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The distinction between a great horror movie and an ideal Halloween movie lies in their specific characteristics. While they both fall under the horror genre, a Halloween movie is uniquely tailored for the Halloween season. It typically takes place during or around Halloween, incorporates Halloween themes or visuals, and is best enjoyed in a social setting, such as with friends.
On Halloween, people can either binge-watch movies or have one on in the background while indulging in Halloween treats like Candy Corn and Tootsie Rolls. The perfect Halloween movie is generally geared toward late teens and adults, as younger children are often busy with trick-or-treating. There are specific criteria that make a movie perfect for Halloween, and we’ll explore some of the top choices in this category.
Updated as of October 27th, 2023, this article has been enhanced with more content to ensure it remains relevant and up-to-date, offering even more information and new recommendations for Halloween movie enthusiasts.
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30 Best Halloween Movies of All Time
Corpse Bride (2005)
Tim Burton has often faced criticism for repeatedly collaborating with Johnny Depp, yielding similar outcomes in their films. However, there are certainly bright spots in their partnership. Take, for example, the beautifully animated movie “Corpse Bride,” where Depp’s character, Victor, finds himself in a markedly different marriage situation than the one his parents had arranged. The reason being, the woman chosen for him in this case is alive.
What Sets It Apart? With the exception of “The Nightmare Before Christmas” and, to some extent, “Coraline,” there are few films primarily geared towards younger audiences that capture the Halloween spirit as effectively as “Corpse Bride.” Add some fantastic songs and a brisk pace, and “Corpse Bride” is an excellent choice for families seeking to enjoy about an hour and fifteen minutes on October 31st.
Scary Movie (2000)
For those who prefer laughter over screams on Halloween, Scary Movie is a reliable choice. While some parts of the film may not have aged perfectly, which is common for comedies, it remains a classic. The Wayans brothers’ creation was a massive box office success and even spawned a number of sequels, with Scary Movie 2 being the only one to feature the Wayans family comedians again.
What sets the film apart is its ability to humorously replicate elements from movies like Scream and I Know What You Did Last Summer. Anna Faris is a standout in the film, showcasing her comedic talent and versatility. Her character, Cindy Campbell, is just as endearing as Neve Campbell’s Sidney Prescott. However, Faris is not the only highlight; Marlon Wayans, Regina Hall, and Shannon Elizabeth from American Pie also deliver scene-stealing performances.
Scream VI (2023)
Scream VI, also known as Radio Silence’s Scream V, may not reach the same level of excellence as their 2022 installment, but it still provides an enjoyable experience. It’s worth mentioning that this Scream movie is the most explicitly tied to Halloween, as the story takes place during the holiday. Once again, we follow Tara and Sam Carpenter, but this time they’re in New York City instead of Woodsboro. However, leaving Woodsboro behind doesn’t mean they’ve left Ghostface behind.
What Makes It Stand Out? The Halloween theme is prominently featured, especially in the opening act. For instance, after Jason Carvey, played by Tony Revolori, kills Laura Crane, portrayed by Samara Weaving, the Halloween atmosphere is quite evident. Additionally, there’s a scene shortly afterward at a costume party, albeit with fewer Ghostface costumes compared to the Stab party in Scream 4. Even in a new location like New York, Scream VI manages to keep the spirit of the franchise and the spooky festivities alive.
Lady in White (1988)
The 1988 film “The Lady in White” is a classic ghost story that offers a captivating and eerie experience. It features a remarkable performance from a young Lukas Haas in the lead role, but the strong acting doesn’t end there, with Len Cariou delivering a suitably sinister portrayal of a common, everyday type of killer. The story centers around Frankie Scarlatti, a nine-year-old who witnesses the haunting murder of a young girl, whose murderer might be closer to Frankie’s family than anyone could have suspected.
What sets “The Lady in White” apart is that it’s not a typical choice for those seeking a horror film with a lot of gore for their Halloween viewing. Instead, it’s a more reflective narrative about coping with grief, and it’s quite well-executed. Additionally, while it holds an R rating, it’s not excessively forbidding, making it suitable for a family movie day, as long as the children are not too young, as they might find it a bit boring.
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, directed by Steven Spielberg, is not only considered one of the finest science fiction films of the 1980s but also one of the standout movies of the entire decade. It boasts an impeccable script and outstanding performances from the perfectly chosen cast, including Henry Thomas, Drew Barrymore, Robert MacNaughton, and Dee Wallace. The heartwarming tale of a benevolent extraterrestrial’s arrival on Earth never falters.
