10 Scariest Haunted House Movies Ever Made

9. Crimson Peak (2015)

Poltergeist 1982
Universal Pictures

When it hit cinemas, Guillermo del Toro's sumptuous Gothic tale Crimson Peak proved to be rather divisive. Some criticised its overblown, melodramatic plotting and considered the performances to be wild and uncontrolled. However, others appreciated the lurid visual style and symbolism pregnant within the decrepit, collapsing house seemingly built on ghosts as well as foundations that lie within a mine of clay that seeps up through the floor like blood.

Mia Wasikowska is on candelabra-wielding duties as the budding writer bewitched by the charms of Tom Hiddleston's baronet. She moves into his crumbling mansion, where she is immediately plagued by visions of creepy spectres, as well as the obvious dislike of Hiddleston's sister, played by Jessica Chastain in a performance that's a million miles away from her usual brand of tightly-wound career woman.

The film is a beautifully flamboyant tale typical of Del Toro, with lavish visuals and a compelling combination of practical effects and CGI. The performances err on just the right side of camp and the twisty plot has all of the overwrought weirdness of the best Gothic melodramas.

Given his role as the modern master of the ghost story, this will not be Del Toro's final appearance on this list.

Contributor
Contributor

Freelance film journalist and fan of professional wrestling. Usually found in a darkened screening room looking for an aisle seat and telling people to put away their mobile phones. Also known to do a bit of stand-up comedy, so I'm used to the occasional heckle.