Best Full Possession Horror Movies You Need To Watch
Hey guys! Are you horror movie fanatics like me? Then you've probably explored the chilling realm of possession movies. There's something uniquely terrifying about watching a character lose control of their body and mind to a malevolent entity. If you're on the hunt for a truly scary movie night, diving into the world of full possession horror movies is a must. This article will explore some of the most intense and spine-chilling possession films ever made, that will leave you sleeping with the lights on. Get ready to delve into the dark side, because these movies are not for the faint of heart!
The Exorcist (1973): The Groundbreaking Classic
When we talk about full possession horror movies, we have to start with the OG, the film that pretty much set the standard for the genre: The Exorcist. Released in 1973, this movie isn't just a horror film; it's a cultural phenomenon. It tells the terrifying story of Regan MacNeil, a 12-year-old girl who becomes possessed by a demonic entity. Her mother, desperate to save her daughter, enlists the help of two priests to perform an exorcism. Now, what makes The Exorcist so impactful? Firstly, the performances are phenomenal. Linda Blair as Regan delivers a truly disturbing portrayal of possession, complete with unsettling makeup, demonic voices, and shocking behavior. The film doesn't shy away from the gruesome details, and honestly, that’s part of its power. The special effects, though dated by today’s standards, were groundbreaking at the time and still manage to get under your skin. The story itself is a masterclass in building suspense. Director William Friedkin slowly ratchets up the tension, creating an atmosphere of dread that permeates every scene. You really feel the desperation and helplessness of Regan’s mother as she watches her daughter’s descent into the clutches of evil. But beyond the scares, The Exorcist also grapples with deeper themes of faith, good versus evil, and the power of belief. It’s a film that stays with you long after the credits roll, prompting discussions and, for many, a healthy dose of nightmares. The Exorcist is a must-watch for anyone interested in horror, not just possession movies. It's a cinematic landmark that continues to influence the genre to this day, and its impact on popular culture is undeniable. If you haven’t seen it, grab some friends, turn off the lights, and prepare for a truly unforgettable experience. Just maybe don't watch it right before bedtime!
The Exorcism of Emily Rose (2005): A Chilling Courtroom Drama
If you're into full possession horror movies with a unique twist, then The Exorcism of Emily Rose (2005) is definitely one to add to your watchlist. This film masterfully blends the supernatural horror of demonic possession with the tense atmosphere of a courtroom drama. It's not just about jump scares and creepy visuals; it delves into complex legal and moral questions, making it a truly thought-provoking horror experience. The movie is loosely based on the story of Anneliese Michel, a German woman who underwent exorcism rites in the 1970s. In the film, Emily Rose, played brilliantly by Jennifer Carpenter, is a college student who begins to experience disturbing visions and seizures. As her condition worsens, she becomes convinced she is possessed by demons. A local priest, Father Moore, performs an exorcism on her, but Emily tragically dies during the ritual. The film's narrative is structured around the subsequent trial of Father Moore, who is charged with negligent homicide. This courtroom setting allows the film to explore the events surrounding Emily's possession from multiple perspectives. We see flashbacks of Emily's horrifying experiences alongside the legal arguments presented by the prosecution and the defense. This dual narrative keeps you engaged and guessing throughout the film. One of the strongest aspects of The Exorcism of Emily Rose is its ambiguity. The film doesn't explicitly confirm or deny the existence of demonic possession. Instead, it presents both the medical and supernatural explanations for Emily's condition, leaving it up to the viewer to decide what they believe. This ambiguity adds to the film's unsettling atmosphere and makes it more than just a typical horror flick. The performances are also top-notch, particularly Jennifer Carpenter's portrayal of Emily Rose. Her physical and emotional transformation throughout the film is truly captivating and disturbing. The supporting cast, including Laura Linney as the defense attorney and Tom Wilkinson as Father Moore, also deliver strong performances that add depth and complexity to the story. If you're looking for a possession horror movie that's intelligent, suspenseful, and thought-provoking, The Exorcism of Emily Rose is a must-see. It's a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll and spark conversations about faith, science, and the nature of good and evil. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and prepare for a truly chilling experience.
