10 Best Movies like The Nun | Similar-List

Have you recently stepped into the chilling realm of The Nun, or are you simply on the hunt for more supernatural thrills? Either way, you’ve come to the right place. The Nun intricately explores themes of religious horror and evil spirits, creating an atmosphere long after the final credits roll. This film encapsulates a narrative filtered-filled narratives a demon haunting the shadows of a convent, leaving viewers with thought-provoking questions and a heart-pounding sense of unease.

But the eeriness doesn’t have to end here! Below is a curated selection of films that resonate with similar themes and offer haunting experiences that will keep you riveted. If you’re seeking more spine-tingling chills, check out these movies, like The Nun (2018), which are essential viewing.

10 Best Movies like The Nun

The Curse of La Llorona (2019)

Drawing on the haunting legend of La Llorona, this film weaves a chilling narrative that focuses on a social worker named Anna Garcia, played by Linda Cardellini. Set in 1970s Los Angeles, Anna's life spirals into chaos after she inadvertently becomes involved with the ghostly figure known for preying on children. The film opens with a chilling prologue that introduces the tragic backstory of La Llorona, a mother who drowned her children in a fit of grief and desperation, only to be haunted by their spirits.

As the story unfolds, Anna experiences increasing supernatural occurrences that signal La Llorona's evil presence. Her children, Chris and Samantha, become targets of the vengeful spirit, leading Anna to seek help from a priest, Father Perez, who introduces her to the darker aspects of the supernatural. The film creates a palpable sense of dread through expertly crafted jump scares and a relentlessly tense atmosphere, emphasizing themes of maternal love and the lengths a mother will go to protect her children.

What makes The Curse of La Llorona particularly compelling is how it integrates cultural folklore into its narrative. The legend of La Llorona, deeply rooted in Hispanic culture, adds layers of authenticity and emotional weight to the story. The film respectfully portrays this well-known supernatural tale, inviting viewers to reflect on fear, loss, and sorrow.

The cinematography heightens the sense of unease, with dimly lit scenes where shadowy figures lurk and echoing cries of “?Ay, mis hijos!” (Oh, my children!) ringing hauntingly in the background. This use of sound and lighting immerses the audience in the film's chilling world, filling every moment with suspense.

In addition to the supernatural horror, The Curse of La Llorona delves into Anna's struggles as a single mother balancing her professional responsibilities with her desire to protect her children. This characterization adds depth, making her desperate fight against La Llorona's malevolence all the more relatable and emotional.

Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in this folklore-infused nightmare that combines traditional horror elements with emotional storytelling. This film will leave you questioning shadows and whispers long after the credits roll.

We Have Always Lived in the Castle (2018)

We Have Always Lived in the Castle is a haunting adaptation of Shirley Jackson's acclaimed novel, skillfully directed by Stacie Passon. The film centers around the enigmatic Blackwood sisters, Merricat and Constance, played by Taissa Farmiga and Alexandra Daddario, respectively. Years after a tragic family incident that left their parents dead, the sisters live a secluded life in their decaying mansion, shunned by the local townspeople due to lingering rumors and accusations surrounding their family.

Merricat, the younger sister, possesses a deep-seated desire for protection and control. Her eccentricities and rituals add layers to the narrative as she attempts to ward off the perceived threats from the outside world. The sisters dine together, surrounded by the remnants of their past, creating an atmosphere thick with tension and psychological complexity. For instance, Merricat engages in magical thinking, employing talismans and spells to keep away unwanted visitors and safeguard their fragile existence. This belief in magic serves as a coping mechanism and a means to exert control in a chaotic life.

The arrival of their cousin, Charles Blackwood (Sebastian Stan), shatters their carefully constructed world. With charming yet sinister intentions, Charles takes an interest in the family’s wealth and seeks to manipulate Constance, further straining the once-solid bond between the sisters. This dynamic introduces a palpable sense of danger and rivalry, mirroring the themes of isolation and familial loyalty prevalent in The Nun and other psychological horror films.

As the story unfolds, the suffocating atmosphere of the Blackwood home becomes more oppressive, symbolizing the sisters' deep-seated traumas. The unsettling climax reveals their lengths to protect their sanctuary, raising questions about morality, vengeance, and the idea of being an outsider. The film’s conclusion is both shockid thought-provoking, leaving viewers to grapple with the Blackwoods’ fate and the darker aspects of human nature.

