Sure, these titles work year round, but they glow brightest when the season makes them feel at home. Like pumpkins on a doorstep, they fit perfectly after a long evening of trick-or-treating. Here’s a carefully chosen lineup of favorites to curl up with for a cozy Halloween viewing session in North America.
CORPSE BRIDE
“In other news… THE DEAD WALK THE EARTH!” – Town Crier. Tim Burton’s stop-motion world fuses romance with macabre humor, delivering visually striking scenes that captivate viewers of all ages. The Town Crier’s quip sets a playful, eerie tone, inviting households to settle in for a night where whimsy meets a touch of chill. The film’s gothic atmosphere and meticulous craftsmanship create a mood that feels simultaneously romantic and spooky, making it a versatile starter for family movie nights that drift toward the uncanny.
THE DARK CRYSTAL
What was sundered and undone shall be whole – the two made one. – Aughra. This lavish puppet fantasy invites audiences into a richly imagined cosmos where myth and quest intertwine. Its physical artistry and sweeping journey offer a slower, contemplative thrill that resonates with viewers who crave immersive worlds. The Dark Crystal provides a grounding contrast to lighter Halloween fare, making it ideal for a deeper, friends-and-family viewing session that still carries a distinct eerie pulse.
THE NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS
“There’s children throwing snowballs / instead of throwing heads / they’re busy building toys / and absolutely no one’s dead!” – Jack Skellington. The stop-motion musical blends Halloween mischief with Christmas whimsy and infectious songs. Its clever humor, vibrant visuals and clever wordplay appeal to households across Canada and the US seeking a family-friendly title with a splash of festive fright. It’s easy to rewatch year after year, each viewing revealing new details in a timeless, quirky world.
THE HAUNTED MANSION
“Dark spirits? Hey, no dark spirits! Don’t you make no dark spirits come out!” – Jim. Disney’s live-action adventure leans into spooky charm without pushing into genuine dread. The film blends light suspense with playful gags and likable characters, making it a reliable choice for a relaxed Halloween night. It pairs well with candy and conversations, offering a comfortable bridge between whimsy and a hint of the supernatural.
WALLACE AND GROMIT: THE CURSE OF THE WERE-RABBIT
“Veg bad. Veg bad. Veg bad. Say no to carrots, cabbage and cauliflower.” – Wallace. This animated caper leans into quintessential British whimsy and cheeky suspense, delivering family-friendly laughs with clever physical comedy and a dash of mystery. The film’s brisk pacing and charmingly odd characters create a warm, giggle-filled mood that’s perfect for kids and adults alike on a dress-up Halloween night.
ERNEST SCARED STUPID
“You’d better stay away. I know jujitsu, kung fu, karate, tai chi, and I saw “HULKAMANIA” three times. Once in slow-mo.” – Ernest. A goofy horror comedy that defined a late-90s vibe, it offers silly frights, big-hearted humor, and goofy monsters. It’s a crowd-pleaser that keeps energy high, balancing goofy scares with moments of genuine kindness, ideal for a lighthearted family gathering after a long candy haul.
IT’S THE GREAT PUMPKIN, CHARLIE BROWN
“I got a rock.” – Charlie Brown. The evergreen special embodies autumnal nostalgia with gentle humor and touching candor. It provides a calm, nostalgic counterpoint to louder fright fare, making it a perfect choice for younger viewers or anyone wanting a soothing corner of Halloween that feels timeless and comforting during chilly evenings.
GREMLINS
“Tell me something, Billy. How come a cute little guy like this can turn into a thousand ugly monsters?” – Sheriff Frank. A mischievous blend of humor and tension, this film balances cheeky scares with comic relief, appealing to tweens and older kids who can handle a bit more edge. It’s a clever reminder that a curious creature and a chaotic night can coexist with wit and style.
BEETLEJUICE
“I’ve been reading that book and there’s a word for people in our situation: ghosts.” – Adam. A cult favorite that revels in supernatural mischief, Beetlejuice pairs irreverent humor with offbeat fright. Its stylish, anarchic energy makes it a standout choice for grown-ups and teens looking for something daring, playful, and a little bit wicked on Halloween night.
GHOSTBUSTERS
“You know, it just occurred to me that we really haven’t had a successful test of this equipment.” – Ray. This iconic comedy blends smart banter with ghostly misadventure, delivering laughs and a sense of shared wonder. It remains a reliable crowd-pleaser for groups, offering approachable scares and memorable lines that echo through many North American Halloween marathons.