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It’s the spookiest time of the year, and the perfect excuse to throw a movie night. But what are the best spooky movies for the spooky season?
If you’re looking for a comprehensive list of films that will give you and your friends some seriously spooky chills, look no further. From gothic horror classics to modern slasher films, this article will give you the low-down on the top spooky movies to get you and your friends into the Halloween spirit.
Get ready for a thrilling night of horror movie-viewing with this list of the best spooky movies for the spooky season. So, settle in and prepare to be scared!
1
The Exorcist: Believer (2023)
The Exorcist: Believer (2023) will hit theaters on October 6th and, from the looks of it, promises to be a scary good time. A demonic entity possesses two girls, leading to the return of Ellen Burstyn to reprise her role as Chris MacNeil.
2
Coraline (2009)
Coraline (2009) is a stop-motion animated masterpiece. With stunning visuals, an engaging storyline, and creepy button-eyed parents, it’s a must watch during the spooky season.
3
M3GAN (2022)
Move over Chucky, there’s a new and improved doll in town: M3GAN. Equipped with killer dance moves, Terminator-level instincts, and AI smarts, M3Gan is the perfect friend. So be sure to get your own M3GAN today!
4
Ready or Not (2019)
Grace had no idea what she was in for after her wedding night: a deadly game of hide-and-seek with her in-laws? Fans of spooky movies will love Ready or Not (2019). Get ready for edge-of-your-seat thrills as Grace puts all her strength into surviving her terrifying situation.
5
Hereditary (2018)
Hereditary, Ari Aster’s masterful horror film, takes viewers on a slow and sinister descent into the Graham family’s tragedy. With an atmosphere so thick with paranoia, it will linger long after the two-hour runtime. By the end, you’ll be thinking twice about those ceiling corners and mysterious bumps in the night. Prepare to be unnerved!
6
The Craft (1996)
Nothing screams Halloween quite like watching The Craft (1996)! Unearth the spellbinding magic of a seance and a game of light as a feather, stiff as a board, with this ’90s classic. If you’re a fan of spooky films, it’s definitely worth a watch!
7
Hocus Pocus (1993)
On October 31st, don’t risk it—steer clear of any cauldrons inside abandoned shacks! Otherwise, you might just get a visit from everyone’s favorite trio of witches—the Sanderson sisters. Make sure you’re not among those who discover this trick firsthand!
8
The Shining (1980)
The Overlook Hotel is a luxurious destination known for its fun eerie maze, relaxing haunting atmosphere, and welcoming hostile guests. Are you ready to book your stay at the Overlook? As the Eagles once said about the Hotel California, “You can check-out any time you like. But you can never leave.”
9
The Conjuring (2013)
Are you ready to be scared? The Warrens, made famous by The Conjuring (2013), are now firmly planted on every horror fan’s radar. What makes these films so terrifying is the knowledge that each spine-tingling story is rooted in deeply disturbing true events. So, gather your bravest friends, grab your crucifix, light some incense, and settle in for a truly frightening movie night.
10
Monster House (2006)
What happens when you live near a house with a monstrous appetite? Well, if you’re Chowder, DJ, and Jenny, you investigate and craft a plan to destroy the house before young trick-or-treaters meet tragic ends.
11
Halloween (1978)
Step away from the candy bowl and take a walk on the dark side this Halloween. If you’re looking for a spine-tingling scare, why not don your own Michael Myers mask and treat yourself to one (or all) of the best spooky movie classics? But just remember if you ever spot someone following you around town with a butcher knife – it’s time to get out of dodge!
12
Saint Maud (2021)
When a religious nurse takes on the role of hospice caretaker for a retired dancer, she’s determined to save her patient’s soul from the clutches of hell—at any cost. This mysterious and spooky tale is sure to enthrall fans of horror and suspense.
