15 Horror Movies Made or Set in Cleveland

Below are 15 Horror Movies Made or Set in Cleveland and Ohio. Cleveland and Ohio have served as the backdrop for numerous horror films throughout the years, offering diverse settings and atmospheres that have captivated audiences and chilled them to the bone. From the suburban streets of Springwood in Wes Craven’s classic “A Nightmare on Elm Street” to the abandoned amusement park in “Closed for the Season,” these locations have played a crucial role in bringing terrifying tales to life on the big screen.

Ohio’s rich history and varied landscapes have provided filmmakers with a wealth of inspiration for crafting their nightmarish visions. The state’s industrial cities, quaint small towns, and eerie rural areas have all been exploited to significant effect, creating an unsettling sense of familiarity that draws viewers in and makes the horror feel all too real. Whether it’s the fictional town of Herrington in “The Faculty” or the all-too-real streets of Cleveland in “I See You,” these settings serve as more than just a backdrop; they become characters in their own right, adding depth and texture to the unfolding horror.

This article will embark on a chilling journey through 15 horror movies made or set in Cleveland and Ohio. From low-budget indie productions to big-budget Hollywood blockbusters, these films showcase the incredible range and talent of the region’s filmmaking community and the enduring appeal of Ohio as a setting for tales of terror. So please sit back, turn off the lights, and prepare to be thrilled and chilled as we explore the dark side of the Buckeye State through the lens of horror cinema.

1 “A Nightmare on Elm Street” (1984)

“A Nightmare on Elm Street” (1984), directed by Wes Craven, is a classic horror film that has left an indelible mark on the genre. The movie is set in the fictional town of Springwood, Ohio, but the inspiration for its terrifying villain, Freddy Krueger, comes from Craven’s childhood experiences in Cleveland.

Craven, born and raised in Cleveland, had a frightening encounter during his youth that would later serve as the basis for the creation of Freddy Krueger. As a child, Craven had a disturbing experience with a man who followed him on his way home from school. The man, who had a scarred face and wore a fedora hat, left a lasting impression on young Craven, and this memory would eventually be woven into the character of Freddy Krueger.

In “A Nightmare on Elm Street,” Freddy Krueger is a burned and disfigured serial killer who stalks and murders teenagers in their dreams. Krueger’s distinctive appearance, with his iconic fedora, red and green striped sweater, and razor-sharp gloves, has become a staple of horror culture. The character’s backstory reveals that Krueger was a child killer in life who was eventually caught and burned alive by the vengeful parents of Springwood. However, he returns to haunt the dreams of the town’s teenagers, blurring the lines between reality and nightmare.

The film’s premise of a killer who can murder people in their dreams tapped into the universal fear of being vulnerable while asleep. Craven’s decision to set the story in a fictional Ohio town added to the sense of relatability for audiences, as it could be any small town in America. The film’s success spawned numerous sequels, a television series, and a remake, cementing its status as a horror franchise.

Wes Craven’s personal connection to the villain he created, drawing from his own childhood fears in Cleveland, adds an extra layer of depth to Freddy Krueger’s already terrifying character. “A Nightmare on Elm Street not only introduced a new iconic horror villain but also explored themes of the power of dreams, the consequences of past sins, and the resilience of the teenage spirit in the face of unimaginable terror.

2 “The Faculty” (1998)

“The Faculty” (1998) is a science fiction horror film directed by Robert Rodriguez and written by Kevin Williamson, the screenwriter behind the famous “Scream” franchise. The movie takes place in the fictional town of Herrington, Ohio. It centers around a group of high school students discovering alien parasites have taken over their teachers.

The story follows Casey Connor, played by Elijah Wood, in one of his early leading roles. Casey is an intelligent but socially awkward student whom his classmates often bully. He becomes suspicious of the strange behavior exhibited by the faculty members and, along with other misfit students, begins investigating the extraterrestrial threat.

