31 GREATEST
HALLOWEEN FILMS
OF ALL TIME

Halloween films have an enchanting ability to conjure thrills, chills, and a dash of whimsy, perfectly capturing the spirit of this bewitching season. In this list of the 31 Greatest Halloween Films of All Time, we’ve summoned a collection of the most celebrated movies that embody the essence of Halloween, curated from the highest ratings and reviews from audiences and critics alike. To qualify, each film must be set during Halloween or, at the very least, capture the spirit and essence of the holiday.

From John Carpenter’s masterful blend of suspense and terror that has haunted audiences for decades to Tim Burton’s delightfully macabre tales that dance between the eerie and the whimsical, this collection offers a spectrum of treats—from spine-tingling horror to family-friendly spookiness and enchanting animated tales—each inviting you into a world where ghosts roam, monsters lurk, and the veil between reality and the supernatural is thin.

So, grab your pumpkin spice latte and a bucket of your favorite sweet treats as you dive into these 31 unforgettable spooky stories of fright and magic. And for those craving a deeper dive into pure Horror this Halloween, be sure to check out our list of the 100 Greatest Horror Films of All Time.

31

Trick or Treat

1986 | 1h 37m | USA | ENGLISH | 16+

[+] Top10nerScore59.889 / 100

p>

"Shut up! Play my tape for me tonight or die!"

DIRECTOR: Charles Martin Smith

WRITERS: Rhet Topham, Michael S. Murphey, Joel Soisson

CINEMATOGRAPHY: Robert Elswit

STARRING: Marc Price, Tony Fields, Lisa Orgolini, Doug Savant, Elaine Joyce

GENRE: Supernatural Horror

THEME: Teen Movie, Music, Halloween

Eddie Weinbauer, a metalhead teen who is bullied at school, looks to his heavy metal superstar idol, Sammi Curr, for guidance. When Curr is killed in a hotel fire, Eddie becomes the recipient of the only copy of Curr’s unreleased album, which, when played backwards, brings Sammi back to life. As Halloween approaches, Eddie begins to realize that this isn’t only rock ’n roll…it’s life and death.

Trick or Treat amps up Halloween horror with a heavy metal edge, set against a rebellious high school backdrop. When a cursed record unleashes a vengeful rock spirit, the film transforms into a spooky, darkly comedic exploration of supernatural revenge and youthful angst.

30

Hell House LLC

2015 | 1h 33m | USA | ENGLISH | 16+

[+] Top10nerScore60.400 / 100

p>

"What happened that night at the Abaddon Hotel?"

DIRECTOR: Stephen Cognetti

WRITERS: Stephen Cognetti

CINEMATOGRAPHY: Brian C. Harnick

STARRING: Ryan Jennifer Jones, Danny Bellini, Gore Abrams, Adam Schneider, Jared Hacker, Alice Bahlke

GENRE: Supernatural Horror

THEME: Found Footage Horror, Haunted House, Halloween

Five years after an unexplained malfunction causes the death of 15 tour-goers and staff on the opening night of a Halloween haunted house tour, a documentary crew travels back to the scene of the tragedy to find out what really happened.

Hell House LLC cleverly blends found footage with Halloween’s haunted-house allure, immersing viewers in eerie small-town myths. As the scare factor escalates, unsettling realism and relentless dread drive this low-budget thriller to cult status among horror fans.

29

Night of the Demons

1988 | 1h 30m | USA | ENGLISH | 18+

[+] Top10nerScore60.829 / 100

p>

"Eat a bowl of fuck! I am here to PARTY!"

DIRECTOR: Kevin Tenney

WRITERS: Joe Augustyn

CINEMATOGRAPHY: David Lewis

STARRING: Cathy Podewell, Alvin Alexis, Amelia Kinkade, Linnea Quigley, Hal Havins, Lance Fenton

GENRE: Supernatural Horror

THEME: Haunted House, Halloween

When partygoers at a deserted funeral home decide to have a séance on Halloween night, they awaken something evil with a thirst for blood.

Night of the Demons taps Halloween’s dark allure, setting its demonic horrors within an abandoned funeral home where misfit teens awaken vengeful spirits. With gritty FX and campy scares, the film revels in punk-infused terror, cementing its cult status for late-night horror fans.

28

Terrifier 2

2022 | 2h 18m | USA | ENGLISH | 18+

[+] Top10nerScore60.923 / 100

p>

"..........."

