This post lists the 45 best Halloween movies to watch for all of October!
I LOVE the horror genre! The spooky season of Halloween gets me, and I’m sure all the other horror fans in the feels.
Vulnerability, psychological terror, horror, gore, and suspense make for a great aphrodisiac!
My husband and I list some of the best horror movies on our whiteboard to watch and get ourselves into the Halloween spirit!
It was a fun way to get into the spooky spirit, bond, and create a couple’s tradition that we still indulge in!
From the Corpse Bride to Stephen King classics, here are some of the best Halloween movies of all time to watch when you finally got your kiddo down for the night.
This posts lists the best halloween movies to watch.
Best Halloween Movies to Watch in October
Lets get into the spooky movies!
1. Halloween (1978)
Where to Watch: AMC+, Crackle
Run Time: 1h 31m
Rating: R
The first Halloween movie!
I was a fan of this before it was cool, okay?
I remember my parents showing me Halloween in middle school in ’05.
Long before nostalgia was cool and profitable, lol
None of my friends were into older movies, so that I would watch them with my family!
Between the infamous Michael Myers and the wise young woman Laurie Strode, Halloween is a timeless classic that will live on much longer than the few decades it has survived since!
With Laurie Strode being the clever babysitter, she manages to outlive the infamous killer out for vengeance.
Why does Michael Myers kill?
Michael Myers is presumed to be the personification of evil, an unthinking and unfeeling killing machine.
Dark.
2. Halloween 2 (1981)
Where to Watch: Prime
Run Time: 1h 32m
Rating: R
If you have watched the first Halloween with Jamie Lee Curtis, you will know why you must continue the saga with Halloween II.
With Michale Myers at the helm of horror, he proves to be a complicated monster who is virtually impossible to kill.
Laurie Strode is in the hospital from the injuries she succumbed to Michael Myers earlier at night.
The energy of an empty hospital on Halloween night while a serial killer is on the loose, proves creepy!
The nightmare of the babysitter continues in this fun sequel!
3. Friday the 13th (1980)
Where to Watch: Prime
Run Time: 1h 35m
Rating: R
A good ole taste of Jason Voorhees messing with a group of teens is a Halloween classic, in my opinion.
As a classic 80’s raunchy slasher flick with a young-ass Kevin Bacon, you can’t go wrong with Friday the 13th.
It was a low-budget thriller with little expectations that ultimately paved the way for many horror slashers in the future and many, many sequels!
With sex, blood, gore, and horny clueless teens, it’s the perfect recipe for a raunchy horror film!
Put Friday the 13th on your watchlist for great movies to watch during Halloween.
4. Alien (1979)
Where to Watch: FXNOW, Hulu, Prime
Run Time: 1h 57m
Rating: R
Sigourney Weaver plays the absolutely badass Ellen Ripley in the classic horror movie Alien!
Ripley is part of a team that detects a strange distress signal from another ship.
Worried it is a group of people asking for help, they treat it as your typical SOS and search for survivors.
They bring back more than they bargained for in this alien horror film!
As Ellen Ripley attempts to rescue herself and her cat from becoming alien food, Alien is the ultimate sci-fi thriller for lovers of strong female roles and lovers of sci-fi!
5. Aliens (1986)
Where to Watch: Hulu, Prime
Run Time: 2h 17m
Rating: R
I put this on the list because Aliens is arguably one of those sequels that are better than the original. It’s my favorite movie of all time. I even named my daughter’s middle name Ripley after Ellen Ripley because of her bad-assery.
Ellen Ripley is found with her cat floating in hyperspace when rescued.
She explains what happened on her last voyage, which they predictably write her off.
That is until a local colony housing 80 families goes radio silent; they beg Ripley to join the military on this mission to find out what is happening.
Ripley has a run-in with the Queen as she attempts to escape the Aliens again!
One of my favorite movies and characters of all time!
I didn’t give my daughter the middle name Ripley for nothing!
6. The Exorcist (1973)
Where to Watch: Prime
Run Time: 2h 2m
Rating: R
The Exorcist came out in the 70s and provided a new horror angle.
Nobody has ever dabbled in this sort of horror and became a sensation because of it. Honestly, it was bold and audacious AF for the day!
Exorcisms in movies were uncharted territory and scared anyone who saw it.
There are a lot of disturbing scenes involving a young girl named Reagan, the daughter of a prominent actress.
