10 Greatest Religious Horror Movies Of All Time

This film is based on the book of the same name written by Matt Baglio. It holds the distinction of being a horror movie that claims to be based on a true story. This makes the events within it all the more frightening if you subscribe to the validity of this claim.

It follows Michael Kovak, an American seminary student who travels to Italy to learn about exorcism. Michael is a sceptical protagonist, and much like the audience, he enters the scene with doubt about the phenomenon. He is paired up with a Jesuit exorcist named Father Lucas - played wonderfully by Anthony Hopkins - and soon learns about the supernatural experience of possession.

There is a significant amount of star power in the film, not just limited to the hugely influential Hopkins. Ciaran Hinds, Toby Jones and Alice Braga all take decent roles in the movie and help to bring a sense of prestige to it.

As with a lot of religious horror films, the concept of a demon possessing someone's body is the main focus. There are some tense moments throughout it, but ultimately it isn't too frightening unless its true-life story convinces you.

Despite this, it is a compelling watch as the character and story work is well achieved.