'TIS THE SEASON: 31 Horror Movies That Are A Must-See For Halloween

written by Michael Barry

We're just a few days away from Halloween. For me, Halloween is no longer about dressing up for costume parties. I dress up every day for work, so it has kind of run its course on me. It is also no longer a time for me to go trick-or-treating. I think I'm just a tad bit too old (For all of those who try to tell me that "you're never too old to go trick-or-treating": time to grow up!). I've never really been one for pranks, and as a Christian man, I am definitely not about summoning any demons or spirits.

If you're anything like me, Halloween is a time for movies! Currently we are seeing what I would refer to as a "horror renaissance," where filmmakers are not just pumping out the usual gory, sex-filled cash-grabs that we were used to for so long. We are seeing less B-list sequels, and more quality remakes. The screenplays are becoming more unique and inventive, more direct in the message they wish to send, and they are no longer succumbing to the tropes of their genre. 

But still, sometimes you have to admit, they don't make them like they used to. Even now, some of the best-made horror films of the past can still give you a scare that most modern horror movies can't.

But, not all films have to be horror films to be the perfect Halloween movie. Here is a list of movies that I think are a must-watch for the Halloween season. If you haven't seen this yet, GET ON IT! You've only got 4 days left!

1.) HALLOWEEN (1978)

Halloween, starring Scream Queen Jamie Lee Curtis, is John Carpenter's best film to date for me. The story of Michael Myers is definitely the most intriguing of the cinema slashers. Freddy, Jason, Leatherface, Pinhead: they don't hold a candle to the cold, calculated stalking of Michael. And the music... the soundtrack for many people's nightmares. This my all-time favorite Halloween movie (I even love most of the sequels), which is why this needs to be at the top of everyone's lists!

2.) YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN (1974)

Just because it is a comedy does not mean that it shouldn't be on your list. This comedy classic, written and directed by Mel Brooks, stars the inimitable Gene Wilder, queen of comedy Madeline Kahn, Marty Feldman, Teri Garr, and the late, great Peter Boyle as the monster. This film has some of the most iconic lines in all of comedy, and also serves as one of the greatest parodies of classic horror films that you will ever see. This film will be having you scream "FRAU BLUCHER!" all Halloween night!

3.) BEETLEJUICE (1988)

To me, this is the best Tim Burton movie. You just can't possibly top Michael Keaton in his performance of the titular character. I don't just want to watch this movie every Halloween, I NEED to watch it! This movie has the perfect mix of comedy and creeps. If you haven't seen it, or you think that "The Nightmare Before Christmas" can't possibly be topped in Tim Burton's canon, do yourself a favor and watch this movie. JUST DON'T SAY HIS NAME THREE TIMES!

4.) HOCUS POCUS (1993)

I'll be honest, it's been a while since I've seen this, but I knew that it just had to make my list. When I was a kid, I would watch this movie on repeat with my brothers. I don't know what it is about this movie, but for some reason this movie has become near and dear to many people. Many people swear by it. I don't know if I agree with ALL the hype, but it is a pretty great movie, and absolutely should be a must-see.

5.) THE ADDAMS FAMILY (1991)

This movie is one of the best movies to watch while getting ready for Halloween. I would say that I like the sequel more, Addams Family Values, but I would consider that more of a Thanksgiving movie than a Halloween movie (you'll have to see it to get what I mean). The key to this movie is the casting, because everyone is perfectly cast in the roles that they play. Raul Julia, Angelica Huston, Christopher Lloyd and Christina Ricci are all perfect and the standards for these roles. So, enjoy your Halloween prep with this family classic.

6.)  NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD (1968)

Of course this classic is on my list. George A. Romero basically wrote the book on zombies, and his flagship film has been such an influence to the horror genre itself. This film is not only terrifying, but it also has a strong message to tell. This is the first film to ever feature zombies, and should absolutely be on all your Halloween lists.

7.) THE EXORCIST (1973)

To me, this is the scariest movie of all-time. It was the first horror film to ever be nominated for Best Picture at the Oscars. It is one of the only movies that I refuse to watch alone. Everyone always points to the spinning head and the projectile vomiting as the scariest moments of the movie. While those moments are terrifying, the scariest moment for me was the crab crawling scene. I encourage you to definitely get your biggest blanket to cover your eyes before you see this one, but watch it.

8.) GET OUT (2017)

This film was seen by the Hollywood Foreign Press as a "Comedy". I don't know about all that, this movie was one of the most talked about suspense films of the past 20 years. This was Jordan Peele's freshman film, and it earned him the Oscar for Best Original Screenplay. Whether you consider it a comedy or a horror film, you should definitely consider it as part of your Halloween repertoire. 

9.) IT (2017)

Now, many might want to put the original TV special on here. You can certainly do that, too. But I believe that Andy Muschietti's version is a far better film. Bill Skarsgard plays Pennywise, the Dancing Clown. His portrayal is one of the creepiest performances I've ever seen. But the dynamic of the kids in this movie truly makes this movie so great, and better than it's predecessor. Sorry, Mr. Curry, but I have to go with Mr. Skarsgard on this one.