7. Scream (1996)
Where to Watch: Paramount+, Prime
Run Time: 1h 51m
Rating: R
Almost everyone has seen this 90’s Wes Craven classic!
Scream showcases many notable actors and actresses and pays homage to the rules of horror movies pioneered before them.
The cast is golden with a young Drew Barrymore as a cameo in the opening scene as Casey, Neve Cambell as the main Scream Queen, Courtney Cox as the selfish and obnoxious newswoman, and David Arquette as Deputy Dewey.
The story is unique from the time and birthed a franchise with new movies coming out today!
They can’t seem to get rid of Ghostface!
8. Cabin in The Woods (2011)
Where to Watch: Prime, Max, Cinemax
Run Time: 1h 35m
Rating: R
This isn’t your typical scary movie but it is one of the better ones to come out in recent years.
Although, based on the trailers, you would think it was.
That is what the director was going for, leading people to believe they see one movie and then wonder if they are in the right theater.
Nothing is what it seems in this classic and original story.
You have a group of 5 college students who all go out to a friend’s “cabin in the woods” to let off some steam and have fun.
Sounds like the premise of a basic horror film, right?
Let’s put it this way: you will think you know what’s going on, but as the movie goes on, less and less will make sense and leave you with more questions than answers until the end.
Cabin in The Woods is worth a watch for horror movie buffs or those who don’t like traditional horror films and want something with a twist.
9. Psycho (1960)
Photo Credit: IMDB
Where to Watch: Prime
Run Time: 1h 49m
Rating: R
Psycho, the classic Alfred Hitchcock film, showcases the birth of modern horror and the scream queen!
With Janet Leigh as the leading lady on the run, she stops at a motel to rest for the night.
Turns out the motel keeper, Norman Bates is more of a creep than he leads on.
Psycho is the first horror film that puts realistic everyday scary situations that could happen here in civilization.
Janet Leigh gives a legendary performance as the first scream queen who ultimately birthed the scream queen who put that term on the map, Jamie Lee Curtis.
As a black and white, classic horror film, there is very little gore and little to no cursing and is all over a fresh psychological thriller.
10. Predator (1987)
Where to Watch: Cinemax, Max, Prime
Run Time: 1h 47m
Rating: R
This 80’s adventure classic, Predator, stars Arnold Swartzengger as he and his team dive into the tropical terrains of Central America, being hunted by something they can’t see.
Predator isn’t your typical alien movie as it takes place on Earth in the last place you would expect aliens to dwell, tropical central America!
The Predator is a ruthless, unfeeling, smart, savvy, and strong alien that slowly takes out Arnold’s team until the Predator and Arnold face off.
The famous line leads the viewers to an epic climax: Get to the choppa!
11. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Where to Watch: Prime
Run Time: 1h 16m
Rating: PG
There is much debate over whether The Nightmare Before Christmas is a Christmas movie or Halloween movie.
I don’t think that much over it and define it as the gift that keeps giving for all the fall and winter holidays!
Including Halloween!
There is a good chance both of you have seen it already but haven’t watched it together, which would make it a fun first for both of you!
It’s a nice buffer as it’s less scary and more fun.
Get the popcorn ready and enjoy the hijinx of Jack Skellington and all his buddies!
12. The Strangers (2008)
Where to Watch: Prime
Run Time: 1h 17m
Rating: R
The Strangers is a super scary movie with an original story that is refreshing and inspired by true events.
Anything that is a true story or inspired by true events is automatically scarier because it switches from non-fiction horror to a horror documentary of said event.
It stars Liv Tyler and Scott Speedman, a couple going through a rough patch.
You can see the tension between Liv turning down her boyfriend’s proposal and Scott feeling rejected.
They go back to his family cabin, which is a little off the beaten path, where he prepares a romantic scene in the hopes the engagement doesn’t go sour as it did.
Unfortunately for Liv and Scott, heartbreak is the least of the worries as the night goes on, and they realize they are being hunted by people in doll masks.
Related Reading: 125 Best Spooky Halloween Acrylic Nails and Press Ons
13. The Descent (2005)
Where to Watch: Prime, Max
Run Time: 1h 39m
Rating: R
A truly classic horror film that didn’t get the recognition it deserves.
The Descent showcases the main character Sarah, taking a trip with her friends out in the North Carolina Appalachian Mountains for a cave-spelunking adventure.
