We all know what the coming of October signifies–spooky season has officially arrived. This means it’s time to bust out the ghosts and ghouls, crash on sugar highs, and scare the living daylights out of either yourself or others. And there is no better way to do this than having a movie marathon to get your blood pumping. But, of course, I’m not just talking about slasher films like Texas Chainsaw or Paranormal Activity. I’m talking about films even fainthearted people can enjoy as well.
- Anything by Tim Burton
Tim Burton is the perfect theme because all of his movies are dark, funny, witty, and entertaining without being too scary. Therefore, he is ideal for movie nights with a family of Halloween-loving people who don’t like getting scared. Each of his pieces displays gothic and dark themes to make it Halloween-worthy, even if it is simply Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. My favorite movies that I recommend you make sure you watch are Corpse Bride, Beetlejuice, Edward Scissorhands, Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street, and Dark Shadows. You can never get enough Johnny Depp, Winona Ryder, or Helena Bonham Carter in your life, and these movies prove it.
- Child’s Play Series
Behold the original Annabelle that haunted everyone’s nightmares during the late 80s throughout the early 00s. That’s right, guys–I’m talking about Charles Lee Ray, AKA Chucky! If you’re into guts and gore mixed with a sick sense of humor, this franchise is for you. Not only do you feel a thrill while watching, but also a sense of worry as you wonder why you enjoy watching the violent series. Each installment flows effortlessly into the other, making viewers want more, which is why I just had to put the iconic mass murderer on the list.
- Halloweentown Series
Now for anyone born in the early 2000s, you know you can’t have Halloween without Disney’s Halloweentown. It’s practically a staple that no one’s getting rid of anytime soon. Gen Z-ers grew up with Marnie and the gang, and now that they’re all in college, it makes the last movie even more meaningful. By bingeing this series, you would not only be diving into the world of Halloween in a quirky manner but also going down memory lane, which is why if you’re a nostalgic person, this is the series for you.
- The Conjuring Series
If you’re a thrill-seeker not buying the Paranormal Activity series, I suggest you go for something more realistic. Something based on a true story like The Conjuring franchise that highlights Ed and Lorraine Warren’s insane and terrifying encounters. I mean, this series will leave you paranoid and craving more because they’re all true. Even the skeptics that watch the series enjoy it even though they don’t believe it, which is why I always rate this franchise a ten out of ten. I highly suggest you watch it in the dark for the best experience because that is where the demons thrive.
- Harry Potter Series
There is a reason why Freeform always does a Harry Potter marathon every year like clockwork (even in December). “You’re a wizard Harry” is an iconic line that triggers fans from all over the world because of the amazing magical world that spared no detail and possesses the most enticing friendships, romance, and adventures. Not only will this series have viewers laughing with such amusement, but also gripping their seats and crying with anticipation and sorrow because of how easy it is to get attached to all the characters. I recommend this to people who read and enjoyed books like Percy Jackson and the Last Olympian and The Chronicles of Narnia growing up. This series is also a go-to movie for people trying to reignite their childhood wonder with magic.
- Underworld Series
If you want a vampire versus werewolves movie that has a beautiful badass female lead, I suggest you watch the Underworld series. It’s like if The Matrix and The Vampire Diaries had a baby that lived in the apocalypse–and that’s attempting to simplify it. From the very beginning, this franchise ensnares viewers with its intricate action scenes, gang wars, special effects makeup, and a plotline that drives the story for five movies that go by fast. The series is not necessarily scary but it is gory, since the main character constantly has to fight for her and her loved ones’ lives. I highly recommend this if you’re into dark fantasy and dystopia.
- Anything by Stephen King
And last but certainly not least is the one and only Stephen King. If you are looking for a theme that would scare you but not try to traumatize you like The Conjuring severely, this man is the way to go. A marathon of his movies would have you scared, but to a degree that is entirely manageable. These films are perfect for people just trying to break into the horror genre. Don’t believe everything people say about his movies because, in my experience, they are indeed dark and scary, but they don’t strike fear that lingers. It’s more like a quick jump scare since his films make you think more than usual, like a thriller. My top picks from his repertoire are Carrie, IT (one and two), and A Good Marriage.
So, dim the lights, curl up on the couch in your favorite Halloween pajamas, and enjoy this list of spectacular horror movies before the season ends. You’ll have a blast–trust me.