The idea of cursed movies has captivated audiences for decades. These films, surrounded by eerie coincidences and tragic events, have become as infamous as the stories they tell. Here we explore the top 10 movies that are said to be cursed, examining the strange and often tragic occurrences that have led to their notoriety.
The Omen: A Devilish Production
“The Omen” is a film about a couple who unknowingly adopt the Antichrist. The movie’s production was marred by tragedy from the start, with lead actor Gregory Peck’s son dying by suicide two months before filming began. Both Peck’s and the producer’s planes were struck by lightning on separate flights to London.
During production, a plane scheduled for aerial shots was switched at the last minute; the original plane crashed, killing all on board. An animal trainer was killed by a tiger the day after filming a scene with baboons.
Superman: The Hero’s Curse
The “Superman” curse refers to the series of misfortunes that befell actors who played the iconic superhero. George Reeves, who played Superman in the 1950s, died from a gunshot wound under mysterious circumstances. Christopher Reeve, who portrayed Superman in the late ’70s and ’80s, suffered a horse-riding accident that left him paralyzed.
Poltergeist: Haunted by Tragedy
The “Poltergeist” trilogy saw the untimely deaths of several cast members. Dominique Dunne was strangled by her ex-boyfriend, and Heather O’Rourke died at the age of 12 due to an undiagnosed intestinal issue.
The Crow: A Fatal Legacy
Brandon Lee’s death during the filming of “The Crow” is one of the most notorious on-set accidents. A prop gun mishap led to his fatal shooting, casting a long shadow over the film’s release.
Atuk: The Unproduced Script
“Atuk,” a script about an Inuit in New York City, is said to be cursed as several actors attached to it, including John Belushi and Chris Farley, died before the film could be made.
Rosemary’s Baby: Art Imitates Life
The film’s plot about a satanic cult became uncomfortably real when director Roman Polanski’s wife, Sharon Tate, was murdered by the Manson Family. Composer Krzysztof Komeda also died in a tragic accident shortly after the film’s release.
The Passion of the Christ: Struck by Misfortune
Jim Caviezel, who played Jesus, was struck by lightning during the production, adding to the film’s troubled lore.
Twilight Zone: The Movie: A Tragic Turn
A helicopter crash during the filming resulted in the deaths of actor Vic Morrow and two child actors, leaving a permanent mark on the film’s history.
The Exorcist: Inviting the Unseen
The set of “The Exorcist” experienced unexplained fires, and actor Jack MacGowran died shortly after completing his scenes, contributing to the film’s cursed reputation.
These films, enveloped in mystery and misfortune, continue to intrigue and unsettle. Whether these events are mere coincidences or something more sinister, the legend of the cursed movie endures in Hollywood lore.