October is well underway, and the most fashion-forward holiday is upon us. But Halloween isn’t just about the costumes. It is about the entire aesthetic of eerie lighting, trick-or-treating, and the thrill from cinematic masterpieces. Since today is October 13th–a day known for scary superstitions–it felt kismet to kick off a Halloween movie countdown to […]
10 min.
October is well underway, and the most fashion-forward holiday is upon us. But Halloween isn’t just about the costumes. It is about the entire aesthetic of eerie lighting, trick-or-treating, and the thrill from cinematic masterpieces. Since today is October 13th–a day known for scary superstitions–it felt kismet to kick off a Halloween movie countdown to get into the spooky spirit.
From horrors to classics, we’ve made a list of 18 Halloween movies to watch every night leading up to October 31. This list has a movie for everyone, from family Halloween movies to classic comedies to haunting horror films.
Start your movie marathon with light-hearted favorites like Hocus Pocus or Ghostbusters, and as the days tick down, dive into more chilling picks like The Shining or It. And if you’re just here for the fashion, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. With picks like The Rocky Horror Picture Show and Cruella, some campy costume inspiration comes to life through iconic theatrical style.
So grab your popcorn, gather your favorite trick-or-treat candies, and bundle up with a cozy blanket as you get ready to watch the best Halloween movies to spook up your season. Let the movie marathon countdown begin!
Halloweentown
To start off the Halloween movies countdown, we have the classic Disney movie, Halloweentown. This movie is a family favorite, combining Halloween magic, a dash of childhood nostalgia, and a potion of cozy fall vibes. This film is perfect for cozying up in your pajamas and enjoying fall treats. And who knows, maybe you’ll find out you too come from a family of witches–eek!
Watch On: Disney+, Hulu, or Amazon Prime Video
Not Rated
The Addams Family
The Addams Family is a timeless film to watch with your family this season. The quirky and morbid Addams celebrate a supportive family unit despite their eccentric, comedic interests. Due to this family dynamic that made cinematic history in the nineties, this film has many sequels and spin-offs like the Netflix hit Wednesday that continues The Addams Family tradition. If you feel like spicing it up on night two of the L’OFFICIEL Halloween movies marathon, check out some of the sequels and spin-offs after you stream the original.
Watch On: Paramount+, Apple TV, or Amazon Prime Video
Rated PG-13
Scooby-Doo
Keeping the theme lighthearted for mid-October, dive into the mysterious universe of Scooby-Doo. From eerie investigative storylines to plenty of costume inspiration, this hilariously haunted film checks all the boxes. Scooby-Doo’s themes of monsters and ghosts make it a perfect fall watch this Halloween season.
Watch On: Hulu (Premium), HBO MAX, Apple TV, or Amazon Prime Video
Rated PG
Girl vs. Monster
Family Halloween movies are essential for getting into the spooky spirit, and Girl vs. Monster checks all the boxes. This Disney throwback–and let’s face it, prime Disney Channel–will get you feeling adventurous, and who knows, maybe inspire a binge of Disney’s best Halloween episodes. But whatever this movie channels for you, it is a great way to get a mix of magic and adventure as we begin the transition to scarier films.
Watch On: Disney+, Hulu (Premium), or Amazon Prime Video
Not Rated
Coraline
This dark animated film bridges the magical line between cute and creepy. Coraline taps into the fear of being forgotten and trusting someone who ultimately ends up hurting you. These complex themes are emphasized by the perturbed horror in the film, yet all of this is covered up with a whimsical vision sprinkled in. Many associate Coraline with their gateway to horror films because of the horrific, visual motifs of button eyes and spiderwebs, making a memorable impression.
Watch On: Tubi, Apple TV, or Amazon Prime Video
Rated PG
Corpse Bride
Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride features his signature gothic aesthetic in this romantic, ghostly classic. The stop motion film has many heartwarming, yet comic moments, focusing on the love triangle between Victor, Victoria, and Emily, making this one of the vital family Halloween movies. From the catchy soundtrack to impeccable Halloween costume inspiration, this film is an ideal way to get into the Halloween spirit, especially if you like romance.
Watch On: Hulu (Premium), HBO MAX, Peacock, Apple TV, or Amazon Prime Video
Rated PG
Beetlejuice
If you’re in need of a good laugh during this haunted season, Beetlejuice is the film to watch. This cult classic blends a spooky aesthetic with dark humor to make it the ideal Halloween comedy. Michael Keaton’s eccentrically wild portrayal of Beetlejuice to Winona Ryder’s curiously abnormal depiction of Lydia Deetz add to the supernatural elements of the story. And if you’re in for a long night, follow it up by watching the sequel, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, to add a dash more of wicked humor into your night.
Watch On: Hulu (Premium), HBO MAX, Apple TV, or Amazon Prime Video
Rated PG
Ghostbusters
Ghostbusters has the ultimate combination of comedy and action to delve into in our countdown. With its iconic theme song and thrilling ghost-fighting adventures, this classic is a ghost-tastic mix of spooky and fun. With numerous sequels and spin-offs, this franchise provides a wide range of films to choose from.