13
The Addams Family (1991)
The Addams Family (1991) is a shoe-in for the title of “creepiest family” and horror movie fans will go wild for them! From their morbid humor to their gothic style, The Addams Family is a must for anyone who loves spooky movies. And if you want more of this macabre family, Netflix’s Wednesday should be added to the queue.
14
Scream (1996)
If you like spooky movies, you know the drill: when confronted with a ghostface-masked murderer, don’t go upstairs! Everyone—except Sidney Prescott, that is—knows that’s basically a death warrant. Wes Craven’s classic slasher Scream (1996) has some of the most memorable lines and iconic moments in horror, making it the perfect spooky movie to jumpstart the spooky season.
15
Get Out (2017)
Jordan Peele shook the world with his directorial debut Get Out (2017), becoming the master of satirical horror. Rather than relying on purely jump scares and gore, Peele crafted a well-developed story with protagonists whose plight would draw viewers in and a twist ending that made it truly thought-provoking.
16
The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Fright-seekers, don’t miss out on Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)! This stop-motion animation follows Pumpkin King Jack Skellington on his journey to spread the magic of Christmas. With Burton’s signature spooky style, the movie will keep you on the edge of your seat!
17
It (2017)
Pennywise, the infamous antagonist from Stephen King’s novel turned movie, It (2017), will haunt your dreams like no other. Whether it’s a bloodthirsty creature, a haunted painting, or a deceased loved one, Pennywise knows how to exploit your vulnerabilities and make your nightmares come alive.
18
X (2022)
If you’re a fan of spooky movies, X (2022) is not to be missed! When a group of adult film actors shoot a low-budget project at an elderly couple’s isolated ranch, the night takes a turn for the worse. Get ready for a frightfully good time!
19
Haunted Mansion (2023)
It’s time to return to Disney’s spooky, ghost-infested haunted mansion in Haunted Mansion (2023). Based on the Disneyland attraction, this well-done remake is a fun way to start the spooky season. Prepare to be scared and entertained all at once!
20
Corpse Bride (2005)
Tim Burton is a master at crafting spooky movies and Corpse Bride (2005) does not disappoint. The stop-motion animation centers around a young man who is whisked away to the underworld to marry a Corpse Bride.
21
Practical Magic (1998)
Are you a fan of spooky movies? Get ready for a mystical crash course with Practical Magic (1998). Starring Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman, this bewitching film follows the journey of two witch sisters as they grapple with the complexities of love, loss, and their magical powers. Just remember, necromancy is harder than it looks!
22
Us (2019)
Us (2019) gave us a powerful reminder of the eerie power of the doppelganger. The spine-chilling score and murderous lookalikes frightened viewers and spawned a newfound fear of someone breaking into your home who looks exactly like you?
23
A Quiet Place (2018)
A world where a single cough will seal your doom—that’s the reality of Krasinski’s monster-filled apocalyptic universe dominated by mysterious creatures with super-sensitive hearing.
24
The Exorcist (1973)
The Exorcist (1973) tells the tale of a young girl named Regan who becomes possessed by a malevolent entity. Notorious for its disturbing and graphic scenes, The Exorcist is not for the faint of heart. From Regan’s twisted contortions and projectile vomiting to the famous head-spinning and levitation scenes, there’s nothing quite like it. It’s a horror movie staple.
25
Jennifer’s Body (2009)
High school is never easy, but it’s especially difficult when your BFF turns into a boy-hungry demon that thirsts for the taste of blood. If you’re a fan of spooky movies, Jennifer’s Body (2009) is a must-see. It’s a bloody treat!
26
A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
To all the poor, unsuspecting souls who saw this movie too young, you did it! You may not have slept a wink for the following days—or months—but you survived the Freddy Krueger terrors unscathed. Let this be a reminder that you can survive anything! Well, unless, Krueger decided to say goodbye to the cinematic world and into the real one.