As the students delve deeper into the mystery, they realize that the alien parasites can infect and control their human hosts, transforming them into alien drones. The infected teachers, led by the school principal and played by Bebe Neuwirth, aim to spread the parasitic invasion throughout the town and beyond.

Casey and his newfound allies, including the rebellious Zeke Tyler (Josh Hartnett), the popular Delilah Profitt (Jordana Brewster), and the geeky Stokely Mitchell (Clea DuVall), must find a way to stop the alien invasion before it consumes the entire town. They discover that the aliens are vulnerable to a specific drug, leading to a climactic showdown within the halls of Herrington High School.

“The Faculty” blends science fiction, horror, and teen comedy elements, creating a unique and entertaining movie experience. The film pays homage to classic sci-fi horror films like “Invasion of the Body Snatchers” while incorporating witty self-awareness and pop culture references characteristic of late 1990s horror movies.

The movie features a talented ensemble cast, including Elijah Wood, Josh Hartnett, Jordana Brewster, Clea DuVall, Shawn Hatosy, and Usher Raymond, as well as established actors like Bebe Neuwirth, Robert Patrick, and Famke Janssen. The young cast’s performances and the film’s clever writing and inventive direction contribute to its enduring popularity.

“The Faculty” explores conformity, individuality, and power dynamics within high school social structures. The alien invasion metaphorically represents the pressure to fit in and the fear of being different, as the characters must embrace their unique qualities to survive and save their town.

While set in the fictional town of Herrington, Ohio, “The Faculty” captures the essence of small-town America and the universal experiences of high school life, making it relatable to audiences beyond its specific location. The film’s mix of genres, memorable characters, and quotable dialogue has helped it maintain a devoted cult following years after its initial release.

3 “The Dead Next Door”

The Dead Next Door is a 1989 low-budget zombie horror film directed by J.R. Bookwalter and set in Akron, Ohio. The movie takes place in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by zombies, where a secret government agency called the “Zombie Squad” is tasked with eradicating the undead menace.

The story revolves around a zombie-worshipping cult known as the “Tempus Fugit,” led by the enigmatic Dr. Bow. The cult seeks to control the zombie population and use them for their nefarious purposes. As the Zombie Squad investigates the cult’s activities, they uncover a sinister plot that threatens the remaining human survivors.

Despite its limited budget of around $125,000, “The Dead Next Door” delivers substantial gory details and practical special effects. The film’s zombie makeup and gruesome kill scenes are particularly noteworthy, showcasing inventive ways of dispatching the undead on a shoestring budget.

The movie features a cast of relatively unknown actors, many of whom are local to the Akron area. Sam Raimi, the director of the Evil Dead trilogy, served as an executive producer and provided some of the film’s zombie voices.

Over the years, “The Dead Next Door” has gained a cult following. Fans of low-budget horror appreciate its ambitious scope, practical effects, and dedication to the zombie genre. While it may not have the polish of bigger-budget productions, the film’s DIY spirit and passion for the subject matter shine through.

The movie’s success led to a limited theatrical release and subsequent home video distribution. It remains a notable example of regional, independent filmmaking within the horror genre and a testament to the creativity and resourcefulness of its creators.

4.”Trick ‘r Treat”

Trick ‘r Treat is a 2007 American anthology horror film written and directed by Michael Dougherty. Set in the fictional suburban town of Warren Valley, Ohio, it follows four interconnected stories on Halloween night.

The film’s central character is Sam, a mysterious child wearing orange pajamas and a burlap sack over his head. Sam enforces the rules and traditions of Halloween, punishing those who disrespect the holiday. Sam’s presence and the theme of Halloween folklore and urban legends tie the stories in the film together.

The four stories are:

1. “The Principal”: A high school principal moonlights as a serial killer, but his latest victim may not be as helpless as she appears.
2. “The School Bus Massacre Revisited”: A group of children play a cruel prank on a savant classmate, only to face terrifying consequences years later.
3. “Surprise Party”: A young woman who hates Halloween discovers her boyfriend’s dark secret at a costume party.
4. “Meet Sam”: A cantankerous old man who despises trick-or-treaters learns the true meaning of Halloween from Sam.