DIRECTOR: Damien Leone

WRITERS: Damien Leone

CINEMATOGRAPHY: George Steuber

STARRING: David Howard Thornton, Lauren LaVera, Elliott Fullam, Sarah Voigt, Kailey Hyman, Casey Hartnett

GENRE: Slasher, Splatter, Sadistic Horror

THEME: Halloween

After being resurrected by a sinister entity, Art the Clown returns to Miles County where he must hunt down and destroy teenage Sienna and her younger brother Jonathan on Halloween. As the body count rises, the siblings fight to stay alive while uncovering the true nature of Art’s evil intent.

Terrifier 2 amplifies Halloween horror with Art the Clown unleashing a torrent of brutality that’s as chilling as it is stylistically bold. Amid eerie festive settings and retro slasher thrills, the film revels in nightmarish creativity, pushing boundaries with relentless terror.

27

Haunt

2019 | 1h 33m | USA | ENGLISH | 17+

[+] Top10nerScore61.325 / 100

p>

"Let's see what's under the mask."

DIRECTOR: Scott Beck, Bryan Woods

WRITERS: Bryan Woods, Scott Beck

CINEMATOGRAPHY: Ryan Samul

STARRING: Katie Stevens, Will Brittain, Lauryn McClain, Shazi Raja, Andrew Lewis Caldwell, Schuyler Helford

GENRE: Slasher

THEME: Halloween

On Halloween, a group of friends encounter an extreme haunted house that promises to feed on their darkest fears. The night turns deadly as they come to the horrifying realisation that some nightmares are real.

Haunt captures Halloween’s sinister thrill, plunging viewers into a chilling, grimly inventive haunted house attraction where fears are more than costumes. With visceral traps, masked tormentors, and a foreboding atmosphere, it crafts an unrelenting, claustrophobic descent into dread.

26

The Addams Family

1991 | 1h 42m | USA | ENGLISH | 10+

[+] Top10nerScore62.709 / 100

p>

"Are they made from real Girl Scouts?"

DIRECTOR: Barry Sonnenfeld

WRITERS: Caroline Thompson, Larry Wilson

CINEMATOGRAPHY: Owen Roizman

STARRING: Anjelica Huston, Raúl Juliá, Christopher Lloyd, Christina Ricci, Carel Struycken, Dan Hedaya, Jimmy Workman

GENRE: Black Comedy, Horror Comedy

THEME: Gothic, Halloween

When a man claiming to be long-lost Uncle Fester reappears after 25 years lost, the family plans a celebration to wake the dead. But the kids barely have time to warm up the electric chair before Morticia begins to suspect Fester is fraud when he can’t recall any of the details of Fester’s life.

The Addams Family revitalizes the Halloween spirit with its darkly whimsical style and macabre humor. Set against a gothic backdrop, it artfully blends the bizarre with heartwarming family dynamics, making it a cult classic perfect for the spooky season.

25

Addams Family
Values

1993 | 1h 34m | USA | ENGLISH | 10+

[+] Top10nerScore62.806 / 100

p>

"I'd pity him."

DIRECTOR: Barry Sonnenfeld

WRITERS: Paul Rudnick

CINEMATOGRAPHY: Donald Peterman

STARRING: Anjelica Huston, Raúl Juliá, Christopher Lloyd, Christina Ricci, Joan Cusack, Carol Kane, Jimmy Workman, Carel Struycken

GENRE: Black Comedy, Satire

THEME: Gothic, Halloween

Siblings Wednesday and Pugsley Addams will stop at nothing to get rid of Pubert, the new baby boy adored by parents Gomez and Morticia. Things go from bad to worse when the new “black widow” nanny, Debbie Jellinsky, launches her plan to add Fester to her collection of dead husbands.

Addams Family Values cleverly intertwines Halloween whimsy with sharp satire. The film showcases the eccentric Addams clan navigating a summer camp filled with quirky rivalries and dark humor, all set against a vibrant, gothic backdrop that enhances its playful yet macabre tone.

24

Halloweentown

1998 | 1h 24m | USA | ENGLISH | 6+

[+] Top10nerScore63.436 / 100

p>

"Being normal is vastly overrated."

