As the nights grow longer and the chill of autumn sets in, Halloween is the perfect time to indulge in some terrifyingly good films. Why not ditch the parties and throw your own Halloween movie party complete with spooky snacks. Whether you're a fan of classic slashers, supernatural thrillers, or psychological horror, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a list of the best movies to watch this Halloween, packed with spine-tingling suspense, eerie atmospheres, and plenty of scares.

1. Halloween (1978)

Best for: Classic Slasher Fans

No Halloween movie marathon is complete without John Carpenter’s genre-defining masterpiece. Halloween follows the story of Michael Myers, an escaped mental patient who returns to his hometown to wreak havoc on Halloween night. The film’s eerie score, slow-building tension, and the iconic figure of the masked Myers make it an essential watch for horror lovers. This is the film that launched the slasher craze, and despite countless sequels and reboots, the original remains the best.

2. The Conjuring (2013)

Best for: Fans of Supernatural Horror

For those who enjoy their scares with a paranormal twist, The Conjuring is a modern horror classic. Directed by James Wan, the film is based on the real-life experiences of Ed and Lorraine Warren, famous paranormal investigators. The haunting of the Perron family is packed with jump scares, chilling moments, and a sinister atmosphere that builds dread throughout. The film spawned a successful horror universe, but the original is still the creepiest of them all.

3. Hocus Pocus (1993)

Best for: Family-Friendly Fun

Not all Halloween films need to be terrifying, and for a fun, family-friendly option, Hocus Pocus is a delightful choice. This cult classic tells the story of three wicked witches, played by Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy, who are accidentally resurrected on Halloween night. Full of charm, humour, and just the right amount of spooky vibes, it’s the perfect film to enjoy with kids or for a more light-hearted evening.

4. Hereditary (2018)

Best for: Psychological Horror Enthusiasts

Ari Aster’s debut feature Hereditary is an unsettling, disturbing film that lingers long after the credits roll. It begins as a family drama, but as secrets are unearthed and tragedy strikes, it evolves into one of the most psychologically harrowing horror films in recent memory. With outstanding performances, especially from Toni Collette, and a deeply creepy atmosphere, Hereditary is a must-watch for those who enjoy slow-burn horror with shocking twists.

5. The Shining (1980)

Best for: Fans of Psychological Terror and Cinematic Masterpieces

Stanley Kubrick’s adaptation of Stephen King’s novel The Shining is often regarded as one of the greatest horror films ever made. Jack Nicholson’s portrayal of Jack Torrance, a man slowly driven to madness while isolated in the haunted Overlook Hotel, is iconic. The film’s unsettling score, Kubrick’s masterful direction, and its atmospheric sense of dread make The Shining an essential Halloween viewing for horror buffs and cinephiles alike.

6. Scream (1996)

Best for: Fans of Meta-Horror and Whodunits

Wes Craven’s Scream revitalised the slasher genre with its clever, self-aware script and suspenseful plot. The movie opens with an unforgettable scene featuring Drew Barrymore and introduces Ghostface, one of the most recognisable killers in horror. Scream is both a love letter to and a critique of classic horror tropes, delivering thrills while keeping the audience guessing. It’s a perfect pick for those who enjoy scares mixed with sharp dialogue and plenty of twists.

7. The Witch (2015)

Best for: Fans of Slow-Burn, Atmospheric Horror

If you’re after a film that prioritises mood and dread over jump scares, The Witch is a chilling exploration of paranoia and fear. Set in 1630s New England, the film follows a Puritan family banished to the edge of a foreboding forest, where mysterious events begin to unfold. The film’s slow, deliberate pacing and eerie historical setting make it a haunting meditation on isolation and superstition. It’s perfect for viewers who like their horror rooted in folklore.

8. A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)

Best for: Dreamscape Horror Lovers

Freddy Krueger is one of horror’s most iconic villains, and A Nightmare on Elm Street introduced audiences to his terrifying dream-world antics. Directed by Wes Craven, the film centres on a group of teens who are hunted in their dreams by the vengeful Freddy. The concept of a killer who strikes when you’re most vulnerable—while you’re asleep—makes this film particularly terrifying. It’s a great pick for anyone who loves inventive horror with a supernatural edge.

9. Trick ‘r Treat (2007)

Best for: Anthology Horror Fans

For those who like their horror with a mix of stories, Trick 'r Treat is an anthology film that weaves together several Halloween-themed tales, all set on the same eerie night. From sinister neighbours to deadly trick-or-treaters, this underrated gem is packed with dark humour, clever twists, and an authentic Halloween atmosphere. It’s a film that feels tailor-made for the season, offering both frights and fun.

10. Get Out (2017)

Best for: Social Horror Lovers

Jordan Peele’s Get Out blends horror with biting social commentary, creating a film that’s as thought-provoking as it is terrifying. The story follows Chris, a young Black man, as he visits his white girlfriend’s seemingly perfect suburban family, only to discover that something deeply sinister is going on. With its psychological tension and unnerving atmosphere, Get Out taps into fears that are both personal and political, making it one of the most innovative horror films in recent years.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re in the mood for classic slashers, psychological terror, or supernatural thrills, there’s a Halloween movie for every kind of horror fan. From spine-tingling ghost stories to family-friendly witchcraft, this list of films offers something for everyone. So grab some popcorn, dim the lights, and settle in for a night of scares that will have you sleeping with the lights on.

Happy Halloween, and enjoy the chills! ?