“Trick ‘r Treat” is known for its atmospheric portrayal of Halloween, interconnected storylines, and a blend of horror and dark humor. The film pays homage to classic Halloween traditions and urban legends while subverting audience expectations with clever twists and turns.

Despite being produced in 2007, the film faced distribution challenges and was not released theatrically in the United States. However, it gained a strong cult following through festival screenings and subsequent DVD releases. Its popularity has grown over the years, with many horror fans considering it a must-watch movie during the Halloween season.

The film’s success led to creating a graphic novel sequel, “Trick ‘r Treat: Days of the Dead,” and a planned feature-length sequel. “Trick ‘r Treat” has solidified its place as a beloved Halloween classic, celebrated for its inventive storytelling, memorable characters, and dedication to the spirit of the holiday.

5. “Deadly Blessing”

Deadly Blessing is a 1981 American horror film directed by Wes Craven, who is also known for his work on A Nightmare on Elm Street and Scream. The movie is set in a fictional rural Ohio town called Hittite, dominated by a strict, conservative religious sect known as the Hittites.

The story revolves around Martha Schmidt, a young widow whose husband, Jim, was recently killed in a mysterious tractor accident. Martha lives with her two friends, Vicky and Lana, on Jim’s farm, “Our Blessing.” As the women attempt to maintain the farm, they find themselves at odds with the Hittite community, particularly Faith Stohler, the sect’s leader, and Jim’s father.

The Hittites view the women, especially the more liberated Vicky and Lana, as a threat to their way of life. Tensions escalate as a series of bizarre and gruesome murders occur, targeting both the women at the farm and members of the Hittite community. Suspicion falls on various characters, including William Gluntz, a mentally unstable man who was shunned by the Hittites, and John Schmidt, Martha’s brother-in-law, who left the sect to live in the outside world.

As the story unfolds, dark secrets about the Hittite community and the true nature of the murders come to light, leading to a terrifying climax that challenges the characters’ beliefs and relationships.

“Deadly Blessing” is notable for its exploration of religious extremism, the clash between traditional and modern values, and the psychological tension that arises from these conflicts. The film features strong performances from its cast, which includes Sharon Stone in one of her early roles.

While not as well-known as some of Craven’s other works, “Deadly Blessing” has gained appreciation over the years for its atmospheric setting, suspenseful plot, and relevant themes. The movie showcases Craven’s ability to craft unsettling and thought-provoking horror stories that delve into the darker aspects of human nature and society.

6. “Scream 2”

Scream 2 is a 1997 American slasher film directed by Wes Craven and written by Kevin Williamson. It is the second installment in the “Scream” franchise and follows the first film’s events, with the survivors now attending the fictional Windsor College in Ohio.

The movie takes place two years after the original Woodsboro murders. Sidney Prescott, the protagonist from the first film, is trying to move on with her life as a college student. However, a new series of murders begins, coinciding with the release of “Stab,” a film based on the events of the first “Scream.” The killings are once again perpetrated by a masked figure known as Ghostface, who targets Sidney and her friends.

As the body count rises, Sidney, her friend Randy, and newcomers Dewey Riley and Gale Weathers must uncover the identity of the new killer while navigating the media frenzy surrounding the murders. The film introduces new characters, including Sidney’s boyfriend Derek, her roommate Hallie, and film students Mickey and Cici.

“Scream 2” continues the franchise’s trademark blend of horror and satire, poking fun at horror movie sequels and the clichés associated with them. The film is self-referential, with characters discussing the rules and expectations of horror sequels while falling victim to them.

The movie features a mix of returning cast members, including Neve Campbell, David Arquette, Courteney Cox, and Jamie Kennedy, and new additions such as Sarah Michelle Gellar, Jerry O’Connell, and Timothy Olyphant.

