The Best Horror Movies About Psychic Powers

One of the most iconic horror films to feature psychic powers, Stanley Kubrick's take on Stephen King's The Shining masterfully weaves a tale of terror and psychic phenomena. The film intricately showcases the slow descent into madness of Jack Torrance, with a backdrop of the mysterious Overlook Hotel, while simultaneously diving into the psychic powers of his son, Danny. Danny's gift, referred to as "the shining," adds a chilling layer to the film, as his visions of past horrors foreshadow his family's impending doom. The Shining effortlessly marries the terrifying isolation of the setting with the mesmerizing allure of Danny's psychic abilities, creating a truly surreal and horrifying experience.

Brian De Palma's Carrie is often hailed as one of the greatest horror movies about psychic powers, thanks to its innovative storytelling and outstanding performances. The film follows the titular character, a bullied high school outcast, who discovers her latent telekinetic abilities amidst the turmoil of adolescence. These powers are expertly woven into the storyline and serve as a metaphor for the protagonist's journey of self-discovery and empowerment, building up to one of the most gripping and terrifying climaxes in horror cinema. The raw intensity of Sissy Spacek's portrayal of Carrie, combined with the masterful depiction of her psychic powers, solidifies this classic as a must-watch horror film.

M. Night Shyamalan's chilling supernatural thriller The Sixth Sense offers a unique take on the psychic powers subgenre with its moving exploration of themes such as grief, loss, and acceptance. Young Cole Sear's ability to communicate with the dead plays a crucial role in the narrative, as he comes to terms with his unwanted gift while developing a close relationship with his troubled therapist. The film brilliantly utilizes the psychic powers aspect to portray how the living and the dead both struggle to move on and find peace. Bolstered by extraordinary performances by Haley Joel Osment and Bruce Willis, The Sixth Sense truly stands out as a captivating, emotionally resonant horror film.

Tobe Hooper's influential supernatural horror classic Poltergeist centers around a suburban family whose lives are turned upside down when they become besieged by malicious spirits. The film's prominent utilization of psychic phenomena, including the character of a clairvoyant medium named Tangina, adds an air of mystique and intrigue to the story. The Freeling family's young daughter, Carol Anne, becomes the focal point for the entities' attention, showcasing the vulnerability and innocence of children as they navigate the supernatural world. Through its thrilling plot and unforgettable scares, Poltergeist remains a quintessential examination of psychic powers and their terrifying implications within the horror genre.

Adapted from another of Stephen King's potent stories, Firestarter displays the thrilling and dangerous potential of psychic powers in the hands of a child. The film follows young Charlie McGee, endowed with exceptional pyrokinetic abilities, as she and her father evade a shadowy government organization seeking to exploit her powers for evil purposes. The psychic abilities showcased in the film add heart-pounding tension and intrigue to the plot, serving as both a metaphor for the uncontrollable nature of growing up, and an exploration of the ethical dilemmas inherent in harnessing such immense power. Featuring a compelling performance by Drew Barrymore as Charlie, Firestarter is a blazing example of the psychic horror subgenre.

The chilling story of The Dead Zone puts a unique spin on the psychic powers trope by examining the burden of seeing the future and the moral consequences it entails. Christopher Walken masterfully portrays Johnny Smith, a man who awakens from a coma to discover his newfound psychic ability to witness the past, present, and future of anyone he touches. The film delves into the troubling implications of such powers, as Johnny struggles with the decision whether to use his abilities for the greater good, or avoid the crushing weight of responsibility that comes with them. Directed by David Cronenberg, The Dead Zone combines a gripping narrative with a thought-provoking take on psychic powers, making it a standout in the horror genre.

A chilling sequel to The Shining, Doctor Sleep continues to delve into the psychic world with its portrayal of grown-up Danny Torrance (Ewan McGregor) grappling with his traumatic past and his own "shining" abilities. At its core, the film explores the idea of psychic powers as both a gift and a curse, and the consequences of their misuse. The introduction of new, sinister psychic characters, such as the True Knot—parasitic vampires who feed off the "shining"—adds a thrilling and terrifying layer to the story. Directed by Mike Flanagan, Doctor Sleep is a worthy addition to the horror genre's exploration of psychic powers.

