Spooky (But Not Too Scary) Halloween Movies to Watch Now

“The Simpsons Treehouse of Horror”

There are currently 35 Treehouse of Horror episodes, the first of which aired in 1990. Each contains several short segments that are parodies of horror films. In true Simpsons style, the writing is hilarious and clever, and each episode will leave you laughing out loud. Stream on Disney+, rated TV-14 or TV-PG

“Ghostbusters”

There’s something strange, in the neighborhood. Who ya gonna call? Ghostbusters! Battle the supernatural in this classic with a team of scientists who lose their jobs at a university and decide to become “ghostbusters” (a natural career shift, of course). This movie isn’t exactly about Halloween, but it has enough ghosts and spooky stuff to make it an annual October must-watch since its release in 1984. Stream on Amazon Prime Video, rated PG

“Goosebumps”

Inspired by R.L. Stine’s best-selling books, this 2023 series follows a group of five high schoolers as they embark on a shadowy and twisted journey to investigate the tragic death three decades earlier of a teen named Harold Biddle – while also discovering dark secrets from their parents’ past. Get ready for lots of jump scares, laughs, and a possessed teacher. Stream on Disney+, rated TV-14

“Poltergeist”

This supernatural horror film follows the terrifying experiences of the Freeling family when their home is invaded by evil spirits who abduct their youngest daughter, Carol Anne. As they seek help to rescue her, they uncover the dark history of their suburban neighborhood and confront supernatural forces that threaten their lives. Believe it or not, this movie is only rated PG! Stream on Max, rated PG (really)

“Mr. Harrigan’s Phone”

A young boy named Craig befriends an elderly man, Mr. Harrigan, who leaves him a mysterious mobile phone after passing away. When Craig discovers he can communicate with Mr. Harrigan from beyond the grave, he unleashes a series of chilling events that blur the lines between life and death. Stream on Netflix, rated PG-13

“The Witches”

Based on the novel by Roald Dahl, this movie tells the story of a boy named Luke who encounters a group of witches led by the Grand High Witch, who plots to turn children into mice. With the help of his grandmother, he must outsmart the witches and stop their evil plans before it’s too late. In this 1990 version, Anjelica Huston plays the Grand High Witch, and it just might be the best casting of all time. Stream on Amazon Prime video, rated PG

“Return to Oz”

We are certainly not in Kansas anymore. In this 1985 dark fantasy movie, Dorothy returns to the magical land of Oz to find it in ruins and under the rule of the evil Nome King and the super creepy Wheelers. Joined by new friends like Tick-Tock, a mechanical man, and Jack Pumpkinhead, she goes on a quest to restore Oz and save her friends from danger. This movie is pretty weird, and starts with Dorothy being locked in a terrifying psychiatric facility. Yikes! Stream on Amazon Prime, rated PG

“Troll”

In the beautiful hills of Norway, a sleeping monster lies. When the troll is accidently awakened and heads to the city, chaos ensues as humans try and stop this ancient creature. This movie has a strong King Kong vibe, leaving you unsure who to root for — the humans, or the monster. Stream on Netflix, rated PG-13

“Wendell & Wild”

In this animated movie, two scheming demon brothers enlist the help of a resourceful girl named Kat to escape from the underworld. Together, they navigate a fantastical world filled with challenges, discovering friendship and redemption along the way. Stream on Netflix, rated PG-13

“I Am Legend”

In this post-apocalyptic thriller, Will Smith plays a scientist named Robert Neville who is the lone survivor in New York City after a viral outbreak turned humanity into monstrous mutants. This movie has some great, intense scenes and scary mutant humans who can’t get enough of growling and clawing at Robert and his dog. Stream on Amazon Prime Video, PG-13

“A Quiet Place”

Aliens have invaded Earth and only a few humans have survived. The aliens are blind, but have incredible hearing. As long as everyone stays silent, they are (relatively) safe. This movie is exciting with plenty of jump scares and creepy aliens without being overly violent. There is a sequel (A Quiet Place Part II) and a prequel (A Quiet Place: Day One) that are both fun and scary; but I recommend the original. Stream on Paramount+, rated PG-13

“M3gan”

Maybe it’s because I remember seeing the box for the movie “Chucky” at the video store when I was little (yes, I am 100 years old), but there is something so creepy about a doll. This movie leans into the creepy doll vibe and tells the story of a brilliant roboticist who creates an artificial intelligence doll named M3GAN designed to be a little girl’s best friend and protector. When the doll’s protective instincts turn deadly, she begins to eliminate perceived threats to her young owner, leading to chilling consequences. Stream on Amazon Prime Video, rated PG-13

“Arachnophobia”

This movie centers on a small town that becomes infested with deadly spiders after a rare species is accidently brought in by a photographer. As the spiders wreak havoc, local physician Dr. Ross Jennings must confront his severe fear of spiders to protect his community. Makes my skin crawl just thinking about it! Stream on Amazon Prime, rated PG-13

“Stranger Things”

If you are looking for something to watch with tweens and teens throughout the Halloween season and beyond, check out this show. When Mike and his friends meet a mysterious girl in the woods after their friend Will’s disappearance, they find themselves in the center of a supernatural battle. This popular show has plenty of laughs and heart, as well as monsters and an alternate dimension. What more could you want? Parents should know that this show gets a lot scarier with each season, so proceed with caution with younger viewers. Stream on Netflix, rated TV-14