DIRECTOR: Duwayne Dunham

WRITERS: Jon Cooksey, Ali Marie Matheson, Paul Bernbaum

CINEMATOGRAPHY: Michael Slovis

STARRING: Kimberly J. Brown, Debbie Reynolds, Judith Hoag, Joey Zimmerman, Phillip Van Dyke, Emily Roeske, Robin Thomas

GENRE: Comedy, Portal Fantasy, Fantasy

THEME: Family, Halloween

On her 13th birthday, Marnie learns she’s a witch, discovers a secret portal, and is transported to Halloweentown — a magical place where ghosts and ghouls, witches and werewolves live apart from the human world. But she soon finds herself battling wicked warlocks, evil curses, and endless surprises.

A family-friendly dive into Halloween charm, Halloweentown follows young Marnie as she uncovers her magical heritage and a world filled with supernatural oddities. Set in a spirited town where ghouls and witches roam, it’s a nostalgic, cozy entry in the Halloween genre.

23

Totally Killer

2023 | 1h 45m | USA | ENGLISH | 15+

[+] Top10nerScore63.721 / 100

p>

"Fucking time travel!"

DIRECTOR: Nahnatchka Khan

WRITERS: Jen D’Angelo, Sasha Perl-Raver, David M. Matalon

CINEMATOGRAPHY: Judd Overton

STARRING: Kiernan Shipka, Olivia Holt, Julie Bowen, Troy Leigh-Anne Johnson, Randall Park, Kelcey Mawema, Jonathan Potts, Stephi Chin-Salvo

GENRE: Slasher, Horror Comedy

THEME: Time Travel, Halloween

When the infamous “Sweet Sixteen Killer” returns 35 years after his first murder spree to claim another victim, 17-year-old Jamie accidentally travels back in time to 1987, determined to stop the killer before he can start.

Totally Killer gleefully merges ’80s slasher nostalgia with time-travel twists, setting its Halloween horrors in a suburban landscape where retro costumes and synth tracks underscore bloody yet playful suspense. A homage for horror fans craving humor amid iconic genre tropes.

22

Creepshow

1982 | 2h 00m | USA | ENGLISH | 15+

[+] Top10nerScore64.079 / 100

p>

"Sheep's eyes, chicken guts, piggy friends... and SHIT for BRAINS!"

DIRECTOR: George A. Romero

WRITERS: Stephen King

CINEMATOGRAPHY: Michael Gornick

STARRING: Hal Holbrook, Adrienne Barbeau, Leslie Nielsen, Ted Danson, E.G. Marshall, Fritz Weaver, Ed Harris, Viveca Lindfors, Carrie Nye

GENRE: Horror, Black Comedy

THEME: Anthology Film, Halloween

Five tales in the style of classic ’50s horror comics, involving a murdered man emerging from the grave, a meteor’s ooze that makes everything grow, a snack for a crated creature, a scheming husband, and a malevolent millionaire with an insect phobia.

A vibrant homage to horror comics, Creepshow intertwines chilling tales with campy charm. Its anthology format and Halloween aesthetics deliver a nostalgic thrill, evoking both laughter and terror, set against a backdrop of garish colors and eerie settings.

21

The Adventures
of Ichabod
and Mr. Toad

1949 | 1h 08m | USA | ENGLISH | 5+

[+] Top10nerScore64.383 / 100

p>

"...it's a frightful sight for what goes on Halloween night."

DIRECTOR: Clyde Geronimi, James Algar, Jack Kinney

WRITERS: Erdman Penner

STARRING: Bing Crosby, Basil Rathbone, Eric Blore, J. Pat O’Malley, John McLeish, Colin Campbell, Campbell Grant

GENRE: Animation, Anthology Film

THEME: Family, Halloween

Smitten with motorcars, the wealthy and reckless sportsman Mr. Toad drives his friends Mole, Rat, and Angus MacBadger into a worried frenzy! Then meet Ichabod Crane, the spindly schoolteacher who dreams of sweeping the lovely Katrina off her feet – until Brom Bones, the town bully, gets involved.

‘The Sleepy Hollow’ segment of The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad masterfully conjures a haunting Halloween ambiance. Its atmospheric visuals, eerie score, and the chilling tale of Ichabod Crane capture the essence of folklore, weaving suspense and whimsy in perfect harmony.

20

Frankenweenie

2012 | 1h 27m | USA | ENGLISH | 8+

[+] Top10nerScore64.937 / 100

p>

"This is what I try to do, to get at their brains!"