David Cronenberg's visceral and gruesome sci-fi horror film Scanners showcases psychic abilities taken to horrifying extremes. The plot revolves around a group of telepathic and telekinetic individuals known as "scanners," who are hunted down and weaponized by a corrupt organization. The various psychic powers displayed in the film create an unsettling and terrifying atmosphere, as the "scanners" battle for supremacy and control over their own minds. A groundbreaking combination of body horror and psychic horror, Scanners solidified David Cronenberg's reputation as a master of the macabre.

Richard Kelly's cult classic Donnie Darko offers a surreal and enigmatic foray into the world of psychic abilities and time manipulation. The titular character, Donnie (Jake Gyllenhaal), grapples with his inexplicable connection to a doomsday prophecy brought forth by a mysterious entity named Frank. The film uses psychic phenomena to explore themes of mental illness, isolation, and the delicate balance of fate and free will, creating an eerie atmosphere that lingers long after the credits roll. With its intricate storytelling and labyrinthine narrative, Donnie Darko remains an intriguing and compelling example of psychic horror.

Sam Raimi's supernatural thriller The Gift combines the atmospheric tension of Southern Gothic storytelling with the haunting world of psychic powers. Cate Blanchett stars as Annie Wilson, a widow with psychic abilities that she uses to help the townspeople but becomes embroiled in a local murder mystery. Throughout the film, Annie's psychic visions serve as both a source of her strength and vulnerability, leading her down a perilous path while unraveling the sinister truth behind the crime. With its richly developed characters and eerie atmosphere, The Gift is a captivating exploration of the psychic horror subgenre.

Based on the Thomas Tryon novel of the same name, The Other is a chilling example of psychic horror that explores the darker side of twin telepathy. Set in the 1930s, the film follows identical twin brothers Niles and Holland as they uncover a devastating secret through their psychic bond, leading to a series of disturbing events. With its haunting atmosphere and unsettling plot twists, The Other utilizes the psychic powers subgenre to delve into themes of family dysfunction, guilt, and the potential for evil within each of us. A lesser-known gem in the horror genre, this film offers a unique and eerie portrayal of psychic phenomena.

A modern retelling of Stephen King's classic tale, Kimberly Peirce's Carrie once again explores the terrifying potential of psychic powers unleashed by adolescent trauma. While faithfully adhering to the original story, the film delves deeper into Carrie's psychic awakening and the challenges she faces trying to control her newfound abilities. Adding a contemporary edge to the story, Peirce uses social media and cyberbullying to heighten the sense of isolation and torment experienced by Carrie, played by Chloë Grace Moretz. Although not as iconic as the 1976 version, this take on Carrie still stands as an effective and unnerving exploration of psychic horror.

In The Fury, director Brian De Palma once again delves into the world of psychic horror, following two teenagers with powerful telekinetic abilities as they're pursued by a nefarious government agency seeking to exploit their gifts. The film masterfully blends elements of action, horror, and suspense to create a thrilling experience that keeps the audience on the edge of their seats. De Palma uses the psychic powers subgenre to explore themes such as human potential, government control, and the fragile nature of the human mind. Featuring intense performances by Amy Irving and Andrew Stevens, The Fury is an exhilarating and visually stunning addition to the psychic horror genre.

Adding a psychic twist to the familiar slasher formula, Friday the 13th Part VII: The New Blood pits protagonist Tina Shepard against the unstoppable killer Jason Voorhees. Blessed with telekinetic powers brought on by a traumatic upbringing, Tina inadvertently resurrects Jason from his watery grave, leading to a deadly showdown between the two forces. Tina's psychic abilities serve as an intriguing foil to Jason's seemingly invincible nature, adding a new sense of tension and excitement to this installment of the long-running franchise. The New Blood offers a refreshing take on the slasher genre while still delivering the signature scares and gore that fans of Friday the 13th expect.

