Horror films often explore the darker aspects of human nature, and what could be more unsettling than a salesman with sinister intentions? This curated list delves into the eerie realm where salesmen are not just selling products but also fear, suspense, and sometimes, death. These films offer a unique twist on the horror genre, showcasing how everyday interactions can turn terrifying, making you think twice about that next door-to-door salesman.
The Collector (1965)
Description: Although not strictly about a salesman, the protagonist, a butterfly collector, uses his skills in a way that parallels salesmanship, trapping and collecting humans. The film's chilling premise and psychological horror elements make it relevant.
Fact: The film was based on the novel by John Fowles.
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The Dead Zone (1983)
Description: While not directly about a salesman, the film features a character whose visions include a salesman who becomes a pivotal figure in a terrifying future. The film's suspense and the salesman's role in the plot make it notable.
Fact: Based on Stephen King's novel, it stars Christopher Walken.
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The Hitcher (1986)
Description: While the main antagonist is not a traditional salesman, his ability to manipulate and sell fear to his victims is akin to a salesman's tactics. The film's relentless tension and the character's psychological manipulation fit the theme.
Fact: The film was remade in 2007 with Sean Bean.
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The Man Who Wasn't There (2001)
Description: This Coen Brothers film, while more of a noir thriller, includes a barber who becomes involved in a sinister plot after meeting a salesman. The film's dark tone and the salesman's influence on the plot qualify it for this list.
Fact: Shot in black and white, it captures the essence of film noir.
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The Strangers (2008)
Description: Although not about a salesman, the film's premise of strangers invading a home could be seen as a metaphor for the intrusion of a salesman into one's private life. The terror and suspense are palpable.
Fact: The film was inspired by true events, including the Manson Family murders.
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The Babadook (2014)
Description: This modern horror classic features a children's book salesman whose visit introduces a terrifying entity into a family's life. The film's exploration of grief and fear through the guise of a salesman's delivery makes it a unique addition.
Fact: The film was initially banned in some countries for its intense themes.
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The Salesman (2016)
Description: While not a traditional horror film, this Iranian drama by Asghar Farhadi includes elements of psychological horror, focusing on a couple whose lives are turned upside down by a salesman's intrusion. The film's tension and suspense make it a fitting addition to this list.
Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in
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The House That Dripped Blood (1971)
Description: This anthology horror film includes a segment where a waxwork salesman's visit leads to horrifying consequences. The eerie atmosphere and the salesman's role in the story make it a perfect fit.
Fact: Directed by Peter Duffell, this film features four different tales of terror.
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The Last House on the Left (1972)
Description: In this exploitation horror, one of the antagonists is a salesman, whose seemingly innocuous job belies his true nature. The film's graphic violence and the salesman's role in the horror make it a notable entry.
Fact: It was remade in 2009 by director Dennis Iliadis.
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The Stepfather (1987)
Description: This film features a charming salesman who assumes the identity of a family man to infiltrate and terrorize unsuspecting families. His salesmanship is key to his ability to deceive and manipulate.
Fact: The film was remade in 2009 with Dylan Walsh in the lead role.
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