Best Movies About Halloween

From M. Night Shyamalan, starring Bruce Willis, Haley Joel Osment, Toni Collette, Olivia Williams
Rated PG-13

The Sixth Sense is a supernatural psychological thriller film written and directed by M. Night Shyamalan. The film stars Bruce Willis as Dr. Malcolm Crowe, a child psychologist trying to help a young boy, Cole Sear (Haley Joel Osment), who is plagued by visions of dead people. As their relationship deepens, Cole begins to understand his special ability to see and communicate with the ghosts of the dead. As Malcolm attempts to help Cole cope with his extraordinary powers, he discovers a terrifying secret about the boy's past and the horrific events that have shaped his life - and may eventually lead to his own destruction.

From William Friedkin, starring Ellen Burstyn, Max von Sydow, Linda Blair, Lee J. Cobb
Rated R

The Exorcist is a 1973 horror film directed by William Friedkin and adapted from the novel of the same name by William Peter Blatty. It tells the story of a young girl named Regan (Linda Blair) who becomes possessed by a mysterious demon. Her desperate mother (Ellen Burstyn) turns to two priests (Jason Miller and Max von Sydow) for help in performing an exorcism to save her daughter. The story follows the priests as they battle the forces of evil, with their faith and courage being tested in the process. The Exorcist is widely considered to be one of the scariest and most influential horror films of all time.

From Richard Kelly, starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Jena Malone, Mary McDonnell, Holmes Osborne
Rated R

Donnie Darko is a 2001 American science fiction psychological thriller film written and directed by Richard Kelly. The film stars Jake Gyllenhaal as the title character, a troubled teenager who is plagued by visions of a large bunny rabbit that manipulates him to commit a series of crimes. Donnie is sent for psychological treatment with a psychiatrist, who discovers that his visions may be connected to time travel. As Donnie tries to find out the truth about his visions, he must also deal with his psychiatric medication, his absentee parents, and his relationships with his classmates. In the end, Donnie must confront his own destiny in order to save the universe from destruction.

From Henry Selick, starring Danny Elfman, Chris Sarandon, Catherine O'Hara, William Hickey
Rated PG

The Nightmare Before Christmas is a 1993 American stop-motion animated musical dark fantasy film directed by Henry Selick and produced/co-written by Tim Burton. It tells the story of Jack Skellington, the King of "Halloween Town" who stumbles through a portal to "Christmas Town" and decides to celebrate the holiday. But his efforts to bring Christmas to his home causes confusion and chaos. With the help of a rag-doll named Sally, Jack must find a way to save both towns before it is too late. The film combines elements of fantasy, horror, and dark humor, and features voice performances by Danny Elfman, Chris Sarandon, and Catherine O'Hara, as well as performances by Elfman and O'Hara in musical numbers. The Nightmare Before Christmas was released to critical and commercial success, grossing over $76 million during its initial theatrical run. It has since been adapted into a stage musical, a video game, and a 3D re-release, among other media.

From Steven Spielberg, starring Henry Thomas, Drew Barrymore, Peter Coyote, Dee Wallace
Rated PG

E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial is a classic science fiction film directed by Steven Spielberg and released in 1982. It tells the story of a young boy named Elliott who discovers an alien stranded on Earth. Together, Elliott and the alien (dubbed E.T.) form a strong bond and embark on a journey to help E.T. return home. Along the way, Elliott and E.T. face numerous obstacles and dangerous encounters with government agents and scientists, all of which put their friendship to the test. In the end, Elliott and E.T.’s bond helps them to succeed in their mission and E.T. is able to return home. The film is a heart-warming story of friendship, courage, and determination.

From Matt Reeves, starring Robert Pattinson, Zoë Kravitz, Jeffrey Wright, Colin Farrell
Rated PG-13

The Batman is a 2022 superhero film directed by Matt Reeves. The film follows Bruce Wayne, who is at a point in his life where he is beginning his journey to becoming the world’s greatest detective. After two years of training, Bruce sets out as the vigilante known as Batman to save Gotham City from a criminal conspiracy that threatens to tear it apart. Along the way, he encounters several of the city’s most dangerous villains, including Catwoman, The Penguin, The Riddler, and others, and must rely on his detective skills to bring them to justice. With help from his allies, Batman must find a way to save Gotham before it’s too late.

