50+ Best Halloween Movies to Watch All October 2024
Don't you just love October? The time of year when the leaves turn golden, pumpkin spice lattes are back on the menu, and the chill in the air signals the start of spooky season.
Whether you're planning a Halloween party, a cozy night in, or just looking for some classic Halloween movies to set the mood, this list of the best Halloween movies to watch in October has something for everyone. From light-hearted family films to spine-chilling horror classics, there's no better way to spend October than with cozy movie nights!
Where to Find Movies to Watch in October
When it comes to finding the perfect Halloween movies to watch in October, streaming services like Netflix, Apple TV, and Amazon Prime offer a wide selection of horror films, spooky TV shows, and even some classic family-friendly favorites.
The best way to enjoy these films is to grab your best friend, make some popcorn, and settle in for a marathon of the best spooky content available.
Family-Friendly Halloween Classics
1. Hocus Pocus (1993)
When it comes to the best Halloween movies, Hocus Pocus is always a crowd favorite. This Disney classic follows the Sanderson sisters, three witches played by Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy, who are accidentally resurrected on Halloween night. With its catchy theme song and memorable performances, it's a must-watch for anyone looking to kick off the Halloween season in style.
2. It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (1966)
No list of Halloween movies would be complete without mentioning It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown. This beloved Charlie Brown special is a nostalgic trip back to childhood, filled with humor and heart. The story centers around Linus as he waits for the mythical Great Pumpkin to appear, making it a perfect pick for families during the fall season.
3. The Addams Family (1991)
With its quirky humor and ghoulishly delightful characters, The Addams Family is a fantastic movie to watch during the Halloween season. Starring Raul Julia and Anjelica Huston, this film brings the creepy and kooky Addams family to life in a way that's both charming and spooky. It's one of those classic Halloween movies that you can enjoy with the whole family.
4. Casper (1995)
For a heartwarming ghost story, look no further than Casper. This friendly ghost tale features Christina Ricci as a young girl who befriends Casper, a kind-hearted ghost living in a haunted mansion. Casper is perfect for those who prefer spooky movies with a softer, more family-friendly edge.
5. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Is it a Halloween movie or a Christmas movie? The Nightmare Before Christmas is one of Tim Burton's masterpieces, featuring Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King, who discovers Christmas Town and decides to take over the holiday. This cult classic is a visual delight and a must-watch during the nights of Halloween.
6. Halloweentown (1998)
Another Disney Channel original movie, Halloweentown is a whimsical tale about a young girl who discovers she's a witch and is whisked away to Halloweentown, a magical place where it's Halloween every day. This movie is perfect for those who love their Halloween movies with a dash of magic and adventure.
Animated and Light-Hearted Picks
1. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
The Nightmare Before Christmas is an animated musical that has become a holiday favorite for both Halloween and Christmas. Directed by Tim Burton, the film follows Jack Skellington as he tries to bring Christmas to Halloween Town. With its unique animation style and catchy songs, it’s a delightful choice for a light-hearted Halloween movie night.
2. Corpse Bride (2005)
Another Tim Burton classic, Corpse Bride is an animated tale of a young man who accidentally proposes to a deceased bride and finds himself in the Land of the Dead. With its dark humor and gothic visuals, Corpse Bride is a charming and spooky film that’s perfect for Halloween.
3. Hotel Transylvania (2012)
Hotel Transylvania is a fun, family-friendly animated film about a hotel run by Count Dracula where monsters can take a break from humans. When a young boy stumbles upon the hotel, chaos ensues. With its colorful animation and lovable characters, Hotel Transylvania is a great choice for families during the Halloween season.
4. ParaNorman (2012)
ParaNorman is an animated film about a young boy who can see and communicate with ghosts. When his town is threatened by zombies, he must use his abilities to save the day. The film’s mix of humor, heart, and spooky elements makes it a perfect pick for a light-hearted Halloween viewing.
5. Monster House (2006)
Monster House is an animated film about a group of friends who discover that their neighbor's house is actually a living, breathing monster. The film combines humor with horror, making it a fun and slightly spooky movie that’s great for kids and adults alike.
Classic Horror Films for a Good Scare
1. Halloween (1978)
When you think of Halloween night, Michael Myers often comes to mind. Halloween is a horror classic that has stood the test of time. Directed by John Carpenter and starring Jamie Lee Curtis in her breakout role, this film is about a serial killer who escapes from an asylum and returns to his hometown to continue his murderous rampage. It's the perfect pick for anyone looking for terrifying films during the Halloween season.
