Horror films have always found a unique niche in exploiting our primal fears, and what could be more terrifying than a giant, prehistoric predator like an alligator? This curated list delves into the depths of horror cinema to bring you ten films where alligators take centre stage, offering a mix of suspense, gore, and sometimes even dark comedy. These movies not only showcase the fearsome nature of these creatures but also explore themes of human encroachment on nature, survival, and the consequences of tampering with the natural order. Whether you're a fan of classic horror or looking for something more modern, this collection promises to deliver chills and thrills.

Lake Placid (1999)
Description: A mix of horror and dark comedy, this film involves a giant crocodile (often mistaken for an alligator) in a small Maine lake, causing havoc for a group of researchers and law enforcement.
Fact: The film was inspired by a real-life incident in Lake Placid, New York, where a large crocodile was found.


Crocodile 2: Death Swamp (2002)
Description: This sequel features a plane crash in the Everglades, where survivors must contend with a giant crocodile and alligators.
Fact: The film includes a mix of practical effects and CGI to bring the creatures to life.


Black Water (2007)
Description: This Australian thriller involves a family on a boat trip who are attacked by a massive crocodile, leading to a harrowing fight for survival.
Fact: The film was shot in a real mangrove swamp, adding to the authenticity of the setting.


Crawl (2019)
Description: While not exclusively about alligators, this film features a hurricane that floods a Florida town, trapping a woman and her father in their home with aggressive alligators.
Fact: The film was praised for its realistic portrayal of alligators and the use of practical effects alongside CGI.


Crocodile (2000)
Description: A group of college students on spring break awaken an ancient, giant crocodile (often mistaken for an alligator) that begins to hunt them down.
Fact: The film was shot in Thailand, utilizing the country's natural landscapes to enhance the horror.


Primeval (2007)
Description: Although primarily about a giant crocodile, this film includes scenes where alligators are also present, adding to the terror in a war-torn African setting.
Fact: The film was loosely inspired by the real-life story of Gustave, a notorious man-eating crocodile in Burundi.


Alligator (1980)
Description: This film is a classic in the alligator horror genre, featuring a giant alligator terrorizing Chicago after being flushed down the toilet as a baby and growing to monstrous size due to toxic waste.
Fact: The alligator in the film was actually a real baby alligator, and the special effects team created a life-size animatronic for the larger scenes.


Alligator II: The Mutation (1991)
Description: A sequel to the original, this film features another genetically altered alligator causing chaos in a small town.
Fact: Despite being a direct-to-video release, it has gained a cult following for its over-the-top effects.


Rogue (2007)
Description: Set in Australia, this film follows a group of tourists who become stranded on a small island in a crocodile-infested river, with one particularly aggressive giant crocodile hunting them.
Fact: The film was shot in the Northern Territory of Australia, where saltwater crocodiles are indeed a real threat.


Blood Surf (2000)
Description: A group of thrill-seekers filming a documentary on Komodo dragons in Indonesia encounter a giant crocodile, which is often confused with an alligator in the film's marketing.
Fact: The film was initially released under the title "Krocodylus" before being renamed for its U.S. release.
