19 Must-Watch Halloween Movies: From Classics to Cult Favorites

Halloween is just around the corner, and what better way to get into the spirit than by watching a scary movie or two? Whether you're a fan of classic horror films like Halloween and The Shining, or you prefer more recent releases like Get Out and Hereditary, there's sure to be a Halloween movie out there that's perfect for you.

19 Halloween Movies to Watch This Year

In this blog post, we've compiled a list of 19 Halloween movies that are sure to scare, entertain, and maybe even make you laugh. From horror classics to new releases, to family-friendly films, we've got something for everyone. So grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and get ready for a spooky good time!

Halloween, also known as All Hallows' Eve, is a holiday celebrated on the night of October 31st. It has its origins in ancient Celtic and Christian traditions and has evolved into a popular, secular celebration in many parts of the world, especially in North America.

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The history and customs of Halloween are a blend of various influences: Celtic Origins, Christian Influence, American Traditions, Global Variations

Overall, Halloween is a festive and fun holiday that allows people to embrace themes of the supernatural, the macabre, and the whimsical, while also providing an opportunity for communities to come together and celebrate.

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Halloween Movie Marathon: 19 Films to Haunt Your Night

Here are the best, most popular, and critically acclaimed Halloween movies, in no particular order:

1. Halloween (1978)

This classic slasher film follows the terrifying tale of Michael Myers, who escapes from a mental institution and returns to his hometown to hunt down teenager Laurie Strode on Halloween night. Directed by John Carpenter, the film is notable for its suspenseful atmosphere, iconic score, and groundbreaking impact on the horror genre.

As the quintessential Halloween horror film, it captures the eerie essence of the holiday and delivers thrills that are perfect for a chilling Halloween night.

2. Scream (1996)

A meta-horror film that cleverly deconstructs the slasher genre, Scream follows a group of high school friends who become the targets of a mysterious killer known as Ghostface. With its self-aware dialogue and unexpected twists, the film revitalizes horror while paying homage to classic slasher tropes.

Its combination of humor, scares, and iconic quotes makes it a fun yet frightening choice for Halloween gatherings, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats while providing plenty of entertainment.

3. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

This stop-motion animated musical follows Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, as he discovers Christmas Town and decides to take over the holiday. With enchanting songs by Danny Elfman, the film blends dark fantasy and whimsy in a visually stunning way.

Perfect for families, it captures the spirit of Halloween and Christmas, making it a versatile choice for the season. Its memorable characters and enchanting music create a magical atmosphere ideal for Halloween viewing.

4. Beetlejuice (1988)

This quirky comedy-horror film tells the story of a recently deceased couple who haunt their former home and enlist the help of the mischievous ghost Beetlejuice to scare away the new living inhabitants. Directed by Tim Burton, the film is known for its unique visual style and eccentric humor.

With its blend of comedy and the supernatural, Beetlejuice offers a lighthearted yet spooky experience, making it an enjoyable watch for audiences of all ages during Halloween.

5. The Addams Family (1991)

Based on the classic cartoon, this dark comedy follows the eccentric Addams family as they navigate the challenges of a new neighbor and a scheming lawyer who aims to swindle them. The film is filled with macabre humor and memorable performances by the cast.

Its offbeat charm and quirky characters capture the fun of Halloween, making it a perfect choice for a festive family movie night filled with laughs and a hint of spookiness.

6. The Shining (1980)

Directed by Stanley Kubrick and based on Stephen King’s novel, this psychological horror film follows Jack Torrance, who becomes the winter caretaker of the isolated Overlook Hotel, where he descends into madness, threatening his wife and son. Its haunting imagery and unsettling atmosphere make it a classic.

With its intense psychological horror and iconic scenes, The Shining provides a deeply unsettling experience that is perfect for those looking for a serious scare on Halloween. Its atmospheric dread leaves a lasting impression long after the credits roll.

7. Hocus Pocus (1993)

This family-friendly classic follows the Sanderson sisters, a trio of witches resurrected in modern-day Salem on Halloween night, who are intent on wreaking havoc. With its playful humor and spirited performances, the film has become a Halloween favorite for all ages.

Full of Halloween imagery, mischievous witches, and a nostalgic charm, Hocus Pocus is perfect for families looking to celebrate the holiday with some lighthearted magic and fun.

8. A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)

This iconic horror film centers on Freddy Krueger, a burned and blade-handed villain who stalks teenagers in their dreams. Known for its surreal visuals and inventive scares, the film established Freddy as one of horror’s most notorious villains.

Its nightmarish premise and terrifying dream sequences make it an ideal scare-fest for Halloween, tapping into fears that linger well after the film ends.