DIRECTOR: Tim Burton

WRITERS: John August

CINEMATOGRAPHY: Peter Sorg

STARRING: Charlie Tahan, Catherine O’Hara, Martin Short, Winona Ryder, Martin Landau, Robert Capron, Atticus Shaffer

GENRE: Stop-Motion, Comedy, Gothic Horror, Horror, Horror Comedy

THEME: Family, Pets, Gothic, Halloween

When a car hits young Victor’s pet dog Sparky, Victor decides to bring him back to life the only way he knows how. But when the bolt-necked “monster” wreaks havoc and terror in the hearts of Victor’s neighbors, he has to convince them that Sparky’s still the good, loyal friend he was.

Frankenweenie showcases Burton’s signature gothic flair, weaving a heartfelt tale into a quaint, eerie town setting. Embracing Halloween’s spirit, the film combines charmingly spooky visuals with themes of love and loss, celebrating creativity in animation and storytelling.

19

Halloween II

1981 | 1h 32m | USA | ENGLISH | 17+

[+] Top10nerScore65.144 / 100

p>

"I've been trick-or-treated to death tonight."

DIRECTOR: Rick Rosenthal

WRITERS: John Carpenter, Debra Hill

CINEMATOGRAPHY: Dean Cundey

STARRING: Jamie Lee Curtis, Donald Pleasence, Charles Cyphers, Dick Warlock, Lance Guest

GENRE: Slasher

THEME: Halloween

It’s the same night as the original Halloween. Michael Myers is around the neighborhood, after being gunned by Dr. Loomis six times. Now, he’s in a hospital where the girl Laurie Strode was taken. And there’s a reason why Michael is after her…

Halloween II follows the chilling aftermath of the original, shifting from suburban streets to the claustrophobic hospital where Michael Myers’ relentless pursuit of Laurie Strode intensifies. Moody lighting, relentless tension, and Carpenter’s iconic synth score deepen the haunting dread.

18

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice

2024 | 1h 45m | USA | ENGLISH | 13+

[+] Top10nerScore65.614 / 100

p>

"The juice is loose!"

DIRECTOR: Tim Burton

WRITERS: Miles Millar, Alfred Gough

CINEMATOGRAPHY: Haris Zambarloukos

STARRING: Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, Jenna Ortega, Catherine O’Hara, Justin Theroux, Willem Dafoe, Monica Bellucci, Arthur Conti

GENRE: Horror Comedy, Portal Fantasy, Dark Fantasy

THEME: Gothic, Halloween

After a family tragedy, three generations of the Deetz family return home to Winter River. Still haunted by Beetlejuice, Lydia’s life is turned upside down when her teenage daughter, Astrid, accidentally opens the portal to the Afterlife.

Burton’s Beetlejuice Beetlejuice showcases Keaton’s mischievous poltergeist with fresh flair. Blending whimsical practical effects, dark humor, and Halloween charm, it delivers an entertaining experience that captures the original’s spirit while inviting a new generation to join in.

17

Monster House

2006 | 1h 31m | USA | ENGLISH | 9+

[+] Top10nerScore65.727 / 100

p>

"...and my mom is at the movies with her personal trainer."

DIRECTOR: Gil Kenan

WRITERS: Pamela Pettler, Dan Harmon, Rob Schrab

CINEMATOGRAPHY: Xavier Grobet

STARRING: Mitchell Musso, Sam Lerner, Spencer Locke, Steve Buscemi, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Kevin James, Nick Cannon

GENRE: Computer Animation, Horror Comedy, Supernatural Horror

THEME: Haunted House, Family, Halloween

A trio of teenagers find out that a neighborhood house is a living monster and plan to destroy the house on Halloween eve.

Monster House blends Halloween nostalgia with spine-tingling adventure, capturing childhood fears. Its unique animation style and eerie atmosphere invite viewers into a world where the haunted house is a character, echoing themes of friendship and bravery.

16

ParaNorman

2012 | 1h 30m | USA | ENGLISH | 9+

[+] Top10nerScore66.012 / 100

p>

"I think that statue just 'psst' at us!"