From Alfonso Cuarón, starring Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint, Richard Griffiths
Rated PG

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban is the third installment of the Harry Potter film series, directed by Alfonso Cuarón and based on J.K. Rowling's book of the same name. The movie follows Harry Potter as he embarks on his third year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, where he learns about the escaped prisoner, Sirius Black, who is believed to be in search of Harry. Along the way, Harry and his friends Ron and Hermione must find a way to save Hogwarts from an impending danger, as well as discovering a dark secret about Sirius Black's past. With the help of the magical creatures known as the Hippogriff, the Marauder's Map, and the powerful Patronus charm, Harry and his friends must find a way to save the school and protect themselves from Sirius Black. The movie features many beloved characters, including Professor Lupin, the new Defense Against the Dark Arts teacher, and Hagrid, the lovable gamekeeper. The movie also features thrilling action sequences, a powerful score, and a bittersweet ending.

From Ivan Reitman, starring Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Sigourney Weaver, Harold Ramis
Rated PG

Ghostbusters is a 1984 supernatural comedy film directed by Ivan Reitman and written by Dan Aykroyd and Harold Ramis. It stars Bill Murray, Aykroyd, and Ramis as three eccentric parapsychologists in New York City who start a ghost-catching business. After they are fired from Columbia University, the trio establishes their ghost removal service and become celebrities in the process. The film follows the team as they battle an ancient Sumerian deity called Gozer, who plans to take over the world by destroying the city. To save the day, the Ghostbusters use their proton packs, ectoplasmic goo, and other ghost-catching gadgets. With the help of the city’s mayor and the team’s secretary, the Ghostbusters defeat Gozer and restore peace to New York City.

From Hayao Miyazaki, starring Kirsten Dunst, Minami Takayama, Rei Sakuma, Kappei Yamaguchi
Rated G

Kiki's Delivery Service follows a young witch named Kiki as she embarks on a year-long journey of self-discovery. Kiki leaves her family home and arrives in a new city, where she sets up a delivery service with her faithful black cat Jiji. Despite her best efforts, Kiki struggles to prove her worth as a witch and must learn to rely on her own determination and courage to succeed. Along the way, she meets a variety of characters who help her understand the importance of friendship and the power of believing in oneself. With her newfound strength and courage, Kiki is ultimately able to triumph over her fears and achieve her dream.

From James Whale, starring Boris Karloff, Elsa Lanchester, Colin Clive, Valerie Hobson
Rated Not Rated

The Bride of Frankenstein is a classic horror film directed by James Whale and released in 1935. It is a sequel to the 1931 film Frankenstein and stars Boris Karloff as the iconic monster. The film follows Dr. Frankenstein (Colin Clive) as he becomes determined to create a mate for his monster. Meanwhile, the original monster has been terrorizing a small village and the locals are determined to find and destroy him. Dr. Frankenstein eventually succeeds in creating the Bride (Elsa Lanchester), but the Monster refuses to accept her, leading to a climactic showdown with the villagers. Throughout, Whale showcases his mastery of horror, with iconic moments and stunning visuals.

From James Whale, starring Colin Clive, Mae Clarke, Boris Karloff, John Boles
Rated Passed

Frankenstein is a 1931 American horror movie directed by James Whale. It is based on the novel of the same name by Mary Shelley. The film follows the story of Dr. Henry Frankenstein, a scientist who creates a human being from dead body parts. The creature is brought to life, but proves to be too powerful and is rejected by society. Driven to revenge, the creature goes on a rampage, eventually leading to a climactic confrontation between Frankenstein and his creation. Along the way, the film delves into themes such as the nature of life, the consequences of playing God, and the power of science.