“Scream 2” was a critical and commercial success, grossing over $170 million worldwide and receiving praise for its clever writing, performances, and ability to subvert horror sequel tropes while delivering suspense and scares. The film solidified the “Scream” franchise’s popularity and influenced the direction of the slasher genre in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

The success of “Scream 2” led to two more sequels, “Scream 3” (2000) and “Scream 4” (2011), as well as a television series. The franchise remains a beloved and influential example of postmodern horror, celebrated for its wit, self-awareness, and ability to embrace and subvert genre conventions.

7. “Closed for the Season”

Closing for the Season is a 2010 independent supernatural horror film directed by Jay Woelfel and starring Aimee Brooks and Damian Maffei. The movie is set in the real-life abandoned Chippewa Lake Park amusement park in Medina, Ohio, which operated from 1878 to 1978.

The story follows Kristy, a young woman who wakes up trapped inside the abandoned amusement park without remembering how she got there. She meets James, a mysterious man who claims to be a groundskeeper. Together, they explore the eerie, dilapidated park, trying to find a way out while uncovering its dark history.

As they delve deeper into the park’s secrets, Kristy and James encounter various supernatural phenomena, including ghostly apparitions, disembodied voices, and inexplicable events. They discover that the park is haunted by the spirits of those who died there over the years, including a young girl named Mary who drowned in the lake decades ago.

The film explores themes of loss, grief, and the lingering impact of past tragedies. It uses the setting of the abandoned amusement park to create an atmosphere of decay, isolation, and unease, with the once-joyful attractions taking on a sinister and haunting quality.

“Closed for the Season” is notable for its use of an actual abandoned location, which adds to the film’s authenticity and eerie atmosphere. The Chippewa Lake Park, with its crumbling structures and overgrown vegetation, provides a natural backdrop for the supernatural events of the story.

The film is a low-budget production that relies on atmosphere, psychological tension, and the interplay between its lead characters to create a sense of dread and mystery. While it may not have the polished effects or star power of larger studio productions, “Closed for the Season” creates a haunting and enigmatic tale that explores the secrets and tragedies lurking beneath the surface of a once-beloved landmark.

8. “Take Shelter”

Talk Shelter is a 2011 psychological thriller directed by Jeff Nichols. The movie stars Michael Shannon as Curtis LaForche, a construction worker living in Lagrange, Ohio, with his wife Samantha (Jessica Chastain) and their deaf daughter Hannah.

Curtis begins experiencing vivid and disturbing dreams and visions of an apocalyptic storm, complete with dark, swirling clouds, torrential rain, and people trying to harm him and his family. Convinced that these suspicions are accurate and that a devastating storm is imminent, Curtis becomes obsessed with building a storm shelter in his backyard to protect his loved ones.

As Curtis pours his time, money, and energy into the shelter, his behavior becomes increasingly erratic and paranoid. He jeopardizes his job, strains his relationships with family and friends, and raises concerns about his mental health, as his mother had previously been diagnosed with schizophrenia.

Throughout the film, viewers are left to question whether Curtis’s visions are genuinely prophetic or the result of a mental illness. The movie explores themes of fear, anxiety, and the lengths one will go to protect their family in the face of an uncertain future.

“Take Shelter” is a slow-burn thriller that relies on its atmosphere, strong performances, and psychological tension to create a sense of unease and ambiguity. Michael Shannon delivers a powerful and nuanced portrayal of a man grappling with his sanity, while Jessica Chastain provides a grounding presence as his supportive but concerned wife.

The film’s cinematography and sound design work together to create an immersive and unsettling experience. The ominous storm clouds and rumbling thunder serve as constant reminders of the impending threat, whether real or imagined.

“Take Shelter” premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 2011 and received critical acclaim for its thought-provoking storyline, intense performances, and masterful building of suspense. The film’s ambiguous ending leaves room for interpretation, inviting viewers to conclude the nature of Curtis’s experiences and the reality of the approaching storm.

9.”Girls Nite Out”

Girls Nite Out is a 1982 American slasher film directed by Robert Deubel and written by Anthony N. Gurvis. The movie was initially titled “The Scaremaker” but was changed to “Girls Nite Out” for its release.