DIRECTOR: Sam Fell, Chris Butler

WRITERS: Chris Butler

CINEMATOGRAPHY: Tristan Oliver

STARRING: Kodi Smit-McPhee, Tucker Albrizzi, Anna Kendrick, Casey Affleck, Jeff Garlin, Leslie Mann, Jodelle Ferland, John Goodman, Christopher Mintz-Plasse

GENRE: Stop-Motion, Comedy, Supernatural Horror, Horror Comedy

THEME: Zombie, Family, Halloween

In the town of Blithe Hollow, Norman Babcock can speak to the dead, but no one other than his eccentric new friend believes his ability is real. One day, Norman’s eccentric uncle tells him of a ritual he must perform to protect the town from a curse cast by a witch centuries ago.

ParaNorman conjures a darkly playful Halloween spirit, blending stop-motion artistry with witty horror homage. In a misty New England town, Norman’s ghostly journey explores courage and acceptance, embracing the supernatural’s spooky allure with wit and heart.

15

The Halloween Tree

1993 | 1h 09m | USA | ENGLISH | 8+

[+] Top10nerScore66.299 / 100

p>

"If you let him go, that would be a treat."

DIRECTOR: Mario Piluso

WRITERS: Ray Bradbury

STARRING: Leonard Nimoy, Ray Bradbury, Annie Barker, Alex Greenwald

GENRE: Fantasy, Animation, Adventure

THEME: Family, Halloween, Time Travel

Four children learn the origins of Halloween customs while trying to save the life of their friend.

In The Halloween Tree, Piluso and Bradbury weave a captivating tale of friendship and adventure. Set against a vibrant autumn backdrop, it explores Halloween’s rich traditions, blending whimsical animation with poignant themes of mortality and the spirit of the season.

14

Corpse Bride

2005 | 1h 17m | USA & UK | ENGLISH | 9+

[+] Top10nerScore66.381 / 100

p>

"I'd almost forgotten how beautiful the moonlight is."

DIRECTOR: Tim Burton, Mike Johnson

WRITERS: John August, Caroline Thompson, Pamela Pettler

CINEMATOGRAPHY: Pete Kozachik

STARRING: Johnny Depp, Helena Bonham Carter, Emily Watson, Tracey Ullman, Paul Whitehouse, Joanna Lumley, Albert Finney, Richard E. Grant

GENRE: Romance, Musical, Fantasy, Puppet Animation

THEME: Gothic, Halloween

Set in a 19th-century european village, this stop-motion animation feature follows the story of Victor, a young man whisked away to the underworld and wed to a mysterious corpse bride, while his real bride Victoria waits bereft in the land of the living.

Corpse Bride weaves a gothic tale with Burton’s signature animation style, set against a hauntingly whimsical backdrop. Its Halloween motifs, vibrant colors, and richly detailed characters create a deep exploration of love and loss, inviting audiences into a beautifully eerie world.

13

Hocus Pocus

1993 | 1h 36m | USA | ENGLISH | 8+

[+] Top10nerScore67.040 / 100

p>

"Oh, look. Another glorious morning. Makes me sick!"

DIRECTOR: Kenny Ortega

WRITERS: Neil Cuthbert, Mick Garris

CINEMATOGRAPHY: Hiro Narita

STARRING: Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, Kathy Najimy, Omri Katz, Thora Birch, Vinessa Shaw

GENRE: Comedy, Low Fantasy, Horror Comedy

THEME: Family, Halloween

After 300 years of slumber, three sister witches are accidentally resurrected in Salem on Halloween night, and it is up to three kids and their newfound feline friend to put an end to the witches’ reign of terror once and for all.

Hocus Pocus weaves a whimsical blend of humor and spookiness, capturing the Halloween spirit through its charming yet mischievous witches. Its vibrant visuals and memorable performances create an enduring cult classic that delights both kids and adults alike.

12

Ginger Snaps

2000 | 1h 48m | CANADA & USA | ENGLISH | 16+

[+] Top10nerScore67.210 / 100

p>

"Wrists are for girls. I'm slitting my throat."

DIRECTOR: John Fawcett

WRITERS: Karen Walton

CINEMATOGRAPHY: Thom Best

STARRING: Katharine Isabelle, Emily Perkins, Kris Lemche, Mimi Rogers, Jesse Moss

GENRE: Horror

THEME: Werewolf, Coming-of-Age, Halloween

The story of two outcast sisters, Ginger and Brigitte, in the mindless suburban town of Bailey Downs. On the night of Ginger’s first period, she is savagely attacked by a wild creature. Ginger’s wounds miraculously heal but something is not quite right. Now Brigitte must save her sister and save herself.