Unfortunately, getting lost in underground caves was the least of their worries.
After getting caved in and attempting to find their way out, they also find themselves hunted by the cave-dwelling creatures that have evolved to live there.
Many of them, hungry and pining for blood, these monsters come after the girls as they attempt to escape alive, including Sarah.
A shorter film, around 90 minutes long, which I love; it’s the perfect length and scary story for a date night in!
14. The Descent 2 (2009)
Where to Watch: Prime, Max
Run Time: 1h 34m
Rating: R
I had to put the sequel on the list!
The Descent 2 is not a masterpiece or on par with Aliens as a fantastic sequel.
However, you will like this sequel if you enjoyed the first movie.
Sarah finds herself back in the caves with law enforcement, hoping to help find the girls, understand what happened, and put the pieces together.
To their disappointment, they find themselves in the same shitstorm Sarah was in before, and it’s up to her to find their way out.
15. The Conjuring (2013)
Where to Watch: Prime, Max
Run Time: 1h 52m
Rating: R
This bad boy is one of my favorites.
I remember seeing The Conjuring in theaters and thinking it was as special as The Exorcist.
It tells the story of one of the most prominent cases of Ed and Lorraine Warren.
They get a call for help from a family who recently moved from the city into the country for a new start and have been experiencing odd occurrences.
Many of them are downright terrifying and possessive.
16. The Thing (1982)
Where to Watch: Prime
Run Time: 1h 49m
Rating: R
Another John Carpenter classic, The Thing, Stars Kurt Russel ( My husband’s dude crush behind Tom Hardy, lol) in this alien horror film.
Similar to Predator, this isn’t your average alien sci-fi horror film.
It takes place in the middle of Antarctica, where a research team is hunted by a shape-shifting alien that can replicate its victims perfectly.
Leaving the others unaware of their presence and that the possessed person is already dead.
Between the isolation of Antarctica, the cold of winter, a shape-shifting alien, and the paranoia of not knowing who is who, they are left alone and untrusting of one another.
On top of that, trying to survive and kill this THING until it inevitably infects and takes over the whole world in less than a week otherwise.
17. The Ring (2002)
Where to Watch: Netflix, Paramount+, PlutoTV
Run Time: 1h 55m
Rating: PG-13
An early ‘00s classic, The Ring stars Naomi Watts (whatever happened to her, lol), who plays a single mother of a slightly odd ( and, let’s be honest, creepy ) kid and journalist attempting to crack down on a mysterious video that leaves people dead a week after they watch it.
Remember when everyone said “seven days, seven days” in school? This movie was why.
With a grudge-like girl that comes out of the tv and attempts to kill those who watch the movie, Naomi attempts to solve the mystery before her seven days are up!
A gloomy, grey, and dark movie that leaves you unsettled from start to finish!
18. Fire in The Sky (1993)
Where to Watch: Prime, Cinemax
Run Time: 1h 49m
Rating: PG-13
Based on the true story of the alien abduction of Travis Walton in 1975, this alien horror film doesn’t disappoint!
Another adaptation of a true story, Fire in The Sky, is an alien abduction case that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
No scary movie is scarier than when it’s based on a true story!
In a time when aliens and being abducted was literal blasphemy, nobody believed Walton or his friends when he was abducted and missing for days before returning.
Between the isolation of not being believed and ostracized and the isolation of the result of actually being abducted where nobody understands, this sci-fi horror film will put you through an array of emotions!
A very chilling tale for a date night!
19. It (1990)
Where to Watch: Prime
Run Time: 3h 12m
Rating: TV-14
Tim Curry as “It”
The classic demonic clown in Steven King’s It is the perfect horror series for you to try out!
No, not the remake with Skarsgard, although that was just fine.
However, the original, starring Tim Curry as Pennywise, is absolute gold.
Without crazy CGI or numerous A-list actors, it had to rely on its story, acting, and creep factor.
In this 3 part TV series, you get to experience Steven King’s classic without being bloated by Hollywood money with a mediocre result.
Snuggle up and keep each other safe when watching this classic horror take on a date!
20. Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
Where to Watch: Prime
Run Time: 1h 35m
Rating: R
Remember this bad boy? I know you do!
With a borderline prepubescent Johnny Depp, this Wes Craven horror classic film.
