The 65 Best Movies With Evil in the Title
- 1Bruce Campbell, Ellen Sandweiss, Betsy Baker
This 1981 cult classic horror film, directed by Sam Raimi, follows five college students who inadvertently release demonic forces while staying in a remote cabin. The gruesome and terrifying visuals, combined with its unique blend of horror and dark comedy, have earned this film its status as a beloved genre-defying masterpiece. Its enduring popularity has led to sequels, a reboot, and a spin-off television series, making it a significant influence in popular culture.
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- 2Kevin Spacey, John Cusack, Jack Thompson
Directed by Clint Eastwood and based on John Berendt's bestselling novel, this 1997 crime drama takes viewers into the eccentric world of Savannah, Georgia, as a New York journalist investigates a wealthy antiques dealer's murder trial. The film's atmospheric Southern Gothic ambiance and intriguing characters contribute to its enthralling mystery. Additionally, its exploration of themes such as class, race, and sexuality have left an indelible impact on audiences.
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- 3Jane Levy, Shiloh Fernandez, Lou Taylor Pucci
Fede Alvarez's 2013 re-imagining of Sam Raimi's 1981 horror classic retains the original's grisly violence and terrifying scares while delivering a fresh spin for modern audiences. Jane Levy gives a powerhouse performance as Mia, a young woman battling both drug addiction and demonic possession at a remote cabin. This reboot's intense gore and relentless tension make for a thrilling and frightening cinematic experience.
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- 4Kane, Christina Vidal, Samantha Noble
This slasher film directed by Gregory Dark stars WWE wrestler Glenn "Kane" Jacobs as a sadistic, 7-foot-tall psychopath who traps a group of young delinquents in a rundown hotel. The film's gruesome kills and claustrophobic atmosphere are bolstered by Kane's menacing screen presence. Despite a mixed reception, the film has gained a dedicated fan base over the years and spawned a 2014 sequel.
- 5Charlton Heston, Orson Welles, Janet Leigh
Orson Welles' 1958 film noir masterpiece, which he wrote, directed, and starred in, is set in a Mexican border town and follows the investigation of a car bombing. The film's long, unbroken opening shot is considered one of cinema's most technically impressive sequences. While initially overlooked, Touch of Evil is now lauded for its innovative storytelling and striking visuals, which blurred the lines between good and evil.
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- 6Bruce Campbell, Sarah Berry, Dan Hicks
Sam Raimi's 1987 sequel to his groundbreaking horror hit expertly blends slapstick humor and visceral gore. Bruce Campbell's iconic portrayal of Ash Williams, now a beloved horror anti-hero, shines as he battles demonic forces alone in an isolated cabin. This sequel's success further solidified Raimi's distinctive style and cemented the Evil Dead series as an influential force in horror.
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- 7Nancy Sloan, Roger Mahony, John Manly
Inspired by actual events, this chilling 2014 horror film stars Eric Bana as an NYPD officer who teams up with a priest to battle demonic forces plaguing New York City. Combining police procedural elements with supernatural scares, the film stands out in the horror genre. Its tense atmosphere and creepy visuals contribute to an intriguing exploration of faith and evil.
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- 8Richard Pryor, Gene Wilder, Joan Severance
This 1989 buddy comedy features the memorable pairing of Gene Wilder and Richard Pryor as a blind man and a deaf man who become witnesses to a murder. Despite their characters' disabilities, the duo proves to be an enduring team, showcasing their comedic chemistry and impeccable timing throughout the film. The movie's blend of physical humor and mystery has earned it a lasting place in pop culture.
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- 9Kristen Caldwell, Tommy Chong, John Patrick Jordan
Charles Band's 2006 horror-comedy revolves around a group of college stoners who encounter a sentient bong that transports them to a surreal dream world with murderous intentions. The film's absurd premise, campy special effects, and amusingly bizarre characters have gained it a loyal cult following over the years. Its success has also spawned several sequels and a crossover with fellow Full Moon Features property Gingerdead Man.
- 10Tyler Labine, Alan Tudyk, Katrina Bowden
Eli Craig's 2010 horror-comedy offers a fresh twist on slasher conventions by portraying its backwoods duo (played by Alan Tudyk and Tyler Labine) as well-meaning but misunderstood protagonists. The film's clever script, which subverts common horror tropes, and its gory practical effects are both hilarious and entertaining. Tucker & Dale vs. Evil has become a beloved cult classic that continues to resonate with fans of the genre.
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- 11Milla Jovovich, Michelle Rodriguez, Eric Mabius
Based on the popular video game franchise, this action-packed horror film, directed by Paul W.S. Anderson, follows Alice (Milla Jovovich) as she battles bloodthirsty zombies and sinister corporations in a post-apocalyptic world. Its blend of survival horror elements with adrenaline-pumping action has struck a chord with both fans of the source material and new audiences alike. The film's success sparked a long-running and lucrative franchise, solidifying its status in popular culture.