With its lush cinematography, haunting score, and exceptional performances, We Have Always Lived in the Castle crafts an enduring sense of dread, making it a must-see for fans of psychological horror. It encapsulates the idea of being trapped in one’s world, where the past continuously influences the present, echoing the chilling tones of isolation and supernatural forces found in The Nun.

The Woman in Black (2012)

In The Woman in Black, Daniel Radcliffe stars as Arthur Kipps, a young lawyer who travels to a remote village to settle the affairs of a deceased client. The film opens with an unsettling atmosphere, quickly immersing viewers in a world shrouded in fog and thick, haunting silence, symbolic of the horrors that lie ahead. Upon arriving at Eel Marsh House, a dilapidated estate perched on the edge of a treacherous marsh, Arthur discovers that the village is plagued by a chilling curse linked to the titular apparition.

As Arthur digs deeper into his client's past, he uncovers the story of the Woman in Black—a vengeful spirit who lost her child and seeks retribution against the townsfolk for their past wrongs. This supernatural entity lures children to their deaths, casting a pall of despair over the village and instilling fear in every heart. The chilling sound design heightens the tension, as every creak and whisper seems to be a portent of doom.

The film's imagery powerfully conveys the sense of isolation and dread. The vast, desolate marshes reflect the emotional turmoil of the characters, particularly Arthur, who grapples with his own tragic past—the loss of his wife during childbirth. This personal grief makes his encounter with the Woman in Black even more poignant, merging the themes of parental loss and haunting regret.

Critics praised Radcliffe's performance, marking a significant departure from his earlier role as Harry Potter. His portrayal of Arthur Kipps showcases vulnerability and determination as he navigates terror in an increasingly precarious environment. The haunting visuals and carefully crafted narrative culminate in a shocking climax that leaves audiences breathless. The film's climax not only delivers fright but also challenges viewers to ponder the depths of human despair and the lengths one will go to protect loved ones.

For atmospheric horror fans enjoying psychological elements with supernatural terror, The Woman in Black is an essential watch. Its meticulous attention to detail, haunting visuals, and evocative storytelling create a richly layered experience, ensuring that the legacy of The Woman in Black will linger long after the film concludes. Whether you're a seasoned horror fan or new to the genre, this film promises a gripping journey into fear and tragedy. Available for streaming on platforms like Paramount , it’s a classic tale of ghosts that will leave you questioning the very fabric of reality.

Saint Maud (2019)

Saint Maud delves into the unsettling story of Maud, a deeply devout nurse obsessed with saving her terminally ill patient, Amanda. Set in the stark confines of a coastal English town, Maud's journey takes a harrowing turn as she attempts to deliver her interpretation of salvation through increasingly unhinged measures. With a haunting performance by Morfydd Clark, the film blurs the lines between faith and fanaticism, creating a chilling portrait of psychological horror.

From the start, audiences are drawn into Maud’s world, where her emotional spirituality drives her deeper into isolation. As she grapples with her past traumas, we witness her transformation from a caring nurse to a woman consumed by her desperate need to save Amanda’s soul, whom she perceives as lost due to her atheism. In one particularly provocative scene, Maud believes she hears the voice of God urging her to purge Amanda of her sinful ways. The intensity of these moments emphasizes the film's exploration of religious zealotry and mental instability.

Moreover, Saint Maud masterfully employs symbolism to amplify its themes. The stark contrast between the clinical setting of the hospital and the ethereal visions Maud experiences heightens the tension throughout the film. The cinematography captures her spiraling descent into madness, using color palettes that shift from muted tones to vivid, surreal imagery as her grip on reality slips away.

The film's climax is both shocking and thought-provoking, challenging viewers to ponder the nature of belief and madness. As Maud spirals into violence, the viewer is left questioning whether her actions are driven by divine calling or sheer insanity. It serves as a potent reminder of how the quest for redemption can lead to unexpected and terrifying consequences.

Saint Maud is not just a horror tale; it explores faith, vulnerability, and the human psyche's fragility under pressure. This film is an essential watch for those seeking a complex narrative that intertwines psychological dread with spiritual exploration. Stream Saint Maud on Prime Video for a gripping and thought-provoking experience in terror.

The Witch (2015)

Set in the stark wilderness of 1630s New England, The Witch masterfully introduces audiences to the Puritan family of William and Katherine. William's unyielding religious beliefs cast them out of their settlement. With their farm isolated and their crops failing, the family's survival becomes increasingly tenuous as they grapple with the mysterious loss of their newborn son, Samuel.

