Unholy Cinema: 10 Fantasy Films with Satan at the Helm

Description: This horror classic revolves around the Antichrist, the son of Satan, adopted by an American diplomat. It's a chilling tale of prophecy, destiny, and the battle for souls.

Fact: The film was nominated for two Academy Awards, including Best Original Score. Several accidents and tragedies occurred during filming, leading to the myth that the set was cursed.

Description: John Carpenter's film features Satan as a liquid entity, trapped in a canister, waiting to be released. It's a blend of science fiction, horror, and apocalyptic fantasy.

Fact: This is the second film in Carpenter's "Apocalypse Trilogy," following "The Thing" and preceding "In the Mouth of Madness." The film uses quantum physics as a plot device, which was quite innovative for its time.

Description: Jack Nicholson plays a devilish figure who seduces three women with supernatural powers. The film explores themes of temptation, power, and the consequences of one's desires.

Fact: The film was based on John Updike's novel, and Nicholson's character was inspired by the Faust legend. The original ending was much darker, but it was changed to be more uplifting.

Description: In this film, Satan is not the main antagonist but rather a character who aids humanity against a rogue angel. It's a unique take on the battle between heaven and hell, with a focus on the politics of the afterlife.

Fact: Christopher Walken's portrayal of the archangel Gabriel was so intense that it reportedly made some crew members uncomfortable. The film has spawned several sequels, though none with Walken's involvement.

Description: This film delves into the life of a young lawyer who unknowingly makes a deal with the devil, portrayed by Al Pacino. It's a modern take on the Faustian bargain, wrapped in a legal thriller with supernatural elements.

Fact: Al Pacino improvised much of his dialogue, adding to the film's dynamic portrayal of Satan. The film was originally set to be directed by Joel Schumacher, but he left due to creative differences.

Description: Johnny Depp stars as a book dealer hired to authenticate a rare book that supposedly contains the key to summoning the devil. The film is rich with occult symbolism and a slow-burning mystery.

Fact: Roman Polanski, the director, has a cameo in the film as a man in a bar. The film was shot in various European locations to enhance its gothic atmosphere.

Description: A comedic spin on the devil's bargain, where Elizabeth Hurley plays the Devil, offering a man seven wishes in exchange for his soul. This film mixes fantasy with slapstick humour, providing a lighter take on the theme.

Fact: The film is a remake of the 1967 British comedy of the same name. Brendan Fraser's character, Elliot, was originally named Stanley in the earlier version.

Description: Keanu Reeves stars as John Constantine, a man with the ability to see demons and angels, who must battle Satan's son to save humanity. This film blends urban fantasy with a dark, supernatural twist.

Fact: The film was initially planned as an R-rated movie, but it was toned down to PG-13 to reach a broader audience. The character of John Constantine was originally from the DC Comics' "Hellblazer" series.

Description: While not directly about Satan, the film deals with demonic possession and the return of the Gemini Killer, whose soul was taken by the devil. It's a chilling exploration of evil and redemption.

Fact: The film was written and directed by William Peter Blatty, who also wrote the original "The Exorcist" novel. It was initially titled "Legion" before being renamed to capitalize on the success of the original.

Description: Based on Dennis Wheatley's novel, this film features Christopher Lee as a duke battling a satanic cult. It's a classic Hammer Horror film with a strong emphasis on the occult and black magic.

Fact: Christopher Lee was a fan of Wheatley's work and pushed for this adaptation. The film was one of the first to receive an 'A' certificate in the UK, allowing children under 14 to see it if accompanied by an adult.