From The Conjuring 3 to Psycho: 7 Spine-Chilling Hollywood Horror Movies Inspired By True Events

The movie is based on the infamous trial of Arne Cheyenne Johnson, a real-life case from 1981 where Johnson claimed demonic possession as his defense for the murder of his landlord, Alan Bono. This was the first known case in the U.S. where demonic possession was used as a defense in court.

Inspired by the real Annabelle doll, a Raggedy Ann doll linked to alleged paranormal activity. The doll is now housed in the Warren Occult Museum, with a warning label cautioning against its evil presence. Paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren documented its story, claiming it was a conduit for a demonic entity.

The movie is inspired by the real-life case of Anneliese Michel, a German woman who underwent 67 Catholic exorcism sessions in 1975. Anneliese suffered from seizures and other symptoms, believed by her family and priests to be signs of demonic possession. She died of malnutrition and dehydration at age 23, leading to a controversial trial that charged her parents and priests with negligent homicide.

Set in the 1980s, the film is inspired by the Snedeker family's move into a former funeral home in Connecticut, where they claimed to face disturbing supernatural events, including unsettling visions, noises, and physical harm.

The Amityville Horror was a box office success, though it received mixed reviews. Critics praised its atmosphere and suspense, while some questioned the veracity of the Lutz family's story. It became one of the most iconic horror films, sparking numerous sequels and remakes.

The Exorcist draws inspiration from a 1940s case of demonic possession, involving a boy known as "Robbie Mannheim." His unsettling behavior and strange occurrences led to an exorcism by two priests, which influenced the creation of William Peter Blatty's novel and the film.

Psycho is considered one of the most influential films in the horror genre, known for its shocking twists, suspense, and groundbreaking psychological thriller elements. It received widespread acclaim for its direction, performances, and cinematography, cementing Alfred Hitchcock's legacy as a master of suspense.