At the heart of this haunting tale is Thomasin, their eldest daughter, portrayed compellingly by Anya Taylor-Joy in her breakout role. As she faces mounting suspicion from her family, particularly from her increasingly erratic mother, the film explores the devastating effects of paranoia and fear. The family's descent into madness is marked by their growing obsession with witchcraft, driven by the belief that dark forces are at play in their lives.

The film’s atmosphere is imbued with an oppressive sense of dread, expertly heightened by its cinematography and score. The stark, claustrophobic visuals depict the bleakness of their environment, mirroring the family's internal turmoil. The haunting soundscape, featuring eerie whispers and unsettling noises, amplifies the tension, allowing viewers to experience the characters' spiraling fear and desperation.

What sets The Witch apart is its exploration of themes that resonate with those in The Nun. Just as The Nun delves into the nature of evil through its demonic antagonist, The Witch examines the manifestation of evil born from fear, superstition, and societal pressure. The film culminates in a chilling climax that confronts the audience with a haunting question: how far will one go in the name of faith and survival?

Viewers looking for a deeply unsettling experience filled with psychological horror and a critique of religious fanaticism will find The Witch an essential film. Its exploration of the fragile boundaries between sanity and madness, good and evil, and faith and doubt is riveting and thought-provoking, making it a perfect addition to the collection of movies like The Nun.

The Conjuring (2013)

In The Conjuring, renowned paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren, portrayed by Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga, delve into one of their most harrowing cases. The film is based on the Warrens' real-life experiences as they assist the Perron family, who have recently moved into an old farmhouse in Rhode Island. Almost immediately, the Perrons start experiencing unsettling events—furniture moving on its own, strange sounds echoing through the halls, and a pervasive sense of dread that hangs over the family.

As the supernatural occurrences escalate, the Warrens discover that an evil spirit is linked to the property’s dark past. The film immerses viewers in its chilling atmosphere by weaving in historical details, such as the previous owners of the house and the tragic events that led to its haunting. The iIncludingwitch Bathsheba Sherman, said to have cursed the land in the 19th century and was a real figure in Rhode Island folklore, adds a compelling layer to the storyline, grounding the horror in actual events.

Tension mounts as the Warrens work against time to save the Perron family, showcasing their expertise in dealing with the supernatural. Lorraine's psychic abilities and Ed’s steadfast faith highlight their strong partnership and emphasize the emotional stakes. The scenes of paranormal investigation are masterfully executed, leading to hair-raising moments that keep viewers on the edge of their seats, such as the iconic scene where Lorraine becomes trapped in a terrifying confrontation with the spirit.

Moreover, The Conjuring effectively utilizes suspense and atmosphere by gradually building dread; the film's cinematography and sound design play crucial roles in creating an unnerving experience. For instance, the clever use of silence before jump scares heightens the impact of each supernatural event, leaving audiences both startled and engaged.

Critically acclaimed for its storytelling and direction, The Conjuring revitalized the horror genre, leading to numerous sequels and spin-offs, including Annabelle and The Nun. Its blend of genuine emotion, historical authenticity, and spine-chilling horror has left a lasting impression on audiences. The Conjuring is a must-watch for those intrigued by the supernatural and searching for a gripping experience against evil forces, much like the haunting elements found in The Nun.

Annabelle (2014)

Annabelle serves as a chilling prequel to the popular Conjuring franchise, focusing on the origins of the infamous doll that has terrified audiences since its introduction. Set in the 1960s, this film follows Mia and John Form, a couple eagerly preparing for their newborn's arrival. Their lives take a dark turn when John surprises Mia with a vintage doll to complete her nursery—a seemingly innocent gift that quickly becomes the harbinger of horror.

The film delves into the backstory of the haunted doll and introduces viewers to a horrifying chain of events. After a brutal home invasion by members of a satanic cult, Mia finds herself haunted by an evil force connected to the doll, which becomes a conduit for supernatural terror. The opening sequence, which features a chilling account of the cult’s attack, sets a tone that reverberates throughout the film, establishing a pervasive sense of dread.

Annabelle's exploration of themes such as innocence corrupted by evil and the fragile nature of domestic life makes it particularly compelling. As Mia’s idyllic existence crumbles, the once-comforting presence of the doll transforms into a symbol of fear and chaos. Viewers are drawn into the escalating tension as Mia experiences terrifying occurrences—objects moving on their own, ominous shadows lurking in the corners of her home, and disembodied whispers that threaten her sanity.

