10 Scariest Horror Movies Set In Motels

1. Psycho

Hostel 2
Paramount Pictures

When you think of scary movies set in motels, it's impossible not to think of Psycho. Alfred Hitchcock's masterpiece may be a cliched choice but that doesn't change the fact this iconic slasher has lost none of its power, even after sixty years.

The1960 classic follows a secretary called Marion Crane who checks into a motel after embezzling her client's money. Although the facility's owner, Norman Bates, is timid and polite, he makes it clear he has become unstable after living his entire life under his deranged mother's thumb.

Psycho wasn't just scary for the viewers - even the actors were terrified. Janet Leigh, who played the lead, was so horrified by the shower scene, she had baths for the rest of her life since she felt like she could never step in a shower ever again.

Although the shower scene has the greatest impact, it shouldn't overshadow the rest of the film. Even though the pace is slow, every shot is meticulously crafted to keep viewers engaged and alert. Whether it's Bates' POV moments or the shots of the stuffed bird gawking at the screen, the viewer can't help feeling like they're being watched, making you feel unnerved from beginning to end.

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Contributor

James Egan has been with Whatculture for five years and prominently works on Horror, Film, and Video Games. He's written over 80 books including 1000 Facts about Horror Movies Vol. 1-3 1000 Facts about The Greatest Films Ever Made Vol. 1-3 1000 Facts about Video Games Vol. 1-3 1000 Facts About James Bond 1000 Facts About TV Shows