Films

10 Hollywood Productions Rumored to Be Cursed

Behind some of Hollywood’s most iconic films lie eerie tales of accidents, bad luck, and tragedy.

Heather O'Rourke in "Poltergeist."
© IMDbHeather O'Rourke in "Poltergeist."

Hollywood history is filled with whispers of productions that seemed to carry a dark shadow. While some chalk it up to coincidence or overactive imaginations, others believe certain films were genuinely cursed — marked by accidents, strange coincidences, and untimely deaths. Whether rooted in superstition or unsettling truth, these stories have become an unforgettable part of movie lore, keeping audiences fascinated long after the credits rolled.

The Passion of the Christ (2004)

“The Passion of the Christ” became infamous not just for its graphic depiction of Jesus’ final hours, but also for the unsettling events that occurred during production. Star Jim Caviezel was struck by lightning while filming the crucifixion scene, and assistant director Jan Michelini was hit by lightning twice during the shoot. Caviezel also suffered multiple injuries, including a dislocated shoulder and pneumonia. These incidents led many to claim the production was cursed — adding an eerie layer to one of the most controversial religious films ever made.

Advertisement

Antrum (2018)

“Antrum” is known as one of the most cursed films of the decade, due to its story about a cursed picture. The movie was surrounded by legends about the deaths of those who watched it, as well as strange disappearances of people involved in the production. The rumors about its curse continue to be popular, with many claiming that the flick is influenced by dark forces and that watching “Antrum” could bring fatal consequences.

Poltergeist (1982)

Advertisement

Few horror films have a legacy as eerie as “Poltergeist.” The chilling supernatural thriller became infamous not just for its on-screen scares, but for the real-life tragedies that followed. Dominique Dunne, who played the eldest daughter, was tragically murdered soon after the movie’s release, while young star Heather O’Rourke passed away unexpectedly at just 12 years old. With several other cast members meeting untimely deaths, rumors of a curse have surrounded the title for decades.

Sinister (2012)

The filming of “Sinister” was marked by reports of accidents and strange coincidences. During production, director Scott Derrickson was involved in a car accident that many considered to be a manifestation of the curse associated with the film. Additionally, several actors spoke about how they felt uneasy at certain moments due to a sense of a supernatural presence on set. These events fueled the idea that the film was cursed.

Advertisement

The Crow (1994)

The tragedy surrounding “The Crow” is well-known. Actor Brandon Lee, son of Bruce Lee, passed away during filming due to a firearm accident in a scene. This incident, along with other deaths and accidents on set, has contributed to the perception that the film is cursed.

The Omen (1976)

Advertisement

“The Omen” was surrounded by unsettling events. Actor Gregory Peck and screenwriter David Seltzer both experienced aerial incidents on separate flights, with both planes being struck by lightning. Additionally, director Richard Donner survived a terrorist attack in London during filming. These occurrences have been interpreted as signs of a curse affecting the production.

Twilight Zone: The Movie (1983)

“Twilight Zone: The Movie” is infamous not only for its tribute to the classic television series but also for the tragedy that forever altered its legacy. During the filming of a particularly hazardous helicopter sequence, a catastrophic accident claimed the lives of actor Vic Morrow and two child extras. This devastating incident not only shocked the film industry but also ignited legal battles and intense scrutiny over on-set safety protocols. In the aftermath, crew members reported an eerie atmosphere and unexplained disturbances that many interpreted as signs of a lingering curse.

Advertisement

Rosemary’s Baby (1968)

“Rosemary’s Baby” is remembered not only for its disturbing plot but also for the tragedies that affected its cast. Director Roman Polanski’s wife, Sharon Tate, was murdered by Charles Manson’s followers shortly after the film’s release. Additionally, the composer of the soundtrack suffered an accident that left him in a coma, and the producer was hospitalized for serious health problems.

The Exorcist (1973)

Advertisement

Considered one of the scariest films of all time, “The Exorcist” was surrounded by strange occurrences during its production. Fires were reported on set, destroying parts of the scenery, except for the room of the possessed girl, which remained intact. Additionally, several cast and crew members suffered accidents and unexplained deaths, fueling the legend of a curse haunting the film.

Apocalypse Now (1979)

The production of “Apocalypse Now” was marked by extreme difficulties. Director Francis Ford Coppola suffered a heart attack, and the filming extended over two years due to natural disasters and the health problems of the actors. These challenges have been interpreted as signs of a curse affecting the film.

Advertisement

Clara is about to graduate with a Bachelor's degree in Writing Arts at the National University of Arts in Buenos Aires, Argentina. In her role as a writer for Spoiler US, she covers movies, TV shows, streaming platforms, celebrities, and other topics of entertainment and general interest. Since 2021, she has been working as a film critic for Bendito Spoiler, Cinema Saturno, and Peliplat, attending festivals, conducting interviews, and regularly participating in cinematic debate podcasts. Her main focus of work is in the horror genre.

ALSO READ
Margot Robbie’s Harley Quinn and 9 Other Popular Halloween Costumes
Movies

Margot Robbie’s Harley Quinn and 9 Other Popular Halloween Costumes

Jacob Elordi’s Frankenstein: How the Actor Prepared to Portray the Monster
Celebrities

Jacob Elordi’s Frankenstein: How the Actor Prepared to Portray the Monster

‘Weapons’ Arrived on Max: 10 Horror Gems to Watch Next on the Platform
Max

‘Weapons’ Arrived on Max: 10 Horror Gems to Watch Next on the Platform

10 Best Behind-the-Scenes Photos From Classic Blockbusters
Movies

10 Best Behind-the-Scenes Photos From Classic Blockbusters

Receive the latest news in your E-mail box

Registering implies accepting the Terms and Conditions

Better Collective Logo