5. Magic (1978)
Starring Anthony Hopkins, Magic is a psychological thriller that delves into the fractured mind of a ventriloquist. When Corky’s dummy, Fats, begins to take on a life of its own, the line between reality and delusion blurs. The film’s strength lies in its character-driven narrative and Hopkins’ stellar performance, making it a more nuanced and introspective take on the creepy doll trope.
Where to Watch:
4. Puppet Master (1989)
In Puppet Master, a group of psychics converges on a hotel where a puppeteer once discovered an ancient Egyptian spell to bring inanimate objects to life. As the puppets begin to kill off the guests one by one, the survivors must uncover the mystery behind their creation. With its unique cast of killer puppets and inventive death scenes, Puppet Master has become a cult classic, spawning numerous sequels and spin-offs.
Where to Watch:
3. The Boy (2016)
When an American nanny is hired to care for an English family’s son, she’s shocked to discover that the “boy” is actually a life-sized porcelain doll. As she begins to break the strict set of rules given to her, strange events start to occur, suggesting that the doll may be more alive than it seems. The Boy masterfully builds tension, relying on atmosphere and suspense rather than cheap jump scares, making it a refreshing entry in the doll horror genre.
Where to Watch:
2. Poltergeist (1982)
While not exclusively a doll horror, Poltergeist features one of the most iconic creepy clown dolls in cinema history. When the Freeling family’s home becomes the target of malevolent spirits, their young daughter is abducted by the entities. Among the film’s many chilling sequences is a scene involving a clown doll that comes to life, proving that sometimes, the most terrifying threats come from the most unexpected places.
Where to Watch:
1. Dolls (1987)
When a group of travelers seeks refuge in a mansion during a storm, they discover that the house is filled with dolls brought to life by the elderly couple’s witchcraft. As the night progresses, the dolls begin to target the guests, turning their worst fears against them. With its blend of dark humor and genuine scares, Dolls is a fun and campy addition to the creepy doll genre.
Where to Watch:
In the realm of horror, dolls have proven time and time again that they’re more than just child’s play. These films tap into the uncanny valley, turning symbols of innocence and comfort into sources of terror. So next time you stumble upon an old doll in the attic, maybe think twice before bringing it into your home. After all, as these movies prove, you never know what might be lurking beneath that porcelain exterior.
Let us know your favorite creepy dolls (or least favorite, you scaredy cat, you) over in our community of fiends on Discord!
