'Changeling' is also a good example. It's based on a true event where a woman's son goes missing and then the police try to pass off another child as hers. Angelina Jolie's performance adds to the intensity of this dark and disturbing thriller that shows the real - life horrors that can occur.
One characteristic is that they can draw on real - world fears. People are more likely to be scared of things that have actually happened. In movies like 'Zodiac', the idea that there was a real serial killer on the loose in the past makes the movie more chilling. Also, these movies might use real locations or historical details to enhance the atmosphere, like 'Changeling' which is set in a particular time and place based on the true story.
One is 'Zodiac'. It's about the real - life Zodiac Killer case. The movie builds a great sense of suspense as the investigators try to track down the killer. Another is 'The Conjuring'. Based on the true experiences of the Warrens, it has really creepy moments that will send shivers down your spine.
Because they add an extra layer of fear. Knowing that these events could actually happen makes the horror seem more real. For example, in 'The Exorcist', which was inspired by real - life exorcisms, the idea that a demonic possession could be a real phenomenon scares people more than a fictional made - up concept.
Often, they have a sense of authenticity. For example, the locations in 'Zodiac' were real places where the events actually occurred, which adds to the realism. They also tend to make the audience feel a deeper sense of unease because they know these things could really happen.
One of the top thrillers based on true stories is 'Zodiac'. It follows the real - life investigation of the Zodiac Killer. The movie builds suspense as the detectives struggle to identify the serial killer through his cryptic messages and murders. Another is 'All the President's Men', which is based on the Watergate scandal. It shows the two journalists' efforts in uncovering the political conspiracy. And 'The Silence of the Lambs' was also inspired by real - life events and serial killers, with its terrifying portrayal of Hannibal Lecter and the hunt for Buffalo Bill.
One of the best is 'Zodiac'. It's about the real - life Zodiac Killer case. The movie keeps you on the edge of your seat with its mystery and the hunt for the killer. Another great one is 'The Silence of the Lambs'. It's based on the Thomas Harris novels which were inspired by real - life events and serial killers. The character of Hannibal Lecter is truly chilling.
Another is 'The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo'. Based on the true - story - inspired novel, it has a complex mystery involving a missing person and a web of family secrets and corporate corruption. The character of Lisbeth Salander adds a thrilling element as she uses her unique skills to uncover the truth.
They often have a sense of authenticity. Since they are based on real events, the settings and situations feel more believable. For example, in 'Memories of Murder', the rural landscapes and the way the local police operate add to the realism.
Another great one is 'The Devil in the White City' by Erik Larson. It combines the true story of the 1893 Chicago World's Fair with the dark tale of a serial killer who preyed on victims during that time. The book is full of historical details and suspense, which makes it very popular among thriller lovers.
A more recent one is 'Spotlight'. It's about the real - life investigation by The Boston Globe into sexual abuse in the Catholic Church. It's not your typical thriller with lots of chase scenes, but the suspense of uncovering a huge cover - up and the moral implications make it a very engaging and thrilling movie.