Ginger Snaps weaves Halloween’s chilling essence into suburban life, crafting a haunting tale of sisterhood and horror. Its eerie backdrop and raw transformation scenes deliver a unique twist on werewolf lore, exploring teenage alienation with unflinching honesty.

11

Sleepy Hollow

1999 | 1h 45m | USA | ENGLISH | 15+

[+] Top10nerScore67.546 / 100

p>

"Watch your head."

DIRECTOR: Tim Burton

WRITERS: Andrew Kevin Walker

CINEMATOGRAPHY: Emmanuel Lubezki

STARRING: Johnny Depp, Christina Ricci, Miranda Richardson, Michael Gambon, Casper Van Dien, Jeffrey Jones, Christopher Walken

GENRE: Mystery, Gothic Horror, Folk Horror, Dark Fantasy, Thriller, Low Fantasy

THEME: Police Procedural, Gothic, Halloween

Skeptical young detective Ichabod Crane gets transferred to the hamlet of Sleepy Hollow, New York, where he is tasked with investigating the decapitations of three people – murders the townsfolk attribute to a legendary specter, The Headless Horseman.

Sleepy Hollow dives deep into Halloween’s gothic allure with Burton’s iconic eerie style. The chilling tale, shrouded in misty forests and shadowy villages, blends dark humor with grisly folklore, embodying a haunting, atmospheric aesthetic that’s timelessly captivating.

INTRODUCING...

THE TOP 10
GREATEST
HALLOWEEN FILMS
OF ALL TIME

10

Halloween

2018 | 1h 46m | USA | ENGLISH | 17+

[+] Top10nerScore68.018 / 100

p>

"Happy Halloween, Michael."

DIRECTOR: David Gordon Green

WRITERS: David Gordon Green, Danny McBride, Jeff Fradley

CINEMATOGRAPHY: Michael Simmonds

STARRING: Jamie Lee Curtis, Judy Greer, Andi Matichak, James Jude Courtney, Nick Castle

GENRE: Slasher

THEME: Halloween

Laurie Strode comes to her final confrontation with Michael Myers, the masked figure who has haunted her since she narrowly escaped his killing spree on Halloween night four decades ago.

2018’s Halloween revives the franchise with a gripping blend of nostalgia and innovation. Green crafts a tense atmosphere, juxtaposing Laurie Strode’s trauma with Michael Myers’ relentless pursuit. The film deftly critiques societal fears while delivering visceral thrills.

09

Late Night with
the Devil

2023 | 1h 45m | AUSTRALIA | ENGLISH | 15+

[+] Top10nerScore68.160 / 100

p>

"Jack and June went up the hill to fuck each other's…"

DIRECTOR: Cameron Cairnes, Colin Cairnes

WRITERS: Colin Cairnes, Cameron Cairnes

CINEMATOGRAPHY: Matthew Temple

STARRING: David Dastmalchian, Laura Gordon, Ingrid Torelli, Ian Bliss, Fayssal Bazzi

GENRE: Supernatural Horror, Analog Horror, Satire, Black Comedy

THEME: Chamber Film, Halloween

A live television broadcast of a popular late night talk show in 1977 goes horribly wrong during a demonstration of demonic possession, unleashing evil into the nation’s living rooms.

Late Night with the Devil taps into Halloween horror with a devilish twist, setting its story in the claustrophobic world of a 1970s TV talk show gone awry. A riveting blend of supernatural thrills and psychological tension, it’s a haunting reminder of television’s darker undercurrents.

08

Ghostwatch

1992 | 1h 31m | UK | ENGLISH | 15+

[+] Top10nerScore69.184 / 100

p>

"Fee... fie... foe... fum."

DIRECTOR: Lesley Manning

WRITERS: Stephen Volk

STARRING: Michael Parkinson, Sarah Greene, Craig Charles, Gillian Bevan, Mike Smith

GENRE: Mockumentary, Supernatural Horror

THEME: Haunted House, Halloween

In a “live” broadcast on Halloween night, a BBC team investigate a reported poltergeist in an ordinary London home.

Ghostwatch stands as a chilling Halloween broadcast classic, blending faux-documentary style with spine-tingling realism. Its eerie, live-TV setup, unsettling atmosphere, and clever use of paranormal suspense unnerved viewers, blurring lines between fiction and reality.

