9 Halloween Movie Night List Ideas
There’s something magical about Halloween—the chill in the air, pumpkins glowing on porches, and the perfect excuse to cozy up for a spooky movie marathon. Whether you’re planning a family-friendly evening, a nostalgic throwback, or a full-on fright fest, putting together the right Halloween movie night list can set the mood for a night of thrills, laughter, and a few goosebumps.
If you’re looking for inspiration, here are nine creative ideas to help you curate the ultimate Halloween movie night list.
1. Family-Friendly Halloween Classics
Not everyone loves jump scares and horror marathons, especially if you’ve got little ones (or adults who prefer a lighter touch). Thankfully, there’s a treasure trove of family-friendly Halloween classics that deliver the spooky vibes without the nightmares.
- Hocus Pocus (1993) – A Halloween must-watch featuring the Sanderson Sisters’ hilarious attempt to take over Salem.
- Casper (1995) – Heartwarming and spooky in just the right balance.
- The Addams Family (1991) – Creepy, kooky, and perfect for all ages.
- Hotel Transylvania series – A fun, animated take on classic monsters.
These films are perfect if you’re planning a cozy night with kids, snacks, and maybe even a pumpkin-carving session beforehand.
💡 Related Read: Check out our guide on family Halloween activities to make your movie night extra special.
2. Chilling Horror Classics for the Brave
If you’re a horror enthusiast, no Halloween is complete without the classics that defined the genre. A truly spine-tingling Halloween movie night list wouldn’t be complete without these icons:
- Halloween (1978) – Michael Myers’ silent terror started it all.
- A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984) – Freddy Krueger will haunt your dreams.
- The Exorcist (1973) – Often considered one of the scariest films ever made.
- Psycho (1960) – Hitchcock’s masterpiece with the unforgettable shower scene.
These films are best watched with the lights out, snacks within reach, and maybe a blanket to hide under.
3. Comedy Horror for Laughs and Screams
Not every Halloween night needs to be all doom and gloom. Comedy horror blends scares with humor, making for an entertaining and surprisingly lighthearted movie night.
Some great picks include:
- Shaun of the Dead (2004) – A witty zombie comedy that’s both hilarious and clever.
- Scary Movie (2000) – A parody-packed romp through horror tropes.
- Beetlejuice (1988) – Michael Keaton’s wild performance makes this a cult favorite.
- Tucker and Dale vs. Evil (2010) – A clever twist on the “cabin in the woods” storyline.
This subgenre is perfect if your group has mixed tastes—you’ll get the best of both worlds without anyone feeling overwhelmed by terror.
💡 Related Read: For more fun Halloween ideas, check out our post on Halloween party themes.
4. Cult Favorites for True Fans
Some Halloween films never had blockbuster success but have built passionate fan followings over the years. Cult classics are a fantastic addition to your Halloween movie night list if you want something unique and offbeat.
Consider:
- Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975) – A musical, horror, and comedy all rolled into one with audience participation to match.
- Donnie Darko (2001) – Eerie, atmospheric, and thought-provoking.
- Evil Dead II (1987) – A mix of gore, camp, and slapstick horror.
- The Craft (1996) – Teenage witchcraft drama with a cult following.
If you’re looking to impress fellow film buffs, this category is a goldmine.
5. Animated Spooky Favorites
Who says animated movies are just for kids? Animated Halloween films are charming, creative, and sometimes just as eerie as live-action horror.
Some must-haves include:
- Coraline (2009) – A beautifully animated yet unsettling dark fantasy.
- The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) – A Tim Burton classic bridging Halloween and Christmas.
- Monster House (2006) – A haunted house story perfect for kids and adults.
- Corpse Bride (2005) – Romantic, gothic, and visually stunning.
These films bring a whimsical touch to Halloween and are a perfect pick if you want a lighter marathon that still feels seasonally spooky.
6. Slasher Film Marathon
If your idea of fun is edge-of-your-seat suspense and masked killers, then a slasher film marathon is a must. These films often follow a similar formula but remain endlessly entertaining.
Top picks include:
- Friday the 13th (1980)
- Scream (1996)
- Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)
- Child’s Play (1988)
These movies are perfect for a late-night group viewing with friends who enjoy adrenaline-pumping scares.
💡 Pro Tip: Pair this with some creepy themed snacks—we’ve got a great guide on Halloween food ideas that will keep the atmosphere festive.
7. Ghostly Tales and Supernatural Thrills
For fans of haunted houses and eerie spirits, supernatural horror is the way to go. Ghost stories are timeless and ideal for Halloween night.
Try these for your list:
- The Sixth Sense (1999) – A chilling story with a famous twist ending.
- The Others (2001) – Atmospheric and haunting with an unforgettable finale.
- Poltergeist (1982) – A suburban nightmare involving restless spirits.
- Insidious (2010) – A modern ghost story that launched a franchise.
These films are perfect if you want scares that rely more on tension and atmosphere than gore.
8. Witch-Themed Movies for a Magical Halloween
Halloween wouldn’t be complete without witches. From wicked spellcasters to misunderstood heroines, witches bring mystery and magic to any Halloween movie night list.
Top picks include:
- Practical Magic (1998) – A heartwarming take on sisterhood and witchcraft.
- The Witch (2015) – Dark, unsettling, and steeped in folklore.
- Hocus Pocus 2 (2022) – A new twist on the beloved classic.
- The Blair Witch Project (1999) – A found-footage style film that redefined horror.
Witch movies add variety to your marathon, ranging from fun and quirky to deeply unsettling.
9. Zombie Apocalypse Night
No Halloween movie list would be complete without zombies. They’ve been a horror staple for decades and still manage to terrify and entertain.
Essential zombie films include:
- Night of the Living Dead (1968) – The film that started it all.
- 28 Days Later (2002) – A modern, fast-paced twist on the genre.
- Train to Busan (2016) – A gripping South Korean thriller with heart.
- Zombieland (2009) – A perfect blend of action, comedy, and zombie chaos.
Zombie movies are also great for group nights since they often balance action with survival drama, keeping everyone entertained.
💡 Related Read: For more spooky season fun, explore our post on DIY Halloween decorations.
Tips for Planning Your Halloween Movie Night
Now that you have nine themed categories to choose from, here are a few tips to make your Halloween movie night unforgettable:
- Set the Scene – Dim the lights, light some candles, and add Halloween décor.
- Pick a Theme – Choose one of the lists above or mix and match for variety.
- Snack Smart – Popcorn, candy corn, and themed treats are a must.
- Get Cozy – Blankets, pillows, and a comfy setup go a long way.
- Invite Friends – Horror is always more fun (and less terrifying) when shared.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re planning a kid-friendly evening, a spooky slumber party, or a hardcore horror marathon, curating the right Halloween movie night list is all about matching the vibe to your audience. From family classics to cult favorites and terrifying horrors, these nine categories give you plenty of inspiration to make this Halloween unforgettable.
Don’t forget to check out our related guides on Halloween food ideas, DIY decorations, and party themes to elevate your spooky celebrations.
