If you’re planning the ultimate fright night, finding the best scary movies to watch on Halloween is the perfect way to set the mood. As spooky season takes over homes across the U.S., streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, Max, and Peacock are packed with classic slashers, supernatural thrillers, and new horror hits that promise chills and screams.
From terrifying haunted house stories to modern psychological horrors, 2025 offers a mix of timeless favorites and brand-new releases perfect for Halloween viewing. Whether you’re a fan of gore, suspense, or creepy ghost tales, there’s something on this list for every kind of horror lover.
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Why Horror Movies Are a Halloween Tradition
Halloween and horror movies go hand in hand. Since the early 20th century, people have gathered to enjoy films that explore fear, mystery, and the unknown. Watching scary movies during Halloween brings a sense of excitement, nostalgia, and community — even if it means sleeping with the lights on afterward.
This year, interest in horror movies has surged again. Data from Box Office Mojo shows that horror films made up nearly 15% of all ticket sales in 2025. Streaming platforms also report record-high views for horror titles during the Halloween season.
So, whether you’re planning a quiet movie night or hosting a Halloween marathon, here are the best scary movies to watch on Halloween this year.
Classic Horror Films That Never Get Old
Some horror films are timeless. They continue to terrify new generations decades after their release.
1. Halloween (1978)
No Halloween movie list is complete without the original Halloween directed by John Carpenter. Starring Jamie Lee Curtis as Laurie Strode, it follows the masked killer Michael Myers returning to his hometown on Halloween night. The suspenseful music and chilling atmosphere make it a must-watch every year.
2. The Exorcist (1973)
Often regarded as the scariest movie ever made, The Exorcist still has the power to shock. Its recent 50th anniversary re-release in 2023 brought the demonic horror classic back to theaters, and it remains a popular Halloween pick on Max.
3. A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)
Freddy Krueger’s razor-gloved hand haunts dreams and imaginations alike. This Wes Craven masterpiece combines supernatural terror with slasher thrills and remains a top pick for Halloween marathons.
4. Psycho (1960)
Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho introduced the world to Norman Bates and one of cinema’s most famous scenes — the shower attack. Even in 2025, this black-and-white thriller still delivers pure suspense.
5. The Shining (1980)
Stanley Kubrick’s adaptation of Stephen King’s novel remains a horror masterpiece. Jack Nicholson’s haunting performance and the eerie Overlook Hotel are perfect viewing for a dark Halloween night.
Modern Horror Favorites for a Fright-Filled Night
Modern horror has evolved, offering more psychological depth, diverse characters, and smarter storytelling. These recent films prove that the genre is as strong as ever.
1. Talk to Me (2023)
Produced by A24, this Australian horror film became a global hit for its shocking originality. A group of teens discovers a way to communicate with spirits through an embalmed hand, but the connection quickly turns deadly.
2. Smile (2022)
A modern psychological horror that mixes mystery and supernatural dread, Smile centers on a therapist haunted by an evil curse that makes its victims smile before dying. Its sequel, Smile 2 (2024), was another hit, making both ideal Halloween double features.
3. Barbarian (2022)
Set in Detroit, this Airbnb horror story delivers unpredictable twists and deep social commentary. It’s one of the most talked-about horror movies on Hulu this season.
4. The Black Phone (2022)
Featuring Ethan Hawke as a masked killer, this film blends crime, horror, and supernatural suspense. The chilling atmosphere and emotional storyline make it a standout.
5. Pearl (2022) and X (2022)
If you prefer period horror with a cinematic twist, Ti West’s Pearl and X are perfect choices. Both films connect to the same universe and explore fame, madness, and violence with stunning performances by Mia Goth.
New Horror Releases for Halloween 2025
This year has seen several exciting new releases that belong on every horror fan’s watchlist.
1. Longlegs (2024)
Directed by Oz Perkins, this dark thriller stars Nicolas Cage and Maika Monroe. It’s a mix of detective mystery and satanic horror that critics have called one of the most disturbing films in years.
2. The First Omen (2024)
A prequel to the 1976 classic The Omen, this film explores the origins of evil with intense visuals and powerful performances. It’s streaming now on Hulu and Disney+.
3. A Quiet Place: Day One (2024)
The third film in the A Quiet Place series takes viewers back to the first day of the alien invasion. With Lupita Nyong’o leading the cast, it’s a thrilling survival story packed with tension and emotion.
4. The Watchers (2024)
Directed by Ishana Night Shyamalan, daughter of M. Night Shyamalan, this eerie story follows a woman trapped in a mysterious forest watched by strange creatures. It’s perfect for fans of atmospheric horror.
5. Terrifier 3 (2025)
Released just in time for Halloween 2025, Terrifier 3 brings back the gruesome Art the Clown in a new Christmas-themed nightmare. Early reviews describe it as “brutal, shocking, and unrelenting” — ideal for hardcore horror fans.
Family-Friendly Halloween Scares
Not everyone wants blood and nightmares. For families or those who prefer lighter scares, these films bring spooky fun without the trauma.
1. Hocus Pocus (1993)
This Disney classic remains a family favorite. The Sanderson sisters, played by Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy, bring humor and magic to Halloween night.
2. Coraline (2009)
This stop-motion masterpiece from Laika Studios offers creepy visuals and a heartfelt story. It’s eerie enough for adults but safe for older kids.
3. Monster House (2006)
A haunted house comes to life in this animated film. It’s a great option for families wanting spooky fun without nightmares.
4. Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire (2024)
The latest Ghostbusters film, released earlier this year, continues the story of the Spengler family as they face a new supernatural threat in New York. It’s a perfect balance of nostalgia and new adventure.
Best Streaming Platforms for Halloween Horror in 2025
With so many streaming options available, horror fans have plenty of choices this Halloween.
- Netflix: The Conjuring 2, The Nun II, Gerald’s Game, and The Ritual.
- Hulu: The First Omen, Barbarian, Prey, and American Horror Story episodes.
- Peacock: Halloween Ends, Sick, and the original Child’s Play.
- Max: The Exorcist: Believer, It, Doctor Sleep, and Hereditary.
- Paramount+: A Quiet Place, Smile 2, and Scream VI.
Tip: Many platforms now offer curated “Halloween Collections,” making it easier to find the perfect scary movie for your mood.
How to Create the Perfect Halloween Movie Night
A great horror movie marathon is all about atmosphere. Here’s how to set the scene:
- Dim the lights or use candles for a creepy glow.
- Grab snacks — popcorn, caramel apples, and pumpkin spice treats.
- Invite friends for a horror double feature.
- Choose a mix of classics and new films to keep everyone entertained.
- End with a lighter film if you want to sleep peacefully afterward.
Whether you’re hosting a party or relaxing alone, the right lineup makes the night unforgettable.
Halloween 2025 is packed with incredible horror films — from chilling new releases to timeless classics. What are your favorite scary movies to watch on Halloween? Share your thoughts and movie recommendations in the comments below — we’d love to hear what gave you the biggest scare this year!