2. A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
Wes Craven's A Nightmare on Elm Street introduced the world to Freddy Krueger, a disfigured killer who haunts the dreams of teenagers. This film is a must-watch for fans of the horror genre and remains one of the scariest films to watch during Halloween. If you’re in the mood for a horror flick that will keep you up at night, Elm Street is the way to go.
3. The Exorcist (1973)
Often cited as one of the scariest films ever made, The Exorcist is a psychological thriller that tells the story of a young girl possessed by a demonic entity. Directed by William Friedkin and based on a novel by Stephen King, this movie is not for the faint of heart but is definitely worth watching if you’re a fan of classic horror movies.
4. Psycho (1960)
Directed by Alfred Hitchcock, Psycho is a psychological thriller that redefined the horror genre. The film follows a young woman who checks into the Bates Motel, where she meets the enigmatic Norman Bates. With its iconic shower scene and eerie atmosphere, Psycho remains one of the most influential horror films of all time.
5. The Shining (1980)
Starring Jack Nicholson in one of his most famous roles, The Shining is a psychological horror film that takes place in a remote, haunted hotel. Directed by Stanley Kubrick and based on a novel by Stephen King, this film is a masterpiece of the horror genre. If you're looking for a good scare, The Shining is a must-see.
6. The Silence of the Lambs (1991)
Anthony Hopkins delivers a chilling performance as Hannibal Lecter in The Silence of the Lambs. This psychological thriller follows a young FBI agent as she seeks the help of the imprisoned cannibalistic serial killer to catch another serial killer. The Silence of the Lambs is a horror classic that is perfect for those who enjoy a more cerebral kind of horror.
7. The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)
A staple of the slasher film genre, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre is a brutal and relentless horror film about a group of friends who fall victim to a family of cannibals. With its gritty, documentary-style filmmaking, this movie is still terrifying decades after its release and is a must-watch for horror aficionados.
8. Night of the Living Dead (1968)
George A. Romero's Night of the Living Dead is a horror classic that launched the zombie genre into the mainstream. The film follows a group of people trapped in a farmhouse during a zombie apocalypse. Its stark, black-and-white visuals and social commentary make it a must-watch for anyone interested in the history of horror films.
9. The Evil Dead (1981)
The Evil Dead is a low-budget horror film that has become a cult classic over the years. Directed by Sam Raimi, the film follows a group of friends who unwittingly unleash a demonic force while staying in a remote cabin. With its over-the-top gore and innovative camera work, The Evil Dead is a must-see for fans of the horror genre.
Modern Horror Films for a New Generation
1. Get Out (2017)
Directed by Jordan Peele, Get Out is a modern horror film that blends social commentary with psychological horror. The film follows a young Black man who uncovers a disturbing secret when he visits his white girlfriend's family. Get Out is a groundbreaking film that has quickly become a horror classic and is perfect for those looking for a horror flick with a deeper meaning.
2. Hereditary (2018)
Directed by Ari Aster and starring Toni Collette, Hereditary is a psychological horror film that delves into the dark secrets of a family haunted by a sinister force. This film is intense, unsettling, and is often considered one of the scariest films of recent years. If you’re looking for a horror flick that will leave you thinking long after it’s over, Hereditary is a must-watch.
3. A Quiet Place (2018)
A Quiet Place is a suspenseful horror film about a family trying to survive in a world where they must remain silent to avoid deadly creatures that hunt by sound. Starring Emily Blunt and John Krasinski, this film is a masterclass in tension and is perfect for a Halloween movie night when you’re in the mood for a good scare.
4. Us (2019)
Another horror masterpiece from Jordan Peele, Us follows a family whose vacation turns into a nightmare when they are confronted by their doppelgängers. With its unique premise and terrifying execution, Us is a modern horror film that is perfect for the Halloween season.
5. The Babadook (2014)
The Babadook is an Australian horror film that follows a single mother and her young son as they are terrorized by a mysterious entity from a children's book. With its atmospheric horror and emotional depth, this film has become a modern classic and is perfect for those looking for a more psychological horror experience.
6. It Follows (2014)
It Follows is a supernatural horror film about a young woman who is pursued by a mysterious entity after a strange sexual encounter. The film's unique premise and relentless tension make it a standout in the modern horror genre and a great pick for a Halloween movie marathon.
Cult Classics and Hidden Gems
1. Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975)
Rocky Horror Picture Show is the epitome of a cult classic. This musical horror-comedy film is known for its over-the-top performances, memorable songs, and interactive midnight screenings. Starring Tim Curry as the flamboyant Dr. Frank-N-Furter, this film is a must-watch for anyone looking to experience a different side of Halloween.