From George A. Romero, starring Duane Jones, Judith O'Dea, Karl Hardman, Marilyn Eastman
Rated Not Rated

Night of the Living Dead is a classic horror and zombie film directed by George A. Romero. Set in rural Pennsylvania, the film follows a group of people who are forced to barricade themselves in an old farmhouse while they fight off hordes of flesh-eating zombies. As the night stretches on and the situation grows increasingly dire, the group must battle not only the undead but also the paranoia, fear, and distrust that threaten to tear them apart. The film is widely credited with helping to define and shape the modern zombie genre, and its legacy continues to influence popular culture today.

From John Carpenter, starring Donald Pleasence, Jamie Lee Curtis, Tony Moran, Nancy Kyes
Rated R

Halloween is a classic 1978 horror film directed by John Carpenter. In the small town of Haddonfield, Illinois, a six year-old boy named Michael Myers escapes from a mental institution and returns home to kill his teenage sister, Laurie Strode. A relentless killer, Michael stalks Laurie and her friends on the night of Halloween, as they make their way through town. With the help of Dr. Sam Loomis, Laurie's psychiatrist, the police attempt to track down Michael before he can kill again. As the night wears on, the violence escalates, and Laurie and her friends must fight for their lives against the seemingly unstoppable force of evil that is Michael Myers.

From Henry Selick, starring Dakota Fanning, Teri Hatcher, John Hodgman, Jennifer Saunders
Rated PG

Coraline (voiced by Dakota Fanning) is a young girl who has recently moved into a new home with her parents. After exploring her new home, she discovers a secret door that leads to a dark and mysterious parallel world, where she finds a 'Other Mother' who is more attentive and loving than her own. However, Coraline soon discovers the sinister intentions of the Other Mother and must find a way to escape her clutches and return to her own world before it's too late. As she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, Coraline must use her wit and resourcefulness to outwit the Other Mother and save her family from the clutches of this dark and oppressive world.

From Sam Raimi, starring Bruce Campbell, Sarah Berry, Dan Hicks, Kassie Wesley DePaiva
Rated R

Evil Dead II is a 1987 American comedy horror film directed by Sam Raimi. It is the sequel to Raimi’s 1981 horror film The Evil Dead, and stars Bruce Campbell as Ash Williams, reprising his role from the first film. The film follows Ash’s journey as he is once again thrust into a fight for his life against evil forces. Ash and his girlfriend Linda venture to a cabin in the woods, only to discover that it is occupied by demons. Using a combination of martial arts and makeshift weapons, Ash must battle the demons while trying to save Linda. The film culminates in a final showdown between Ash and a powerful evil entity known as “The Deadite.” Through his wits and bravery, Ash is able to defeat the Deadite and save Linda.

From Tim Burton, starring Alec Baldwin, Geena Davis, Michael Keaton, Annie McEnroe
Rated PG

Beetlejuice is a 1988 supernatural comedy film directed by Tim Burton. The film follows the recently deceased Adam and Barbara Maitland (Alec Baldwin and Geena Davis) who, after being killed in a car accident, struggle to adjust to their new ghostly existence. When their pleas to the afterlife bureaucracy fall on deaf ears, they enlist the help of the mischievous, cantankerous "bio-exorcist" Beetlejuice (Michael Keaton) to help them rid their home of the intrusive new owners: the Deetz family — Charles (Jeffrey Jones), Delia (Catherine O'Hara), and Lydia (Winona Ryder). With Beetlejuice's help, the Maitlands attempt to scare the Deetz family away from their home. In the process, Lydia discovers Beetlejuice's true identity, and a final confrontation ensues.

From Alex Proyas, starring Brandon Lee, Michael Wincott, Rochelle Davis, Ernie Hudson
Rated R

The Crow is a 1994 supernatural action film directed by Alex Proyas and starring Brandon Lee in the title role. Based on the comic book series of the same name by James O'Barr, the film tells the story of Eric Draven, a rock musician who is brutally murdered on the eve of his wedding, and is brought back to life to avenge his own death as well as that of his fiancée, Shelly. With the help of a mysterious crow, Eric sets out to take his revenge on the criminals who took everything away from him, leading him to a final showdown between good and evil. Along the way, Eric is joined by Sarah, a young girl who helps him in his quest, and Albrecht, a police officer who helps him discover the truth about his death. The Crow is a dark and poetic tale of revenge, hope, and redemption, set in a dark and gritty urban environment.