07

Beetlejuice

1988 | 1h 32m | USA | ENGLISH | 12+

[+] Top10nerScore71.972 / 100

p>

"NOW WHAT DO YOU THINK? You think I'm qualified?"

DIRECTOR: Tim Burton

WRITERS: Warren Skaaren, Larry Wilson, Michael McDowell

CINEMATOGRAPHY: Thomas E. Ackerman

STARRING: Alec Baldwin, Geena Davis, Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, Catherine O’Hara, Jeffrey Jones, Glenn Shadix

GENRE: Fantasy, Comedy, Horror Comedy

THEME: Haunted House, Gothic, Halloween

Thanks to an untimely demise via drowning, a young couple end up as poltergeists in their New England farmhouse, where they fail to meet the challenge of scaring away the insufferable new owners, who want to make drastic changes. In desperation, the undead newlyweds turn to an expert frightmeister, but he’s got a diabolical agenda of his own.

Beetlejuice is a vibrant Halloween staple, mixing dark humor with whimsical visuals. Set in a haunted house, it explores the quirky afterlife through clever characters and surreal situations, creating a memorable experience that captivates audiences year-round.

06

Trick 'r Treat

2007 | 1h 22m | USA & CAN | ENGLISH | 16+

[+] Top10nerScore72.287 / 100

p>

"Charlie's Brown's an asshole!"

DIRECTOR: Michael Dougherty

WRITERS: Michael Dougherty

CINEMATOGRAPHY: Glen MacPherson

STARRING: Brian Cox, Quinn Lord, Anna Paquin, Dylan Baker, Leslie Bibb, Tahmoh Penikett, Rochelle Aytes, Britt McKillip, Moneca Delain

GENRE: Horror, Black Comedy

THEME: Hyperlink Cinema, Halloween

Four interwoven stories that occur on Halloween: an everyday high school principal has a secret life as a serial killer; a college virgin might have just met the one guy for her; a group of teenagers pull a mean prank, and a bitter old recluse receives an uninvited guest.

Trick ‘r Treat intertwines four chilling tales that capture Halloween’s eerie spirit with dark humor and grisly twists. Its stylized anthology format, evoking classic horror comics, explores the season’s sinister magic and unspoken rules, crafting a spooky celebration for horror fans.

05

Coraline

2009 | 1h 40m | USA | ENGLISH | 10+

[+] Top10nerScore74.463 / 100

p>

"He's not drunk, Mom, he's just eccentric."

DIRECTOR: Henry Selick

WRITERS: Henry Selick

CINEMATOGRAPHY: Pete Kozachik

STARRING: Dakota Fanning, Teri Hatcher, Keith David, Jennifer Saunders, Dawn French, John Hodgman, Ian McShane

GENRE: Puppet Animation, Fantasy, Portal Fantasy, Horror

THEME: Gothic, Halloween

When Coraline moves to an old house, she feels bored and neglected by her parents. She finds a hidden door with a bricked up passage. During the night, she crosses the passage and finds a parallel world where everybody has buttons instead of eyes, with caring parents and all her dreams coming true. When the Other Mother invites Coraline to stay in her world forever, the girl refuses and finds that the alternate reality where she is trapped is only a trick to lure her.

Coraline enchants with its haunting visuals and a uniquely eerie atmosphere, perfectly capturing Halloween’s essence. Neil Gaiman’s tale of bravery against a sinister other world invites viewers to embrace individuality, making it a timeless, spine-tingling classic.

04

Arsenic and
Old Lace

1944 | 1h 58m | USA | ENGLISH | 10+

[+] Top10nerScore75.585 / 100

p>

"insanity runs in my family… It practically gallops."

DIRECTOR: Frank Capra

WRITERS: Julius J. Epstein, Philip G. Epstein

CINEMATOGRAPHY: Sol Polito

STARRING: Cary Grant, Josephine Hull, Jean Adair, Raymond Massey, Peter Lorre, Priscilla Lane, John Alexander, Jack Carson

GENRE: Black Comedy, Screwball Comedy, Crime

THEME: Gothic, Chamber Film, Halloween

Mortimer Brewster, a newspaper drama critic, playwright and author known for his diatribes against marriage, suddenly falls in love and gets married; but when he makes a quick trip home to tell his two maiden aunts, he finds out his aunts’ hobby – killing lonely old men and burying them in the cellar!

