Enjoy Halloween without the horror: 15 movies to watch
My supervisor harbors a disdain for Halloween, and annually grapples with selecting films that align with the festive spirit sans the frightful aftermath. Frankly, I'm weary of recommending the same flicks each year, hence compiling this list for her convenience. (Bosses appreciate that, don’t they?)
Indeed, Megan, this compilation is dedicated to you.
Moreover, it serves all the Megans out there—those who grimace at the sight of pricey candy assortments, who recoil when the TV schedule is overrun with endless “Halloween” film marathons, and who would rather endure a pinprick than venture into a costume shop.
Call them Halloween skeptics. Label them horror-averse. Dub them void of merriment. Yet, they too deserve cinematic enjoyment! (A few of these films were crafted by Warner Bros. Pictures, a sibling to CNN under the Warner Bros. Discovery umbrella.) So, without further ado:
"Hubie Halloween" A quirky Adam Sandler gem about a social pariah who conquers his fears to rescue his community. In short: It’s bizarrely delightful.
"Hocus Pocus" An annual classic for those who cherish nostalgia and Sarah Jessica Parker outside NYC, with a 2022 sequel for an additional treat.
"Practical Magic" Featuring Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman as enchantingly coiffed witch sisters. Need I elaborate?
"Labyrinth" This 1986 Jim Henson masterpiece boasts David Bowie’s magical tunes, a determined Jennifer Connelly, and whimsically endearing animatronics. Caution: avoid if puppets unsettle you.
"Harry Potter" Relive the inaugural Halloween at Hogwarts in "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone," or select any installment for enchanting smiles, not screams.
"Zombieland" Before her Oscar triumphs, Emma Stone schooled us on surviving a zombie apocalypse in this 2009 comedy.
"Rocky Horror Picture Show" A must for musical aficionados who adore Tim Curry (guilty as charged).
"The Batman" In the mood for a brooding Robert Pattinson but over the "Twilight Saga"? Try this 2022 Matt Reeves creation featuring the Dark Knight.
"Legally Blonde" Perfect for those who, like Elle Woods, opt for alluring over alarming costumes at parties.
"Mean Girls" Tailored for the Cady Herons who arrive in frightful rather than flirty attire.
"Halloweentown" An excellent choice if you miss Debbie Reynolds (and your youth) as much as we do. Fun tidbit: Leading lady Kimberly J. Brown is wed to "Halloweentown II" star Daniel Kountz. Adorable, isn’t it?
"E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial" No alien has ever donned a ghost costume more adorably. Keep tissues handy for the inevitable emotional swell.
"Sabrina the Movie" Indulge in this nostalgic piece starring Melissa Joan Hart as the original teenage witch with a young Ryan Reynolds.
"Double Double Toil and Trouble" Millennials are cheering, not from fear, but due to the joy this iconic Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen film evokes from their youth.
"Casper" A heartwarming ghost tale, featuring “Addams Family” alum Christina Ricci.
