Television has long been a source of entertainment, but what happens when it turns into a conduit for terror? This curated list of horror films explores the dark side of TV, where screens become portals to fear, broadcasting nightmares directly into your living room. From haunted broadcasts to sinister shows, these films offer a unique blend of horror and media critique, making them essential viewing for fans of both genres.

Poltergeist (1982)
Description: A family's home is haunted by spirits using the television as a gateway to abduct their youngest daughter.
Fact: The film was co-written by Steven Spielberg, who was initially set to direct but chose to produce instead.


The Dead Zone (1983)
Description: A schoolteacher wakes from a coma with psychic abilities, seeing visions through television that predict disasters.
Fact: Based on Stephen King's novel, the film was directed by David Cronenberg.


Videodrome (1983)
Description: A TV station executive discovers a mysterious broadcast that blurs the line between reality and hallucination.
Fact: David Cronenberg's film explores themes of media manipulation and body horror, becoming a cult classic.


Static (1985)
Description: A TV repairman discovers a mysterious signal that allows him to see into the future, with horrifying consequences.
Fact: The film was one of Keith Gordon's early directorial efforts, showcasing his talent for genre films.


The Ring (2002)
Description: A cursed videotape that kills viewers seven days after watching it, making television the medium of death.
Fact: The film was adapted from the Japanese horror film "Ringu" and became a cultural phenomenon in the West.


The Signal (2007)
Description: A mysterious signal broadcast over television causes people to turn violent, exploring the impact of media on behavior.
Fact: The film was shot in just 18 days, giving it a raw, intense feel.


The Cabin in the Woods (2012)
Description: A group of friends unwittingly become part of a televised horror scenario controlled by a mysterious organization.
Fact: The film was co-written by Joss Whedon, known for his work on "Buffy the Vampire Slayer."


Dead End (2003)
Description: A family's Christmas Eve road trip turns into a nightmare when they encounter a strange TV signal.
Fact: The film was shot in only 12 days, with much of the dialogue improvised.


Stay Alive (2006)
Description: Players of a video game start dying in the same manner as their in-game characters, with the game being broadcasted on TV.
Fact: The film features a fictional video game that eerily resembles real-life horror games.


The TV Set (2006)
Description: While not a traditional horror, this film satirizes the television industry, showing the horror of creative compromise.
Fact: David Duchovny stars as a writer dealing with the absurdities of TV production.
