South Carolina Emerges as a Horror Film Hotspot

South Carolina, October 8, 2025

News Summary

South Carolina is quickly gaining recognition as a favored location for horror films, thanks to its unique historic charm and natural beauty. Cities like Charleston and Rock Hill have hosted notable productions, including thrillers and supernatural series. Upcoming events like ‘Drive-In the Woods’ and indie projects such as ‘All That Is Evil’ showcase the state’s commitment to enhancing its film industry while attracting filmmakers seeking picturesque yet eerie settings.

Charleston – South Carolina is becoming increasingly popular as a captivating backdrop for horror films, thanks to its unique blend of historic charm, Lowcountry scenery, and enchanting coastal beauty. Numerous film projects have taken advantage of the state’s moss-draped oaks, isolated woodlands, and historic architecture, producing a variety of horror genres from slasher films to psychological thrillers.

A diverse range of horror films have been shot across South Carolina, with some notable examples taking place in various locations. In Charleston, several key projects have been filmed, including a thriller about a couple targeted by a cult performing an apocalyptic ritual. Another significant film is the 11th installment of the “Halloween” franchise, featuring Jamie Lee Curtis as Laurie Strode confronting Michael Myers after a 40-year absence. Additionally, a supernatural television series centered on a demon-hunter dealing with evil spirits was filmed in this historic city. A chilling film depicted a father and his children experiencing bizarre occurrences linked to the burial mound near their new home.

Moving to Rock Hill, crowds have witnessed horror films set in a college dorm haunted by the ghost of a sadistic doctor, with key scenes shot at Winthrop University. A sequel to “Carrie,” where a teen seeks revenge utilizing her telekinetic powers, was also filmed at the same university, highlighting the growing trend of horror in educational settings.

In Timmonsville, Florence County, a gripping home invasion thriller was produced, loosely inspired by the Manson family murders, showcasing the state’s potential for intense scenarios. Meanwhile, Beaufort served as the filming location for portions of Eddie Murphy’s family-friendly yet spooky film, allowing the small town’s charm to shine.

Other noteworthy films include a psychological thriller based in Ridgeland and Beaufort that focuses on a death row inmate and her lawyer, adding depth to the Southern backdrop. Further, a cult horror film anthology shot in Columbia and Hunting Island features various frightening storylines, including zombie pirates and killer Santa. Filming locations across Spartanburg, Abbeville, and Clinton also played host to Julia Roberts in a romantic thriller, highlighting the versatility of South Carolina’s film industry.

Into the realm of survival narratives, a thriller set in Georgia included significant scenes filmed in the wilderness around Chattooga River, Lake Jocassee, and Beaufort, reinforcing the state’s atmospheric natural beauty. As a means to celebrate and enjoy the horror genre, a new event called “Drive-In the Woods” is scheduled to take place at the Woodlands Nature Reserve in Charleston throughout October, screening classic horror films alongside live music and food trucks, inviting attendees to bring blankets and coolers for an engaging experience.

In Inman, Silas Rowland has directed an indie horror project titled “All That Is Evil,” shot across various towns in the Upstate. This film centers on a witch terrorizing a peaceful small town and acts as a “proof of concept” for local filmmaking. With a production budget exceeding $100,000 and a team of around 60 cast and crew members, a red carpet screening is planned for March 2025. Rowland hopes to stream “All That Is Evil” on platforms such as Amazon Prime or Apple TV following its release.

Overall, the use of natural beauty in Upstate South Carolina creates a striking contrast to the typical settings seen in traditional horror films.

FAQ

Key Features of Horror Films in South Carolina

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Additional Resources

• Island Packet
• Wikipedia: Horror Film
• Southern Thing
• Google Search: South Carolina Horror Movies
• Post and Courier
• Google Scholar: Horror Films South Carolina
• Charlotte Observer
• Encyclopedia Britannica: South Carolina
• Country 103.7 FM
• Google News: Horror Movies Filmed in Charleston

Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT

The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.