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.
They also satisfy our curiosity about the unknown and real - life mysteries. People are intrigued by real - life crimes and strange events. A movie like 'Psycho', loosely based on the real - life crimes of Ed Gein, lets us peek into the mind of a possible real - life killer while still being entertained in a thrilling way. We get to experience the suspense of the investigation and the shock of the discoveries as if we were part of it.
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.
'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.
Another reason is that these films often bring a sense of authenticity. They might use real locations or details from the true stories. Take 'The Texas Chainsaw Massacre'. It was inspired by real - life serial killers and the desolate Texas settings add to the overall sense of dread. People like to be scared in a way that feels somewhat grounded in reality, and these movies provide that.
People are curious. True crime stories offer a peek into the darker side of human nature that most of us don't experience directly.
Well, Buzzfeed has a wide reach. So when they publish these true scary stories, a lot of people get to see them. Also, people like to share scary stories to give others that same feeling of fear and excitement. And these stories are often relatable in some way, like they could happen to anyone, which makes them even more appealing.
Scary stories based on true stories also tend to be more relatable in a strange way. We can picture the real - life locations, the real people involved (even if they are fictionalized in the story). For instance, if a story is set in a small town that actually exists and there was a real - life mystery there, it's easier for us to put ourselves in the shoes of the characters in the story and feel the fear.
They're popular because they give a bit of a thrill without being too terrifying. People like the idea of a little scare that ends up being okay in the end.
Scary stories are popular because they give us a thrill and a rush of excitement. They allow us to experience fear in a safe and controlled way.
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.
They're appealing because they feel more real. We know that these things actually happened or were inspired by real events, so it adds an extra layer of fright. It's like the horror is closer to home.