Introduction
Halloween is the perfect time for movie marathons, but with so many options, where do you start? This curated list of the best Halloween movies in 2025 blends horror classics, family-friendly favorites, funny horror-comedies, and underrated cult gems. Whether you want spine-tingling scares, gothic atmosphere, or something safe for kids, here are 15 must-watch films to make your Halloween night unforgettable.
15. Practical Magic (1998)
Premise: Two witch sisters, played by Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman, try to balance love, magic, and family curses. This romantic supernatural drama has a cozy autumn vibe.
Why Watch: More heartwarming than terrifying, Practical Magic is perfect for viewers who want magic and romance instead of jump scares.
14. The Witch (2015)
Premise: A slow-burn horror about a Puritan family encountering witchcraft in 17th-century New England. Tense atmosphere and authentic historical detail create dread without cheap scares.
Why Watch: If you like unsettling, cerebral horror, The Witch is a modern classic with haunting visuals and themes.
13. Trick ’r Treat (2007)
Premise: An anthology film weaving together multiple Halloween night stories with dark twists. Introduces the pumpkin-headed character Sam as a symbol of Halloween tradition.
Why Watch: Trick ’r Treat celebrates the holiday itself, making it a perfect thematic watch.
12. Ghostbusters (1984)
Premise: A team of scientists-turned-ghostbusters battle spirits in New York City. Blends comedy, action, and supernatural spooks.
Why Watch: Funny, quotable, and iconic — Ghostbusters is ideal for a lighter Halloween night.
11. Beetlejuice (1988)
Premise: Michael Keaton stars as Beetlejuice, a mischievous ghost causing chaos for a newly-dead couple. Directed by Tim Burton, full of gothic humor and surreal visuals.
Why Watch: A Halloween comedy classic with quirky characters and memorable design.
10. Shaun of the Dead (2004)
Premise: A zombie apocalypse comedy following slackers who attempt to survive with humor and chaos. Directed by Edgar Wright.
Why Watch: Perfect for viewers who want laughs with their scares.
9. Coraline (2009)
Premise: An animated dark fantasy about a girl who discovers a sinister parallel world behind a secret door.
Why Watch: Creepy yet imaginative, Coraline is perfect for families with older kids.
8. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Premise: Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, discovers Christmas and tries to merge the two holidays.
Why Watch: A Tim Burton stop-motion masterpiece that blends spooky and festive vibes.
7. Hocus Pocus (1993)
Premise: Three witches accidentally resurrected in modern-day Salem cause hilarious chaos. Stars Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy.
Why Watch: A Disney cult classic for family Halloween viewing.
6. The Conjuring (2013)
Premise: Paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren tackle a terrifying haunted house case.
Why Watch: A modern haunted-house horror with strong scares and chilling atmosphere.
5. Hereditary (2018)
Premise: A disturbing supernatural tale about grief, family secrets, and dark rituals. Known for shocking moments and emotional intensity.
Why Watch: Not for the faint-hearted — one of the scariest films of the decade.
4. Get Out (2017)
Premise: A young man uncovers a sinister secret when visiting his girlfriend’s family. Directed by Jordan Peele.
Why Watch: Smart, suspenseful, and socially relevant — Get Out is modern horror at its finest.
3. The Shining (1980)
Premise: Jack Torrance takes a job as winter caretaker at the isolated Overlook Hotel, only to descend into madness.
Why Watch: Stanley Kubrick’s masterpiece blends psychological horror with unforgettable imagery.
2. The Exorcist (1973)
Premise: A young girl becomes possessed by a demon, and priests attempt an exorcism. One of the most controversial and terrifying films ever made.
Why Watch: The Exorcist remains a benchmark for supernatural horror.
1. Halloween (1978)
Premise: Michael Myers escapes from an asylum and stalks babysitters in a quiet town on Halloween night. Directed by John Carpenter.
Why Watch: The definitive Halloween slasher and essential October viewing.
