Top 10 Ballet Horror Films

Description: While not strictly a horror film, its tale of a ballerina cursed by her red shoes to dance until death has a haunting quality that fits the theme. The film's surreal and tragic elements make it a classic in the ballet horror genre.

Fact: The film was inspired by the Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale of the same name. It was also one of the first British films to be released in the United States with its original title.

Description: A young American dancer arrives at a prestigious dance academy in Germany, only to uncover its dark secrets and supernatural horrors. The film's vivid colors and eerie atmosphere make it a standout in horror cinema.

Fact: The film was directed by Dario Argento, known for his giallo films. The score was composed by the progressive rock band Goblin.

Description: This film blends political thriller with elements of horror as a detective investigates a ballet teacher with ties to a terrorist group, revealing a dance of death and deception.

Fact: The film was directed by John Malkovich, who also wrote the screenplay based on the novel by Nicholas Shakespeare.

Description: While not a horror film, its narrative includes a segment where a young violinist's obsession with a cursed violin leads to a ballet performance that ends in tragedy, fitting the theme of horror in ballet.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Original Score.

Description: This psychological thriller follows a ballerina's descent into madness as she prepares for the dual role of the White and Black Swan in Swan Lake. The film's exploration of the dark side of ballet's perfectionism makes it a quintessential entry in this list.

Fact: Natalie Portman won an Academy Award for Best Actress for her role. The film was also nominated for Best Picture.

Description: Although primarily a supernatural thriller, the film features a ballet performance that becomes a conduit for demonic possession, blending the horror elements with the art of dance.

Fact: The film was inspired by the book "The Making of a Modern Exorcist" by Matt Baglio.

Description: A modern adaptation of Henry James' "The Turn of the Screw," where a governess at a remote estate suspects the children in her care are being haunted by the spirits of former employees, with ballet playing a significant role in the narrative.

Fact: The film stars Finn Wolfhard and Mackenzie Davis. It was originally set for release in 2018 but was delayed due to reshoots and re-editing.

Description: This sequel to "Cat People" involves a young girl who befriends a ghost, with ballet playing a role in her imaginative world, blending fantasy with elements of horror.

Fact: The film was initially conceived as a standalone story but was later linked to "Cat People" for marketing purposes.

Description: While not strictly a ballet film, the Phantom's obsession with Christine, a young opera singer, includes ballet sequences, and the film's gothic horror elements make it a fitting addition.

Fact: The film was directed by Joel Schumacher, who also directed the stage production. It features music by Andrew Lloyd Webber.

Description: While primarily a drama, this film includes elements of psychological horror through its portrayal of the intense pressure and personal sacrifices required in the ballet world, leading to a sense of dread and isolation.

Fact: The film was co-written by Neve Campbell, who also stars in it, and features real-life members of the Joffrey Ballet.