a quintessential example of a hotel setting turning into a place of terror.

Fact: The Overlook Hotel was inspired by the Stanley Hotel in Colorado, where Stephen King stayed. The film's famous "Here's Johnny!" scene was improvised by Jack Nicholson.

Description: Based on John Irving's novel, this film follows the eccentric Berry family as they manage a series of hotels, encountering bizarre events and characters along the way. It's a quirky, dark comedy with elements of tragedy.

Fact: The film features a young Jodie Foster and Rob Lowe, showcasing their early acting talents.

Description: Stranded at a remote desert motel during a rainstorm, ten strangers find themselves being killed off one by one. This psychological thriller uses the hotel setting to create an atmosphere of isolation and paranoia.

Fact: The film's twist ending was kept secret from most of the cast to capture genuine reactions.

Description: A hospice nurse working at a spooky old mansion, which once served as a hotel, discovers dark secrets involving voodoo and the supernatural. The setting adds to the eerie atmosphere.

Fact: The film was shot in New Orleans, utilizing the city's rich history and architecture to enhance the creepy vibe.

Description: A skeptical author, Mike Enslin, checks into room 1408 at the Dolphin Hotel, which is rumored to be haunted, only to find himself trapped in a nightmarish ordeal. This film captures the essence of a hotel room as a place of horror and psychological torment.

Fact: The film is based on a Stephen King short story, and the room number 1408 was chosen because it's considered an unlucky number in some cultures.

Description: Two employees at the Yankee Pedlar Inn, which is about to close for good, decide to investigate the hotel's supposed hauntings. Their curiosity leads them into a chilling encounter with the supernatural.

Fact: The film was shot in the real Yankee Pedlar Inn, which is rumored to be haunted in real life.

Description: While not a horror film, this Wes Anderson masterpiece involves a series of mysterious events at the luxurious Grand Budapest Hotel, including theft, murder, and political upheaval, making it a unique addition to this list.

Fact: The film features an ensemble cast including Ralph Fiennes, Tilda Swinton, and Jeff Goldblum.

Description: While primarily a TV series, this adaptation of Shirley Jackson's novel includes scenes set in a hotel, where the Crain family's traumatic experiences begin. It's a modern take on haunted hotel narratives.

Fact: The series was critically acclaimed for its storytelling and visual style, earning several Emmy nominations.