What Sets It Apart? The film’s tone incorporates elements of both horror and family drama, making it suitable for viewing at any time of the year. However, there’s a special charm in watching E.T. during the Halloween season, as it captures the ’80s atmosphere and features an endearing trick-or-treating sequence.
Idle Hands (1999)
Before Seth Green became known for his work on Robot Chicken and investing large sums in monkey NFTs, he enjoyed a successful run in the ’90s and early 2000s, with roles that include the underrated movie Idle Hands. In this film, he outshines the lead actor, Devon Sawa.
What makes Idle Hands stand out is its take on the classic trope of a body part being possessed, a concept that has been explored in cinema since as far back as 1924 in Robert Wiene’s film The Hands of Orlac, featuring Conrad Veidt. It was also notably done by Peter Lorre in 1935’s Mad Love. In Idle Hands, the story revolves around a stoner whose hand becomes murderous, leading to a blend of slapstick comedy and surprisingly dark humor. The film reaches its climax with a very ’90s Halloween dance party.
The Child (1977)
An eerie and often overlooked 1970s movie, “The Child,” is situated in the 1930s California woods, where it revolves around a hired nanny who finds herself in a situation beyond her control. She has arrived to assist a widower who recently lost his wife to murder and whose daughter possesses hidden and potent telekinetic powers. The plot takes a strange turn with incidents like mutilated cats and mysterious figures lurking in dimly lit cemeteries, culminating in a chaotic climax on Halloween.
What sets “The Child” apart is its unconventional and enigmatic storyline, always keeping the audience guessing. It also stands out for its inventive use of a carved pumpkin, or jack o’ lantern, which is a memorable cinematic moment. Much like the finest Halloween-themed films, it excels in capturing the atmospheric essence of the season through its visuals.
The Guest (2014)
Packed with moody ’80s music and brooding adolescents, “The Guest” is a fantastic follow-up by Adam Wingard, who previously impressed with “You’re Next.” This movie is a unique blend of action, horror, and comedy, with Dan Stevens delivering a haunting performance as a man claiming to be a deceased family member’s military comrade. He gradually integrates himself into their lives, but beneath the surface, he harbors dangerous secrets that will jeopardize the entire family.
What Sets It Apart? Like many great films, “The Guest” features a climactic Halloween party scene, effectively using the ambiance and decor of a school dance. However, what truly distinguishes the movie is its ability to sustain a relentless build-up of tension throughout most of its duration. For a Halloween movie marathon, consider starting with Maika Monroe’s horror trilogy, commencing with “The Guest,” followed by “It Follows” (which was released the same year), and concluding with “Villains” in 2019.
Ed Wood (1994)
Tim Burton’s classic black-and-white biopic, “Ed Wood,” tells the story of the titular 1950s filmmaker known for cult classics like “Glen or Glenda” and “Plan 9 from Outer Space.” The film is celebrated for its exceptional period-specific set and costume design, as well as its stellar cast, featuring Johnny Depp, Martin Landau, Bill Murray, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Patricia Arquette.
What Makes “Ed Wood” Remarkable? “Ed Wood” serves as a tribute to the world of campy filmmaking and the unwavering artistic passion of its characters. It notably includes a charmingly understated Halloween party scene, culminating in a poignant moment where Martin Landau, portraying Bela Lugosi, transforms into his Dracula persona. Additionally, the film provides an entertaining glimpse into the behind-the-scenes challenges faced during the production of “Plan 9 from Outer Space,” such as the comical struggles with the octopus scene.
Casper (1995)
Despite being a film about a deceased child, it surprisingly became a popular family-friendly success. Perhaps it was due to the non-threatening sheet that forms the entire body of the friendly ghost character, as showing his murdered form haunting children would likely have been too disturbing. Nevertheless, the little ghost character brings a bittersweet yet uplifting charm to the 1990s adaptation of the classic tale. The film features Christina Ricci, Bill Pullman, Cathy Moriarty, and Eric Idle, with Malachi Pearson portraying Casper. The story primarily revolves around a Halloween party held at Whipstaff Manor, the place Casper has been haunting since his passing.
House of 1,000 Corpses (2003)
House of 1,000 Corpses, Rob Zombie’s gruesome horror film, features his beloved Firefly family as they engage in their brutal acts. On October 30th, a group of young people on a cross-country journey to document obscure roadside attractions in America picks up a hitchhiker, unknowingly setting the stage for the psychotic killers we later see in The Devil’s Rejects (2005) and 3 from Hell (2019) – characters like Baby, Tiny, Otis Driftwood, Mother Firefly, and Grandpa Hugo. What unfolds is a repulsive, nihilistic, and darkly humorous Halloween nightmare.
