It certainly helps that right now, our local film industry is going through something of a boom - spurred on by the world-beating success of Game of Thrones, both grassroots and international talent are finally embracing the rich opportunities afforded by making films in Northern Ireland.
Such films may not be to everybody’s taste, but if you can bear to watch from behind your cushion, be sure to check out these tales of terror right on your doorstep.
5. The Eliminator (1997)
In the future, John O’Brien is a member of the shadowy paramilitary group simply known as The Organisation. He falls into the hands of British intelligence - along with the plans for a devastating new weapon - the turbo-charged VIPER (Vehicle for Interception, Protection, Elimination, and Reconnaissance.) Now, one of The Organisation’s top men must embark on a perilous mission to infiltrate the British base and rescue their man. Directed by Enda Hughes. Photo: contributed
6. Grabbers (2012)
In this riotous British-Irish co-production, an idyllic, remote village off the Irish coast comes under siege from enormous tentacled beasts from the sea who pluck off villagers one at a time. As the inhabitants scramble to survive, they discover that there is only one course of action if they want to stay alive - get as drunk as possible. Directed by Jon Wright. Photo: Photo via IMDB
7. The Devil’s Doorway (2018)
In 1960, the Vatican dispatches two priests to Northern Ireland to investigate reports of a bleeding statue of the Virgin Mary at a Magdalene Asylum for immoral women. The two arrive to make appalling discoveries beyond description - and all recorded on their 16mm cameras. If you love the ‘found footage’ of Paranormal Activity and The Blair Witch Project, don’t miss this gripping tale of religious horror. Directed by Aislinn Clarke. Photo: Photo via IMDB
8. Shrooms (2007)
Written by Belfast playwright Pearse Elliott, this is the story of a group of American friends who venture into the woods (specifically Rossmore forest park in County Monaghan) in search of magic mushrooms. Gathered around a crackling campfire, the group suddenly realise that the lines between reality and fiction are blurred and the forest suddenly becomes a less-than-ideal place to spend the weekend. Directed by Paddy Breathnach. Photo: Photo via IMDB