As October rolls around, Halloween movie nights become a tradition for many students and families. From horror classics to family friendly favorites, these films help capture the excitement and spirit of the season. Whether you prefer something scary, funny, or nostalgic, here are a few must-watch movies to make the most of this spooky holiday season.
Halloween 1978: Made by Director John Carpenter, Halloween is considered one of the most influential horror movies ever made. It introduced audiences to Michael Myers, an escaped killer who returns to his hometown on Halloween night. This film’s low-budget production and iconic score allowed it to shape the slasher genre.
Movie Cover for Halloween 1978, April 2023, https://images.plex.tv/photo?size=large-1280&url=https%3A%2F%2Fmetadata-static.plex.tv%2Fc%2Fgracenote%2Fc990f672e727f896bb52529043bec1c0.jpg, Accessed 15 October 2025
Hocus Pocus 1993: Released by Disney in 1993, Hocus Pocus has become one of the most recognizable Halloween films. It follows three witch sisters resurrected in modern-day Salem, Massachusetts, as they attempt to regain their youth. The movie combines comedy, fantasy, and light horror, appealing to both kids and adults.
Movie Cover for Hocus Pocus, https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/hocuspocus/images/4/47/Hocus_Pocus_poster_2.jpg/revision/latest/scale-to-width-down/1200?cb=20220911122635, Accessed 15 October 2025
Hotel Transylvania 2012: This animated comedy follows Count Dracula who runs a luxury hotel for monsters while trying to protect his daughter from the human world. This film blends humor with themes of acceptance and family, making it an excellent watch for younger viewers. Its success led to three sequels and a television series, demonstrating its lasting popularity.
Movie Cover for Hotel Transylvania,
https://m.media-amazon.com/images/M/MV5BMTM3NjQyODI3M15BMl5BanBnXkFtZTcwMDM4NjM0OA@@._V1_FMjpg_UX1000_.jpg, Accessed 15 October 2025
Tim Burton: The Nightmare Before Christmas 1993:
Directed by Henry Selick and produced by Tim Burton, this film uniquely blends Halloween and Christmas themes through stop motion animation. The film follows Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloweentown, who discovers Christmas Town and decides to take over the holiday. Its original story, memorable music by Danny Elfman, and animation style earned it a lasting fan base.
Movie Cover for Tim Burtons: The Nightmare Before Christmas,
https://m.media-amazon.com/images/M/MV5BNmYxOTAzZWYtOGI3Yi00ODc3LTk5ZjYtZTY0MzVkZTg3YmRiXkEyXkFqcGc@._V1_.jpg, Accessed 15 October 2025
From horror icons to animated favorites, Halloween movies continue to bring people together through stories that celebrate fear, fun, and imagination. No matter your age or taste, there’s always a film ready to make this October a little more special.
