Horror films often delve into the macabre and the unsettling, and what could be more chilling than the presence of an old man with a dark secret or a sinister past? This curated list of 10 horror films focuses on tales where elderly men play pivotal roles, either as the source of terror or as victims of supernatural or psychological horror. These films offer a unique blend of suspense, fear, and sometimes, a poignant reflection on aging and mortality, making them a fascinating watch for horror enthusiasts.

The Old Dark House (1932)
Description: This classic horror film features an old man, Sir Roderick Femm, who is both physically and mentally decrepit, adding to the eerie atmosphere of the house where the story unfolds.
Fact: The film was directed by James Whale, who also directed "Frankenstein" and "Bride of Frankenstein."


The Haunting (1963)
Description: While not exclusively about an old man, the character of Dr. John Markway, an aging parapsychologist, is central to the story, exploring the haunted Hill House.
Fact: The film was remade in 1999 with Liam Neeson in the role of Dr. Markway.


The Changeling (1980)
Description: Composer John Russell, an aging man, moves into a haunted house where he encounters the spirit of a murdered child.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life events and ghost stories from a Seattle mansion.


The Shining (1980)
Description: While Jack Torrance isn't old, the character of Delbert Grady, an elderly ghost, plays a crucial role in the film's horror elements.
Fact: Stanley Kubrick famously changed many aspects of Stephen King's original story.


The Others (2001)
Description: An old man, Mr. Tuttle, appears as a gardener in this film, contributing to the eerie atmosphere and the film's twist ending.
Fact: The film was shot in Spain, despite being set in the Channel Islands.


The Skeleton Key (2005)
Description: An old man, Ben Devereaux, is at the heart of this film, where his deteriorating health and mysterious past lead to supernatural events.
Fact: The film was shot in New Orleans, adding to its eerie atmosphere with real locations.


The Visit (2015)
Description: Two children visit their grandparents, only to discover that their elderly relatives might not be what they seem, leading to a series of horrifying revelations.
Fact: The film was M. Night Shyamalan's return to found footage horror.


The Exorcist III (1990)
Description: The film features an aging detective, Lieutenant Kinderman, who investigates a series of murders linked to demonic forces.
Fact: The film was written and directed by William Peter Blatty, who also wrote the original "The Exorcist" novel.


The Innocents (1961)
Description: An old man, the uncle of the children, is mentioned but not seen, yet his influence and past actions drive much of the film's horror.
Fact: The film is based on Henry James's novella "The Turn of the Screw."


The Orphanage (2007)
Description: While not an old man, the character of Benigna Escolà, an elderly woman, plays a significant role in the horror elements of this Spanish film.
Fact: The film was Spain's official selection for the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film.