In a classic 80’s cheese horror film, teenager Nancy Thompson needs to solve the mystery of why her friends are dying in their sleep.
Old pedophile Freddy Krueger makes it difficult for these teens to get any shut-eye!
Written by Wes Craven, Nightmare on Elm Street is a cult classic slasher film you can watch at any point and still indulge in!
21. Event Horizon (1997)
Where to Watch: Prime, AMC+
Run Time: 1h 36m
Rating: R
Another sci-fi alien classic to close off this list is Event Horizon!
A rescue team investigates a spaceship that was sucked into a black hole only to come back with another organic organism not from this world on board.
With a few A-list leading actors, Event Horizon is a short (90 minutes) sci-fi film you can enjoy some popcorn with your boo while snuggling up on the couch.
An easy scary movie to watch for a fun date night! I was actually surprised by how creepy it was, it’s not how you think the movie will be, and it was unsettling, not gonna lie! Definitely worth a watch.
22. Hocus Pocus (1993)
Where to Watch: Prime
Run Time: 1h 36m
Rating: PG
Obvi, I had to include this Bette Midler and Sarah Jessica Parker CLASSIC. This awesome grade-A Disney movie needs to introduction! Follow the wickedly entertaining adventures of three resurrected witches, the Sanderson Sisters, in modern-day Salem, causing havoc.
Led by the incomparable Bette Midler, these witches bring a perfect blend of wickedness and humor to the screen. A group of kids is here to save the day, making ‘Hocus Pocus’ a heartwarming tale of friendship and Halloween spirit.
With its timeless appeal and unforgettable performances, this film is a treat you won’t want to miss on your Halloween movie watchlist.
23. The Blair Witch Project (1999)
Where to Watch: Freevee, Plex, Prime
Run Time: 1h 21m
Rating: R
There was a time when reality tv took culture by storm, and shows like The Real World were rising to the top. In 99, Hollywood came out with their first so-called reality horror film, the blair witch project! Some people poo poo the fuck out of this movie, but I think it’s one of the best POV horror movies out there.
This groundbreaking found-footage horror film takes you deep into the heart of the mysterious Black Hills Forest, where a group of documentary filmmakers sets out to uncover the legend of the Blair Witch. Armed with shaky cameras and raw fear, the movie grips you with its eerie authenticity, leaving you questioning what’s real and what’s a product of their imagination.
As tension mounts, you’ll find yourself nervously glancing over your shoulder, captivated by the creeping dread that unfolds.
Related Reading: 29 Cute & Spooky Baby Halloween Photoshoot Ideas
24. The Haunted Mansion (2003)
Where to Watch: Prime
Run Time: 1h 28m
Rating: PG
Another movie people hate on, but I love, is classic Eddie Murphy! If you like the Haunted Mansion at the theme parks, you will get a kick out of this movie. Who doesn’t want to see a wacky Eddie Murphy getting into goofy shenanigans in a haunted house? lol
This family-friendly spook-fest follows the misadventures of a realtor and his family as they find themselves trapped in the spooky manor they were supposed to sell.
It’s nostalgic gold for lovers of the ride. Eddie Murphy’s charm and humor add a delightful twist to the haunted happenings, making it a perfect Halloween treat for the whole family.
25. Paranormal Activity (2007)
Where to Watch: Prime
Run Time: 1h 26m
Rating: R
I remember seeing this in theaters in high school with my friends and not being 17 yet and needing my mom to accompany us and sit 1000 seats away from us! lol thanks mom!
It’s a creepy movie and takes place in my home city of San Diego. Weird to think, looking back! Basically, a young couple gets tormented by an unseen force, and is one of the first POV movies to be super fun and compelling since the Blair Witch Project.
The slow-building tension and realistic approach leave you feeling like you’re a part of the terrifying ordeal. It’s creepy and was groundbreaking at the time! Everyone and their mom ( lol like mine remember?) was seeing that movie!
26. The Sixth Sense (1999)
Where to Watch: Prime, BravoTV
Run Time: 1h 47m
Rating: R
This is a classic 90’s horror film you can’t miss out on during binge-watching in October! Classic Bruce Willis and a baby Haley Joel Osment with his classic line “I see dead people.”
In this modern classic, young Cole Sear, played brilliantly by Haley Joel Osment, grapples with a haunting gift: he can see and communicate with the dead. Enter child psychologist Dr. Malcolm Crowe, portrayed by Bruce Willis, who is determined to help Cole confront his chilling visions.
