The Godsend (1980) movie poster

The Godsend

1980 ·1h 30m · ★ 5.3 (43)

An English family of six takes in a pregnant woman who disappears shortly after giving birth. They raise the baby girl as their own, but over the years the strange deaths of their children make them consider whether the little girl is more than she appears.

Why it matters

A chilling blend of psychological dread and supernatural folklore that probes the dark side of parental trust and the uncanny.

  • British horror that predates and arguably informs later child-centric evil tales like *The Omen* and *The Brood*.
  • Atmosphere thick with creeping unease rather than jump scares—perfect for fans of slow-burn, mood-driven terror.
  • Strong performances ground the supernatural premise in grim domestic reality, heightening the emotional stakes.
  • Practical effects and 1980s English countryside settings lend a grounded, eerie authenticity often missing from American counterparts.

Horror DNA

Gore
14
Slow Burn
83
Psychological
14
Supernatural
40
Creature
0
Disturbing
67
Fun Factor
17
Cerebral
14
Survival
33
Family

Content Warnings

Child in DangerPregnancy HorrorDehumanization

Phobia triggers

Pregnancy BirthReligious Imagery

TMDB Keywords

adoptiondemonwoman director

Pairs Well With