Sure, a good scary movie is a perfect weekend pastime about now, but what would make it even creepier is knowing the films weren’t just filmed here but were made by fellow Torontonians.
Toronto has provided the perfect backdrop and inspiration for some of the most chilling movies ever created. Here are 10 of the scariest Toronto-made horror movies of all time.
The Brood (1979)
Kicking off our list is a chilling classic by Toronto’s very own David Cronenberg. “The Brood” explores themes of psychological horror and bodily transformation, providing a nightmarish experience like no other.
The Possessor (2020)
Possessor is a spine-chilling 2020 science fiction psychological horror film directed by Brandon Cronenberg, David Cronenberg’s son. It delves into the terrifying story of an assassin, played by Andrea Riseborough, who can inhabit other people’s bodies to carry out her gruesome hits. As her work increasingly blurs with her personal life, the film takes audiences on a relentless journey through fear and dread.
Ginger Snaps (2000)
This cult classic takes the coming-of-age narrative to a whole new level with lycanthropic terror. Ginger Snaps is a Canadian gem that combines teenage angst with full-moon frights.
Black Christmas (1974)
Before the era of slasher films, there was Black Christmas, a pioneer of the genre. Bob Clark’s terrifying tale of a sorority house stalked by an unknown killer set the stage for future horror classics. And appearances by Margot Kidder and Andrea Martin just make it that much better.
Pontypool (2008)
In Pontypool, Toronto filmmaker Bruce McDonald plays with the concept of linguistic infection, making words more deadly than any weapon. This thought-provoking and suspenseful film demonstrates the power of psychological horror.
Antiviral (2012)
Brandon Cronenberg’s Antiviral is a disturbing glimpse into a world obsessed with celebrity culture. The film offers a visceral and chilling experience that leaves you questioning the boundaries of body and identity.
Cube (1997)
Cube, by Toronto filmmaker Vincenzo Natali, is a low-budget indie masterpiece that showcases Natali’s talent in suspenseful storytelling. Trapped in a mysterious maze of deadly traps, a group of strangers must work together to escape, creating an intense and claustrophobic atmosphere.
The Void (2016)
Jeremy Gillespie’s and Steven Kostanski’s The Void is a love letter to practical effects and cosmic horror. This eerie tale takes place in a small-town hospital, where a group of people is besieged by otherworldly forces that plunge them into a terrifying abyss.
Videodrome (1983)
David Cronenberg’s Videodrome is a mind-bending exploration of technology and the human body. It’s a grotesque and surreal journey into the world of underground media, offering a truly disturbing experience.
The Changeling (1980)
The Changeling, by Toronto’s Peter Medak, is a spine-tingling ghost story that blends elements of the supernatural with a gripping mystery. Set in a haunted mansion, this film is an atmospheric masterpiece that will have you jumping at every creaking floorboard.
From the unsettling visions of David Cronenberg to the chilling mysteries of Vincenzo Natali, the city has given us a diverse range of Toronto horror films that will haunt your nightmares this Halloween season. So, dim the lights, grab your popcorn, and prepare to be terrified Toronto style.