What sets this film apart? House of 1,000 Corpses possesses a certain rawness that prevents it from achieving classic status, yet this quality also endears it to the audience. It’s clear that this is Zombie’s debut film, and in terms of production value, The Devil’s Rejects surpasses it. However, House of 1,000 Corpses undeniably exudes a more unsettling and eerie atmosphere, as demonstrated by the unfortunate fate of Rainn Wilson, known for his role in The Office.
Among the Living (2014)
Among the Living is an often overlooked gem in French cinema, aligning with the French Extremity Movement while still maintaining its unique essence. The film captivates viewers with its remarkable Halloween prologue and the significance of a Halloween mask, effectively immersing them in the nightmarish universe it presents.
Boys in the Trees (2017)
“Boys in the Trees” is a unique blend of fantasy and horror, cleverly used as an allegory in an Australian coming-of-age story that delves into the darker aspects of growing up. On Halloween night, two old friends, nearing the end of their high school journey, reunite at a skate park to reminisce about their childhood. They delve into an elaborate fantasy game they used to play, but things take a disturbing turn as their game and ghost stories start to blur with reality, creating a hallucinatory nightmare. The film is enhanced by the excellent music from Shinjuku Thief.
What Makes It Outstanding? Nicholas Verso’s movie is an excellent choice for those seeking depth on October 31st instead of just scares. While it doesn’t break new ground in terms of its storyline, it succeeds in hitting emotional notes that feel universally relatable and are executed exceptionally well.
Tragedy Girls (2017)
Another film that takes full advantage of the decorations and setup of a high school Halloween party, especially using the gymnasium, is “Tragedy Girls.” It’s a darkly comedic story about two young high school girls who are obsessed with achieving celebrity status and becoming influencers. However, they also have a disturbing fascination with true crime. In a series of amusing events, they end up becoming secret serial killers while gaining a massive following as online crime reporters. The film reaches its climax with an exciting Halloween party finale.
What Makes “Tragedy Girls” Stand Out: Similar to “The Final Girls,” “Tragedy Girls” is a self-aware comedy horror movie, and its creators clearly have a deep understanding of the horror genre’s contributions from the 1980s. Additionally, the film boasts a cast that includes familiar faces like Brianna Hildebrand from “Deadpool,” Alexandra Shipp from “Dark Phoenix,” and Josh Hutcherson from “Five Nights at Freddy’s,” making it a Halloween movie filled with recognizable talent.
Ginger Snaps (2000)
The werewolf genre had seen limited use in cinema for some time, but in the year 2000, the movie “Ginger Snaps” skillfully integrated werewolf lore into its coming-of-age narrative. Much like the 2009 film “Jennifer’s Body,” “Ginger Snaps” revolves around two best friends who, in this case, are sisters. Their lives become endangered by supernatural forces. When one of the goth girls experiences her first menstruation, the scent attracts a werewolf that has been terrorizing the town’s pets and it bites her.
What Sets It Apart: The film is distinguished by its darkly humorous depictions of transformations and conversations, and its sense of humor is one of its standout attributes. However, the movie also excels as a metaphor for the female coming-of-age experience, making it more intellectually engaging compared to many other teen-oriented horror films that emerged in the aftermath of “Scream.”
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Hocus Pocus (1993)
Hocus Pocus, thanks to impressive makeup and charmingly quirky performances, remains a delightful Halloween classic driven by nostalgia. The story revolves around a young boy inadvertently summoning a trio of witches on Halloween night, portrayed by the unmatched trio of Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy, who proceed to cause chaos in a small Massachusetts town.
What Makes It Outstanding? Kenny Ortega’s movie has solidified its place in our collective Halloween traditions, and even after 30 years, it maintains its unique ’90s charm. Its enduring appeal has even led to a sequel, yet it’s the original film that truly encapsulates that nostalgic time period.
Pumpkinhead (1988)
Pumpkinhead is a movie that’s hard to overlook when searching for Halloween-themed titles, and it lives up to its name. While it might not be a critical darling, the film is rich in the kind of imagery that’s synonymous with the autumn season. The story revolves around a grieving farmer who enlists the help of a witch to bring back his deceased son, inadvertently giving rise to the monstrous and horrifying entity known as Pumpkinhead, which embarks on a gruesome killing spree.
