Halloween movies are some of the most iconic holiday movies ever produced. Horror movies can be associated with the holiday, but have you ever wondered what movies are made in recognition of Halloween? More importantly, what movies are the classical Halloween movies? Here are a few “OG” Halloween movies to binge on movie night with friends or family for the rest of October!
Halloween (1978)
Micahel Myers is one of the original Halloween monsters who people dress up as and watch him kill on Halloween night. The first Halloween movie occurs in 1963 when a mentally disturbed Michael Myers escapes a mental institution after murdering his sister on Halloween night. The franchise has 13 total films and is widespread amongst Americans who love a good scare. The first movie premiered in 1978, and we’ve since seen Myers on our screens since, the most recent film in the series being in 2021.
Hocus Pocus (1993)
Siri, play “I Put A Spell On You” by Nina Simone. Walt Disney Pictures knows how to produce popular Halloween classics. Hocus Pocus is a gem that continues to be a hit even after its premiere in 1993. The iconic songs, comedic dialogue and talking Black cat — we love a good Salem witch story. The Sanderson sisters take the souls of children to regenerate their youth. On one fateful Halloween, a group of children that moved to Salem, Massachusetts, awaken the sisters after their death in 1693. If you haven’t watched this brilliant film — what are you waiting for? Also, the second “Hocus Pocus” movie is now on Disney Plus alongside the first!
The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Tim Burton movies are easily well-known and loved by many, with unique characters and story plots one can hardly miss. While The Nightmare Before Christmas could be considered a Christmas movie from the title and storyline, many enjoy it during October because of its Halloween characters and horror ambiance. The movie combines two of the most loved holidays of the year. This adventurous, animated movie will explore the Pumpkin King himself, Jack Skellington’s longing to bring happiness and joy during the Christmas holidays, but his Halloween-loving nature deplores him from experiencing new things.
It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (1966)
It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown is classified as a TV movie that is only 25 minutes long, but still a classic Halloween film. Our parents grew up watching the Charlie Brown specials on CBS, and luckily, later generations witnessed the entertaining and funny series. The short movie is a timeless classic featuring fun adventures from Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and the whole Peanut gang as they prepare for Halloween festivities.
Halloweentown (1998)
Halloweentown is a Disney channel original movie and an iconic staple from many of us who loved Disney Channel growing up. Witches, ghouls, goblins, ghosts, and vampires all live in a separate world from humans, and 13-year-old Marnie discovers this fascinating world through a secret portal. She also realizes she is a witch like her grandmother and mother and must battle evil forces trying to take over Halloweentown. This primetime movie could be considered one of Disney Channel’s greatest hits. In my book, it is.