27
The Witch (2015)
Wary of a witches’ looming presence? Get ready for a truly hair-raising experience with The Witch (2015). Set in a dark 17th century New England, this atmospheric horror will keep you on the edge of your seat. From the foreboding setting to the intense sense of dread, The Witch will leave you feeling completely unnerved. For fans of spine-tingling spooky movies, this gritty, gripping tale is not one to be missed.
28
Beetlejuice (1988)
Are you looking for a spooky movie with more laughs than scares? Look no further than cult classic Beetlejuice (1988), directed by the master of macabre, Tim Burton. After newly deceased couple Adam and Barbara Maitland find their home taken over by the annoying Deetz family, they enlist the help of an eccentric “bio-exorcist.” With plenty of strange, spooky, and hilarious moments, Beetlejuice is guaranteed to be a hit with any fan of spooky movies looking for some lighthearted laughs this fall.
29
Nope (2022)
Are you a fan of spine-tingling horror movies? If so, you don’t want to miss Jordan Peele’s Nope (2022). This alien flick takes a unique approach to the UFO and Area 51 phenomena, the kind that keeps you on the edge of your seat. So, if you love a good mystery and the thrill of an unknown alien force, Nope is out of this world.
30
Carrie (1976)
Stephen King is a staple in the horror genre. His classic works The Shining and Misery will haunt your nightmares, but no list of King’s work is complete without the original adaptation of his masterpiece, Carrie (1976). Starring an unforgettable Sissy Spacek, Carrie tells the story of a young girl who discovers she has powerful telekinetic abilities. A suspenseful and frightening look at supernatural powers, Carrie remains one of the best spooky movies ever made.
31
Scooby-Doo!: The Movie (2002)
Move over Ghostbusters, Scooby-Doo and the Mystery Inc. gang are on the scene! In 2002’s Scooby-Doo!: The Movie, Scooby and the gang are called upon to unravel the sinister secrets of Spooky Island. Grab your popcorn and prepare for a thrilling and suspenseful adventure that’s sure to give fans of spooky movies the chills!
32
Trick ‘r Treat (2007)
Do you want to survive this Halloween? Put simply, be a good person and don’t cross Sam! The consequences of dark deeds can be dire, and this October, you may be in for a frightful surprise if you do something particularly wicked. So beware: deeds can come back to haunt you!
33
Midsommar (2019)
Are you ready to be spooked? Midsommar (2019) is the scariest movie experience you’ll ever have. From the memorable, blood-chilling feast to the sinister sacrificial rituals, Midsommar will stay in your mind long after the last scene. So buckle up and get ready to be petrified.
34
The Witches (1990)
There is no self-help guide for a kid who unwittingly walks in on a witch convention about ridding the world of children. What’s a kid to do? Find out in the fun spooky flick The Witches (1990).
35
Psycho (1960)
Explore the darkest corners of the human mind with Psycho (1960). In this masterpiece of suspense and murder, Norman Bates takes us on an unnerving journey through a seemingly ordinary motel that holds unimaginable secrets.
36
The Lodge (2019)
As any fan of spooky movies knows, nothing good ever comes from a secluded cabin in the woods. So heed the lesson of The Lodge (2019) and don’t risk the dangers of isolation, especially during those winter months when a blizzard can leave you stranded without any hope for help!
37
The Black Phone (2021)
Once September rolls around, it’s time to queue up the spooky movies. In The Black Phone (2021), Ethan Hawke portrays a sadistic serial killer who kidnaps a 13-year-old boy and holds him hostage in a soundproof basement. However, the boy discovers a black phone that allows him to make contact with his kidnapper’s previous victims. And they refuse to allow Finney to meet the same fate.
38
Ringu (1998)
Centered around a cursed videotape that brings death upon anyone who watches it, Ringu (1998) delivers a constant sense of unease and suspense. The atmosphere alone is enough to send shivers down your spine. From the eerie, abandoned well to the ominous presence of the ghostly girl, Sadako, these haunting visuals create an unsettling ambiance that lingers long after the credits roll.
