Amid a global pandemic, the question arises: amidst the current fear, is there room for more terror as Halloween approaches? The answer is a definitive yes! The association between abject terror and the twilight of October is undeniable. Jump scares are as essential as Halloween candy during this season. Bearing this in mind, an exploration was launched to uncover some of the most spine-chilling locations across Canada, eerie enough to serve as backdrops for horror films.
From cult classics and beloved films at festivals to overlooked must-sees, noteworthy remakes, and an upcoming blockbuster, these movies feature hair-raising scenes filmed in various locations, ranging from Cape Breton Island to Victoria.
Take a look at the list, watch the films – we’ve highlighted some of the most haunting moments (spoiler alert!) – then compare these eerie settings to their real filming locations. For the bravest souls, visit these places in person. We’ve got you covered with nearby activities to help you shake off the fear.
My Bloody Valentine (1981)
An ’80s slasher classic, My Bloody Valentine, described as “a movie made by the mentally warped for the mentally warped,” by Edmonton Journal‘s John Dodd, revolves around Valentine’s Day festivities disrupted by a gas mask–clad, pickaxe-wielding serial killer.
The actual crime scene: Sydney Mines in Nova Scotia’s Cape Breton Island stands in for Valentine Bluffs, the setting of this iconic horror film. Although Princess Colliery, the inactive coal mine transformed into the movie’s Hanniger Mine, no longer exists, you can still spot various shooting locations in Sydney Mines, like the intersection at Clyde Avenue.
Where to unwind: While the Cabot Trail doesn’t make an appearance in the film, it’s a short 30-minute drive from Sydney Mines. The scenic route is especially breathtaking during the fall, showcasing Cape Breton’s coastal cliffs in vibrant autumn hues.
Blood Quantum (2019)
This gory Canadian zombie flick premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and dominated the Canadian Screen Awards. The plot revolves around an undead uprising on a Mi’kmaq reserve.
The real-life crime scene: Filmed in Quebec and New Brunswick, some of the film’s most gruesome moments occur on the J.C. Van Horne Bridge, connecting Pointe-à-la-Croix, Que., to Campbellton, N.B.
Where to relax: Visit Sugarloaf Provincial Park near Campbellton for a rejuvenating one-kilometre hike, featuring stunning views from Sugarloaf Mountain’s peak.
The Thing (1982)
In this acclaimed John Carpenter classic, a research team at an Antarctic outpost faces a parasitic alien that mimics its victims. One of the film’s most memorable scenes involves a gruesome alien transformation.
The genuine crime scene: Filmed in various Alaskan and British Columbian locations, Outpost #31 scenes were shot near Stewart, B.C., close to the Salmon Glacier.
Where to unwind: Explore the Salmon Glacier while visiting the Outpost #31 site. The glacier, Canada’s fifth largest, offers a breathtaking viewpoint.
Pet Sematary (2019)
In this remake of Stephen King’s chilling novel, a family relocates to rural Maine and discovers a pet cemetery with supernatural resurrection abilities.
The actual crime scene: Hudson, Que., doubles as Ludlow, Me., in the film. Visit St. James Church and the neighboring house on rue Main for key filming locations.
Where to relax: Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Ottawa River from Jack Layton Park after exploring the eerie filming locations.
American Psycho (2000)
Patrick Bateman, a homicidal narcissist, balances his Wall Street career with murderous sprees in this dark comedy. His psychopathic antics escalate to chilling extremes.
The real-life crime scene: Filmed in New York City and Toronto, Omni King Edward Hotel’s Consort Bar serves as a backdrop for Bateman’s violent encounters.
Where to relax: Indulge in afternoon tea at Omni King Edward for a serene post-psycho experience.</