The story is set at DeWitt University, a fictional college located in Ohio. The film begins with a group of students participating in a scavenger hunt organized by the school’s basketball team. The event takes a terrifying turn when a mysterious killer wearing a bear mascot costume begins attacking and murdering the students with knives.

As the body count rises, suspicion falls on various characters, including the members of the basketball team and a former patient of the nearby Weston Hills Sanitarium, a fictional mental institution. The killer’s true identity and motives remain a mystery for much of the film as the remaining students try to survive the night and uncover the truth behind the murders.

“Girls Nite Out” incorporates elements of the slasher genre that were popular in the early 1980s, such as a masked killer, graphic violence, and a group of young, unsuspecting victims. The film also features a college setting and a scavenger hunt premise, which adds a unique twist to the standard slasher formula.

The movie stars Julia Montgomery, James Carroll, and Hal Holbrook in supporting roles. While not as well-known as other era slasher films, “Girls Nite Out” has gained a cult following among fans.

The fictional Weston Hills Sanitarium serves as a backdrop for the killer’s origins and adds to the film’s atmosphere of psychological horror. The use of a former mental patient as a suspect plays into the familiar trope of the “psycho killer” in slasher movies of the time.

“Girls Nite Out” is representative of the increase in low-budget, independent horror films that occurred in the early 1980s, capitalizing on the success of movies like “Halloween” and “Friday the 13th.” While it may not have achieved the same level of mainstream recognition as its more famous counterparts, the film remains an interesting example of the slasher genre’s enduring popularity and the role of regional, independent filmmaking in horror cinema.

10. “I See You”

I See You is a 2019 American psychological thriller film directed by Adam Randall and written by Devon Graye. The movie stars Helen Hunt, Jon Tenney, and Judah Lewis.

The story is set in the suburban town of Lakewood, Ohio, where a series of mysterious disappearances have occurred. Greg Harper (Jon Tenney), a local detective, is investigating the case while also dealing with the aftermath of his wife Jackie’s (Helen Hunt) infidelity. Their son, Connor (Judah Lewis), struggles to accept his mother’s actions and the growing tension within the family.

As Greg delves deeper into the disappearances, strange occurrences happen in the Harper household. Objects move independently, and the family experiences a sense of being watched. The story turns unexpectedly when an evil presence is revealed, and the Harpers must confront the sinister forces that threaten to tear their family apart.

“I See You” is a cleverly crafted thriller that blends elements of mystery, horror, and family drama. The film subverts audience expectations by introducing surprising twists and turns that challenge initial assumptions about the characters and their motivations. The movie explores trust, betrayal, and the consequences of past actions.

The film was produced by Cleveland-based Zodiac Features and shot entirely in Northeast Ohio. It utilized various locations in the region, including Lakewood, Solon, Vermillion, and Auburn, showcasing Ohio’s versatility as a filming destination.

Helen Hunt and Jon Tenney deliver strong performances as a couple grappling with the fallout of infidelity while navigating the increasingly disturbing events unfolding around them. Judah Lewis portrays the conflicted teenage son with nuance and authenticity.

“I See You” premiered at the 2019 SXSW Film Festival and received positive reviews for its inventive storytelling, atmospheric cinematography, and strong performances. The film’s success highlights the potential for independent, regional filmmaking to create compelling and commercially viable projects.

The movie’s Ohio setting and production demonstrate the state’s growing film industry and ability to attract and support high-quality productions. “I See You” exemplifies the creative talent and resources available within the Ohio filmmaking community and the potential for locally produced films to resonate with a broader audience.

11.”Fear Clinic”

Fear Clinic is a 2014 American horror film directed by Robert G. Hall and starring Robert Englund, Fiona Dourif, and Thomas Dekker. The movie is based on the 2009 web series of the same name and explores facing one’s deepest fears in a clinical setting.