39
Annabelle: Creation (2017)
Do you love spooky movies? If so, you won’t want to miss out on Annabelle: Creation (2017), the creepiest installment in the Annabelle series. Buckle up for a night of sheer terror.
40
Young Frankenstein (1974)
If you’re looking for a good scare this Halloween season, Young Frankenstein (1974) is the perfect movie to watch! Featuring an incredible cast and side-splitting script, it’s sure to be a scream. Don’t miss out on this classic horror comedy. It’ll have you laughing at all the right moments!
41
The Night House (2021)
If you’re a fan of paranormal thrillers, The Night House (2021) is a must-see. Following her husband’s tragic death, Beth is left alone in the lakeside home he built for her–but life there isn’t quite as peaceful as it seems. Strangeness and hauntings begin to manifest, and Beth is left wondering if it’s just her grief or a real supernatural force.
42
It Follows (2014)
For horror movie fans, It Follows (2014) is a must-watch. In the movie, 19-year-old Jay’s life is turned upside down when, after sleeping with her boyfriend Hugh, she is pursued by an invisible, remorseless force. Once you watch this edge-of-your-seat thrill ride, you’ll never look at someone who “approaches” you the same way again.
43
Rosemary’s Baby (1968)
Expecting mother Rosemary Woodhouse is trapped in her home, and her obsession with the origins of her unborn baby give rise to suspicions about her mysterious neighbors. In 1968, Roman Polanski’s Rosemary’s Baby (1968) set the tone for films exploring the supernatural, paving the way for horror classics like The Exorcist and The Omen. It’s a must-see for fans of spooky movies.
44
The Silence of the Lambs (1991)
Clarice Starling is about to graduate from the FBI Academy, when she is tasked to uncover the identity of a serial killer. She must turn to the wickedly intelligent Dr. Hannibal Lecter, a prison inmate infamous for feasting on his victims, to help her solve her case. Navigate the thrilling yet terrifying depths of the human psyche in The Silence of the Lambs (1991). Prepare to be spooked!
45
Freaky (2022)
When a high school senior suddenly finds herself inhabiting the body of a notorious serial killer, she must think fast to evade capture, convince her friends of her true identity, and save her classmates from the killer’s grisly reign. Can she solve the puzzle before time runs out? Welcome to the sinister side of horror fiction, where thrills and chills lurk around every corner.
46
Double, Double, Toil and Trouble (1993)
Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen take you on a wild adventure in Double, Double, Toil and Trouble (1993)! This spooky Halloween movie will thrill and excite fans of the supernatural, as the Olsen twins use their magical powers to save the day. So get ready for some hair-raising hijinks and a truly unforgettable experience!
47
Apostle (2018)
No matter how you look at it, cults are never good for your life expectancy, especially from a horror movie point-of-view.
48
It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (1966)
Bored with predictable slasher flicks? Take a nostalgia-filled trip back in time with It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (1966)! This timeless animated classic has been a much-loved Halloween tradition for generations, following the story of the ever-hopeful Charlie Brown and his quest to find the mysterious Great Pumpkin. Whether it’s Linus’s incorruptible belief in the mysterious figure or the rambunctious Snoopy as the Red Baron, there’s guaranteed to be something to make you smile in this endearing tale.
49
Halloweentown (1998)
Feel like spooky fun never ends? Welcome to Halloweentown where the mischievous spirit of Halloween lives 24/7! But be warned: don’t let yourself fall for a certain someone named Kal. You may find yourself nursing a broken heart and dealing with a huge mess. Enjoy the spooky vibes year-round, but don’t let your guard down.
50
Black Swan (2010)
For fans of spooky movies, Black Swan (2010) offers a spellbinding journey to the dark and twisted depths of one dancer’s ambition. Follow Nina, a determined ballerina, as she risks everything to become the prima ballerina of the company—to the point of losing her sanity. With intense psychological drama and enigmatic horror, this haunting film is sure to draw viewers in.