2. Beetlejuice (1988)
Directed by Tim Burton, Beetlejuice is a dark comedy about a recently deceased couple who hires a mischievous ghost, Beetlejuice, to scare away the new inhabitants of their home. Starring Michael Keaton in one of his most iconic roles, Beetlejuice is a perfect blend of spooky and hilarious, making it a great pick for a light-hearted Halloween night.
3. Donnie Darko (2001)
Donnie Darko is a psychological thriller that has gained a strong cult following over the years. Starring Jake Gyllenhaal as a troubled high schooler who begins experiencing visions of a man in a creepy rabbit costume, this film is filled with eerie, mind-bending moments. While not a traditional horror flick, Donnie Darko is a hauntingly atmospheric movie that is worth watching during the spooky season.
4. The Craft (1996)
The Craft is a teen horror film that has become a cult favorite. The movie follows a group of high schoolers who delve into witchcraft, only to face the dark consequences of their actions. With its mix of supernatural elements and coming-of-age drama, The Craft is perfect for a Halloween night in with friends.
5. Practical Magic (1998)
Starring Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman, Practical Magic is a magical tale of two sisters who come from a long line of witches. While not a traditional horror film, it’s filled with spells, potions, and a touch of romance, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a more whimsical take on Halloween.
6. Scream (1996)
Directed by Wes Craven, Scream is a slasher film that both parodies and pays homage to the horror genre. With its self-aware dialogue and iconic ghostface killer, Scream is a must-watch for horror fans and has earned its place as a cult classic. Neve Campbell's portrayal of Sidney Prescott, a young woman facing down a masked killer, adds to the film's lasting appeal.
7. The Blair Witch Project (1999)
The Blair Witch Project is a found-footage horror film that became a cultural phenomenon upon its release. The movie follows a group of friends who venture into the woods to investigate a local legend, only to find themselves lost and terrorized by an unseen force. Its low-budget, documentary-style approach adds to the chilling realism, making it perfect for those seeking a good scare during the Halloween season.
8. Shaun of the Dead (2004)
Shaun of the Dead is a horror-comedy that blends zombie apocalypse with British humor. Directed by Edgar Wright, the film follows a group of friends as they attempt to survive a zombie outbreak while dealing with the mundane realities of life. It's a fun, lighthearted take on the horror genre and a great pick for a Halloween party.
9. The Witches (1990)
Based on the Roald Dahl book, The Witches is a dark fantasy film about a young boy who stumbles upon a convention of witches who plan to turn children into mice. Anjelica Huston's performance as the Grand High Witch is both terrifying and captivating, making this film a hidden gem that’s perfect for a spooky movie night.
10. Little Shop of Horrors (1986)
Little Shop of Horrors is a horror-comedy musical about a nerdy florist who discovers a mysterious plant that feeds on human blood. With its catchy songs and quirky storyline, this film has become a cult favorite. Starring Rick Moranis and Steve Martin, it’s a great choice if you’re looking for something fun and offbeat to watch during Halloween.
11. Scary Movie (2000)
Scary Movie is a hilarious parody of popular horror films like Scream, I Know What You Did Last Summer, and The Sixth Sense. This comedy takes all the classic tropes of the horror genre and turns them on their head, delivering laughs and scares in equal measure. It's the perfect movie to watch in October if you're looking to enjoy the spooky season without taking things too seriously.
Supernatural and Paranormal Thrills
1. The Sixth Sense (1999)
The Sixth Sense is a psychological thriller about a young boy who can see and communicate with the dead. Starring Bruce Willis and Haley Joel Osment, this film is famous for its twist ending and has become a staple of the horror genre. If you’re looking for a movie that combines supernatural elements with emotional depth, The Sixth Sense is a must-watch.
2. Poltergeist (1982)
Poltergeist is a supernatural horror film that follows a family haunted by malevolent spirits in their suburban home. Directed by Tobe Hooper and produced by Steven Spielberg, this film is filled with iconic scenes that have left a lasting impact on the horror genre. It’s a perfect choice for those who enjoy terrifying films with a touch of the paranormal.
3. The Others (2001)
Starring Nicole Kidman, The Others is a gothic horror film that takes place in a remote mansion shrouded in fog. The movie follows a single mother who begins to suspect that her home is haunted. With its eerie atmosphere and unexpected twists, The Others is a haunting tale that’s perfect for a chilly October night.
4. Paranormal Activity (2007)
Paranormal Activity is a found-footage horror film that became a massive hit due to its realistic portrayal of a haunting. The movie follows a young couple who set up cameras around their home to document the strange occurrences happening at night. Its slow-burn tension and realistic approach make it a great choice for those who enjoy supernatural thrills.