From James Wan, starring Patrick Wilson, Vera Farmiga, Ron Livingston, Lili Taylor
Rated R

The Conjuring is a 2013 supernatural horror film directed by James Wan. The film follows the story of the Warrens, a family of paranormal investigators, as they help a family besieged by malicious spirits in a secluded farmhouse in Rhode Island. The Warrens confront the dark forces, relying on their faith and knowledge of the paranormal, in order to save the family and defeat the sinister entities. Along the way, they uncover a dangerous secret that has been hidden for decades, and they must use their courage and skill to battle the evil forces and keep the family safe. The Conjuring is a thrilling and terrifying tale of suspense, courage, and faith.

From John Landis, starring David Naughton, Jenny Agutter, Joe Belcher, Griffin Dunne
Rated R

An American Werewolf in London is a classic horror comedy directed by John Landis. The film follows two American college students, David and Jack, on a backpacking trip through England. While staying in a rural village, they are attacked by a werewolf, which kills Jack and leaves David gravely injured. David soon discovers that he has been cursed with a transformation into a werewolf himself when the full moon rises. He is haunted by visions of a dead Jack, who warns him of the inevitable danger he will cause to himself and others if he doesn't find a way to break the curse. With time running out and his monster side taking over, David desperately searches for a way to reverse the curse before he becomes a danger to everyone around him.

From Peter Jackson, starring Timothy Balme, Diana Peñalver, Elizabeth Moody, Ian Watkin
Rated R

Dead Alive (also known as Braindead) is a 1992 horror-comedy film directed by Peter Jackson. The film follows Lionel, an awkward young man living in a small New Zealand town with his domineering mother. When his mother is bitten by a Sumatran Rat Monkey during an ill-fated zoo trip, Lionel must fight to protect himself and his friends from her increasingly violent zombie-like behaviour. With plenty of gory special effects, outrageous practical jokes, and hilarious one-liners, Dead Alive is a wild ride from start to finish. Along the way, Lionel discovers that love can triumph over even the most unspeakable horrors.

From Neil Jordan, starring Brad Pitt, Tom Cruise, Antonio Banderas, Kirsten Dunst
Rated R

Interview with the Vampire: The Vampire Chronicles is a 1994 American horror drama film directed by Neil Jordan, based on Anne Rice's 1976 novel of the same name. The film tells the story of two vampires, Louis de Pointe du Lac (Brad Pitt) and Lestat de Lioncourt (Tom Cruise), and their life together over the course of two centuries. Louis is reluctantly turned into a vampire by Lestat and their journey together leads them to Paris and a number of other exotic locations as they search for other immortals. The narrative also features a variety of supporting characters, including the vampire Claudia (Kirsten Dunst) and Louis’ human companion, Daniel Molloy (Christian Slater). The film explores themes of morality, immortality, and the true nature of evil.

From Directors: Steve Box, Nick Park, starring Peter Sallis, Helena Bonham Carter, Ralph Fiennes, Peter Kay
Rated G

Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit is a 2005 British stop-motion animated comedy film directed by Steve Box and Nick Park. The film follows inventor Wallace and his loyal canine companion Gromit as they attempt to solve the mystery of a giant rabbit that is destroying all the vegetables in the community of Tottington. With the assistance of Lady Tottington and the ominous Victor Quartermaine, Wallace and Gromit must battle to save the day. The film features a host of eccentric characters, humorous dialogue, and creative visual gags, providing viewers with a charming and lighthearted adventure.

From Jim Sharman, starring Tim Curry, Susan Sarandon, Barry Bostwick, Richard O'Brien
Rated R

From Directors: Tod Browning, Karl Freund, starring Bela Lugosi, Helen Chandler, David Manners, Dwight Frye
Rated Passed

From Tim Burton, starring Johnny Depp, Christina Ricci, Miranda Richardson, Michael Gambon
Rated R