"Poltergeist" has been associated with the idea of being a "cursed film" due to a series of tragic events related to its cast and crew. Notably, actress Heather O'Rourke, who played Carol Anne, died at a young age in 1988, and actor Dominique Dunne was murdered in 1982 shortly after the film's release. Other cast members also experienced untimely deaths. These incidents have led to speculation about a curse surrounding the film, but there is no definitive evidence to support the idea of an actual curse.

"Poltergeist," released in 1982 and directed by Tobe Hooper, is a supernatural horror film that was not explicitly based on a true story, but it drew inspiration from various real-life paranormal phenomena and urban legends. The screenplay, written by Steven Spielberg and Hooper, explores themes of haunted houses and the afterlife, reflecting societal fears of the era. While the film's events are fictional, it resonates with real-life accounts of hauntings and paranormal experiences, contributing to its chilling impact.

In the 1982 film "Poltergeist," the young girl, Carol Anne Freeling, played by Heather O'Rourke, is abducted by malevolent spirits from her family's home. She is drawn into a supernatural realm through the television, leading her family to seek help from paranormal experts to rescue her. The film explores themes of the supernatural and family bonds as they confront the haunting. Tragically, Heather O'Rourke passed away in 1988 at a young age, which has led to various discussions about the film's legacy and the so-called "Poltergeist curse."

The title of the "#1 scariest movie ever" is subjective and varies among viewers and critics. However, many lists often highlight "The Exorcist" (1973) due to its intense themes, disturbing imagery, and psychological horror elements. "Poltergeist" (1982) is also frequently mentioned for its supernatural elements and chilling scenes, making it a classic in the horror genre. Ultimately, what is considered the scariest movie can differ based on personal experiences and fears.