As the story unfolds, you’ll be on the edge of your seat, engrossed in a tale of mystery, grief, and unexpected twists that will make your jaw drop. M. Night Shyamalan’s masterful storytelling weaves an intricate tapestry of suspense, blending human drama with a supernatural touch.
27. Dead Calm (1989)
Where to Watch: Prime
Run Time: 1h 36m
Rating: R
Now if you want to see a super old-school Nicole Kidman and uber-young Billy Zane? You’ll get a kick out of the classic thriller Dead Calm.
Some of ya’ll will never be able to view Billy Zane the same way again lol.
This gripping film takes you on a tense voyage as a couple, played by Nicole Kidman and Sam Neill, embark on a sailing trip to recover from a tragic loss.
But their tranquil journey takes a terrifying turn when they encounter a mysterious stranger, played by Billy Zane, adrift on a sinking vessel. As they offer assistance, they soon discover that their goodwill has led them straight into a nightmarish game of cat and mouse on the open sea.
All in all, it’s creepy!
28. The Amityville Horror (1979)
Where to Watch: Prime
Run Time: 1h 57m
Rating: R
You want to see Thanos’ dad fight off creepy demons back in the 70’s? Yeah! Josh Brolin’s daddy, James Brolin, plays a desperate dad attempting to keep his family safe from an unseen force.
Based on a supposedly true story, this iconic horror film follows the harrowing experiences of the Lutz family, portrayed by Brolin and Kidder, who move into a new home in Amityville only to discover that their dream house is plagued by a malevolent and maleficent presence.
As the terrifying events unfold, Brolin’s portrayal of George Lutz and Kidder’s depiction of Kathy Lutz intensify the horror, making you feel every ounce of their fear and desperation.
29. An American Werewolf in London (1981)
Where to Watch: AMC+, Tubi
Run Time: 1h 37m
Rating: R
Sink your teeth into the hair-raising horror-comedy ‘An American Werewolf in London,’ starring David Naughton and Jenny Agutter. This classic film takes you on a wild and thrilling ride as two American backpackers, Naughton and Griffin Dunne, venture into the English countryside.
After a terrifying encounter with a creature from folklore, Naughton’s character is cursed with a fate worse than his wildest nightmares.
As the full moon rises, the film unleashes groundbreaking special effects that bring the transformation into a fearsome werewolf to life like never before. With a perfect blend of scares and humor, this film has it all – suspense, gore, and a love story.
30. Monster House (2006)
Where to Watch: Hulu, Prime
Run Time: 1h 32m
Rating: PG
I remember seeing this in theaters with my dad as a kid. It’s s super cute move with goofy and fun kid characters. Great for kids and not terrible for parents lol Its a cute little monster movie and not a super long run time.
Steve Buscemi, Catherine O’Hara, and Mitchel Musso ( Remember this guy?! lol ), follow the story of three brave kids who discover that the creepy old house across the street is no ordinary dwelling—it’s a living, breathing monster!
As the house comes alive and terrorizes the neighborhood, our young heroes must summon all their courage to end its malevolent ways. With stunning animation and a heartwarming coming-of-age tale at its core, ‘Monster House’ combines laughs, scares, and friendship, making it awesome for your Halloween movie lineup.
31. Hotel Transylvania (2012)
Where to Watch: Prime, Netflix
Run Time: 1h 31m
Rating: PG
When Adam Sandler gets it right, boy does he really get it right! Hotel Transylvania is a cute movie for kids and parents to enjoy during October.
This animated gem is not your ordinary spooky resort; it’s a vacation spot exclusively for monsters! Count Dracula opens the doors to his hotel, where creatures like Frankenstein, werewolves, and mummies can relax without human interference. But things take a humorous twist when a human boy, voiced by Andy Samberg, stumbles upon the hotel and inadvertently steals Dracula’s heart. It’s super cute!
32. Sleepy Hollow (1999)
Photo Credit: IMDB
Where to Watch: Prime, Max
Run Time: 1h 45m
Rating: R
Do you want a kick out of a 90’s Johnny Depp and Christina Ricci? Do you also love the creepy workings of Tim Burton? Well, here’s yet another awesome masterpiece by Tim Burton. You’ll love Sleepy Hollow.
