The Fly (1986)
David Cronenberg’s The Fly, about a scientist who slowly transforms into a monstrous hybrid after a teleportation experiment goes awry, solidified him as a master of horror whose work has become synonymous with the term “body horror.” Cronenberg played a significant role in putting Ontario on the global map for horror filmmaking. His close collaborations with local DGC Ontario talents, such as Production Designer Carol Spier, have helped establish the province as a creative hub. With The Fly, Cronenberg didn’t just make a successful horror film; he laid the groundwork for a whole new way of exploring fear on screen, inspiring a generation of filmmakers both in Ontario and beyond.
David Cronenberg on the set of The Fly
Mimic (1997)
In the depths of New York City’s subway, genetically engineered insects evolve into something monstrous. Guillermo del Toro’s talent for blending the grotesque with the fantastical shines through, creating a thriller that crawls under your skin and stays there. The film marks the beginning of del Toro’s long-standing relationship with Ontario’s film community.
Read more about GDT’s frequent collaborations with creative talent in Ontario.
The Shape of Water (2017)
While not strictly horror, this dark fantasy won Best Picture for its haunting love story between a mute woman and a mysterious amphibian creature. Del Toro’s collaboration with DGC Ontario Production Designer Tamara Deverell and Picture Editor Cam McLaughlin elevates the film’s dreamlike visuals and emotional depth, creating a haunting fairy tale that lingers with the viewer.
Director Guillermo del Toro and actors Sally Hawkins and Doug Jones shooting a scene at the Elgin Theatre
What We Do in the Shadows (TV Series, 2019-present)
This mockumentary series follows a group of vampire roommates as they navigate modern life, blending horror with biting humour. Filmed in Toronto, the show’s eerie yet hilarious take on the everyday life of supernatural beings is brought to life with the help of DGC Ontario Members, particularly through the contributions of Production Designer Shayne Fox, who creates the perfect gothic backdrop for the show’s undead antics.
Trap (2024)
M. Night Shyamalan’s latest thriller, Trap centers on a serial killer who becomes ensnared in a tense, high-stakes situation at a packed concert – a trap set up just to catch him. DGC Ontario Co-Sound Supervisors Jill Purdy and Dashen Naidoo crafted the film’s meticulous soundscapes, from the pulsing energy of the concert to the spine-tingling quiet of suspenseful scenes that immerse the audience in Trap’s twists and turns.
Night Raiders (2021)
DGC Ontario Director Danis Goulet’s Night Raiders is a powerful dystopian thriller that draws direct parallels to Canada’s history with the residential school system. Set in the near future, where Indigenous children are forcibly taken from their families by a militarized government, the film echoes the trauma faced by Indigenous communities during the era of residential schools. Night Raiders uses its tense, dystopian atmosphere to challenge colonial narratives and tell a story of resilience, where Indigenous people rise up against their oppressors.
Danis Goulet on writing and directing Night Raiders (2021).
Picture Editor Jorge Weisz discusses Night Raiders before premiere at TIFF 2021.
Slash/Back (2022)
Directed by Nyla Innuksuk, who brought her team of DGC Ontario Members to remote Nunavut to shoot on location, Slash/Back follows a group of Inuit teens as they defend their remote Arctic town from alien invaders. The film offers a refreshing twist on the sci-fi genre, balancing suspenseful action with moments of authentic friendship and cultural pride.
The Witch (2015)
In the isolated woods of 1630s New England, a family unravels under suspicion and fear. Robert Eggers’ debut is a slow-burning exploration of paranoia, brought to life through its period-accurate Production Design spearheaded by DGC Ontario Member Craig Lathrop, who has since gone on to work with Eggers on multiple projects including The Lighthouse, The Northman, and Nosferatu.
Craig Lathrop on The Northman and working with Robert Eggers
Silent Hill (2006)
Based on the popular video game series, Silent Hill follows a mother searching for her missing daughter, who has mysteriously vanished inside the deserted, fog-infested town of Silent Hill. The film is notable for its disturbing creature design and atmospheric ambiance, courtesy of DGC Ontario Production Designer Carol Spier, who regularly collaborates with horror masters like David Cronenberg and Guillermo del Toro. Silent Hill also features the talents of many DGC Ontario Post Production Members who work frequently in the horror genre such as Sound Editors Jill Purdy and Roderick Deogrades, as well as What We Do in the Shadows Stunt Coordinator and Director Tig Fong.
Ready Or Not (2019)
Shot at the iconic Casa Loma, Ready or Not follows a newlywed bride who discovers her in-laws’ deadly initiation ritual, turning her wedding night into a nightmarish game of survival. Combining intense suspense with dark humor, the film’s imaginative set design transforms Casa Loma into the site of a deadly cat-and-mouse game. A sequel was recently announced as in development, with original lead actress Samara Weaving returning.
Hannibal (TV Series, 2013-2015)
Dive into the twisted, cerebral world of Hannibal, a series that reimagines the relationship between FBI criminal profiler Will Graham and the manipulative Dr. Hannibal Lecter. This DGC Ontario series ended after three seasons but is now considered a cult classic thanks to its chilling atmosphere and haunting and beautifully disturbing visual aesthetic.
A scene from Hannibal, shot at Toronto’s Royal Ontario Museum
Friday the 13th: The Series (1987-1990)
This cult-favorite series takes a fresh spin on horror, diverging from its slasher namesake to follow two cousins and their occult expert friend as they track down cursed antiques with deadly powers. Filmed in Toronto with contributions from DGC Ontario Members (including our Executive Director Victoria Harding as the Production Manager!), its focus on unique, self-contained stories cemented its status as a foundational piece of late ’80s television horror, blending mystery, suspense, and supernatural intrigue in every episode.
The Slumber Party Massacre (2021)
Revisiting the slasher genre with a contemporary lens, The Slumber Party Massacre brings a feminist retelling of familiar territory, turning victims into heroes with a clever series of twists. DGC Ontario Director Danishka Esterhazy’s film is as much about playing with expectations as it delivers a thrilling, pulse-pounding ride.
Director Danishka Esterhazy on amplifying the female voice in genre storytelling
Chucky (TV Series, 2021-present)
The murderous doll returns with a mix of dark humour and unsettling violence in this continuation of the classic franchise. The series expands on Chucky’s legacy while keeping its sense of mischief intact, making it a fitting choice for fans of both the new and the nostalgic.
Director Samir Rehem discusses adapting Chucky as a television series
These films and series not only explore the range and creativity of the horror genre, but also highlight the incredible talents of DGC Ontario Members. Whether you’re a fan of supernatural scares, psychological thrillers, dark comedies, or classic slashers, this list has something for every horror enthusiast looking to elevate their Halloween viewing experience.
