Greed, one of the seven deadly sins, has long been a fertile ground for horror narratives. This collection of films explores the dark side of human nature, where the insatiable desire for wealth or power leads to terrifying consequences. These movies not only entertain but also serve as cautionary tales, reminding us of the moral and psychological costs of greed. Each film in this list has been selected for its unique take on the theme, offering viewers a mix of suspense, horror, and thought-provoking storytelling.
The Treasure of the Sierra Madre (1948)
Description: While not traditionally a horror film, the psychological terror of greed and paranoia among gold prospectors is palpable.
Fact: Humphrey Bogart won his only Oscar for this role. The film was shot on location in Mexico, adding to its gritty realism.
Watch Now
The Haunting (1963)
Description: While primarily a ghost story, the film touches on the greed for understanding the supernatural, leading to psychological horror.
Fact: The film was shot in black and white to enhance the eerie atmosphere. It was remade in 1999, but the original is often considered superior.
Watch Now
The Collector (1965)
Description: A butterfly collector's obsession with a woman leads to her kidnapping, exploring themes of possession and control.
Fact: The film was based on John Fowles' novel. Terence Stamp's performance was critically acclaimed, earning him a BAFTA nomination.
Watch Now
The Wicker Man (1973)
Description: A police officer's investigation into a missing girl leads him to a pagan community where greed for knowledge and control over others leads to his doom.
Fact: The film was initially a commercial failure but has since become a cult classic. The ending was changed to be more shocking.
Watch Now
Needful Things (1993)
Description: A mysterious shop owner grants wishes but at a terrible cost, illustrating how greed can unravel a community.
Fact: Stephen King wrote the screenplay, ensuring the film stayed true to his novel. The town of Castle Rock is a recurring setting in King's works.
Watch Now
The Devil's Advocate (1997)
Description: A lawyer's ambition and greed for success lead him into a Faustian bargain with the devil, exploring the corrupting influence of power.
Fact: Al Pacino improvised much of his dialogue, adding to the film's dynamic energy. The movie was initially much longer, with several scenes cut for pacing.
Watch Now
The Box (2009)
Description: A couple faces a moral dilemma when offered money to push a button that will kill someone they don't know, showcasing greed's destructive power.
Fact: The film is based on a short story by Richard Matheson. The ending was changed from the original story to provide a more ambiguous conclusion.
Watch Now
The Skeleton Key (2005)
Description: This film delves into the greed for knowledge and power through voodoo, showing how far one might go to gain control over others.
Fact: The film was shot in New Orleans, adding an authentic Southern Gothic atmosphere. The voodoo rituals depicted were researched for authenticity.
Watch Now
The Descent (2005)
Description: A group of friends' caving trip turns deadly, highlighting the greed for adventure and the consequences of pushing boundaries too far.
Fact: The film was shot in real caves, adding to the claustrophobic feel. The ending was changed for the US release to be less bleak.
Watch Now
The Exorcist III (1990)
Description: A detective's investigation into a series of murders reveals a connection to greed for life and power through demonic possession.
Fact: The film was directed by William Peter Blatty, who wrote the original "The Exorcist" novel. It features a cameo by George C. Scott.
30 Days Free
