Horror movies with religious themes have been scaring and entertaining audiences for decades. A recent example is "Heretic, " where Hugh Grant plays a religious skeptic who traps two missionaries in his home. This film raises questions about faith, free will, and the patriarchy within religion.

Stacey Abbott, a film professor, explains that horror and religion both deal with big existential questions. They explore what it means to be human and how we relate to each other and the world. Religion and horror also help us grapple with death and make meaning in the face of it.

Brandon Grafius, a Biblical studies professor, adds that Christianity's strong dualism of good and evil makes it a rich source of material for horror movies. This is especially true in the U. S. , where Christianity has had a significant influence on culture.

Recent films like "The Conjuring" and "The Nun" show paranormal investigators battling demons, while others like "The First Omen" and "Immaculate" critique patriarchal control over women's bodies. These films reflect current debates about religion and power.

Grant, who plays the skeptic in "Heretic, " admits he enjoys challenging smug or pretentious people. Horror can be unsettling, acting as a dark mirror that reveals our fears and things we don't want to admit. Religion, on the other hand, offers hope and a way out of difficult situations.

Ti West, director of "MaXXXine, " says religion can be a rich source for storytelling. When done well, both religion and horror can unsettle and challenge the status quo. However, it's important for horror movies to portray religion respectfully and accurately.

Why Religious Horror Movies Scare and Fascinate Us

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