10.) CARRIE (1976)

"THEY'RE ALL GONNA LAUGH AT YOU!" But this film is no laughing matter. This movie is one of the most iconic Stephen King adaptations in horror history. This movie should make you never want to bully someone ever again. Sissy Spacek and Piper Laurie give stellar performances in this one, and it is good for several great scares. Give this one a go before you go trick-or-treating, just make sure to check for buckets of pig's blood before you open the door for your candy.

11.) THE SHINING (1980)

This movie is one of my favorite Stephen King's film adaptations, even though he absolutely hates it. Regardless if you prefer the book over the movie or not, you can't deny that Jack Nicholson is absolutely amazing. This is definitely one of those career-defining performances, and the movie has become such an icon in horror. I'd say that you should definitely watch this movie on Halloween, but I think that this should be seen any time of the year. If you haven't seen this movie, brace yourselves.

12.) A NIGHTMARE ON ELM STREET (1984)

A classic in the slasher genre, A Nightmare On Elm Street is one of the creepiest and most terrifying horror films, largely due to the dynamic performance of Robert Englund as the iconic Freddie Krueger, the dream demon with the burnt body and razor glove. It also stars an incredibly young Johnny Depp in his first big break into film. This is Wes Craven's most iconic horror film, and should definitely be included in your Halloween all-nighter sleepover because you definitely will NOT be falling asleep! 

13.) HALLOWEENTOWN (1998)

This is a Disney Channel Original Movie starring Debbie Reynolds as a grandmother who accidentally reveals that she is a witch to her grandkids after they stumble into the magical town of Halloweentown, and learn that they come from a family of witches. This is a really fun movie that I used to watch all the time as a kid, and is great for the whole family. If you can find it, I would highly recommend you add this to your list this season.

14.) WILLY WONKA & THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY (1971)

I know. You're probably wondering why this movie is on here. But it's a movie about a candy factory that is run by an eccentric-but-creepy recluse who is complicit in the disappearance of children from said factory. If you think about it, this is the biggest dark horse on this list. IT'S ALL ABOUT CANDY! I think that makes it the perfect choice for your Halloween screenings!

15.) THE DARK CRYSTAL (1982)

When I first saw this movie as a child, I thought, "OOH, JIM HENSON! I LOVE THE MUPPETS! THIS MOVIE IS GOING TO BE SO MUCH FUN!" Haha, boy was I wrong! This movie is one of the creepiest movies I have ever seen, and it is one of the only movies that refused to watch for a long time because it scarred me for life. The Skeksis are some of the creepiest things ever put on screen, which is why this movie is perfect to watch on Halloween!

16.) GHOSTBUSTERS (1984)

This is one of my favorite comedies of all-time. It doesn't matter what time of year it is, I can watch this movie on repeat all year round. Starring Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Harold Ramis, and Ernie Hudson as the famous paranormal exterminators. As a kid, the Gate Keeper and Key Master actually scared me, and who wouldn't be terrified by a 200-foot tall Stay Puft Marshmallow Man? Who you gonna call?

17.) PRACTICAL MAGIC (1998)

This one I just recently saw for the first time last Halloween. I'll be honest, I'm not a big fan of rom-coms, but I think this movie is a perfect movie Halloween movie for all those who do. It stars Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock as a pair of witchy sisters who are being tormented by one of their former love interests... FROM BEYOND THE GRAVE! This movie is also one of the best movies to curl up on the couch and watch as the leaves are falling and you're drinking hot apple cider.

18.) COCO (2017)

If you're anything like me, you can't help but cry every time you watch this movie. It is one of Disney's best and most emotional Pixar films to date, and is perfect for the Halloween season, as it deals with themes of death and the afterlife. It may not be scary, but since it is literally about Dia De Los Muertos, it is perfect for anyone's watchlist. If you haven't seen it, grab the box of tissues and do yourself a favor!

19.) ALIEN (1979)

"In space, no one can hear you scream." This Ridley Scott classic is one of the most intriguing sci-fi films that I have ever seen. I am clearly not alone, which is why we have all of the sequels and prequels to go with it. People wanted to know more about not just the Xenomorphs, but everything within this world. It may not revolve around Halloween in particular, but it is definitely frightening enough to watch. Just don't watch it with the lights off.

20.) E.T.: THE EXTRATERRESTRIAL (1982)

This is a classic film, and one of Steven Spielberg's best works. And I would argue that, while it doesn't really deal with Halloween themes, it should still be considered a Halloween movie purely because it takes place around Halloween. It's the same argument people have about calling Die Hard a Christmas movie. So, if you wish to continue arguing the Die Hard is a Christmas movie, you must also consider calling E.T. a Halloween movie.