One of the film's standout moments occurs in a harrowing sequence in which Mia, alone in her apartment, finds herself increasingly tormented by the doll’s presence. The painstaking build-up to a shocking reveal—a moment that will leave audiences gasping—exemplifies the film's ability to harness suspense through atmosphere rather than blatant jump scares. The carefully crafted cinematography and rich sound design further amplify this sense of unease, immersing viewers in Mia's spiraling nightmare.

Annabelle doesn't rely on shock value; it expertly weaves a narrative examining the consequences of evil on family and relationships. The film highlights the couple's struggle against something beyond their understanding, reflecting a universal fear of the unknown. As Mia's terror escalates, her relationship with John becomes strained, illustrating how the threat of malevolence can tear apart even the most loving bonds.

Annabelle is essential viewing for fans of supernatural horror and those intrigued by the backstory of the Conjuring universe. It showcases the doll's sinister legacy and sets the stage for the terror that unfolds in subsequent films. By exploring the depths of fear and the lengths one will go to protect loved ones, Annabelle ignites a haunting journey that lingers long after the credits roll. You can experience the chilling world of Annabelle and witness how a seemingly innocent gift can become a gateway to unspeakable horrors. Don’t miss your chance to dive into this spine-tingling tale.

The Exorcist (1973)

The Exorcist is a seminal horror film that terrified audiences upon its release and redefined the genre itself. Directed by William Friedkin and based on William Peter Blatty's novel, this chilling tale follows the harrowing possession of a young girl named Regan MacNeil, brilliantly played by Linda Blair. The film unfolds a disturbing narrative as Regan’s transformation into a vessel of evil showcases the terrifying power of demonic influence.

The story starts when Regan begins to exhibit unsettling behaviors, from speaking in tongues to displaying supernatural strength that baffles both her mother, Chris (Ellen Burstyn), and their friends. As her condition worsens and conventional medical treatments fail, Chris becomes desperate and turns to Father Karras (Jason Miller), a priest and psychiatrist grappling with his faith. His internal struggle between science and spirituality mirrors the film's overarching themes, enhancing the emotional weight of the narrative.

What makes The Exorcist particularly gripping is its deep exploration of the battle between good and evil. The film introduces Father Merrin (Max von Sydow), whose experience with the demonic force sets the stage for a climactic confrontation filled with tension. The famously haunting exorcism scenes are crafted with such intensity that they draw viewers into the visceral struggle, as holy water, prayers, and candles are the last bastion against darkness.

The film's technical aspects also contribute to its enduring impact. Friedkin employed innovative cinematography, sound design, and visual effects to instill a sense of realism that blurs the lines between the ordinary and the supernatural. For instance, the now-iconic spinning head scene or the eerie use of the “heretic” voice that overwhelmed Regan was groundbreaking at the time and continues to leave audiences in awe.

Culturally, The Exorcist sparked widespread discussions about possession, faith, and the nature of evil. The film incited controversy and acclaim for its graphic content and deep spiritual themes, leading many to question their beliefs about religion and the supernatural. Its legacy has inspired countless filmmakers, solidifying its status as a touchstone in horror cinema.

For anyone interested in supernatural horror, The Exorcist is an absolute classic that does more than frighten; it questions the very fabric of morality and belief. Its exploration of the human experience in the face of unfathomable evil makes it a compelling watch that resonates well beyond the confines of its genre. Whether you are a horror fan or a casual viewer, this film remains a profound experience showcasing cinematic storytelling's power.

Insidious (2010)

Insidious takes viewers on a heart-stopping journey into the dark and mysterious realm of the supernatural. The film begins when the Lambert family experiences a horrific turn of events after their son, Dalton, inexplicably falls into a coma. However, as they soon discover, his slumber isn’t the result of a mundane medical issue—Dalton is trapped in a dark dimension known as “The Further,” a place filled with evil spirits yearning to cross over into the living world.

What sets Insidious apart is its exploration of fear and the impact of untethered spirits on familial bonds. The psychological tension intensifies as the family grapples with the escalating sinister events manifesting in their home—such as shadowy figures lurking in the corners and unsettling sounds echoing in the night. Josh and Renai Lambert are confronted not only with the potential loss of their child but also with the unraveling of their sanity as they fight against the unknown.