51
Hubie Halloween (2020)
Adam Sandler takes the lead in Hubie Halloween (2020), a rowdy, spooky comedy filled with laughs and scares alike. Hubie, the film’s hero, is determined to ensure this Halloween is as safe as possible – but danger lurks around every corner. It’s up to him to protect the town and save it from the monsters! Fans of horror movies won’t want to miss this hair-raising thrill ride.
52
The Invisible Man (2020)
The Invisible Man (2020) is a spooky masterpiece that will keep even the most die-hard horror fans on the edge of their seats. Tension-filled and full of twists and turns, this cinematic work of art is sure to keep you guessing until the very end.
53
Casper (1995)
Love spooky movies? Get in the Halloween spirit with the classic Casper (1995)! Combining a beloved character with spooky thrills, this one is guaranteed to haunt you in all the right ways.
54
The Babadook (2014)
The Babadook (2014) tells the story of a troubled single mother, Amelia, and her young son, Samuel. After reading a mysterious children’s book titled “Mister Babadook,” their lives take a sharp turn for the worse. The book’s sinister presence seems to have unleashed a malevolent force that preys on their fears and insecurities.
55
The Sixth Sense (1999)
In this terrifying psychological thriller, a child psychologist is confronted with his most perplexing case yet: a young boy who is haunted by paranormal presences. From the film that birthed the iconic quote “I see dead people” comes a spooky horror movie ideal for those who shy away from jump-scares but still crave a good scare. It’s the perfect flick for fans of spooky movies.
56
The Monster Squad (1987)
Their demogorgon nightmares would become a thing of the past if the Monster Squad and the gang from Stranger Things teamed up! Imagine the horror movies these two groups of intrepid adventurers could make together. The demogorgon wouldn’t stand a chance!
57
Pan’s Labyrinth (2006)
Embark on a captivating adventure with Ofelia as she travels through a mystical labyrinth where surreal creatures and the oppressive aftermath of the Spanish Civil War coincide. If you’re a fan of spine-chilling films, then Pan’s Labyrinth (2006) is the perfect fit for you.
58
The Birds (1963)
Hitchcock’s legendary thriller, The Birds (1963), tells the gripping tale of a sleepy town turned upside down when a mysterious blonde beauty, Melanie Daniels, arrives on the scene. Before long, the birds of the area turn hostile and begin terrorizing the town, pointing to Melanie as the possible cause of this sudden, unexplainable phenomenon.
59
Sleepy Hollow (1999)
Who’s ready for a spooktacular movie marathon? Make sure to add Sleepy Hollow (1999) to your list! This eerie and mysterious masterpiece combines horror with supernatural elements that will keep you on the edge of your seat. From its spooky setting to its suspenseful plot, Sleepy Hollow will have you marveling in horror.
60
The Cabin in the Woods (2012)
Imagine five college friends heading to a secluded cabin for a weekend getaway, only to be met by a zombie outbreak. As they attempt to flee, they quickly learn they’re unwitting pawns of a sinister government experiment. How will they survive? Just think: the minute the world finds out about the zombie apocalypse, toilet paper won’t last long! Get ready for suspenseful horror as these friends struggle to escape the undead menace.
61
Oculus (2013)
When two siblings set out to uncover the truth behind their family’s mysterious downfall, they quickly discover that an old antique mirror may be at the center of it all. As they delve deeper into the murky depths of this supernatural mystery, they come to realize that a malevolent entity lurks within the shadows. Can they unravel the twisted web of deceit to save their family, or will they become its next victims?
62
The Blair Witch Project (1999)
When three hapless film students venture into the gloomy Maryland woodlands to track down the chilling legend of the Blair Witch, their journey soon descends into dread and terror. Upon the movie’s release, viewers left the theater in shock, wondering if what they just saw was fact or fiction. Its masterful marketing and realistic documentary style certainly gave it a more believable and spine-tingling edge. Many movie-goers were convinced it was genuine found footage.