21.) MARY SHELLEY'S FRANKENSTEIN (1994)

This movie is perfect for the Halloween season. This movie is the truest telling of the Mary Shelley classic, starring Kenneth Branagh and Robert DeNiro as Frankenstein and his monster. Despite the well-deserved criticism of this movie, I still enjoy it. If you haven't seen it, give it a chance this holiday season.

22.) THE OMEN (1976)

Of course this movie had to make my list, and I hope it makes yours, as well! This classic stars Gregory Peck and Lee Remick, but the true star is the young Harvey Stephens as little Damien Thorn, the literal Antichrist. This film is one of the scariest movies I've ever seen. I think anything that is demon-related really gets to me. Go ahead and give this a go this season!

23.) WHAT WE DO IN THE SHADOWS (2014)

It took me awhile to finally get around to seeing this, despite many people telling me for years that I needed to see it. But, I'm really glad I finally did. This mock-umentary about a group of vampires who live together is one of the most original comedies out there. I've never really liked the vampire story, which makes this movie perfect for me. Everyone should give this movie a go, and don't wait like I did. Halloween is only 4 days away, so get on it!

24.) US (2019)

This is the most recent film on this list, so chances are you will not be able to watch it this Halloween season. The sophomore film from Jordan Peele is far creepier and scarier than his first movie, and makes for a great film for the Halloween season. Starring Lupita N'yongo and Winston Duke, it is sure to give you plenty of scares, and will also give you plenty of introspective moments to talk about with all of your friends.

25.) IT FOLLOWS (2014)

This was one of the most clever horror films I've ever seen in a long time. There aren't many jump scares in this one, but the terror is slow-building. This film tells the story of a curse that follows you anywhere you go. It never runs, but consistently walks. You could run away from it all your life, but it will always follow you. The only way to get it to stop following you is to pass it on to someone else by having sex with that person. What happens if it catches you? Well, you're gonna have to see the movie to find out! This movie will be perfect to watch right before you go to any Halloween parties this year. It may make you think twice about your intentions.

26.) SIGNS (2002)

I absolutely love this movie! A lot of people will point to The Sixth Sense as M. Night Shyamalan's best movies. You may be right, but this one is my personal favorite. It stars Mel Gibson, Joaquin Phoenix, and a young Abigail Breslin as a family that have been chosen to be the victims of an upcoming alien invasion. It has some of the scariest moments, with plenty of frightening jump scares to give you nightmares. Again, not entirely a movie that you need to watch around Halloween, but it definitely wouldn't hurt.

27.) FRANKENSTEIN (1931)

This classic 1931 film changed the game for horror movies, and also gave us our contemporary depiction of Frankenstein's monster. No matter how hard other films have tried to be inventive with their look of the famous monster, Boris Karloff is still the standard people go by. This film may not be an accurate depiction of Mary Shelley's classic, but it changed the game for horror movies, and Halloween in general. Always a good go-to for any cinefiles like myself.

28.) PSYCHO (1960)

Of course this movie has to be on your list. When you think of horror movies, the first name you think of is Alfred Hitchcock, the master of suspense. He was innovative in his filmmaking, and knew exactly how to scare people. Psycho is one of the most iconic horror films of all-time. You will never be able to go into the shower without double-checking first. Not only will the movie itself creep you out, but the simple soundtrack of the shrieking violins will give you chills for years.

29.) THE SILENCE OF THE LAMBS (1991)

This movie may not exactly feel like your typical Halloween film, but it absolutely should be considered for your viewing pleasure this season. There are plenty of creepy moments in this film, but the biggest takeaway from this is the performances of Jodi Foster as Clarice Starling, and Sir Anthony Hopkins as the iconic cannibal, Dr. Hannibal Lecter. With only about 15 total minutes of screen time, he was still able to win the Oscar for Best Actor. His performance was so intoxicating, it will have you thinking about it for years and years, like me. On top of that, the movie won Best Picture, and I do believe it is the only movie on this list with that distinction. So, give it a watch.

30.) CORALINE (2009)

I just recently was made aware of this movie. I'll be honest, I put off watching this movie purely because I thought it was a Tim Burton movie. While it certainly feels like a Tim Burton film, it is actually not him at all! Once I did, I was delighted at how much I loved it. It is one of the creepiest children's movies I have ever seen, and according to those who have read the book, it is also one of the most accurate portrayals of a book there is. I think Halloween is the perfect time to watch this film. So give it a go, and see what I mean.

31.) PARANORMAL ACTIVITY (2007)

I only saw this movie once, and never watched it again. I watched it with all of my college friends huddled around a laptop with the lights off in the middle of the night. Once it was over, I couldn't sleep. This film is one of the best found-footage films there is. Their use of practical effects just goes to show that you don't need CGI to scare people. Also, the sequels that followed were all released around Halloween, which makes this a perfect movie to watch. Just don't do it the way I did, and you'll be fine.

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I know that there are plenty of movies that I do not have on this list, but I hope you find this helpful if you don't know where to start. HAPPY HALLOWEEN!