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- 12Andrew Divoff, Holly Fields, Paul Johansson
The 1999 sequel to the hit horror film Wishmaster sees evil djinn returning to wreak havoc on Earth by granting twisted wishes to unsuspecting humans. Andrew Divoff's sinister performance as the malevolent djinn and the creative, gruesome death scenes have earned this follow-up a devoted fan base. Despite being released straight to video, its impact on horror fans has made it a lasting entry in the Wishmaster series.
- 13Jeffrey DeMunn, Mark Margolis, Peter Friedman
This 1980 horror film, also known as You Better Watch Out, offers a twisted take on the holiday season as a deranged toy factory employee becomes convinced he's Santa Claus and sets out to punish the "naughty" children and adults in his community. The film's dark humor, offbeat premise, and unsettlingly committed performance by Brandon Maggart have made it a cult favorite among fans of unconventional holiday movies. Christmas Evil's cult status has grown over the years, cementing its place in the pantheon of alternative Christmas films.
- 14Andreas Wilson, Henrik Lundström, Gustaf Skarsgård
This 2003 Swedish drama, directed by Mikael Håfström and based on Jan Guillou's bestselling novel, grapples with themes of morality, power, and oppression within the confines of a 1950s boarding school. The film's harrowing tale of abuse and rebellion is anchored by powerful performances from its young cast, particularly Andreas Wilson in the lead role. Evil's gripping narrative and intense emotional impact have garnered critical acclaim and international recognition, including an Academy Award nomination for Best Foreign Language Film.
- 15Meryl Streep, Sam Neill, Charles Dance
Based on the true story of Lindy Chamberlain, this gripping 1988 drama stars Meryl Streep as an Australian mother accused of murdering her baby daughter, despite her insistence that a dingo took her child. Streep's powerful performance garnered critical acclaim, including an Academy Award nomination, and the film itself sparked debate about the real-life case. The harrowing story and standout acting have made Evil Angels an enduring exploration of media sensationalism and the search for truth.
16Mickey Rooney, Milton Berle, Penny MarshallThis 1972 comedic western television movie, directed by Jerry Paris and starring John Astin in the title role, follows the exploits of a bumbling outlaw who tries to go straight after falling in love. Its tongue-in-cheek humor, playful spoofing of classic western tropes, and memorable supporting cast (including Mickey Rooney and Dick Shawn) have endeared it to fans of both comedy and western genres. Though initially released as a TV movie, Evil Roy Slade has garnered a cult following over the years and remains a beloved entry in the pantheon of comedic westerns.
- 17Robin Sydney, Amy Paffrath, Brett Chukerman
In this 2009 sequel to Charles Band's stoner horror-comedy, the survivors of the first film must team up with a sexy "botanist" to battle a new evil bong threatening their lives. The film's crass humor, cheap special effects, and tongue-in-cheek approach to horror tropes have earned it a dedicated fan base among those with an appreciation for low-budget, campy cinema. Like its predecessor, Evil Bong 2 has also spawned multiple sequels and crossovers, demonstrating the resilience of this offbeat franchise.
- 18Kane, Danielle Harris, Katharine Isabelle
Directed by the Soska Sisters, this 2014 follow-up to the 2006 slasher film sees psychopath Jacob Goodnight (played once again by Glenn "Kane" Jacobs) wreaking havoc on a group of unsuspecting friends mourning a recently deceased loved one at the city morgue. The film's inventive gore, darkly humorous tone, and Kane's continued menacing presence have satisfied fans of the original movie and garnered new admirers. Despite being released straight to video, See No Evil 2 has maintained a loyal following among horror devotees.
- 19Peter Cushing, Dennis Price, Kathleen Byron
This 1971 Hammer Horror classic, directed by John Hough, tells the tale of two orphaned identical twin sisters who become embroiled in a battle between their puritanical uncle and a vampire count. The film's atmospheric visuals, stylish gothic trappings, and titillating performances from Playboy Playmates Mary and Madeleine Collinson as the titular twins have made it a favorite among fans of vintage horror cinema. Twins of Evil's intriguing blend of classic vampire tropes and seventies exploitation film sensibilities have contributed to its enduring appeal.
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- 20Charles Dance, Sharni Vinson, Rachel Griffiths
A modern retelling of the 1978 Australian cult classic, this 2013 horror film directed by Mark Hartley centers on a comatose patient named Patrick who possesses devastating psychic powers. The film's unnerving atmosphere, gruesome visuals, and strong performances from a talented cast (including Charles Dance and Rachel Griffiths) have made it a worthy addition to the canon of psychological horror. Despite its limited release and mixed reviews, Patrick: Evil Awakens has found an appreciative audience among genre fans.
