These 17 movies proved that only supernatural elements are not scary

Modified Feb 12, 2025 05:04 ET

The Lighthouse (2019) | Distributed by: A24

14) Cape Fear (1991)

Cape Fear (1991) | Distributed by: Universal Pictures

Cape Fear is a remake of the classic 1962 movie and revolves around a gist of a dangerous ex-convict stalking the family of the lawyer who, years before, had locked him up. Here is the terror, not in unseen spirits but in sheer psychological manipulation and stalking, both of which Cady carries out towards his victims. Robert De Niro's Cady is menacing and charismatic: a character with pure psychological terror who plays with fear, guilt, and vengeance, rather than the otherworldly.