In the film, Dr. Andover (Robert Englund) is a psychiatrist who has developed an unconventional method for treating patients with severe phobias. His technique involves using the “Fear Chamber,” which allows patients to confront and overcome their fears by experiencing them in a controlled, virtual reality environment.

The story follows a group of patients, each with their crippling phobias, who agree to undergo Dr. Andover’s treatment at his secluded clinic. Among them is Sara (Fiona Dourif), a woman haunted by a traumatic event in her past. As the patients begin their treatment, they quickly realize that their fears have manifested in terrifyingly fundamental ways, blurring the line between reality and imagination.

As the situation escalates and the patients find themselves trapped in the clinic, they must confront their individual fears and a sinister force that threatens to consume them all. Dr. Andover must race against time to uncover the truth behind the clinic’s dark secrets and save his patients from their worst nightmares.

“Fear Clinic” combines elements of psychological horror, science fiction, and the supernatural to create a disturbing and suspenseful atmosphere. The film explores the nature of fear and the potential consequences of confronting one’s deepest anxieties.

The movie was partially filmed in Medina, Ohio, showcasing the city’s versatility as a filming location. The use of local settings adds to the film’s sense of isolation and unease, as the characters find themselves trapped in a seemingly ordinary, small-town environment that harbors hidden horrors.

Robert Englund, best known for his iconic role as Freddy Krueger in the “A Nightmare on Elm Street” franchise, brings his experience in the horror genre to his portrayal of the enigmatic Dr. Andover. Fiona Dourif, daughter of acclaimed actor Brad Dourif, delivers a compelling performance as Sara, a woman confronting her traumatic past.

“Fear Clinic” appeals to fans of psychological horror and those interested in exploring fear and its effects on the human psyche. The film’s premise, which involves a virtual reality treatment for phobias, taps into contemporary concerns about the potential dangers of advanced technology and the blurring of lines between the real and the virtual.

12. “No One Gets Out Alive”

No One Gets Out Alive is a 2021 British horror film directed by Santiago Menghini. It is based on the novel of the same name by Adam Nevill. The movie was released on Netflix and was partially shot in Cleveland, Ohio.

The story follows Ambar, a young Mexican immigrant who arrives in Cleveland for a better life. Struggling to find work and a place to live, she eventually settles for a cheap room in a rundown boarding house. However, she soon discovers that the building harbors a dark and sinister presence threatening to consume her.

As strange and terrifying events unfold, Ambar realizes she is not alone in her experiences. Other boarding house residents have encountered the evil force that haunts its halls. Trapped and desperate, Ambar must confront the evil within the building and fight for her survival.

The film explores immigration, isolation, and the search for belonging in a foreign land. It also delves into the horrors lurking beneath the surface of seemingly ordinary places and the struggles of those marginalized and vulnerable.

“No One Gets Out Alive” stars Cristina Rodlo as Ambar, with Marc Menchaca and David Figlioli in supporting roles. The movie’s atmospheric cinematography and unsettling sound design contribute to its overall sense of dread and unease.

Cleveland’s use as a filming location adds to the film’s gritty, urban setting and reinforces the theme of the challenges faced by immigrants in unfamiliar and often hostile environments. The city’s diverse architecture and neighborhoods provide a realistic backdrop for Ambar’s story and the horrors she encounters.

While specific plot details are limited, “No One Gets Out Alive” promises to deliver a chilling, thought-provoking horror experience combining supernatural scares with real-world social commentary. The film’s premise, which involves a young immigrant’s struggle to survive in a new and dangerous environment, taps into timely concerns about the experiences of marginalized communities and the obstacles they face.

“No One Gets Out Alive” showcases the potential for international collaboration in the film industry. A British production utilizes American locations and talent to bring its story to life. The movie’s release on Netflix also highlights the growing importance of streaming platforms in distributing and consuming horror content.

13.”Fun Size”

Fun Size is a 2012 American teen comedy film directed by Josh Schwartz and starring Victoria Justice, Jane Levy, and Chelsea Handler. The movie is set in Cleveland, Ohio, on Halloween night and incorporates humor, adventure, and mild scares.

