Lions, often celebrated as the kings of the jungle, can also be the stuff of nightmares. This curated collection of horror films featuring lions showcases the darker side of these majestic creatures, transforming them into terrifying predators. Whether it's through supernatural elements, psychological horror, or raw survival instincts, these films will keep you on the edge of your seat, proving that even the most admired animals can become the source of our deepest fears.

The Lion of the Desert (1981)
Description: While primarily a historical epic, the film includes scenes where the Libyan resistance fighters use lions to ambush Italian forces, creating a unique blend of war and horror elements.
Fact: The film was banned in Italy due to its portrayal of Italian colonial history.


The Ghost and the Darkness (1996)
Description: This film is based on the true story of the Tsavo maneaters, two maneless lions in Kenya that terrorized a railway construction camp, killing over 130 people. It's a blend of historical drama and horror, showcasing the primal fear of being hunted by an unseen predator.
Fact: The film was shot on location in South Africa, and the lions in the movie were portrayed by animatronic models and real lions.


Beast (2022)
Description: A father and his two teenage daughters find themselves hunted by a massive rogue lion intent on proving that the savannah has but one apex predator. This film combines elements of survival horror with a modern twist on the man vs. nature theme.
Fact: The film was inspired by true events of lion attacks in Africa, emphasizing the real threat posed by wildlife.


The Lion's Den (2008)
Description: This film involves a group of people trapped in a lion's enclosure at a zoo, turning their visit into a nightmare. It explores themes of human vulnerability and the primal fear of being caged with a predator.
Fact: The film was shot in an actual zoo, enhancing the realism of the setting.


Roar (1981)
Description: Although not strictly a horror film, "Roar" features a house overrun by over 100 wild cats, including lions, leading to numerous real-life injuries during filming. Its chaotic and dangerous production makes it a unique entry into the horror genre through sheer terror of real animal attacks.
Fact: Over 70 members of the cast and crew were injured by animals during the filming, with injuries ranging from scratches to severe maulings.


Prey (2007)
Description: In this British horror film, a group of friends on a camping trip in the Scottish Highlands encounter a pack of wild animals, including lions, that have escaped from a nearby zoo. The film plays on the fear of being hunted in an unfamiliar environment.
Fact: The film was shot in the remote Scottish Highlands, adding to the authenticity of the setting.


The Lion and the Lamb (1930)
Description: This early talkie film features a lion that escapes from a circus and wreaks havoc in a small town. While not a modern horror, it captures the essence of fear when a wild animal is loose in a populated area.
Fact: It was one of the first films to use a real lion in a starring role, showcasing early special effects.


The Lion's Share (1971)
Description: A lesser-known film where a circus lion escapes and terrorizes a small town, leading to a tense manhunt. The film uses the lion as a metaphor for the chaos that can erupt when control is lost.
Fact: The film was shot in black and white, adding to its eerie atmosphere.


The Lion's Roar (1952)
Description: A classic British film where a lion escapes from a circus and roams the countryside, creating fear and suspense among the local populace. It's a tale of survival and the clash between man and nature.
Fact: The film was one of the first to use a lion's roar as a central plot device.


The Lion's Prey (1965)
Description: A group of tourists on a safari in Africa are stalked by a rogue lion, turning their adventure into a fight for survival. The film captures the raw terror of being hunted by a wild animal in its natural habitat.
Fact: The film was shot on location in Kenya, using real lions for authenticity.