63
Friday the 13th (1980)
If you’re looking for a classic and truly terrifying movie to watch this Halloween, look no further than Friday the 13th (1980). This iconic slasher horror flick is sure to have you peeking through your hands and double-checking around the corner before daring to venture anywhere in the dark. And if you’re planning on being a summer camp counselor in the woods, take note—the counselors in this movie are an example of what not to do when being chased by a machete-wielding maniac in a hockey mask. At least you’ll know what NOT to do!
64
Twitches (2005)
Do you remember watching Twitches (2005) and wishing you could use your mind to open drawers like Alex and Cam did? We may not be able to discover supernatural powers—at least not yet—but their movie reminds us that we can all find our inner strength and a twin. So be sure to watch this spooky classic if you’re a fan of amazing movie magic!
65
The Autopsy of Jane Doe (2016)
The Autopsy of Jane Doe (2016) will leave chill-seekers with a bone-shuddering experience. During an ordinary autopsy, the coroner’s are baffled when their investigation uncovers a shocking conclusion—Jane Doe might be alive! With a cleverly sinister plot and the capacity to evoke fear from its viewers, this thriller is sure to keep its audience up at night with one eye open.
66
Hell House LLC (2016)
Love a good spooky movie? Get ready to be scared out of your wits with Hell House LLC (2016). This found footage horror film is packed with unsettling elements and if clowns give you the creeps, you’re not gonna want to watch this alone at night!
67
The Mist (2007)
When the fog rolls in, it’s good to be cautious. But after watching The Mist (2007), that caution might reach new heights. What’s in that fog? Who knows. But it’s definitely worth being wary. Just remember: you never know what’s behind the mist, so it’s always best to err on the side of caution.
68
Malignant (2021)
Do you love being scared? If so, you won’t want to miss Malignant (2021), the latest spooky outing from horror master James Wan. Madison, a young woman, starts having strange visions – but they’re not just in her head. As the visions become more disturbing, she soon realizes that the only way to confront her fears is to embrace them. Get ready for a terrifying ride—Malignant is not for the faint of heart!
69
The Amityville Horror (1979)
If you want to make a horror movie truly scary, base it around a true story. Nothing is scarier than events that happen in real life.
70
Poltergeist (1982)
If you’re a fan of spooky movies, you know why you should be careful if you ever stumble across someone fixated on a display of static. Be even more cautious if they suddenly proclaim, “they’re here!” In that case, the best option is to turn tail and get out of there!
71
The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975)
Love spooky movies? Head on over to your local theater for a showing of The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975)! You’ll be in for a real treat with this interactive cult classic – toss some rice, throw some toast and have a grand ‘ol time!
72
Pet Sematary (1989)
If you’re in the mood for something truly terrifying, Stephen King’s Pet Sematary (1989) is the horror movie for you. From creepy ghouls to heart-stopping suspense, this classic adaptation of King’s novel will haunt you long after the credits roll. So prepare for a spine-tingling ride!
73
Paranormal Activity (2007)
Paranormal Activity (2007) thrives on the idea that sometimes the scariest things are those we cannot see. It taps into our primal fears of the unknown and plays on our vulnerability to the supernatural. This film will make you question the safety of your own home, as it skillfully blurs the line between fiction and reality.
74
Smile (2022)
This Halloween season, don’t be deceived by the title—Smile (2022) is the spookiest movie around. With some of the most eerie smiles you’ll ever see, this movie will definitely leave you unsettled and creeped out. So if you’re searching for the perfect scary movie, Smile is the one to watch.
75
Clue (1985)
For spine-tingling suspense and a healthy dose of wit, Clue (1985) is the perfect pick for spooky movie fans. Based on the classic board game, this beloved murder mystery follows a group of strangers as they are summoned to a mansion for a dinner party, only to become entangled in an investigation as each of them is suspected to be the perpetrator.