Spooktacularly Sweet: Halloween Movies for the Not-So-Brave

By Lameese Smaili on October 15, 2024
credit: Lameese Smaili

Hollywood has a vast selection of creepy, spooky, Halloween-appropriate movies to choose from… none of which my weak soul can delve into. As someone who jumps at the sight of her own shadow, I tend to shy away from a film with jump scares or gruesome scenes. If you’re weak like me but still want to enjoy the Halloween spirit, these movies are for you. So grab your piping-hot mug of cocoa and a blanket and get watching.

The Harry Potter series

There’s just something magical about diving into the wizarding world as the leaves start to fall and Halloween approaches. The cozy, candlelit scenes at Hogwarts, the enchanting adventures, and the thrilling tales of friendship and bravery make it a fantastic binge-watch for those chilly nights. Plus, with all the magical creatures and spooky moments, it really captures that autumnal vibe. Whether you’re re-watching them or discovering them for the first time, they’re like a warm blanket—ideal for getting into the October spirit! I’m ashamed to say, I can basically recite all the lines at this point, especially Severus Snape’s.

The Addams Family

The Addams Family is such a perfect pick for October! It’s got that wonderfully spooky vibe that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside, thanks to the delightfully eccentric Addams clan. With their creepy mansion, dark humor, and love for all things macabre, it totally captures the spirit of Halloween without being too scary. Plus Gomez, Morticia, and the kids are just hilarious and charming. I was obsessed with the kind of passionate love that Gomez has for Morticia when I was younger. It’s the kind of movie that’ll make you appreciate the weird and wonderful in life.

Hocus Pocus

Hocus Pocus has everything you want for a cozy fall night: a sprinkle of magic, a dash of nostalgia, and a whole lot of Halloween spirit. The story of the hilarious Sanderson sisters trying to reclaim their youth in modern-day Salem is both funny and a little spooky, making it perfect for all ages. Plus, the iconic performances and catchy songs will have you singing along. Watching it feels like a warm hug, making it the perfect pick as the leaves change and Halloween approaches!

credit: Lameese Smaili

The Nightmare Before Christmas

This movie perfectly straddles the line between Halloween and Christmas, making it a great pick for that cozy, transitional vibe of fall. With its catchy songs and stunning stop-motion animation, the film brings Jack Skellington’s whimsical yet spooky world to life in such a charming way. Plus, the themes of identity and embracing your uniqueness resonate with everyone. Whether you’re enjoying it as a Halloween treat or getting a jumpstart on Christmas spirit, it’s just a blast to watch!

Beetlejuice

Beetlejuice has that perfect mix of quirky humor and spooky vibes. With its wild characters, especially the eccentric Beetlejuice himself, and the imaginative afterlife scenes, it’s both creepy and entertaining. The film’s offbeat style and Tim Burton’s signature aesthetic create a wonderfully weird atmosphere that gets you in the mood for all things spooky. I watched the recent remake in theaters, not expecting to like it, but ended up loving it. It was so cool seeing Winona Ryder in Beetlejuice again, and let’s not forget about Monica Belluci who barely spoke but still bewitched my soul with her beauty.


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