Horror Films Based on True Stories

Stranger Than Fiction

There is something to be said for a really terrifying horror film. But even more can be said for horror movies which are based on real events. Many people say that real life is often stranger than fiction. In the case of these types of films, nothing could be further from the truth. People are frightened by all sorts of things---monsters, ghosts, and especially each other. The following films, as terrifying as they may be are rooted in events that have taken place at one time or another. Some of these films involve supernatural phenomenon, and some are based on cold-blooded killers. In any event, these films have made millions as a result of their shocking and thrilling nature.

Jaws (1975)

Many horror movie buffs today had not even been born when this thrilling piece of cinema was released. Though the story in general was grossly glamorized for the big screen, this tale is ultimately based on the Jersey Shore shark attacks which occurred in 1916. That year, four individuals were killed, and one injured during a heat wave in July. Docudrama "12 Days of Terror," released in 2004 is also another account of these infamous shark attacks.

Citizen X (1998)

Perhaps nothing is more chilling than a person who has a thirst for the blood (and body parts) of small children. But during the 1980's Russian authorities got a taste (no pun intended) of just how twisted one of their own citizens could be. Andrei Chikatilo, an unassuming, yet quirky individual, had a penchant for kidnapping runaways and small children near train stations, and taking them to the woods for his own perverse pleasures. Stephen Rea provides a stoic performance in this cable-based film, as the detective bent on bringing Chikatilo to justice.

An American Haunting (2006)