10 Must-Watch Religious Horror Films

Description: This film is often cited as the pinnacle of religious horror, focusing on the demonic possession of a young girl and the subsequent exorcism. Its intense portrayal of faith and the battle between good and evil has made it a cultural phenomenon.

Fact: The film was nominated for ten Academy Awards, winning two. It was also the first horror film ever to be nominated for Best Picture.

Description: A chilling tale about the Antichrist, this film explores the dark side of prophecy and the birth of evil within a seemingly normal family. Its use of religious iconography and the theme of predestination make it a staple in religious horror.

Fact: The film's director, Richard Donner, was initially hesitant to take on the project due to its dark subject matter.

Description: While not strictly a horror film, it features strong religious themes with Al Pacino playing the devil in a legal setting. It explores temptation, ambition, and the moral dilemmas faced by a young lawyer.

Fact: Al Pacino's character, John Milton, is named after the author of "Paradise Lost," a poem about the fall of Lucifer.

Description: A hairdresser begins to exhibit stigmata, leading to an investigation by a Vatican priest who uncovers a hidden gospel. The film questions the nature of miracles and the power of faith.

Fact: The film was controversial due to its depiction of the Catholic Church and its portrayal of religious phenomena.

Description: Based on the true story of Anneliese Michel, this film blends courtroom drama with supernatural horror, examining the line between mental illness and demonic possession. It raises questions about faith, science, and the supernatural.

Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life exorcism of Anneliese Michel, whose case led to significant legal and religious debate.

Description: A skeptical seminary student is sent to Rome to take an exorcism course, where he encounters a seasoned exorcist and real demonic forces. The film explores the struggle between faith and doubt in the context of exorcism.

Fact: The film was inspired by the book "The Rite: The Making of a Modern Exorcist" by Matt Baglio, which documents the training of exorcists.

Description: This found-footage film follows a disillusioned priest who agrees to let a documentary crew film his final exorcism, only to encounter a real demonic presence. It plays with the notion of belief and skepticism in the face of the supernatural.

Fact: The film was shot in a documentary style to enhance its realism, making the horror elements even more impactful.

Description: This film focuses on a morgue worker who encounters the body of a young woman who was killed during an exorcism, leading to supernatural events. It delves into themes of possession and the afterlife.

Fact: The film was originally titled "The Heretic" during production.

Description: Part of "The Conjuring" universe, this film delves into the origins of the demonic nun Valak, exploring themes of faith, sacrifice, and the battle against evil within a religious setting.

Fact: The character of Valak was first introduced in "The Conjuring 2" as a minor antagonist.

Description: This psychological horror film delves into paranoia and satanic cults, focusing on a young woman who suspects her unborn child is part of a sinister plot. Its subtle approach to horror through religious themes is both unsettling and profound.

Fact: The film was shot in the Dakota apartment building in New York, which later became infamous as the site of John Lennon's murder.