Best Horror Movie Adaptations from Novels

James Whale's adaptation of Mary Shelley's classic novel set the standard for horror films with Boris Karloff's iconic portrayal of the monster.

Alfred Hitchcock's masterpiece is a timeless classic that originated from Robert Bloch's novel, known for its shocking twist and intense psychological suspense.

• Britannica

Steven Spielberg's film, based on Peter Benchley's novel, unleashed a primal fear of the ocean, becoming a landmark in horror cinema.

Roman Polanski's adaptation of Ira Levin's novel captures the mounting paranoia and terror, making it a classic in atmospheric horror.

Thomas Harris's novel spawned one of the most acclaimed psychological thrillers, featuring Anthony Hopkins as the chilling Dr. Hannibal Lecter.

• IMDb

William Peter Blatty's chilling novel was transformed into a bone-chilling cinematic experience, blending horror and religious themes.

• IMDb

Stanley Kubrick's adaptation of Stephen King's novel is a horror masterpiece, despite King's criticism, due to its haunting imagery and memorable performances.

Universal's interpretation of Bram Stoker's novel is a quintessential vampire story, with Bela Lugosi's iconic performance.

• Universal Pictures

Brian De Palma's adaptation of Stephen King's novel is a telekinetic terror classic, with Sissy Spacek's unforgettable performance.

Mary Harron's adaptation of Bret Easton Ellis's novel combines horror with satirical black comedy, featuring Christian Bale's memorable performance.