What Makes It Outstanding? Pumpkinhead is a surprisingly emotionally complex film, even if its special effects and scares fall short of perfection. Nonetheless, there are more strengths than weaknesses in Stan Winston’s first foray into directing. Notably, the creature’s design is exceptionally well-crafted, creating an eerie and misty atmosphere that lingers with the audience, and Lance Henriksen’s lead performance is truly exceptional.
The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
“The Nightmare Before Christmas” is a unique and enduring film that blurs the lines between Halloween and Christmas. It’s a creation by the talented stop-motion artist Henry Selick, and three decades after its release, it remains a beloved classic. It can be seen as a Halloween-themed movie with Christmas elements, or a Christmas movie with a Halloween twist. The film’s enduring popularity is a testament to its lasting appeal.
Night of the Demons (1988)
“Night of the Demons” is a beloved cult classic that continues to attract new fans to this day. This film is an ideal choice for a Halloween viewing, particularly appealing to those who embrace their uniqueness, like weirdos, misfits, outcasts, and goths. The story revolves around a group of teenagers hosting a party in a mortuary, and when they conduct a séance, they inadvertently release a terrifying demonic entity that can possess different bodies.
What Sets It Apart? “Night of the Demons” boasts a distinctive ’80s atmosphere, which some viewers might appreciate as a positive feature. Its practical special effects, storyline, and eerie setting all contribute to its appeal. Additionally, the presence of horror icon Barbara Crampton in the film is reason enough to consider it a Halloween must-watch.
Hell House LLC (2015)
Hell House LLC is an often-overlooked found footage film that presents itself as a documentary about a haunted house where 15 people, including the attraction’s staff, tragically lost their lives. The film effectively combines past and present through the use of tapes that chronicle the haunted house’s production and setup, resulting in a chilling and terrifying experience for viewers.
What sets Hell House LLC apart is its genuine ability to deliver scares, a quality that has become increasingly rare for dedicated horror enthusiasts. The film manages to inject fresh and innovative elements into the oversaturated found footage subgenre, making it a valuable addition and a great choice for Halloween viewing.
Halloween 3: Season of the Witch (1982)
Halloween III: Season of the Witch, a controversial sequel, has undergone a recent critical reassessment, despite its initial neglect and even disdain upon its release. This is primarily due to its unconventional nature, as it is not a true sequel, and in the film, the original Halloween is portrayed as a fictional movie being shown on television.
What sets Halloween III apart is its intriguingly meta approach that could have been further explored. Instead, the movie presents a delightfully eccentric narrative involving a toy company’s mad scientist attempting to orchestrate a Halloween-themed genocide. It’s a uniquely wild and somewhat absurd film that maintains a suitably eerie atmosphere, complemented by outstanding music from the original Halloween director, John Carpenter.
Trick ‘r Treat (2007)
One of the most outstanding horror anthology movies, regrettably, had a direct-to-video release. Fortunately, its reputation has grown considerably over time. Featuring an excellent cast including Dylan Baker, Rochelle Aytes, Anna Paquin, Brian Cox, and Leslie Bibb, Trick ‘r Treat delivers four Halloween-themed stories, all connected by a delightfully eerie character with a burlap sack covering its head.
What Makes It Stand Out? The movie kicks off with a spooky Halloween altercation and a home invasion, and from there, it weaves a clever and atmospheric narrative. Much like Creepshow, each of its segments stands alone while also fitting seamlessly into the film’s overall atmosphere. Trick ‘r Treat stands as one of the finest horror films from the 2000s.
The Crow (1994)
Starting on October 30, also known as Devil’s Night, “The Crow” immerses us in a dark and mysterious world filled with criminals and spectral figures. Brandon Lee delivers an exceptional performance as a resurrected musician seeking vengeance against his murderers one year after he and his fiancée were killed.
What Sets It Apart? While the movie’s plot leans more towards an action-packed superhero genre, the talented director Alex Proyas, known for his work on “Dark City,” infuses it with a substantial amount of gothic aesthetics and eerie dialogue, easily categorizing “The Crow” as a horror film. Additionally, it boasts one of the most outstanding soundtracks of the 1990s.
Scream (1996)
“Scream may bend the Halloween movie tradition a bit by taking place in late September, but it encapsulates the perfect Halloween ambiance with its thrilling party scenes and overall vibes. This iconic film, thanks to the sinister Ghostface character, has even inspired some of the most popular Halloween costumes. In the story, a series of murders terrorizes a small town, primarily targeting high school students, and the mystery of the killer’s identity keeps everyone on edge, particularly within Sydney Prescott’s social circle.
