Films about child killers explore the disturbing and often controversial subject of children who commit murders. These films range from horror and thriller genres to drama, providing a deep dive into psychological elements that may drive a child to kill. They often grapple with themes of innocence corrupted, the impact of upbringing, and societal influences on young minds. Such films can be difficult to watch but are thought-provoking, aiming to understand rather than simply judge. Here is a list of existing films that delve into the chilling realm of child killers:
“The Omen”, 2006
Director: John Moore
This horror classic tells the story of a young boy named Damien, who is actually the Antichrist. As Damien grows, mysterious and deadly events surround him, leading to the horrifying realization of his true nature by his adoptive parents.
Starring: Liev Schreiber, Julia Stiles, Seamus Davey-Fitzpatrick, David Thewlis, Amy Huck, Pete Postlethwaite, Michael Gambon, Reggie Austin, Mia Farrow, Massimo Bellinzoni;
Production year: 2006;
Genre: horror, fantasy, thriller, drama, detective;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 110 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 5,5;
More information about the film “The Omen” on the website imdb.com
“We Need to Talk About Kevin”, 2010
Director: Lynne Ramsay
A chilling drama focusing on the strained relationship between a mother and her son, Kevin, who displays increasingly psychopathic behavior as he grows up. The film culminates in Kevin committing a horrific act of violence at his school.
Starring: Tilda Swinton, John C. Reilly, Ezra Miller, Jasper Newell, Rocky Duer, Ashley Gerasimovich, Siobhan Fallon Hogan, Alex Manette, Kenneth Franklin, Leslie Lyles;
Production year: 2010;
Genre: thriller, drama, detective;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 112 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,5;
More information about the film “We Need to Talk About Kevin” on the website imdb.com
“The Good Son”, 1993
Director: Joseph Ruben
After his mother's death, a young boy goes to live with relatives, where he becomes entangled with his cousin Henry. Henry appears to be a model child but harbors dark and deadly intentions.
Starring: Macaulay Culkin, Elijah Wood, Wendy Crewson, David Morse, Daniel Hugh Kelly, Jacqueline Brookes, Quinn Culkin, Ashley Crow, Guy Strauss, Keith Brava;
Production year: 1993;
Genre: thriller, drama;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 87 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 6,4;
More information about the film “The Good Son” on the website imdb.com
“Village of the Damned”, 1995
Director: John Carpenter
In this science fiction horror film, a small English village experiences a mysterious event that causes all women of child-bearing age to become pregnant. The children that are born possess otherworldly powers and lack moral sensibilities, leading to deadly consequences.
Starring: Christopher Reeve, Kirstie Alley, Linda Kozlowski, Michael Paré, Meredith Salenger, Mark Hamill, Pippa Pearthree, Peter Jason, Constance Forslund, Karen Kahn;
Production year: 1995;
Genre: horror, science fiction, thriller;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 98 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 5,6;
More information about the film “Village of the Damned” on the website imdb.com
“The Bad Seed”, 1956
Director: Mervyn LeRoy
A psychological horror-thriller about a seemingly perfect and well-mannered young girl who is actually a cold and heartless killer. The film explores nature versus nurture and the idea that evil can be innate.
Starring: Gage Clarke, Jesse White, Joan Croydon, William Hopper, Paul Fix, Henry Jones, Evelyn Varden, Eileen Heckart, Patty McCormack, Nancy Kelly;
Production year: 1956;
Genre: thriller, drama, crime;
Duration: 129 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 7,4;
More information about the film “The Bad Seed” on the website imdb.com
“Let the Right One In”, 2022
Director: Seith Mann, Viet Nguyen, Eva Sørhaug, Sarah Boyd
A Swedish romantic horror film that centers on the friendship between a bullied 12-year-old boy and a vampire child. Though not a killer in the traditional sense, the vampire child commits murders to survive, complicating their friendship.
Starring: Demián Bichir, Anika Noni Rose, Grace Gummer, Madison Taylor Baez, Ian Foreman, Jacob Buster, Kevin Carroll, Jimmie Saito, Nick Stahl, Fernanda Andrade;
Production year: 2022;
Genre: horror, drama;
Rating: IMDB: 7,5;
More information about the film “Let the Right One In” on the website imdb.com
“The Children”, 2008
Director: Tom Shankland
Taking place during a New Year’s holiday, this British horror film depicts a family gathering that turns terrifying when the children become mysteriously ill and start to turn against the adults, resulting in a fight for survival.
Starring: Eva Birthistle, Stephen Campbell Moore, Jeremy Sheffield, Rachel Shelley, Hannah Tointon, Raffiella Brooks, Jake Hathaway, William Howes, Eva Sayer;
Production year: 2008;
Genre: horror, thriller, detective;
MPAA rating: r;
Duration: 84 min.;
Rating: IMDB: 5,9;
More information about the film “The Children” on the website imdb.com
These films tackle the complex and disturbing idea of child killers from various angles, whether it be through horror, drama, or thriller genres. They invite viewers to reflect on the darker aspects of human nature and the factors that can lead to unthinkable actions.
In the dark and often disturbing panorama of cinema, films about child killers explore a chilling facet of human nature through a lens that is as captivating as it is horrifying. These movies, from iconic classics to contemporary masterpieces, navigate the complex web of psychological, societal, and moral questions that such grim narratives evoke. As we are drawn into the shadowy depths of the characters' minds, we are forced to confront uncomfortable truths about innocence, evil, and the blurred lines in between. The genre serves not only as a mirror reflecting our deepest fears and taboos but also as a cathartic exploration of the human condition. Through masterful storytelling, compelling performances, and unflinching honesty, these films leave an indelible mark on the psyche, provoking thought and stirring emotions long after the credits roll, ultimately reminding us of the power of cinema to delve into the most profound and unsettling topics of our times.