Dario Argento's Phenomena adds a psychic twist to the giallo genre with its entrancing story of young Jennifer Corvino, played by Jennifer Connelly, who possesses a supernatural connection to insects. This unique psychic ability plays a central role in the film's plot, as Jennifer uses her powers to solve a series of brutal murders while attending a Swiss boarding school. Phenomena combines Argento's signature atmospheric visuals with a compelling exploration of psychic phenomena, resulting in a distinct and unforgettable horror film that showcases the potential of psychic powers as both a narrative device and a source of terror.

Incarnate presents a unique blend of demonic possession horror with psychic powers, as exorcist Dr. Seth Ember, portrayed by Aaron Eckhart, has the ability to enter the subconscious minds of those possessed. This innovative twist on the exorcism subgenre allows for a fresh examination of the battle between good and evil, as Ember navigates the dark recesses of his victims' minds, unearthing sinister forces lurking within. The film effectively uses psychic abilities as a narrative device, building tension and suspense as Ember uncovers the horrifying truth about his own past. Equal parts terrifying and thought-provoking, Incarnate is a compelling entry in the psychic horror genre.

Dreamscape presents an intriguing blend of horror, sci-fi, and psychological thriller elements with its innovative exploration of psychic powers. The film follows a psychic named Alex Gardner, who becomes involved in a top-secret government project aimed at infiltrating people's dreams and potentially controlling their thoughts. As the plot unfolds, the world of psychic dream manipulation takes on a sinister and nightmarish quality, opening up a Pandora's box of terror and suspense. Boasting impressive visual effects for its time, Dreamscape delivers a captivating and chilling portrayal of the psychic powers subgenre within the horror genre.

The eerie and surreal Tourist Trap offers a unique take on the psychic horror genre, combining telekinetic powers with the familiar tropes of slasher films. The story revolves around a group of young travelers who stumble upon a secluded roadside attraction run by the enigmatic Mr. Slausen, who harbors a dark secret in the form of a powerful and deadly psychic ability. Tourist Trap blends mind-bending psychic phenomena with classic slasher scares, resulting in a terrifyingly unpredictable and atmospheric horror film that stands out in the genre.

A sequel to the iconic Stephen King adaptation, The Rage: Carrie 2 centers around Rachel Lang, a teenager with telekinetic abilities similar to those of Carrie White. The film explores the dangers of such immense power falling into the hands of a vulnerable and emotionally unstable individual, resulting in a terrifying and explosive finale. The Rage uses psychic powers as a narrative device to connect the two films, while also commenting on themes of adolescence, trauma, and the human capacity for cruelty. Although not as widely acclaimed as its predecessor, Carrie 2 remains a compelling and provocative entry in the psychic horror canon.

Norwegian director Joachim Trier's Thelma offers a slow-burning and atmospheric exploration of psychic abilities, coming-of-age, and forbidden love. Thelma, played by Eili Harboe, is a young woman who discovers her repressed telekinetic powers while attending university and grappling with her feelings for another woman. The film expertly weaves Thelma's psychic abilities into a deeply emotional narrative, using them as a metaphor for the protagonist's struggle to reconcile her strict religious upbringing with her true identity. A captivating and visually stunning piece of psychic horror, Thelma beautifully showcases the power of the subgenre to explore complex themes and human emotions.

A homage to the body horror and psychic powers of the 1980s, The Mind's Eye is a thrilling tale of extraordinary individuals with telekinetic abilities who are hunted by a nefarious organization seeking to harness their power. The film embraces the tense atmosphere and explosive action characteristic of the era, while lending a fresh perspective to the psychic powers subgenre. With its brutal violence and spectacular visual effects, The Mind's Eye evokes the spirit of classic psychic horror while delivering a unique and exhilarating experience for modern audiences.

