10 Best Horror Movies Set In The Past

10. The Conjuring

Let's start with the most recently-set film on our list and one of the most successful and popular horror franchise starters of the 2010s.

Directed by James Wan, the man who makes all the money at the box office, The Conjuring focuses on the adventures of Ed and Lorraine Warren, two real-life paranormal hunters who definitely didn't make any of their evidence up.

The Warrens take a trip to Rhode Island in 1971 to investigate a series of hauntings at a farmhouse. Whilst there, they find out that Old MacDonald had more than just cows and pigs on his property, as they encounter the spirit of a deceased witch.

Not only is The Conjuring a great movie in its own right, filled with plenty of spooks and scares, but it does well to incorporate the "Satanic Panic" trend that was running roughshod across American culture in the '60s and '70s.

The film is styled beautifully to fit the time period. The sets, costumes, and other elements of mise-en-scene are perfect. Although, that does mean audiences are subjected to some questionable early '70s fashion choices.

Some of Ed Warren's sweater vests are more frightening than any demon.