Halloween is more than just costumes, pumpkin carving, and candy—it’s also the perfect time to curl up on the couch with a blanket, popcorn, and a scary movie. Whether you prefer creepy classics, family-friendly frights, or chilling modern thrillers, the right Halloween movie sets the mood for the season.

In this guide, we’ll explore 9 Halloween movies to watch that range from nostalgic cult favorites to hair-raising horror films. You’ll find a mix of fun, suspense, and spine-tingling scares—ideal for a cozy movie marathon.

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1. Hocus Pocus (1993)

If you’re looking for a lighthearted film to ease into the spooky season, Hocus Pocus is a must-watch. This Disney classic follows the Sanderson sisters, three witches accidentally resurrected in Salem, as they attempt to steal the souls of children to gain eternal youth.

It’s a fun mix of comedy, witchcraft, and nostalgia, making it perfect for family viewing. The film’s whimsical energy also makes it a fantastic choice for background entertainment during a Halloween gathering.

👉 If you’re planning a Halloween party, check out this guide on Halloween party decoration ideas.

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2. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

Tim Burton’s stop-motion masterpiece blurs the line between Halloween and Christmas. With its gothic aesthetic, hauntingly beautiful songs, and the lovable Pumpkin King Jack Skellington, The Nightmare Before Christmas captures the spooky spirit without being too scary.

Its unique style and memorable characters make it a go-to film for both children and adults. Plus, it’s versatile—you can enjoy it in October and keep watching through the holidays.

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3. Halloween (1978)

No Halloween movie list would be complete without Halloween. Directed by John Carpenter, this slasher film introduced audiences to Michael Myers, a masked killer who returns to his hometown to wreak havoc.

It’s suspenseful, chilling, and the reason slasher films became a staple of the horror genre. The minimalist score is iconic and still manages to raise goosebumps decades later.

If you enjoy creating atmospheric spaces, you might also like this article on spooky home décor ideas to make your space match the mood of the movie.

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4. Beetlejuice (1988)

A perfect pick if you want laughs with your scares, Beetlejuice is a Tim Burton classic that combines dark comedy with supernatural themes. The story follows a recently deceased couple who hire the mischievous ghost Beetlejuice to scare away the new family living in their home.

The movie’s quirky humor, bizarre visuals, and unforgettable characters make it a cult favorite. It’s not terrifying, but its spooky aesthetic fits right into a Halloween lineup.

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5. The Exorcist (1973)

For viewers who want a truly spine-chilling experience, The Exorcist remains one of the scariest movies ever made. This film about a young girl possessed by a demon and the priests trying to save her is unsettling, emotional, and unforgettable.

Even after 50 years, its haunting imagery and disturbing atmosphere are powerful enough to unsettle modern audiences.

Tip: If you’re planning a horror movie night, consider adding cozy yet eerie touches like Halloween-themed lighting ideas to set the mood.

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6. Coraline (2009)

Not all animated films are lighthearted—Coraline proves that. This stop-motion dark fantasy follows a young girl who discovers a hidden parallel world that seems perfect at first… until its sinister secrets reveal themselves.

Its eerie visuals and unsettling “Other Mother” make it creepier than most children’s films, but still enjoyable for teens and adults. It’s a perfect balance between fantasy and horror that fits right into the Halloween season.

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7. The Addams Family (1991)

Eccentric, spooky, and endlessly charming, The Addams Family is a Halloween favorite that doesn’t rely on traditional horror elements. The film celebrates gothic style, dark humor, and the bond of an unconventional family.

It’s perfect for viewers who prefer something quirky and entertaining rather than terrifying. For even more seasonal fun, this article on Halloween table setting ideas can inspire you to bring some Addams-style charm to your home.

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8. Scream (1996)

Wes Craven’s Scream revitalized the slasher genre in the 90s by combining self-aware humor with genuine scares. With its masked killer Ghostface and unpredictable twists, it’s both a parody and a reinvention of classic horror films.

It’s a great pick for Halloween because it’s thrilling, entertaining, and slightly meta—perfect for horror fans who know the genre inside and out.

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9. Practical Magic (1998)

To end the list on a lighter note, Practical Magic is a romantic drama with witchy vibes, perfect for those who want a mix of enchantment and emotion. The story follows two sisters with magical powers who struggle to break a family curse.

It’s not as scary as others on this list, but its mystical atmosphere, charming characters, and themes of sisterhood make it a great choice for a cozy Halloween night.

👉 For more inspiration on creating a magical fall vibe, explore autumn home decorating ideas.

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Tips for Planning a Halloween Movie Marathon

Watching one film is great, but why not make a whole night of it? Here are a few ideas to elevate your Halloween movie marathon:

• Mix genres: Balance lighthearted films (Hocus Pocus, Beetlejuice) with more chilling picks (The Exorcist, Halloween).
• Decorate your space: Add cobwebs, pumpkin lanterns, or gothic accents—check out these Halloween décor tips for ideas.
• Curate snacks: Popcorn is a must, but you can get creative with themed treats like “witches’ fingers” cookies or caramel apples.
• Create a spooky ambiance: Dim the lights and use candles or string lights for that eerie glow.

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Final Thoughts

Halloween is the perfect time to blend cozy comfort with spine-tingling fun, and these 9 Halloween movies to watch cover all the moods—scary, funny, nostalgic, and magical. Whether you’re planning a family night, a solo scare session, or a full-on Halloween party, these films will set the perfect tone.

So grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and prepare for a night filled with witches, ghosts, and plenty of thrills.