Watch On: Peacock, Apple TV, or Amazon Prime Video
Rated PG
Hocus Pocus
The pure Halloween energy of Hocus Pocus will not leave you disappointed, marking the midway point to Halloween. The Sanderson sisters, played by Sarah Jessica Parker, Kathy Najimy, and Bette Midler, deliver memorable performances that create the appealing charm of the film. The witchy nostalgia and humor truly make the film “amok, amok, amok!”
Watch On: Disney+, Apple TV, or Amazon Prime Video
Rated PG
Cruella
We finally made it to fashion! You have waited long enough! Cruella delivers the villain origin story of Cruella de Vil from 101 Dalmatians. This live-action prequel, starring Emma Stone, has gothic, punk-rock flair and campy, exaggerated fashion. Set in 1970s London, the costume designer Jenny Beavan chose to offer rebellion in her designs by taking inspiration from iconic punk designers like Vivienne Westwood and Alexander McQueen. Fans associate this film to Halloween for its villain origin story, dark gothic feel, and themes of revenge.
Watch On: Disney+, Apple TV, or Amazon Prime Video
Rated PG-13
The Rocky Horror Picture Show
The Rocky Horror Picture Show is a classic Halloween movie that brings fans together at local theaters for audience participation screenings. This tradition of shouting back at the screen, dressing in costume, and having props while watching with friends is a long-standing ritual that takes place all over the U.S. in October! The movie, which explores themes of sexual liberation and self-identity, is an absolute hit thanks to its soundtrack, costumes, and cult energy, all delivered in true theatrical style. However, you don’t have to attend a screening event if that isn’t your jam. You can stream at home and experience the film in your own way.
Watch On: Disney+, Hulu, Apple TV, or Amazon Prime Video
Rated R
Jennifer’s Body
Megan Fox and Amanda Seyfried bring hot girl horror to our screens in Jennifer’s Body. The feminist subtext and focus on the male gaze protect the appreciation for women in horror while blending typical horror tropes with comedy and drama. This film is perfect if you want to view a horror comedy with subtexts of femininity and queerness.
Watch On: Disney+, Hulu, Tubi, Apple TV, or Amazon Prime Video
Rated R
Scream
Scream, which revitalized the slasher genre, is a classic horror mystery film. Initially released in the 90s, the franchise continues to be a hit today, with its seventh movie releasing in 2026. The film itself deconstructs horror by poking fun at the genre’s typical conventions. Scream’s most notable costume comes from the villain Ghostface, who wears a black hooded robe with a skull-like mask that is distorted with black eyes and mouth: Simple, but effective. If you wanna watch a cult classic with some witty humor, Scream is the way to go.
Watch On: Disney+, Hulu, Peacock, Paramount+, Apple TV, or Amazon Prime Video
Rated R
Carrie
Carrie is a Halloween movie that explores the psychological horror of vengeance from the female lead character, Carrie. The film features iconic imagery, such as Carrie as prom queen, dripping with blood from head to toe, and in between, drenched in her minimalistic silk gown. The horror-mystery film is both eerie and emotionally charged, drawing you deeper into the Halloween horrors of the season.
Watch On: MGM+, AMC+, Apple TV, or Amazon Prime Video
Rated R
The Shining
You can’t do a Halloween movie marathon without diving into the world of Stephen King’s The Shining. This slow-burning scare is one of the most iconic horror films of all time. Stanley Kubrick brings the concept of dread in isolation to the screen in this psychological horror. And chilling imagery that is still recognizable today, like the elevator filled with blood or the twin Grady sisters‘ uncanny, in-sync movements. With only a few days left until Halloween, this movie is sure to get you spooked for the days ahead.
Watch On: Hulu (Premium), HBO MAX, Apple TV, or Amazon Prime Video
Rated R
Psycho
Considered one of the first modern-day horror films, Psycho is a classic psychological horror movie. With iconic slasher clips like the shower scene, this movie began the foundation of the slasher genre leading the way for movies like Scream. Wrap up your countdown with the black-and-white horror film that started it all, for a taste of vintage terror.
Watch On: Peacock, AMC+, Apple TV, or Amazon Prime Video
Rated R
American Psycho
American Psycho is a stylish horror comedy starring Christian Bale. The disturbing film features the attractive and successful Patrick Bateman having a double life as a narcissistic serial killer. With obsessive compulsive disorder and a thrill for murder, the mind of Bateman is a chilling world that the audience is living in. The film is a Halloween staple, offering a more realistic horror experience compared to other films in the genre. If you’re ready for a frightening experience, watch American Psycho the night before Hallows’ Eve.
Watch On: Hulu (Premium), Peacock, Paramount+, Apple TV, or Amazon Prime Video
Rated R
It
We have made it to the end of our countdown, which means spooky spirits, spine-chilling terror, and jump scares are at an all-time high. We are ending our ultimate Halloween movie countdown with pure fear, red motifs, and a certain clown I promise you won’t forget. It focuses on an evil, murderous Pennywise the clown emerging from the sewers to prey on children. This terror-filled movie is a perfect way to lead your Halloween night, with heart-pounding fears and jump scares that will keep you clenching the edge of your blanket.
Watch On: Hulu (Premium), HBO MAX, Apple TV, or Amazon Prime Video
Rated R
