Horror films are full of monsters, ghouls, and things that go bump in the night. However, in the cinematic universe, few things are as terrifying as creepy children. Perhaps it is something about the reversal of innocence. Or then again, maybe it is the art of replacing the mirth and exuberance of childhood with terror, solemnity, and otherworldly sensibilities. But no matter the method, children of horror are impossible to forget. And there is an abundance of such characters in the horror-scape to chill avid horror fans to the bone.

The Omen (1976)

Damien Thorn is one of the most frightening characters in film. Damien, as many horror enthusiasts know, is the main character in The Omen. At first glance, he is clever, astute, intelligent, and loving. But beneath the surface is something menacing. Out of sight, all his loveliness melts away into a sly demeanor and unparalleled coldness. His vile and calculating ways are terrifying. It is his morbid lack of remorse and conniving spirit that provide proof that evil incarnate does exist. But what would anyone expect from the spawn of Satan?

The Ring (2002)

And no monster has ever been quite as frightening as Sadako Yamamura, the central character of The Ring. Sadako is a child with unique abilities. However, her intentions have never been quite pure. In fact, her actions land her a spot in an asylum to be studied. But her nightmarish ways cannot be quelled. And what makes matters worse, her reign of terror reaches new heights postmortem. For even after death, Sadako uses her abilities to call back from the grave. Her reach and malevolent intentions are amplified. And of all the monsters, her unchecked and random acts of cruelty without causality are core shaking. She is one’s worst nightmare.

The Orphan (2009)

Esther appeared to be a sweet angel in need of a family. With raven pigtails and a stoic demeanor, she was simply beautiful. But she wasn’t quite as lovely as she looked. In fact, she was far from sugar, spice, and everything nice. She had a horrifying secret that would make anyone’s blood run cold. The Orphan was a warning sign to many adoptive parents to be careful who you let into your home. Esther was the adopted child from hell, literally and figuratively.

Pet Semetary (1989)

Gage was a happy-go-lucky toddler. His light blonde hair and cherubic cheeks made most viewers melt. But the sense of foreboding surrounding Gage was too much. And the tragedy that was to follow was heart-rending. One could not help but feel for his inconsolable mother and haggard father. But the horror that the poor, loving toddler became after turning was terrifying. Mary Lambert, director of Pet Semetary (1989), brought a new definition to little boys are made of snip, snails, and puppy dog tails. One could say that the nightmarish Gage returned spoiled and rotten. And if anything, his transformation made parents hug their children a little tighter.