What makes Scream exceptional? It kicks off with one of the most memorable opening scenes in cinematic history, offers plenty of humor courtesy of David Arquette and Jamie Kennedy, and cleverly plays with the conventions of the horror genre. Scream is a must-see, especially if you want to embrace its meta-horror elements and watch it during a Halloween party.”
May (2002)
However, if you find yourself alone, you might consider watching “May,” a remarkable film that explores themes of isolation, social anxiety, awkwardness, and loneliness. Directed by the talented Lucky McKee, it serves as a modern interpretation of the Frankenstein story, as seen through the troubled life of a young woman who lacks friends. Despite her remarkable sewing skills, she attempts to create a companion using various body parts.
What Sets It Apart? “May” is a poignant and unsettling movie that leaves a lasting impression. Moreover, Angela Bettis delivers a standout performance that stands out as one of the best of the last two decades. Additionally, the film features a role played by Anna Faris from “Scary Movie,” offering viewers the chance to enjoy a completely different kind of double feature.
Terrifier 2 (2022)
Terrifier 2, the latest addition to the Halloween film genre, defied expectations as an indie sequel by becoming a surprise hit. What sets it apart is its lengthy runtime, making it one of the longest horror movies in recent memory. Damien Leone, the director, shows no compromise in his vision and is clearly working towards something significant with this installment and future ones.
One of the standout elements is the character Art the Clown, a villain who captures the essence of our current times. Art, a terrifying killer previously featured in All Hallow’s Eve and the first Terrifier, makes a striking return and immediately grabs the audience’s attention before the story delves into Halloween. While the film is quite gruesome, those who can stomach it will find that Terrifier 2 can be considered a form of high art.
Donnie Darko (2001)
Although it’s not exactly a horror movie, Donnie Darko, with its eerie character Frank, a man in a rabbit suit, exudes a distinctly Halloween atmosphere. The film stands out for its portrayal of suburban life in the 1980s, tracing the journey of a young Jake Gyllenhaal as he grapples with disturbing hallucinations and a looming sense of doomsday. By skillfully depicting young love, family conflicts, depression, and the challenges of being a teenager, Donnie Darko emerges as one of the finest teenage-oriented films ever created, making it a perfect choice for a nostalgic Halloween viewing.
Ghostwatch (1992)
The notorious British TV mockumentary Ghostwatch made its debut on Halloween night in 1992 on the BBC, presenting itself as a documentary special that aimed to present genuine evidence of the supernatural. However, it has never been re-aired in the UK due to concerns of a repeat of the disturbing events that unfolded that night in ’92 when the BBC received over a million phone calls from terrified viewers. While it’s regrettable to approach it already knowing the truth, the craftsmanship behind Ghostwatch is truly remarkable.
What Makes It Remarkable? Ghostwatch is a masterfully executed production, reminiscent of Orson Welles’ famous War of the Worlds broadcast but adapted for the early ’90s. Any form of art that can provoke such a widespread emotional response is deserving of recognition.
Halloween (1978)
Halloween is the traditional choice for October 31 due to its fitting title, and it captures the essence of fall with its evocative visuals and settings. John Carpenter’s iconic film introduced the infamous character, Michael Myers, who has become synonymous with the Halloween season. The film’s intense final act, where Michael relentlessly pursues Laurie Strodes, is a prime example of efficient and suspenseful storytelling. Yet, the entire movie is marked by its minimalistic approach and a mysterious atmosphere, making it a low-budget cinematic masterpiece.
The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975)
Taking place right after what might have been the most incredible Halloween bash in the universe, The Rocky Horror Picture Show commences with a young married couple arriving at the doorstep of a spooky, dilapidated mansion after their car malfunctioned in early November. They have unwittingly stumbled upon a peculiar Halloween costume party, an eccentric festivity, or possibly even an encounter with extraterrestrial beings.
What Sets It Apart: Featuring a creative ensemble of characters skillfully portrayed by actors like Tim Curry, Susan Sarandon, Meatloaf, and a host of others, alongside a collection of timeless (and time-bending) songs, The Rocky Horror Picture Show is an unparalleled celebration. It’s no wonder that this film has maintained its popularity through numerous theatrical re-releases spanning five decades. Its allure is amplified by the interactive dress-up and sing-along screenings held worldwide during October. Whether you’re a first-time viewer or a seasoned enthusiast, this is a movie best enjoyed with a group, preferably in a crowded theater filled with wonderfully eccentric individuals. In all honesty, it’s more exhilarating than Halloween itself. So, if you’re seeking something more exuberant, this film is your top choice.
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