1). Hocus Pocus
Kicking off this list is Halloween fan-favourite, Hocus Pocus, starring Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy as Winifred, Sarah, and Mary Sanderson – three (accidentally) resurrected Salem witches. Awakened after 300-years, the witches vow to terrorise the town and reclaim their youth. Hocus Pocus is the perfect cosy watch for those who want to embrace the Halloween spirit without facing the season’s typical heart-pounding scares.
2). Coraline
I’m being deadly serious when I say this might be the scariest film on the list. I still remember the first time I watched Caroline, sorry, Coraline as a child – I have never been able look at buttons the same way since. Despite being aimed at children, this delightfully creepy film is just as entertaining for adults. It’s breath-taking stop-motion and thoughtful storytelling has established Coraline as a modern classic.
3). What We Do In The Shadows
What We Do In The Shadows comes from the minds of Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement. It is a mockumentary film following three vampires navigating the complexities of modern living. These vamps aren’t the stony, Dracula-esque vampires we’re all familiar with. Instead, What We Do In The Shadows asks the age-old question: what if vampires were real, total losers, and shared a flat in New Zealand’s suburbs? It doesn’t provide many scares, but this film is guaranteed to leave you cackling your way to an early grave.
4). Twilight
Speaking of vampires…I just had to add this one to the list. I unapologetically love these films, plus you can’t get more Halloween-y than vampires and werewolves. Sure, it’s a little ridiculous, but that’s part of the charm! What’s more, our local gem Tyneside Cinema are hosting a movie marathon of The Twilight Saga on Saturday 11th November. So, grab some friends, buy yourself a ticket, and hold on tight Spider Monkey – you’re in for a treat with this one!
5). Donnie Darko
Now we’re getting a little spookier. The final film on this list haunts the territory between psychological thriller and horror, but don’t let this put you off! Donnie Darko is a cult-classic that creates a haunting atmosphere with its flawless soundtrack and surreal visuals. It cleverly blends genres whilst delving into themes of time travel and mental illness. Donnie Darko is guaranteed to leave you thinking about it long after the credits finish rolling.
Honourable mentions: Jennifer’s Body, Monster House, Ready or Not, Corpse Bride, Get Out, Beetlejuice, The Craft