5. The Conjuring (2013)
Based on the real-life investigations of paranormal experts Ed and Lorraine Warren, The Conjuring is a chilling horror film about a family terrorized by dark forces in their new home. Directed by James Wan, this film has become a modern horror classic, known for its suspenseful storytelling and terrifying scares. It’s perfect for those looking to experience a truly frightening film during the Halloween season.
6. Insidious (2010)
Insidious is a supernatural horror film about a young boy who falls into a coma and becomes a vessel for malevolent spirits. Directed by James Wan, the movie is known for its jump scares and eerie atmosphere. Insidious is a must-watch for fans of paranormal horror and is sure to give you chills on Halloween night.
Slasher Films for a Thrilling Night
1. Friday the 13th (1980)
Friday the 13th is a quintessential slasher film that introduced the world to Jason Voorhees, a masked killer who stalks the campers of Crystal Lake. With its suspenseful kills and iconic villain, this film is a must-watch for fans of the slasher genre. It’s a great pick for a thrilling Halloween night.
2. A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
Freddy Krueger, with his burned face and glove of razor-sharp claws, has become one of the most recognizable villains in horror history. In A Nightmare on Elm Street, Freddy haunts the dreams of teenagers, turning their sleep into a terrifying battleground. This slasher film is both inventive and horrifying, making it a must-watch during the Halloween season.
3. Halloween (1978)
Michael Myers is the face of Halloween, and the original Halloween film is a masterpiece of the slasher genre. Directed by John Carpenter, the film follows Myers as he escapes from a mental institution and returns to his hometown to continue his killing spree. The movie's tension, eerie soundtrack, and Jamie Lee Curtis's performance make it one of the best Halloween movies ever made.
4. Scream (1996)
Scream revitalized the slasher genre in the 1990s with its meta commentary and thrilling scares. The film follows a group of high schoolers who are targeted by a masked killer. Directed by Wes Craven and featuring a strong performance by Neve Campbell, Scream is both a tribute to and a clever deconstruction of horror tropes, making it a must-watch for any Halloween movie marathon.
5. Child's Play (1988)
Child's Play introduced the world to Chucky, a possessed doll with a penchant for murder. This slasher film combines horror with dark humor, making it both terrifying and entertaining. If you’re looking for a movie that’s a little different but still offers plenty of thrills, Child's Play is a great choice.
Psychological Thrillers to Keep You on Edge
1. The Silence of the Lambs (1991)
The Silence of the Lambs is a psychological thriller that blends horror with crime drama. The film follows a young FBI agent as she seeks the help of Hannibal Lecter, a brilliant but dangerous serial killer, to catch another murderer. Anthony Hopkins's portrayal of Lecter is chilling, and the film’s suspenseful plot will keep you on the edge of your seat.
2. Se7en (1995)
Se7en is a dark, atmospheric thriller about two detectives who hunt a serial killer who uses the seven deadly sins as his modus operandi. Starring Brad Pitt and Morgan Freeman, this film is intense and disturbing, with a shocking ending that makes it one of the most memorable psychological thrillers of all time.
3. Black Swan (2010)
Black Swan is a psychological horror film about a young woman, played by Natalie Portman, whose obsession with perfection in her ballet career leads her down a path of madness. Directed by Darren Aronofsky, this film is both beautiful and disturbing, making it a great pick for those who enjoy psychological horror with a touch of artistry.
4. Shutter Island (2010)
Directed by Martin Scorsese and starring Leonardo DiCaprio, Shutter Island is a psychological thriller about a U.S. Marshal who investigates the disappearance of a patient from a mental institution, only to uncover dark secrets. The film’s haunting atmosphere and mind-bending twists make it a perfect choice for a Halloween movie marathon.
5. Hereditary (2018)
Directed by Ari Aster, Hereditary is a psychological horror film that delves into the dark secrets of a family haunted by a sinister force. Starring Toni Collette in a powerful performance, this film is intense and unsettling, with an ending that will leave you speechless. Hereditary is a must-watch for fans of psychological horror.
Your Ultimate Halloween Movie Marathon
October is the best time to dive into the world of horror and spooky films. Whether you’re in the mood for a light-hearted family movie, a terrifying horror classic, or a psychological thriller that will keep you on edge, this list of Halloween movies to watch in October has something for everyone.
So grab your popcorn, turn down the lights, and get ready for a month filled with scares, laughs, and unforgettable movie nights. There's no better time than Halloween season to indulge in the best horror flicks and spooky movies, whether you're revisiting old favorites or discovering new ones for the first time.
Happy Halloween, and enjoy the show!
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Hi, I’m Jen!
Hi, I’m Jen, your perpetually optimistic, fun-loving, witty friend. When I’m not working at The Marketing Greenhouse, you can find me gardening in the sun, playing games with my kids or creating content that inspires people to try new things and be the best version of themselves.