The story follows Wren (Victoria Justice), a high school senior eager to attend a Halloween party with her crush, Aaron Riley (Thomas McDonell). However, Wren’s mother, Joy (Chelsea Handler), insists that she must babysit her eccentric younger brother, Albert (Jackson Nicoll), instead.

When Wren and her best friend April (Jane Levy) take Albert trick-or-treating, they lose him in a crowd. Desperate to find Albert before their mother discovers he’s missing, Wren and April embark on a frantic search across Cleveland, encountering various oddball characters and humorous situations.

As the night progresses, Wren and April’s adventures take them to different parts of the city, including a cemetery, a haunted house, and the Cleveland skyline. The aerial shots of the city’s skyline suggest that the action occurs in or near Shaker Heights’s suburb.

“Fun Size” balances its comedic tone with a touch of Halloween-themed scares, creating a lighthearted and entertaining atmosphere. The film explores themes of friendship, family, and the challenges of growing up and making responsible choices.

The movie features a talented ensemble cast, with standout performances from Victoria Justice as the responsible older sister and Jane Levy as her quirky best friend. The supporting cast, including Chelsea Handler, Thomas Mann, and Osric Chau, contribute to the film’s humor and heart.

“Fun Size” showcases Cleveland as a vibrant and diverse city, utilizing its unique locations and neighborhoods to create a memorable setting for the characters’ Halloween night adventures. The film’s use of the city’s skyline and suburban areas highlights the potential for Cleveland to serve as a versatile backdrop for various movie genres.

While “Fun Size” may not be a traditional horror film, its Halloween setting and incorporation of mild scares make it an enjoyable watch for those seeking a lighthearted and comedic take on the holiday. The movie’s blend of humor, heart, and Halloween spirit has made it a favorite among audiences looking for a fun and festive viewing experience.

14. “Wish Upon”

Wish Upon is a 2017 American supernatural horror film directed by John R. Leonetti and starring Joey King, Ryan Phillippe, and Ki Hong Lee. The movie follows a teenage girl with a mysterious music box that grants wishes but with deadly consequences.

Clare Shannon (Joey King) is a high school student struggling to cope with the aftermath of her mother’s suicide and the challenges of being an outcast among her peers. When her father, Jonathan (Ryan Phillippe), gives her an antique music box he discovered while dumpster diving, Clare soon realizes the box can grant her wishes.

As Clare begins making wishes to improve her life, such as gaining popularity, wealth, and the affection of her crush, she discovers that each wish comes with a dark and violent price. People close to Clare begin dying in gruesome ways, seemingly connected to her wishes. Clare must unravel the mystery behind the music box and find a way to break its curse before it claims more lives, including her own.

While “Wish Upon” was primarily filmed in Toronto, Canada, the movie features multiple aerial shots of the Cleveland skyline, implying that the story takes place in or near the suburb of Shaker Heights, Ohio. This use of establishing shots helps to create a sense of place and grounds the supernatural events of the film in a realistic setting.

The movie explores themes of desire, consequence, and the allure of easy solutions to life’s problems. It also delves into the complexities of family dynamics and the impact of trauma on a young person’s life.

Joey King delivers a compelling performance as Clare, portraying the character’s vulnerability, desperation, and eventual realization of the terrible price of her wishes. The supporting cast adds depth to the story, including Ryan Phillippe as Clare’s well-meaning but struggling father and Ki Hong Lee as her loyal friend Ryan.

“Wish Upon” combines supernatural horror, dark fantasy, and cautionary tale elements to create a suspenseful and unnerving viewing experience. The film’s use of the music box as a conduit for wish fulfillment and its subsequent consequences taps into the human desire for quick fixes and the dangers of not considering the potential repercussions of our actions.

While the movie may not have been filmed entirely in Cleveland, its use of the city’s skyline as an establishing shot helps create a sense of place and adds to the film’s overall atmosphere. “Wish Upon” is an example of how horror films can utilize real-world locations to ground their supernatural elements and create a more immersive experience for the audience.

