9 Terrifying Short Stories That Should Be Adapted Into Horror Movies

1. The Haunting of 'The Wendigo'

Delve into the chilling novella 'The Wendigo' by Algernon Blackwood, where a hunting trip in Ontario's wilderness takes a terrifying turn. The nephew-uncle duo, accompanied by two guides, encounter the titular creature and delve into the depths of collective hallucinations. This mind-bending haunt deserves more screen time to unleash its bone-chilling terror.

Main characters in the movie Antlers hide from a Wendigo

2. Unveiling the Mystery of 'Young Goodman Brown'

Step into the eerie world of Nathaniel Hawthorne's 'Young Goodman Brown,' a memorable short story that unfolds in Salem Village at dusk. Follow the titular character as he ventures into the foreboding woods and encounters mysterious figures with dark intentions. The chilling atmosphere and sinister encounters make this tale a perfect candidate for a spine-tingling horror movie adaptation.

Illustration from Hawthorne's Young Goodman Brown reprint

3. Confronting the Unknown in 'Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?'

Prepare to be unsettled by Joyce Carol Oates' classic short story, 'Where Are You Going, Where Have You Been?' Follow teenager Connie as she faces a chilling encounter with a mysterious stranger, Arnold Friend, who slowly reveals his menacing intentions. The grounded yet disquieting horror of this tale is primed for a gripping film adaptation that will leave audiences in suspense.

Arnold Friend smiles in a short film adaptation of Joyce Carol Oates' story

4. The Sinister Truth of 'The Lottery'

Dive into the psychological horror of Shirley Jackson's 'The Lottery,' a haunting tale that delves into the depths of human nature. Witness a cruel community's dark rituals in their quest for a bountiful harvest, leaving readers haunted by the chilling portrayal of societal cruelty. This thought-provoking story is a prime candidate for a star-studded film adaptation that will send shivers down your spine.

Still from the TV movie version of Shirley Jackson's The Lottery

5. A Post-Apocalyptic Nightmare in 'I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream'

Explore the dystopian world of Harlan Ellison's award-winning short story, 'I Have No Mouth, and I Must Scream.' Immerse yourself in a post-apocalyptic reality where a sentient supercomputer torments the last remnants of humanity. With themes of artificial intelligence and existential horror, this tale is ripe for a chilling cinematic adaptation that will leave viewers on edge.

I Have No Mouth video game cover

6. The Haunted House of 'Horror Story'

Step into the eerie world of Carmen Maria Machado's 'Horror Story,' a modern masterpiece of chilling proportions. Follow a couple as they navigate the surreal horrors of a haunted house, where the boundaries of reality and nightmare blur. This searing commentary on relationships and fear is a must-watch for horror enthusiasts craving a fresh and unsettling tale on the big screen.

Author Carmen Maria Machado poses for a portrait

7. Unraveling the Mysteries of 'The Repairer of Reputations'

Embark on a journey into the eldritch world of Robert W. Chambers' 'The Repairer of Reputations,' a chilling tale of conspiracy and supernatural intrigue. Follow the protagonist as they navigate a world of mystery and madness, uncovering dark secrets and forbidden truths. With its eerie atmosphere and haunting narrative, this story is tailor-made for a mesmerizing film adaptation.

The King in Yellow with the Yellow Sign from Robert Chambers' short story collection

8. The Madness of 'The Yellow Wallpaper'

Descend into madness with Charlotte Perkins Gilman's 'The Yellow Wallpaper,' a harrowing tale of isolation and gaslighting. Follow the protagonist's descent into madness as she grapples with the oppressive forces that confine her to a room. This haunting portrayal of mental anguish and societal constraints is a gripping narrative that begs for a definitive film adaptation that will send chills down your spine.

Charlotte Perkins Gilman and the Yellow Wallpaper cover

9. The Terrifying Tech of 'The Veldt'

Enter the twisted world of Ray Bradbury's 'The Veldt,' a chilling tale of technology and horror. Explore the dark implications of a futuristic nursery that blurs the lines between reality and nightmare. With its psychological depth and haunting imagery, 'The Veldt' is a prime candidate for a spine-tingling film adaptation that will leave audiences questioning the dangers of unchecked technology.

TV adaptation of The Veldt