Based on the 1973 novel by Peter Van Greenaway, The Medusa Touch is an intriguing psychological thriller that delves into the deadly potential of psychic powers. Richard Burton stars as John Morlar, a misanthropic author who believes his subconscious mind is responsible for causing a series of catastrophic disasters. The film expertly blends elements of psychic horror with crime drama, as a detective investigates the bizarre claims and the link between Morlar and the tragic events. The Medusa Touch serves as a chilling reminder of the potential destructiveness of unchecked psychic abilities.

Exploring the dark and twisted bond between identical twin brothers with psychic powers, Seconds Apart delivers a chilling portrait of the depths to which jealousy and obsession can drive those with extraordinary abilities. The film expertly weaves a narrative of manipulation, deception, and supernatural horror, as the twins use their psychic gifts to exact vengeance on those who have wronged them. With its haunting atmosphere and engrossing story, Seconds Apart serves as a compelling exploration of the psychic horror subgenre.

The sequel to David Cronenberg's groundbreaking 1981 film, Scanners II: The New Order delves even deeper into the world of psychic warfare and power struggles. Following a new generation of scanners, the story focuses on David Kellum, who must navigate the treacherous landscape of psychic conspiracies and hidden agendas while coming to terms with his own abilities. The film's use of telepathy and telekinesis adds a compelling layer of intrigue and suspense, elevating the stakes as characters seek to harness these extraordinary talents for their sinister purposes. While perhaps not as iconic as its predecessor, Scanners II still provides an engaging and action-packed exploration of the psychic powers subgenre.

A chilling Australian horror film, Patrick tells the story of a comatose man who, despite being unable to move, possesses potent telekinetic abilities that he uses to manipulate and terrorize everyone around him. The film expertly builds tension around Patrick's mysterious condition and the deadly consequences of his psychic powers, creating a claustrophobic atmosphere that keeps viewers on edge throughout. Patrick delivers a unique take on the psychic horror subgenre, showcasing the terrifying potential of such abilities in the hands of someone with malicious intent.

A lesser-known but captivating entry in the psychic horror genre, Jennifer centers on a young woman with the uncanny ability to control snakes. As her powers grow and manifest in increasingly dangerous ways, the line between predator and prey becomes blurred, leading to a series of horrifying encounters. The film explores the complexities of power dynamics and the moral ramifications that stem from wielding such otherworldly gifts. Jennifer is an intriguing and disturbing examination of psychic phenomena and the dark depths of human nature.

Taking a more psychological approach to the psychic powers subgenre, Red Lights follows paranormal debunkers Margaret Matheson (Sigourney Weaver) and Tom Buckley (Cillian Murphy) as they investigate a resurgence in the career of a blind psychic, played by Robert De Niro. The film weaves a complex web of mystery and manipulation, blurring the lines between science and the supernatural as the characters grapple with their beliefs and convictions. Red Lights raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of psychic powers and the ethics of those who manipulate them for personal gain or expose them as fraudulent.

A unique blend of supernatural horror and teen drama, 5ive Girls follows a group of young women with psychic abilities who are sent to a mysterious and sinister reform school. As they learn to hone their powers and form an unlikely alliance, they uncover the dark secrets of their surroundings and the malevolent forces that lurk within. With its engaging characters and thrilling plot twists, 5ive Girls is an entertaining and suspenseful addition to the psychic horror genre.

A classic example of the psychic horror subgenre, The Initiation of Sarah chronicles the experiences of a shy college freshman who discovers her latent psychic abilities while navigating the treacherous world of sorority life. As Sarah's powers grow stronger, so does the danger around her, culminating in a suspenseful climax that leaves viewers questioning the limits of her gifts. This TV movie, which has since garnered a cult following, showcases the potential for psychic powers to both empower and terrify in equal measure.

Cameron's Closet tells the chilling tale of a young boy who inadvertently unlocks a portal to a demonic realm through his psychic powers. As the malevolent force unleashed from the closet threatens the lives of Cameron and his loved ones, the film delves into the terrifying implications of psychic abilities gone awry. With its atmospheric visuals and unsettling creature effects, Cameron's Closet is a creepy and captivating entry in the psychic horror canon.