The film introduces the character of Elise Rainier, a gifted psychic played by Lin Shaye, whose presence deepens the chilling narrative. She employs her extensive knowledge and abilities to help the family communicate with Dalton and uncover the dark history of the spirits that have invaded their lives. Elise's interactions provide valuable exposition about “The Further,” drawing parallels to The Nun’s exploration of darkness intertwined with spirituality.

Director James Wan masterfully constructs an uneasy atmosphere, utilizing jump scares effectively while relying on subtlety and tension-building. The eerie score complements haunting visuals, creating a sense of dread that permeates every scene. For instance, the film’s iconic scene involving the “Lipstick Face Demon” encapsulates this blend of psychological horror and supernatural terror, leaving a lasting impression on viewers.

Ultimately, Insidious is not just a simple ghost story; it delves into themes of familial love, sacrifice, and the lengths parents will go to save their children. As viewers witness the Lambert family's harrowing journey to reclaim their son, the narrative resonates deeply, inviting reflection on the nature of fear and the spiritual realm.

If you’re ready to experience heart-pounding suspense combined with profound emotional weight, this film not only delivers terror but also enriches the viewer's understanding of the bond of family in the face of overwhelming darkness, making it a compelling choice for fans of supernatural horror.

Hereditary (2018)

A masterclass in psychological horror, Hereditary delves into grief, family trauma, and the legacy of mental illness, making it a profoundly unsettling viewing experience. Directed by Ari Aster, the film opens with the death of the Graham family matriarch, Ellen, setting off a series of tragic events that unravel the family's bonds and sanity.

Film Summary: The story follows Annie Graham (played by Toni Collette), an artist specializing in miniature dioramas. She struggles to cope with the loss of her mother while grappling with her troubled relationship with her husband, Steve (Gabriel Byrne), and their two children, Peter (Alex Wolff) and Charlie (Milly Shapiro). As the family grapples with their grief, they become haunted by increasingly disturbing and supernatural occurrences that reveal dark secrets about their ancestry.

Hereditary explores themes of fate and destiny, questioning whether the family’s tragedies result from personal choices or if they are inescapably tied to a cursed lineage. The film introduces the concept of inherited trauma—the idea that emotional and psychological scars can be passed from one generation to the next. This theme resonates through the film's climax, where it becomes clear that the family's history is intertwined with a sinister cult that seeks to possess Charlie as the host for an evil.

One of the most haunting aspects of Hereditary is its portrayal of mental illness and how it affects familial relationships. Annie’s struggle with her grief manifests through her increasingly erratic behavior, leading to a gut-wrenching conclusion that underlines the fragility of the human mind when faced with immeasurable loss. Toni Collette’s performance is particularly noteworthy; her raw, emotional range captures the agonizing descent into madness, establishing her as one of the standout performers in horror cinema.

The film’s direction contributes significantly to its unsettling atmosphere. Aster cleverly uses tight framing and slow, deliberate camera movements to create a sense of claustrophobia, reflecting the characters' spiraling mental states. The minimalist score, complemented by the sound of unsettling whispers and sudden, jarring noises, lingers long after the movie ends, enhancing the overall feeling of dread.

Upon its release, Hereditary garnered critical acclaim and is often described as one of the greatest horror films of the decade. It sparked discussions about the nature of horror and the effectiveness of character-driven narratives compared to conventional jump scares. Furthermore, it has influve of contemporary horror filmmakers eager to explore deeper psychological and emotional narratives within the genre.

The film concludes with a shocking reveal that leaves viewers questioning the nature of identity and family ties, further solidifying its status as a modern horror classic. As viewers piece together the puzzle of the Graham family’s tragic fate, they are left not only terrified but profoundly unsettled by the implications of hereditary trauma.

For those who appreciate horror that lingers in the mind long after the viewing experience, Hereditary is a haunting exploration of fear that is as thought-provoking as it is terrifying.

Conclusion: These carefully selected films capture the dark, psychological horror, and supernatural themes that will resonate deeply with fans of The Nun. From the grips of demonic entities to the unsettling realities of fear and faith, each movie in this lineup offers chilling narratives and atmospheric tension. Grab some popcorn, dim the lights, and get ready to immerse yourself in these compelling films. They promise a blend of fear, suspense, and spiritual horror, much like the gripping experience of The Nun. Happy viewing!