A terrifying tour of horror movies filmed in North Carolina
North Carolina has long been a sought-after filming location for a diverse array of movies, including the spine-tingling world of horror. With its vast landscapes ranging from serene coastal settings to eerie rural backdrops, the Tar Heel State has set the stage for some chilling cinematic tales. Here's a numbered list of horror movies that have found their eerie charm amidst North Carolina's captivating scenery:
1. "Pumpkinhead" (1988)
Filming Locations: "Pumpkinhead" conjures an iconic horror tale set in a fictional rural North Carolina town. While the location is fictitious, the film captures the essence of the state's countryside.
2. "The Conjuring" (2013)
Filming Locations: "The Conjuring" unfolds its supernatural horrors entirely in North Carolina, with Wilmington playing a prominent role. It follows a pair of paranormal investigators assisting a family tormented by a malevolent presence.
3. "Maximum Overdrive" (1986)
Interesting Fact: Directed by Stephen King, "Maximum Overdrive" explores the nightmare of machines coming to life and seeking to exterminate humanity. Some scenes were filmed in North Carolina, adding a unique twist to the state's horror movie legacy.
4. "Evil Dead 2" (1987)
Filming Locations: While much of "Evil Dead 2" was created in a studio, select on-location filming took place in North Carolina, particularly in the hauntingly beautiful Wadesboro area.
5. "I Know What You Did Last Summer" (1997)
Filming Locations: This horror film, featuring Jennifer Love Hewitt and Sarah Michelle Gellar, delves into the grim aftermath of a group of friends' tragic accident. Numerous scenes were captured in North Carolina, in locations like Southport, Durham, Burgaw and Wilmington.
6. "Hannibal" (2001)
Filming Locations: "Hannibal," starring Anthony Hopkins and Julianne Moore, portrays Hannibal Lecter's endeavors to reconnect with Agent Clarice Starling. Filming partially took place in North Carolina, alongside locations in Virginia.
7. "Jessabelle" (2014)
Filming Locations: While the story is set in Louisiana, "Jessabelle" was entirely filmed in North Carolina, specifically in the enigmatic city of Wilmington. This horror film introduces a tormented spirit that ensnares the titular character as she returns to her childhood home.
8. "Trick or Treat" (1986)
Filming Locations: This cherished classic of the horror genre primarily unfolds in New Hanover County, with some studio scenes captured in Wilmington. It stars Marc Price and weaves the tale of a teenager who resurrects a rock star from the dead.
9. "Children of the Corn II: The Final Sacrifice" (1992)
Filming Locations: The second installment of the "Children of the Corn" series unfurls in North Carolina. It perpetuates the chilling narrative of a town under the sinister dominion of malevolent children.
These horror movies, filmed in North Carolina, have indelibly woven themselves into the state's cinematic history. From cult classics to contemporary tales, North Carolina remains a favored destination for filmmakers seeking to craft hair-raising narratives within its diverse and picturesque landscapes.