This dark and gothic tale takes you back to the haunted village of Sleepy Hollow, where a series of mysterious and gruesome beheadings terrify the townsfolk.
Ichabod Crane, portrayed by Depp, is an eccentric and skeptical investigator from New York City who arrives to solve the chilling mystery. Alongside him is Christina Ricci’s Katrina Van Tassel, a beautiful and enigmatic young woman with secrets.
As Crane delves deeper into the grim legend of the Headless Horseman, the film unfolds into a spine-chilling blend of suspense, horror, and dark humor. With Burton’s signature visual style and the exceptional chemistry between Depp and Ricci, ‘Sleepy Hollow’ is a captivating and atmospheric Halloween masterpiece that will keep you spellbound until the end.
33. Nope (2022)
Another crazy and thrilling Jordan Peele screenplay that is spooky and perfect for Halloween time! Everyone knows these creepy alien visitations are so damn prominent in obscure farming America!
If Skinwalker Ranch has taught us anything, these remote rural American farms are the first to have UFO visitations, girl!
Jordan Peele writes AWESOME psychological thrillers that don’t simply rely on guts, gore, and sex but a good story!
As the tension builds, secrets are unraveled, and nightmarish occurrences become the norm, ‘Nope’ delivers a rollercoaster of terror, unexpected twists, and thought-provoking themes—Jordan Peele’s storytelling prowess and penchant for social commentary intrigue this gripping horror tale.
If you’re intrigued by UFOs and the creepiness of remote America, you’ll love this movie.
34. Hereditary (2018)
Where to Watch: Prime, Max
Run Time: 2h 7m
Rating: R
Girl…GIRL…this movie, dude, is one of THE creepiest and most unsettling films made in recent years. It’s on The Exorcist level of groundbreaking creep and uneasy factor for modern culture. Hereditary does NOT hold back.
This Toni Collette masterpiece was a hauntingly freaky ass movie; I was not expecting it. Her kids in the movie are creepy enough, but wow.
Led by an incredible performance from Toni Collette, ‘Hereditary’ unravels the story of the Graham family as they grapple with a series of disturbing and inexplicable events following the death of their secretive grandmother.
As the terrifying truth about their ancestry comes to light, the film delves into themes of grief, loss, and the darkest corners of the human psyche. Toni Collette’s raw and emotional portrayal of Annie Graham adds intense horror, making you feel every ounce of her anguish and terror. Director Ari Aster’s masterful storytelling and atmospheric direction create an atmosphere of dread long after the credits roll.
It’s a slow burn with one of the strongest climaxes I’ve seen in a horror film.
Related Reading: 29 Best Halloween Treats for Babies ( Fun Ideas )
35. The Addams Family (1991)
Where to Watch: Prime, Paramount+, PlutoTV
Run Time: 1h 39m
Rating: PG-13
Angelica Houston is one of my many spirit animals, and I can’t get enough of her as Morticia Addams! Not to mention a baby Christina Ricci!
In this darkly humorous and quirky film, the Addams Family, an extraordinary and ghoulish clan, navigate the ups and downs of everyday life with their charmingly spooky lifestyle. As Morticia, Angelica Huston exudes a captivating blend of elegance and mischief, perfectly embodying the matriarch’s dark and mysterious charm.
Alongside Raul Julia as Gomez, the suave and passionate patriarch, the chemistry between the cast is simply bewitching. The film’s gothic and whimsical visuals and heartwarming message of family acceptance make ‘The Addams Family’ a Halloween classic that transcends generations.
36. Scary Movie (2000)
Where to Watch: Prime, Max
Run Time: 1h 28m
Rating: R
I freaking love Anna Faris as Cindy Cambell in Scary Movie! Cindy Cambell is one of my favorite movie characters of ALL TIME. If you want to get your Y2K feel this Halloween, get after this movie, girl!
Scary Movie is a parody led by a talented ensemble cast, including Anna Faris, Shawn Wayans, and Regina Hall. It aims at all your favorite horror movies, giving them a hilariously twisted and satirical spin. From the iconic masked killer to the haunted houses and creepy teens, no horror cliché is safe from the sharp-witted humor of ‘Scary Movie.’