Deliver Us from Evil (2014): A Gritty Police Procedural with a Demonic Twist
Alright, guys, if you're craving full possession horror movies that blend intense police procedural elements with spine-chilling demonic encounters, then you absolutely need to check out Deliver Us from Evil (2014). This film takes a unique approach to the possession genre, grounding the supernatural horror in a gritty, realistic setting. It's not just about jump scares; it's about the psychological toll of battling evil, both human and demonic. Deliver Us from Evil is inspired by the real-life experiences of NYPD Sergeant Ralph Sarchie, played by Eric Bana in the film. Sarchie is a hardened cop who investigates a series of disturbing crimes in the Bronx. As he delves deeper into the cases, he begins to uncover a sinister link between them – a demonic presence that seems to be infecting the city. What sets this film apart is its commitment to realism. The police investigation feels authentic, and the urban setting is grimy and unsettling. The film doesn't rely on cheap scares; instead, it builds tension through atmosphere and suspense. You really feel like you're walking the dark streets of New York alongside Sarchie as he confronts both human criminals and supernatural forces. Eric Bana delivers a compelling performance as Sarchie, portraying him as a tough but troubled cop who is forced to confront his own demons as he battles the demonic presence. The supporting cast, including Edgar RamĂrez as a Jesuit priest who teams up with Sarchie, also adds depth to the story. The film's depiction of possession is particularly effective. It's not just about spinning heads and pea-soup vomit; it's about the gradual erosion of a person's mind and soul. The victims of possession in Deliver Us from Evil are genuinely disturbing, and their suffering is palpable. The film also explores the themes of faith and redemption. Sarchie, a cynical cop who has lost his faith, is forced to confront the reality of evil and the power of belief. His journey from skeptic to believer is one of the most compelling aspects of the film. If you're looking for a possession horror movie that's both scary and smart, Deliver Us from Evil is a great choice. It's a film that will keep you on the edge of your seat while also making you think about the nature of good and evil. So, grab some snacks, dim the lights, and get ready for a terrifying ride.
The Possession (2012): A Family's Nightmare
Hey, horror fans! If you're searching for full possession horror movies that really hit you in the feels, and tap into the fears of protecting your family, then you need to check out The Possession (2012). This film takes a classic possession storyline and grounds it in the very real anxieties of parenthood and family dynamics, making it all the more terrifying. What makes The Possession stand out is its focus on the emotional impact of demonic influence on a family. The film centers on a divorced father, Clyde, played by Jeffrey Dean Morgan, who is trying to reconnect with his two daughters. During a trip to a yard sale, his youngest daughter, Em, becomes captivated by an antique wooden box. Little does Clyde know, this box contains a dybbuk, a malicious spirit from Jewish folklore. As Em becomes increasingly attached to the box, her behavior starts to change. She becomes withdrawn, aggressive, and exhibits disturbing symptoms of possession. Clyde, initially skeptical, soon realizes that something truly evil is happening to his daughter. The film effectively builds tension as Em's possession intensifies. The subtle changes in her behavior, the unsettling atmosphere, and the growing sense of dread all contribute to the film's overall creepiness. What's particularly scary about The Possession is how it taps into the fear of not being able to protect your children. Clyde's struggle to save his daughter from the dybbuk is both heartbreaking and terrifying. You really feel his desperation and helplessness as he watches his child slip away. The film also explores themes of faith and family. Clyde, who is not religious, must turn to his ex-wife's Orthodox Jewish community for help in exorcising the dybbuk. This cultural element adds another layer of intrigue to the story. The Possession isn't just about jump scares and demonic special effects; it's about the emotional toll of possession on a family. It's a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll, prompting you to think about the bonds of family and the power of belief. If you're looking for a possession horror movie that's both scary and emotionally resonant, The Possession is a must-watch. So, gather your loved ones, turn off the lights, and prepare for a truly chilling experience.
Last Shift (2014): A Terrifying Night on Duty
Hey guys, if you're on the hunt for full possession horror movies that deliver a claustrophobic and relentlessly creepy experience, you've gotta check out Last Shift (2014). This film is a masterclass in low-budget horror, proving that you don't need a massive budget to create something truly terrifying. Last Shift throws you into the isolated world of rookie police officer Jessica Loren as she's tasked with taking the last shift at a soon-to-be-closed police station. The station has a dark history, having been the site of a gruesome cult-related massacre a year prior. As Jessica settles in for her solitary night, strange things start to happen. Phones ring with no one on the other end, doors slam shut on their own, and unsettling figures begin to appear in the shadows. What makes Last Shift so effective is its atmosphere of unrelenting dread. The film is primarily set within the confines of the old police station, creating a claustrophobic and unsettling environment. The flickering lights, the eerie silence, and the sense that Jessica is completely alone all contribute to the film's palpable tension. The film doesn't rely on jump scares alone; it builds suspense slowly and deliberately, creating a sense of unease that permeates every scene. You really feel Jessica's isolation and her growing sense of panic as the night progresses. Juliana Harkavy delivers a fantastic performance as Jessica, conveying both her vulnerability and her determination to survive the night. She's a relatable protagonist, and you find yourself rooting for her as she confronts the increasingly terrifying events unfolding around her. As the night wears on, Jessica's grip on reality begins to unravel, and she's forced to confront the demonic forces that haunt the station. The film's depiction of possession is particularly disturbing, with Jessica's mind and body being slowly taken over by malevolent entities. Last Shift is a possession horror movie that's both scary and suspenseful, proving that sometimes the most effective horror is the kind that gets under your skin and stays there. If you're looking for a truly chilling experience, dim the lights, turn up the volume, and prepare for a terrifying night on duty.
So, there you have it, a rundown of some of the best full possession horror movies out there that are guaranteed to give you the chills. Whether you're a fan of classic tales like The Exorcist or prefer the gritty realism of Deliver Us from Evil, there's a possession film out there to scare the pants off you. Grab your popcorn, gather your bravest friends, and get ready for a movie night that will leave you sleeping with the lights on. Just remember, these movies are not for the faint of heart! Happy watching, and sweet dreams... if you can get any!