Top 10 Horror Films Set in a Circus

Description: A tale of love and revenge set in a circus, where the "freaks" are not the monsters but the victims of societal prejudice. This film is a classic in the horror genre for its portrayal of circus performers.

Fact: The film was banned in several countries upon release due to its depiction of people with disabilities.

Description: A disfigured plastic surgeon takes over a circus and uses it as a cover to perform experimental surgeries on his patients. The film delves into themes of beauty, horror, and the grotesque.

Fact: The film was controversial for its time due to its graphic content and themes.

Description: A group of teenagers decide to spend the night in a carnival funhouse, only to discover that they are not alone. This film captures the eerie atmosphere of a deserted carnival, making it a quintessential circus horror experience.

Fact: The film was directed by Tobe Hooper, known for his work on "The Texas Chain Saw Massacre."

Description: Three brothers are left alone at home when escaped mental patients dressed as clowns terrorize them. This film plays on the common fear of clowns, making it a perfect fit for our list.

Fact: The film was directed by Victor Salva, who later faced controversy for unrelated legal issues.

Description: Alien clowns invade Earth, turning people into cotton candy and using circus-themed weapons to terrorize a small town. This film combines horror with dark comedy, making it a unique entry in the circus horror genre.

Fact: The film's special effects were done by the Chiodo Brothers, who also created the puppets for "Team America: World Police."

Description: A clown who was killed at a birthday party returns from the grave to exact revenge on the kids who caused his death. It's a gory and darkly comedic take on the clown horror trope.

Fact: The film features practical effects for the clown's gruesome kills.

Description: A dark musical set in a carnival run by the devil, where sinners are punished in various horrific ways. It's a blend of horror, fantasy, and musical elements, offering a unique take on the circus theme.

Fact: The film features music by Terrance Zdunich and Saar Hendelman, who also worked on "Repo! The Genetic Opera."

Description: A high school student uncovers the dark history of a circus clown who haunts the abandoned theater where she works. This film uses the fear of clowns to build suspense and terror.

Fact: The film was shot in an actual abandoned theater, adding to its eerie atmosphere.

Description: Set during the Spanish Civil War, this film follows a clown who turns to violence after his love is taken by another clown. It's a surreal blend of horror, drama, and dark comedy.

Fact: The film was Spain's entry for the Best Foreign Language Film at the 83rd Academy Awards.

Description: A former marine turned clown finds himself in a nightmarish circus where he must fight for survival against a sadistic ringmaster. This film offers a gritty, violent take on the circus horror theme.

Fact: The film was produced by the same company that brought us "The Human Centipede."