Anna Faris’s portrayal of Cindy Campbell brings a perfect blend of wit and charm to the chaos, and the Wayans brothers’ comedic genius keeps the laughs coming non-stop. Prepare for an irreverent and outrageous Halloween movie night, where nothing is sacred, and no scary movie trope is left unscathed. So, grab your popcorn and prepare for a gut-busting, sidesplitting, and delightfully absurd ride with ‘Scary Movie’ that will leave you in stitches. 😂🍿🎃🎬
It’s one of the best spoof movies and such a classic I can’t get enough of it.
37. The Lost Boys (1987)
Where to Watch: Prime, PlutoTV
Run Time: 1h 37m
Rating: R
Ahhhh, this 80’s Corey’s classic! A Corey Haim and Corey Feldman team up to fight murderous vampires in their beach town. The music is awesome!
Starring Jason Patric, Corey Haim, and Kiefer Sutherland, takes you to the sun-soaked and mysterious town of Santa Carla, where the night holds secrets. When the two brothers move to town, they find themselves drawn into a gang of charismatic and dangerous vampires led by Sutherland’s mesmerizing portrayal of David.
The film’s dark humor, cool soundtrack, and iconic ’80s fashion make it a unique and unforgettable Halloween watch. As the brothers attempt to save themselves and their newfound friends from the seductive allure of the undead, ‘The Lost Boys’ delivers a thrilling blend of horror and camaraderie that will have you hooked from dusk till dawn.
The Lost Boys is straight-up 1980s GOLD.
38. The Shining (1980)
Where to Watch: Prime, Showtime
Run Time: 2h 26m
Rating: R
Want a taste of the horror movies your parents and grandparents thought were groundbreaking? The Shining STILL stands the test of time.
The Torrance family moves to an isolated and haunted hotel during the winter season in Colorado, where Jack Torrance, portrayed by Jack Nicholson, is tasked with being the winter caretaker. As the hotel’s sinister history affects Jack’s sanity, the film becomes a nightmarish tale of madness, isolation, and supernatural terror.
Nicholson’s unforgettable performance as the increasingly unhinged Jack Torrance and Duvall’s portrayal of the terrified Wendy Torrance contribute to the film’s unnerving atmosphere.
It’s one of the greatest horror films ever made.
39. World War Z (2013)
Where to Watch: AMC+, PlutoTV
Run Time: 1h 56m
Rating: PG-13
I found your pick girl if you love zombie movies and Brad Pitt!
Starring Brad Pitt as a former United Nations investigator, this thrilling film takes you on a globe-trotting adventure to find the source of a deadly viral outbreak that turns people into ravenous zombies. From the crowded streets of urban chaos to harrowing escapes on land and sea, the film delivers heart-stopping suspense and jaw-dropping set pieces to keep you at the edge of your seat.
As the world fights for survival against an unprecedented zombie pandemic, ‘World War Z’ offers a fresh and intense take on the genre.
Get your zombie apocalypse fix with World War Z!
40. A Quiet Place (2018)
Where to Watch: Paramount+
Run Time: 1h 30m
Rating: PG-13
If you love Johnathan Krasinski and Emily Blunt, you’ll get a kick out of this thriller.
Starring real-life couple Emily Blunt and John Krasinski, who also directed the film, ‘A Quiet Place’ plunges you into a post-apocalyptic landscape overrun by mysterious creatures that hunt solely by sound. In a desperate fight for survival, the Abbott family must live in silence, communicating through sign language and treading carefully to avoid making even the slightest noise.
Tension mounts as they navigate a world where the slightest sound can be fatal, and the film delivers heart-pounding scares and emotional depth. Emily Blunt’s powerful performance as Evelyn Abbott and John Krasinski’s direction creates a powerful and intimate portrayal of family bonds and survival instincts. ‘A Quiet Place’ is a masterclass in suspense, utilizing its unique premise to deliver a truly immersive and nerve-wracking experience.
41. Carrie (1976)
Where to Watch: Tubie, PlutoTV
Run Time: 1h 38m
Rating: R
The original with Sissy Spacek and a super young ass John Travolta, you are getting classic horror movie gold with this Stephen King hit!
‘Carrie’ revolves around a shy, introverted high school girl with telekinetic powers. Bullied and ridiculed by her peers, Carrie’s life turns dark when a cruel prank at prom triggers her devastating abilities.
As her powers spiral out of control, the film unfolds into a chilling tale of revenge and the consequences of unchecked cruelty. Sissy Spacek’s portrayal of Carrie White is hauntingly vulnerable and sympathetic, earning her an Academy Award nomination.