9. Psycho (1960)

Alfred Hitchcock’s masterpiece follows Marion Crane, a young woman on the run who checks into the eerie Bates Motel, where she encounters the unsettling Norman Bates. This psychological thriller is famous for its suspense, particularly the unforgettable shower scene.

With its chilling atmosphere and psychological tension, Psycho is a suspenseful choice for Halloween, delivering classic horror in a way that’s both timeless and terrifying.

10. The Exorcist (1973)

Based on true events, this horror classic follows the demonic possession of a young girl and the desperate attempts of two priests to save her. Known for its intense scenes and disturbing effects, the film redefined horror and left audiences shaken.

Its terrifying depiction of possession and evil makes it one of the scariest films ever made, ideal for a Halloween night when you want pure horror.

11. It (2017)

Adapted from Stephen King’s novel, It follows a group of kids, the Losers' Club, as they face off against Pennywise, a shape-shifting clown that embodies their darkest fears. This updated version delivers both scares and nostalgia, making it a modern horror favorite.

With its chilling imagery and creepy clown antagonist, It taps into classic fears, making it perfect for Halloween horror fans.

12. Halloweentown (1998)

This Disney Channel movie tells the story of a young girl who discovers she’s a witch and travels to Halloweentown, a magical place where Halloween is celebrated year-round. Its charming plot and family-friendly humor make it a nostalgic Halloween staple.

With its whimsical take on the holiday, Halloweentown captures the fun and wonder of Halloween, making it a perfect pick for families or fans of lighthearted seasonal magic.

13. Coraline (2009)

This stop-motion animated film follows Coraline, a young girl who discovers an alternate reality that initially seems wonderful but hides sinister secrets. Based on Neil Gaiman’s story, it blends fantasy with a dark edge that appeals to all ages.

Its eerie visuals and unsettling tone make it a creepy, family-friendly choice for Halloween, ideal for those who enjoy spooky but not outright terrifying films.

14. The Conjuring (2013)

This horror film is based on the true experiences of paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren as they attempt to help a family plagued by a malevolent presence. Its chilling scares and atmospheric storytelling have made it a modern horror favorite.

With its jump scares and intense suspense, The Conjuring is perfect for viewers seeking a supernatural thriller to make their Halloween night truly scary.

15. Ghostbusters (1984)

This comedy-horror follows a group of eccentric scientists-turned-ghostbusters as they tackle paranormal threats in New York City. With memorable one-liners, fun ghostly visuals, and a catchy theme song, it’s a lighthearted classic.

Its mix of supernatural adventure and humor makes Ghostbusters a great pick for Halloween, offering ghostly fun without too much fright.

16. Trick 'r Treat (2007)

This anthology horror movie interweaves several stories that all take place on Halloween night, each revealing a different side of the holiday’s traditions and dangers. With its sinister twist on Halloween folklore, the film has become a cult favorite.

Capturing the essence of Halloween night with tales of revenge, fright, and tradition, Trick 'r Treat is perfect for those who want a movie that fully embraces Halloween spirit and scares.

17. Get Out (2017)

Directed by Jordan Peele, Get Out is a social thriller that follows Chris, a young Black man, as he visits his white girlfriend’s family for the first time. What starts as a seemingly awkward weekend soon unravels into a chilling nightmare as Chris discovers the family’s disturbing secrets.

With its mix of psychological horror, social commentary, and suspenseful twists, Get Out provides a unique scare that’s both thrilling and thought-provoking—perfect for Halloween when you’re looking for horror with depth.

18. Hereditary (2018)

This atmospheric horror film centers on the Graham family as they grapple with a series of terrifying events following the death of their reclusive grandmother. Known for its disturbing visuals and powerful performances, Hereditary slowly builds to a haunting and shocking climax.

Hereditary taps into deeply unsettling family secrets and supernatural terror, making it ideal for Halloween viewers who want intense, emotionally resonant scares that linger.

19. The Blair Witch Project (1999)

Presented as found-footage, The Blair Witch Project follows three film students who venture into the Maryland woods to document the local legend of the Blair Witch, only to become hopelessly lost and haunted by unseen forces. Its minimalistic approach to horror became iconic, inspiring a wave of found-footage horror films.

With its chilling realism and eerie forest setting, The Blair Witch Project creates an immersive experience that’s perfect for Halloween, especially for viewers who enjoy horror that feels unsettlingly real.

These films offer a mix of horror, humor, and atmosphere suitable for Halloween enjoyment, and they've been praised by both audiences and critics over the years. Your preferences may lead you to other Halloween favorites, but this list is a good starting point.

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