Horror movies to watch on Halloween! From genuinely terrifying to laugh-out-loud comedies
Scary but funny, chilling yet giggle-worthy… Scary from start to finish! Here are some horror movies with that mysterious charm.
We’ve gathered films that blend horror and comedy in a perfect balance—just what you want to enjoy during the Halloween season.
Even if you’re easily scared, there are movies with unique worlds that let you soften the fear with laughter.
Watch with friends and the fun multiplies! Spend a special Halloween with horror films that make you laugh and shiver!
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Horror Movies to Watch on Halloween! From Truly Terrifying to Laugh-Out-Loud Comedies (21–30)
Little Shop of HorrorsFrank Oz
This is a classic, humor-filled musical horror film made in 1986 that became a hit.
Rick Moranis delivers a light, deft performance as the timid protagonist Seymour, the man-eating plant “Audrey II” has a somewhat comical design, and the irresistibly catchy music flows throughout—making it a perfect choice to spice up a Halloween party.
In fact, this film is based on a stage musical from 1982, which itself adapted a 1960 movie by legendary producer-director Roger Corman.
Incidentally, the musical was created by the team of Alan Menken and Howard Ashman, who would later be tapped to lead Disney’s feature animation renaissance.
Charlie and the Chocolate FactoryTim Burton
Alongside The Nightmare Before Christmas, this is one of the most perfectly Halloween-suited films among works associated with Tim Burton.
While its story isn’t Halloween-themed, the costume design—nominated at the 78th Academy Awards—is truly remarkable, and the characters’ outfits are highly popular as classic Halloween costumes.
The fashion worn by Johnny Depp, a frequent collaborator in Burton’s films—top hat, cane, tailcoat, and gloves—is so iconic that many people have seen it even if they don’t know the original source.
And as recently as 2018, a Halloween costume inspired by Violet Beauregarde—a girl character known for her blonde bob and a certain striking scene in the film—went viral online and became a hot topic.
cabinDrew Goddard
If you hear just the elements—college students, a vacation, a run-down mountain cabin—any horror fan will think, “Ah, that old chestnut.” The Cabin in the Woods uses those classic setups while unfolding in its own unique way.
Directed by Drew Goddard, a highly regarded screenwriter who penned episodes in Season 1 of the hit TV series LOST, it’s a film whose clever plotting will make horror lovers grin.
Saying too much would spoil the fun, so I’ll keep it brief, but if you’re hosting a Halloween party with guests who like horror to some extent, this is a perfect pick to watch together while predicting where the story will go.
Child’s PlayTom Holland
It’s a horror film series whose first installment was released in 1988.
Best known for Chucky, this movie features a killer who transfers his soul into a doll and attacks people.
The sight of a cute doll brandishing weapons with a terrifying expression is deranged, and I think it’s a horror film not meant for children.
ScreamWes Craven
Not only did Wes Craven create blockbuster series like A Nightmare on Elm Street, he also worked on films adored as cult horror in certain circles, such as The Last House on the Left and The Hills Have Eyes, earning him renown as one of the Masters of Horror.
Alongside A Nightmare on Elm Street, another globally popular work Craven created is the Scream series! As the title suggests, it features horror scenes that would make anyone squeamish let out a scream, and it became a massive hit thanks to its clever setups that make fans of classic slasher tropes grin with recognition.
The killer’s Halloween mask spawned countless parodies and has become a staple costume at Halloween parties.
There may even be people cosplaying it without realizing it’s a character from this movie.
A Nightmare on Elm StreetWes Craven
This film, released in the United States in 1984, has an unrealistic premise—being attacked in a dream leaves wounds in reality—but I still think it’s one of the great horror movies.
It compellingly portrays Nancy’s frustration as no one believes her about the nightmares caused by Freddy, making it very engaging to watch.
There was also an attraction at Universal Studios Japan during Halloween, and that was great too.
Scary MovieKeenen Ivory Wayans
A staple comedy for B-movie fans, Scary Movie.
It’s a popular film that parodies a host of classics, starting with Scream.
With many entries in the series, each sequel chases different films, so it never gets old—making it irresistible for movie lovers.
After getting spooked by the originals, watch this and laugh your fears away!