This curated collection of horror films delves into the harrowing theme of leukaemia, blending the terror of the disease with supernatural or psychological horror elements. These films offer a unique perspective, combining medical drama with the suspense and fear typical of horror cinema, providing viewers with a thought-provoking and emotionally intense experience.

The Dead Zone (1983)
Description: Although primarily about psychic abilities, the protagonist's coma and subsequent awakening parallel the life-altering impact of leukaemia, with elements of horror and suspense.
Fact: Based on Stephen King's novel, this film was one of the first to explore the horror of a life-changing illness.


The Others (2001)
Description: This film's theme of living with a mysterious illness in a secluded environment mirrors the isolation often experienced by leukaemia patients.
Fact: The film was shot in Spain, despite its English dialogue, to capture the gothic atmosphere.


The Skeleton Key (2005)
Description: This film involves a nurse who cares for an elderly man with a mysterious illness, which could be interpreted as a metaphor for leukaemia, with supernatural twists.
Fact: The film was shot in a real plantation house, enhancing its eerie atmosphere.


The Exorcism of Emily Rose (2005)
Description: While focusing on demonic possession, the film's themes of bodily decay and the struggle against an unseen enemy resonate with the horror of leukaemia.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life case of Anneliese Michel, whose story also involved severe physical deterioration.


The Babadook (2014)
Description: The film's exploration of grief and mental health issues can be seen as a metaphor for the psychological impact of a terminal illness like leukaemia.
Fact: The film was initially banned in several countries due to its intense psychological horror.


The Invitation (2015)
Description: This film deals with themes of grief and suspicion, which can be likened to the emotional journey of dealing with a loved one's leukaemia diagnosis.
Fact: The film was shot in one continuous location, enhancing its claustrophobic feel.


The Last Shift (2014)
Description: This film follows a night-shift worker at a hospital who encounters a patient with leukaemia, whose condition seems to be linked to eerie supernatural occurrences.
Fact: The film was shot in a real hospital, adding to its eerie authenticity. It also explores themes of isolation and fear of death.


The Autopsy of Jane Doe (2016)
Description: This film explores the horror of uncovering secrets through an autopsy, paralleling the fear and mystery surrounding leukaemia diagnoses.
Fact: The film was praised for its suspenseful build-up and minimal use of jump scares.


The Haunting of Sharon Tate (2019)
Description: While not directly about leukaemia, this film uses the real-life tragedy of Sharon Tate to explore themes of impending doom, paralleling the fear and uncertainty of a leukaemia diagnosis.
Fact: The film was controversial for its depiction of real events, and it uses psychological horror to evoke a sense of dread.


The Orphanage (2007)
Description: This Spanish horror film uses the backdrop of a childhood illness to explore themes of loss and fear, akin to the emotional turmoil of leukaemia.
Fact: It was Spain's official submission for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.