15.”The Bye Bye Man”

The Bye Bye Man is a 2017 American supernatural horror film directed by Stacy Title and starring Douglas Smith, Lucien Laviscount, and Cressida Bonas. The movie follows a group of college students who unwittingly summon an evil entity known as the Bye Bye Man, which drives its victims to commit horrific acts.

The story begins when three college friends, Elliot (Douglas Smith), John (Lucien Laviscount), and Sasha (Cressida Bonas), move into an old, off-campus house. While exploring the house, they discover a mysterious nightstand that contains a cryptic message: “Don’t think it, don’t say it.” They soon learn that the message refers to the Bye Bye Man, a supernatural entity that can possess people’s minds when they think or speak its name.

As the friends begin to experience terrifying hallucinations and a growing sense of paranoia, they realize that the Bye Bye Man’s influence is spreading beyond their minds. They must uncover the truth behind the entity’s origins and find a way to stop it before it consumes them and those around them.

“The Bye Bye Man” was partially shot in Cleveland, Ohio, utilizing various locations in and around the city to create the movie’s eerie and unsettling atmosphere. The use of real-world settings, such as suburban neighborhoods and college campuses, helps to ground the story’s supernatural elements in a recognizable and relatable environment.

The film explores the power of suggestion, the contagious nature of fear, and the consequences of unleashing unknown forces. It also delves into the dynamics of friendship and the lengths people will go to protect themselves and those they care about.

The ensemble cast, led by Douglas Smith, Lucien Laviscount, and Cressida Bonas, delivers solid performances that convey the characters’ mounting terror and desperation as they face an increasingly powerful and evil force.

“The Bye Bye Man” draws inspiration from urban legends and classic horror tropes, such as the idea of a cursed object and the dangers of invoking a supernatural entity. The movie’s central premise, which involves spreading a malevolent influence through the power of thought and speech, taps into primal fears of contagion and loss of control.

The film’s use of Cleveland as a partial filming location showcases the city’s potential to serve as a versatile backdrop for horror productions. The city’s diverse architecture and neighborhoods provide a range of settings that can be used to create an atmosphere of unease and dread.

While “The Bye Bye Man” may not have been entirely filmed in Cleveland, its use of the city as a critical location helps to establish a sense of place and adds to the overall effectiveness of the movie’s horror elements. The film exemplifies how the horror genre can utilize real-world settings to create a more immersive and frightening experience for audiences.

As we conclude our exploration of the 15 horror movies made or set in Cleveland and Ohio, it becomes clear that the Buckeye State has left an indelible mark on the genre. From the iconic Freddy Krueger to the lesser-known but equally terrifying killers in films like “Girls Nite Out” and “The Bye Bye Man,” Ohio has given birth to a wide array of nightmarish characters that continue to haunt our dreams.

But it’s not just the villains that make these films so memorable; it’s also the way in which they use their Ohio settings to create an atmosphere of dread and unease. Whether it’s the abandoned amusement park in “Closed for the Season,” the eerie suburbs of “Wish Upon,” or the gritty streets of Cleveland in “No One Gets Out Alive,” these films demonstrate the incredible versatility of the state as a backdrop for horror.

Moreover, these 15 films are a testament to the incredible talent and creativity of Ohio’s filmmaking community. From low-budget indie productions to major Hollywood releases, these movies showcase the passion, ingenuity, and resourcefulness of the state’s filmmakers, who have consistently found ways to bring their dark visions to life on the big screen.

In the end, the horror movies made or set in Cleveland and Ohio serve as a reminder of the enduring power of the genre to tap into our deepest fears and anxieties. They show us that terror can lurk anywhere, even in the most unassuming of places, and that the only way to confront it is to face it head-on. So the next time you find yourself in Ohio, take a moment to appreciate the state’s rich horror legacy – and maybe think twice before exploring that abandoned building or wandering down that dark alley. After all, you never know what nightmares might be waiting for you just around the corner.