With Halloween quickly approaching, everyone across the nation is getting into the spirit of the season. One cherished fall tradition for people of all ages is watching spooky and fun Halloween movies. Whether you are looking for friendly ghosts, talking pumpkins, or mischievous witches, we've compiled this list of 10 funny and thriling Halloween movies that will be perfect for a night of family-friendly frights.
1. "Hocus Pocus" (1993)
Available on DisneyPlus and Hulu
This timeless favorite is about three ridiculous witches who come back to life on Halloween night. Funny and exciting at the same time, as a group of kids attempt to halt their plans. Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy bring the witches to life with the wickedly funny roles they play.
2. "Casper" (1995)
Available on Apple TV or Netflix beginning October 1st
Join Casper the "friendly ghost", as he makes friends with a young girl named Kat and her ghost-therapist father. Children who enjoy ghostly adventures will love this touching story about family and friends.
3. "The Nightmare Before Christmas" (1993)
Available on DisneyPlus, Hulu or Apple TV
Is it a Christmas or Halloween movie? Some people still don't agree, but one thing is for sure: Tim Burton's stop-motion classic is a must-see this spooky Halloween season! Follow Jack Skellington as he discovers the wonders of Christmas Town.
4. "Monster House" (2006)
Available on Prime Video and Hulu
This animated masterpiece is about three kids who find out the scary things going on in their neighbor's creepy house. It's a fun ride that isn't too scary for little ones with it's mix of humor and thrills.
5. "Coraline" (2009)
Available on HBO Max and Hulu
Based on Neil Gaiman's book, "Coraline" is a beautiful and creepy movie about a young girl who finds a parallel world that seems perfect but has a dark secret. It's a beautifully written, slightly spooky adventure tale.
6. "Hotel Transylvania" (2012)
Available on Apple TV and Prime Video
In this funny animated film, Dracula runs a hotel for monsters. When a huma finds the hotel by accident, it turns into a crazy, monster-sized comedy. It's perfect for a spooky giggle.
7. "ParaNorman" (2012)
Available on Apple TV and Prime Video
It is up to Norman, a young boy who can see and talk to ghosts, to save his town from an invasion of zombies. This strange stop-motion movie that will make you laugh and scare you at the same time.
8. "Corpse Bride" (2005)
Available on Apple TV and Prime Video
Tim Burton strikes again with this darkly funny story about a young man who accidentally proposes to a departed bride while practicing his wedding vows. This is a great Halloween treat because of the music and visuals.
9. "The Addams Family" (1991)
Available on Prime Video, Paramount Plus
This kooky and spooky family is a Halloween must-see. It's fun to see what Gomez, Morticia, Wednesday, Pugsley, and the rest of the family do in their creepy mansion.
10. "Frankenweenie" (2012)
Available on DisneyPlus
Another Tim Burton gem, "Frankenweenie" is a heartwarming tale of a young boy who brings his beloved pet dog back to life. This black-and-white stop-motion film is a love letter to classic monster movies.
So, go and gather your little ghouls and goblins, pop up some buttery popcorn, and prepare for a spooktacular movie night with these top 10 Halloween movies for kids. From friendly ghosts to quirky monsters, there's something for everyone in these family-friendly frights. Happy Halloween, and enjoy the spine-tingling fun!