Carrie is also a true masterclass showcase of toxic and abusive mothers and their devastating effects on children.
42. The Witch (2015)
Where to Watch: Prime, Max
Run Time: 1h 32m
Rating: R
Get a young in this creepy-ass unsettling movie. Living in colonial America was scary enough without the threat of an evil ass entity threatening your existence!
Step into the unsettling and atmospheric world of ‘The Witch,’ a chilling horror film that delves into the dark corners of fear and superstition. Set in 17th-century New England, this haunting tale follows a Puritan family as they are exiled from their community and forced to live on the edge of an eerie and foreboding forest. As strange and sinister occurrences befall the family, they begin to suspect that an evil presence lurks in the woods.
‘The Witch’ is a slow-burning and artfully crafted film, immersing you in a time of paranoia and religious fervor. Anchored by mesmerizing performances, particularly by Anya Taylor-Joy as Thomasin, the eldest daughter, the film takes you on a psychological journey, exploring themes of isolation, faith, and the dark forces that lie within human nature. With its haunting cinematography and hauntingly ambiguous conclusion, ‘The Witch’ stands as a critically acclaimed and thought-provoking horror gem.
Get a peek at Ana-Taylor Joy before she was The Queens Gambit!
43. The Evil Dead (1981)
Where to Watch: AMC+, Prime
Run Time: 1h 27m
Rating: NC-17
The original Evil Dead is one of my favorite all-time horror movies! I seriously can’t get enough of this movie during October!
Directed by Sam Raimi and starring Bruce Campbell as the iconic Ash Williams, this cult favorite follows a group of friends who head to a remote cabin in the woods for a weekend getaway. However, their innocent trip takes a horrifying turn when they discover an ancient and malevolent book—the Necronomicon Ex-Mortis—that unleashes a sinister force that possesses and terrorizes them one by one.
‘The Evil Dead’ is a rollercoaster of terror, gore, and dark humor, establishing itself as a defining film in the horror genre.
You’ll get a kick out of this cult classic, and you will look forward to watching it every year!
44. Beetlejuice (1988)
Where to Watch: Prime, Hulu
Run Time: 1h 32m
Rating: PG
You didn’t think I would leave out one of the greatest Halloween movies of all time, did you?! Yes, back when Alec Baldwin was sexier and less douchey, and Geena Davis looked gorgeous as ever, Michael Keaton delivered one of his greatest performances and favorite characters to play, Beetlejuice!
When a quirky and recently deceased couple, played by Geena Davis and Alec Baldwin, find themselves stuck in their beloved home, they seek the help of the unpredictable and chaotic Beetlejuice to scare away the living residents. But things quickly spiral out of control, leading to hilarious and spooky escapades that will have you laughing and gasping in equal measure.
Michael Keaton’s unforgettable performance as Beetlejuice, with his wild antics and crazy charm, steals the show, while Tim Burton’s imaginative and gothic visuals create a uniquely captivating atmosphere.
Beetlejuice is a classic and much watch in October; it’s borderline a cardinal sin not to girl!
45. The Craft (1996)
Where to Watch: MGM+, Prime
Run Time: 1h 41m
Rating: R
The ’90s were just so angsty, were they?! That’s why we have cultural masterpieces like The Craft to watch this October! I LOVE this movie; it’s got a drippy Neve Campbell, a sexy and creepy Fairuza Balk, a stunning Rachel Ture, and stars fresh-faced Robin Tunney!
The supernatural thriller follows four high school outcasts who discover they have the power to cast spells and perform magic. As they delve deeper into the craft, their newfound abilities lead them down a dangerous path, testing the limits of their friendship and moral compasses.
‘The Craft’ is a spellbinding journey that explores themes of empowerment and the consequences of seeking power for personal gain. With its captivating performances and portrayal of the complexities of female friendship, the film has become a beloved favorite among fans of both horror and coming-of-age stories. A 90’s classic!
This will definitely be a cult classic chick flick you’ll love to devour yearly!
Best Halloween Movies
There you have it, 45 of my favorite scary movies I loved watching in October leading up to Halloween, and I’m sure you will love them too!
Scary movies are a fun way to bring us closer together.
Whether you like to reserve scary movies for October and Halloween or are a fan year-round, this list won’t disappoint. Snuggle up, stay warm, and have fun! Happy Halloween!