Arsenic and Old Lace offers a delightful blend of macabre humor and timeless charm, perfectly suited for Halloween. Set in a quaint Brooklyn home, its witty dialogue and zany characters elevate the classic farce, showcasing the brilliance of Cary Grant and a uniquely eerie atmosphere.

03

Donnie Darko

2001 | 1h 54m | USA | ENGLISH | 16+

[+] Top10nerScore77.353 / 100

p>

"Why are you wearing that stupid man suit?"

DIRECTOR: Richard Kelly

WRITERS: Richard Kelly

CINEMATOGRAPHY: Steven Poster

STARRING: Jake Gyllenhaal, Jena Malone, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Mary McDonnell, Holmes Osborne, Patrick Swayze

GENRE: Mystery, Psychological Drama, Low Fantasy, Portal Fantasy

THEME: Time Travel, Halloween

After narrowly escaping a bizarre accident, a troubled teenager is plagued by visions of a large bunny rabbit that manipulates him to commit a series of crimes.

Donnie Darko masterfully weaves a haunting tale that merges time travel with adolescent angst. Set against a backdrop of Halloween, its eerie atmosphere and surreal imagery invite viewers to explore existential themes, creating a captivating experience that lingers long after viewing.

02

The Nightmare
Before Christmas

1993 | 1h 16m | USA | ENGLISH | 7+

[+] Top10nerScore84.058 / 100

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'THIS IS HALLOWEEN, EVERYBODY MAKE A SCENE!'

DIRECTOR: Henry Selick

WRITERS: Tim Burton, Caroline Thompson

CINEMATOGRAPHY: Pete Kozachik

STARRING: Chris Sarandon, Danny Elfman, Catherine O’Hara, William Hickey

GENRE: Musical, Fantasy, Puppet Animation

THEME: Christmas, Halloween

Tired of scaring humans every October 31 with the same old bag of tricks, Jack Skellington, the spindly king of Halloween Town, kidnaps Santa Claus and plans to deliver shrunken heads and other ghoulish gifts to children on Christmas morning. But as Christmas approaches, Jack’s rag-doll girlfriend, Sally, tries to foil his misguided plans.

The Nightmare Before Christmas transports audiences to a Halloween realm brimming with spooky charm and unforgettable characters. Its stunning stop-motion animation and catchy songs create an immersive experience that beautifully celebrates the spirit of the season.

01

Halloween

1978 | 1h 31m | USA | ENGLISH | 16+

[+] Top10nerScore86.248 / 100

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"Everyone's entitled to one good scare."

DIRECTOR: John Carpenter

WRITERS: Debra Hill, John Carpenter

CINEMATOGRAPHY: Dean Cundey

STARRING: Jamie Lee Curtis, Donald Pleasence, Nancy Loomis, P.J. Soles

GENRE: Slasher

THEME: Halloween

Fifteen years after murdering his sister on Halloween Night 1963, Michael Myers escapes from a mental hospital and returns to the small town of Haddonfield, Illinois to kill again.

Halloween redefined the horror genre with its chilling atmosphere and innovative suspense. Set in a tranquil suburb, it juxtaposes the ordinary with terror, crafting an eerie sense of inevitability. Its profound influence on Halloween-themed narratives establishes it as…

The Greatest Halloween Film of All Time

HONORABLE MENTIONS

Great, but not quite 'Halloween' enough...

Coco2017
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial1982
Fear Street: 19782021
Ghostbusters1984
Meet Me in St. Louis1944
Scream1996
Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street2007
The Crow1994
The Guest2014
The House of the Devil2009
The Witch2015
The Witches1990
Young Frankenstein1974

Halloween, but not quite 'great' enough...

A Haunting in Venice2023
Casper1995
Cobweb2023
Dark Night of the Scarecrow1981
Ernest Scared Stupid1991
Halloween2007
Halloween 4: The Return of Michael Myers1988
Halloween H20: 20 Years Later1998
Halloween III: Season of the Witch1982
Halloween Kills2021
Hocus Pocus 22022
House of 1000 Corpses2003
Hubie Halloween2020
Idle Hands1999
Murder Party2007
Satan’s Little Helper2004
Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark2019
Tales of Halloween2015
The House with a Clock in Its Walls2018
WNUF Halloween Special

2013

THANKS FOR READING!

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