The Internet of Things (IoT) has transformed our lives, making everything from our homes to our cars smarter and more connected. However, this connectivity comes with its own set of horrors, as depicted in these films. This curated list delves into the eerie and often terrifying possibilities when technology goes awry, offering a unique blend of suspense, technology, and horror that will keep you questioning the safety of your smart devices.
The Lawnmower Man (1992)
Description: This film explores the consequences of virtual reality and AI, where a mentally challenged man gains intelligence through experimental technology, leading to disastrous results.
Fact: The film was one of the first to explore the concept of virtual reality and AI in a horror context.
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The Net (1995)
Description: Although more of a thriller, "The Net" showcases the dangers of digital identity theft and the internet's dark side, making it a precursor to IoT horror themes.
Fact: The film was ahead of its time, predicting many of the cyber-security issues we face today.
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Pulse (2006)
Description: This American remake of the Japanese film "Kairo" explores the idea of ghosts using the internet to invade the world of the living, creating a chilling atmosphere of technological dread.
Fact: The film was directed by Jim Sonzero, who also directed the original "Unfriended."
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The Signal (2007)
Description: A group of friends is lured into a trap by a mysterious signal, leading to a series of horrifying events, showcasing the potential dangers of hacking and signal manipulation.
Fact: The film was shot in a found footage style, adding to its realism and horror.
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The Machine (2013)
Description: While primarily a sci-fi thriller, "The Machine" delves into the horror of AI and cybernetics, where a scientist creates an AI that becomes self-aware, leading to unforeseen consequences.
Fact: The film was praised for its exploration of AI ethics and the potential for AI to surpass human intelligence.
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Unfriended: Dark Web (2018)
Description: This sequel to the original "Unfriended" takes the concept of online horror to the next level with a laptop found in a café, leading to a descent into the dark web where the protagonist encounters a group of hackers with deadly intentions.
Fact: The film was shot entirely on a computer screen, making it a unique viewing experience. It also explores the real-world implications of the dark web.
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The Den (2013)
Description: A woman participates in a social experiment where she watches live streams, only to witness a murder, leading to a descent into the dark web and a fight for survival.
Fact: The film was shot entirely through the perspective of computer screens, enhancing the horror of online voyeurism.
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Smart House (1999)
Description: A family wins a fully automated smart house, but the AI controlling it becomes overly protective, leading to humorous yet chilling scenarios. This Disney Channel Original Movie is an early exploration of IoT horror.
Fact: The film was one of the first to explore the concept of a smart home going rogue, predating many modern IoT devices.
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The Circle (2017)
Description: While not strictly a horror film, "The Circle" delves into the dystopian aspects of a tech company's surveillance, where privacy is eroded, and the consequences are terrifying, making it a fitting addition to this list.
Fact: The film stars Tom Hanks and Emma Watson, and it's based on the novel by Dave Eggers, exploring themes of privacy and technology.
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The Black Mirror: Bandersnatch (2018)
Description: While not a traditional film, this interactive episode of "Black Mirror" explores themes of choice, technology, and horror, making it a unique entry in the IoT horror genre.
Fact: "Bandersnatch" was Netflix's first interactive film, allowing viewers to make choices that affect the story's outcome.
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