- 21Peter Cushing, Peter Woodthorpe, Duncan Lamont
Hammer Films' 1964 entry in their Frankenstein series finds Peter Cushing's Baron Frankenstein reviving his monstrous creation once again, leading to disastrous consequences. Directed by Freddie Francis, the film's sumptuous gothic atmosphere, memorable creature design, and Cushing's iconic portrayal of the morally ambiguous doctor have made it a standout installment in the British studio's renowned horror output. The Evil of Frankenstein's combination of classic monster movie tropes and Hammer's distinctive style has ensured its lasting appeal to horror aficionados.
- 22Peter Ustinov, Colin Blakely, Jane Birkin
This classic whodunit is based on Agatha Christie's famous novel and features Peter Ustinov as the iconic detective Hercule Poirot, who investigates a murder at an island resort. The star-studded ensemble cast, gorgeous Mediterranean locations, and witty repartee make for an engaging and entertaining adaptation. Directed by Guy Hamilton, Evil Under the Sun (1982) is a beloved entry in the pantheon of Christie adaptations and continues to delight mystery lovers worldwide.
- 23Edward Albert, Susan George, Doug McClure
In this 1982 horror film directed by Kevin Connor, an American family moves into a haunted house in Japan, only to find themselves tormented by vengeful spirits. The film's eerie atmosphere and unique setting create a chilling supernatural tale. Despite mixed reviews, The House Where Evil Dwells retains a cult following among fans of atmospheric ghost stories.
- 24Charles Bronson, Theresa Saldana, Joseph Maher
This 1984 action thriller stars Charles Bronson as a retired hitman who returns to his deadly profession to exact revenge on a torturer known as "The Doctor." The film's brutal violence and Bronson's steely performance make it a memorable entry in the star's oeuvre. Directed by J. Lee Thompson, The Evil That Men Do remains a gripping and intense exploration of vengeance and morality in the world of international crime.
- 25Mia Farrow, Paul Nicholas, Dorothy Alison
This chilling suspense thriller, directed by Richard Fleischer, stars Mia Farrow as a blind woman terrorized by an unknown assailant in her family's secluded English estate. The film's claustrophobic atmosphere, innovative camera work, and Farrow's vulnerable performance create a tense and engaging viewing experience. See No Evil (1971) remains a potent exploration of vulnerability and isolation within the thriller genre.
- 26Gary Cooper, Susan Hayward, Richard Widmark
This 1954 western adventure, directed by Henry Hathaway, stars Gary Cooper, Susan Hayward, and Richard Widmark as a trio of strangers forced to confront their personal demons while navigating a treacherous journey through a Mexican jungle. The film's breathtaking Technicolor visuals, strong performances, and thought-provoking themes make it a standout entry in the western canon. Garden of Evil's riveting exploration of human nature and survival continues to resonate with audiences.
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- 27Sean Pertwee, Dominique Pinon, Chris Barrie
This 2006 horror anthology, directed by Johannes Roberts, centers on a high school where the students begin receiving eerie text messages that grant their deepest desires at a deadly price. The film features an ensemble cast of up-and-coming British actors and was originally released as a series of mobile phone episodes, making it notable for its innovative distribution model. Despite mixed reviews, When Evil Calls has gained a following among fans of modern horror.
- 28John Garfield, Beatrice Pearson, Thomas Gomez
Abraham Polonsky's 1948 film noir tackles the world of organized crime as an ambitious lawyer (played by John Garfield) navigates a dangerous alliance with his racketeer brother. The film's stark black-and-white cinematography, evocative dialogue, and complex characters contribute to its status as a noir masterpiece. Despite Polonsky's later blacklisting during the McCarthy era, Force of Evil has endured as an influential work in American cinema and a prime example of film noir's enduring appeal.
- 29David Carradine, Barbara Dare, Dick Miller
Fred Olen Ray's 1992 horror-comedy combines live-action and animation to tell the story of four college students who unwittingly summon a malevolent cartoon character during a night of debauchery. The film's campy, low-budget charm, gratuitous nudity, and amusingly crude animation contribute to its cult appeal among fans of B-movies and exploitation cinema. Furthermore, Evil Toons features horror icons David Carradine and Arte Johnson in supporting roles, adding to its appeal for genre enthusiasts.
- 30
Evil Dead film series
Beginning with Sam Raimi's groundbreaking 1981 horror classic and continuing through sequels, remakes, and spinoffs, this influential franchise has captivated audiences with its unique blend of gore, humor, and mind-bending terror. Memorable characters such as Bruce Campbell's Ash Williams and Jane Levy's Mia Allen have become enduring fixtures in the horror genre. The enduring cultural impact of these films has solidified their status as some of the most beloved horror movies in history.
