Gremlins have long been a staple in horror and thriller genres, captivating audiences with their mischievous and often malevolent antics. This curated list of 10 films delves into the darker side of these mythical creatures, offering a blend of suspense, horror, and intrigue. Whether you're a fan of classic cinema or seeking modern twists on the gremlin lore, this collection provides a thrilling journey into the world of these enigmatic beings, showcasing their potential for chaos and terror.

Gremlins (1984)
Description: This iconic film introduces the world to Gizmo, a cute Mogwai, and the chaos that ensues when his rules are broken, leading to a gremlin infestation in a small town.
Fact: The film was originally intended to be a much darker horror movie before being toned down for a wider audience. The gremlins were created using a combination of puppetry and animatronics.


Critters (1986)
Description: These small, furry creatures from space are akin to gremlins in their destructive and chaotic nature, causing havoc on a small farm.
Fact: The film was originally titled "Smalltown" and was pitched as a mix of "Gremlins" and "The Amityville Horror."


The Gate (1987)
Description: This film involves a group of kids who accidentally open a portal to another dimension, releasing small, gremlin-like creatures that terrorize their neighborhood.
Fact: The film's special effects were groundbreaking for its time, particularly the stop-motion animation used for the creatures.


The Monster Squad (1987)
Description: This film includes a group of kids battling classic monsters, including creatures that resemble gremlins in their mischievous and monstrous behavior.
Fact: The film was a homage to classic Universal monster movies, featuring characters like Dracula, Frankenstein's Monster, and the Wolfman.


Night of the Demons (1988)
Description: While not directly about gremlins, this horror film features demonic entities that share similarities with gremlins in their mischievous and malevolent nature.
Fact: The film has become a cult classic, known for its mix of horror and dark comedy. It was shot in an abandoned mortuary, adding to its eerie atmosphere.


Gremlins 2: The New Batch (1990)
Description: This sequel takes the gremlins to New York City, where they wreak havoc in a high-tech building, showcasing their adaptability and penchant for mischief.
Fact: The film includes numerous parodies and cameos, including a scene where gremlins watch a parody of Snow White. The movie also features a meta-narrative where the film itself is being watched by characters within the story.


Troll 2 (1990)
Description: Although primarily about trolls, the creatures in this infamous "so-bad-it's-good" movie share traits with gremlins in their mischievous and deadly behavior.
Fact: It's widely considered one of the worst films ever made, but has gained a cult following for its unintentional humor and bizarre plot.


The Dark (2005)
Description: While not explicitly about gremlins, this film features a creature that embodies the fear of the dark, much like gremlins thrive in chaos and darkness.
Fact: The film was shot in Luxembourg, giving it a unique European setting for an American horror film.


Don't Be Afraid of the Dark (2010)
Description: This film features tiny, malevolent creatures living in the walls of an old mansion, similar to gremlins in their secretive and dangerous nature.
Fact: It was directed by Troy Nixey, with Guillermo del Toro as a co-writer, bringing a unique visual style to the horror genre.


The Gremlins (1943)
Description: This animated short film, produced by Warner Bros., was the first to feature gremlins, portraying them as the cause of aircraft malfunctions during WWII.
Fact: It was inspired by the RAF pilots' folklore about gremlins causing mechanical issues. The film was intended to boost morale among the troops.
