Madrid, with its rich history and vibrant culture, provides a haunting backdrop for horror films. This curated list of 10 horror movies set in Madrid offers viewers a chance to experience the city's darker side, from supernatural occurrences to psychological thrillers. Whether you're a fan of classic horror or modern scares, these films showcase Madrid's eerie potential and provide a unique cinematic experience.
The Day of the Beast (1995)
Description: This black comedy horror film involves a priest trying to prevent the birth of the Antichrist in Madrid on Christmas Eve. The city's festive atmosphere contrasts with the film's dark themes.
Fact: The film won several Goya Awards, including Best Director.
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The Others (2001)
Description: While not set in Madrid, this film was shot in Spain and has a strong Spanish influence. It's a psychological horror about a woman living in a secluded mansion with her children, who start to experience strange occurrences.
Fact: The film was nominated for several awards, including the BAFTA for Best British Film.
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REC (2007)
Description: Although primarily set in Barcelona, the sequel "REC 2" features scenes in Madrid, making it relevant. This found-footage horror film follows a reporter and her cameraman as they document a nightmarish outbreak in an apartment building.
Fact: The film was remade in the US as "Quarantine."
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The Skin I Live In (2011)
Description: Directed by Pedro Almodóvar, this psychological thriller/horror film involves a plastic surgeon in Madrid who creates artificial skin. The film delves into themes of identity and revenge.
Fact: The film was nominated for the Palme d'Or at Cannes.
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The Nameless (1999)
Description: This film, based on a novel by Ramsey Campbell, involves a mother's search for her missing daughter, leading her into a dark cult in Madrid. The city's setting enhances the film's unsettling atmosphere.
Fact: The film was remade in English as "The Nameless."
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The Devil's Backbone (2001)
Description: While not exclusively set in Madrid, this film by Guillermo del Toro has scenes in the city. It's a ghost story set during the Spanish Civil War, blending historical drama with supernatural elements.
Fact: The film was inspired by del Toro's childhood experiences during the war.
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The Machinist (2004)
Description: Although not set in Madrid, the film was shot in Spain, and its dark, industrial setting could be reminiscent of Madrid's outskirts. It's about an insomniac factory worker whose life spirals into paranoia and guilt.
Fact: Christian Bale lost over 60 pounds for his role.
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The Orphanage (2007)
Description: This Spanish horror film, directed by J.A. Bayona, tells the story of a woman who returns to her childhood home, now an orphanage, only to uncover dark secrets. The setting in Madrid adds a layer of authenticity to the eerie atmosphere.
Fact: The film was Spain's official selection for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 80th Academy Awards.
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The Abandoned (2006)
Description: Although not set in Madrid, this film was shot in Spain and has a similar eerie atmosphere. It follows an American film producer who returns to her childhood home in Russia, but the setting could easily be imagined in Madrid's outskirts.
Fact: The film was directed by Nacho Cerdà, known for his work in Spanish horror cinema.
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The Last Circus (2010)
Description: While not strictly a horror film, this dark comedy-drama has elements of horror and is set during Franco's Spain, with scenes in Madrid. It's about two clowns whose rivalry turns deadly.
Fact: The film was controversial for its graphic violence and dark humor.
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