Spooky season is here, and with it comes cozy nights, all things pumpkin spice, and movie marathons. Halloween movies are the best way to get into the trick-or-treat mood, so I have put together my recommendations for all of you who are ready to get into the holiday spirit!
Family Friendly
Hocus Pocus (1993)
Hocus Pocus is one of the Halloween movie staples and if you haven’t seen it, I definitely recommend it. Additionally, while I personally haven’t watched the newly released sequel, I trust is as good as the first one.
Beetlejuice (1988)
Beetlejuice is one of my favorite Halloween movies. It might be an oldie but it is gold, funny, entertaining, with a hint of spooky. I think we’ve all tried the “Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice!” at least once, right? Or is that just me? lol.
The Addams Family (1991)
The Addams Family is one of the most iconic Halloween-like movies there are. Memorable quotes, Wednesday’s classic look, and rather odd family traditions; it has it all. Also, can we appreciate how madly in love Morticia and Gomez are? Goals honestly!
Classics
Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
Freddy Krueger is one of the horror characters we all think about when we think of scary and terrifying. He invades your dreams and well, there is no escape. If you haven’t seen any of these films and you’re looking to get spooked, you definitely should!
Scream (1996)
Scream is one of those movies that had me say “omg!” out loud, and with that plot twist who wouldn’t! It’s scary, creepy, and a great movie if you want some horror in your movie night. Fun fact: it was made as a satire of horror films, and became one of the most famous scary movies ever.
Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975)
Although this musical isn’t scary, it is so iconic it has gained a cult following with showings being done in many theaters around Halloweentime. It’s weird, and the songs are so catchy, so what’s not to love? Also, the student association from UPRM, Cinematheque, will be hosting a RHPS showing for Halloween, you can’t miss it!
Enjoy this ♫ science fiction double feature ♫
Monsters
The Lost Boys (1987)
Vampires? In the 80’s? Sign. Me. Up! Vampires are one of the most loved horror creatures when it comes to movies and literature, so it was impossible not to include this movie. The wardrobe, the music, it all screams 80’s in the best way possible, it’s a must watch.
A Quiet Place (2018)
This movie had me at the edge of my seat at the movies! It is so suspenseful I did not utter a word while watching it. It’s scary, tense, and a great film that will probably leave you not wanting to make a loud noise ever again.
Pan’s Labyrinth (2006)
This movie by Guillermo del Toro is nothing short of a masterpiece. Although it’s not your typical Halloween movie, it’s scary, and the dark fantasy tones are perfect for this season. If you haven’t seen it, I definitely recommend adding it to your watchlist.
animated
Coraline (2009)
Raise your hand if this movie scared the heck out of you when you were a kid! This movie is a beautifully made concoction of odd, fun, and terrifying. Coraline excels in it’s stunning details, and it’s simply one of the best animated movies ever. Definitely worth a watch. Or twenty.
Monster House (2006)
Another great animated movie to get into the Halloween season is Monster House. It’s funny in an early teenager kind of way, but that doesn’t stop it from being very, very creepy at times. If you’re looking for more animated movies to watch during this time, check it out.
Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Last but not least, we have *the* Halloween movie. This timeless film is as beautiful as it is entertaining, and it’s a masterpiece of stop-motion animation. The music pieces are hauntingly stunning, and the story is a lovely one. Some people may argue that it’s a Christmas movie, but to them I say: Why not both?