As the spooky season approaches, many of us are on a quest to find movies that capture the Halloween spirit without sending shivers down our spine. For those who prefer their popcorn without a side of fright, there’s no need to feel left out of the October movie marathon tradition. You’re in luck because there are plenty of Halloween-themed films that perfectly balance the mysterious aura of the season with light-hearted fun.
These films are the perfect blend of autumnal aesthetics and non-spooky themes that make them a hit among people of all age groups. They bring the magic of Halloween to life – pumpkins, costumes, haunted houses, and more, minus the heart-stopping terror. So, put on your comfiest pajamas, brew some hot cocoa, and get ready to dive into a world of enchanting Halloween movies that promise laughter, adventure, and a good time.
It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (1966)
It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown is a classic Halloween movie that’s perfect for the whole family. Its lighthearted and humorous plot, combined with familiar and beloved characters, make it a delight to watch for both kids and adults. The film’s messages about friendship, perseverance, and the magic of believing in something, even when others don’t, are timeless. Plus, its animation style and nostalgic charm offer a warm and cozy viewing experience that’s perfectly suited to the Halloween season.
The Addams Family (1991)
The Addams Family is a blast for the whole family because it combines humor, adventure, and a touch of the macabre in a fun way for all ages. The eccentric and lovable Addams family, with their gothic mansion and oddball antics, provide plenty of laughs while teaching valuable lessons about the importance of family, individuality, and acceptance. Despite their spooky exterior, the Addams are ultimately a tight-knit and affectionate family, making this film an entertaining Halloween watch and a heartwarming one.
Addams Family Values (1993)
Addams Family Values is a classic choice for Halloween viewing that offers a unique blend of humor, eccentricity, and a touch of the macabre. The film follows the delightfully eerie Addams family as they navigate through challenges posed by a gold-digging nanny and a camp that’s hilariously at odds with their dark sensibilities. The characters, from the morbidly romantic Gomez and Morticia to the mischievous children Wednesday and Pugsley, are brilliantly portrayed and bring a quirky charm to the screen. The movie’s clever dialogue, gothic aesthetics, and overall celebration of the unconventional make it a fitting and entertaining choice for Halloween.
The Addams Family (2019)
This animated reboot of the classic franchise is a fun-filled rollercoaster of eerie delights, perfect for setting the Halloween mood. The film brings back the beloved eccentric family with dark humor and gothic charm. As the Addams Family navigates suburban life, viewers are treated to a quirky blend of horror and comedy that’s entertaining and endearing. So, pop some popcorn, dim the lights, and let the Addams Family add a creepy, kooky, mysterious, and spooky dash to your Halloween festivities.
The Little Vampire (2000)
The Little Vampire is a great Halloween movie because it perfectly blends humor, adventure, and just the right amount of spookiness for a family-friendly viewing experience. The movie showcases an unusual friendship between a human boy and a vampire, teaching lessons about acceptance and bravery. Its captivating storyline, engaging characters, and visually stunning scenes of the vampire world make it a delightful Halloween treat that both children and adults can enjoy.
The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
The Nightmare Before Christmas is a delightful Halloween movie because it masterfully combines the elements of Halloween and Christmas in a unique and enchanting way. The film’s protagonist, Jack Skellington, is a charming character whose exploration of Christmas Town brings about a fantastic mix of spookiness and holiday cheer. With its beautifully crafted stop-motion animation, memorable songs, and a heartwarming storyline about self-discovery and the true spirit of holidays, the movie offers a captivating viewing experience that resonates with audiences of all ages.
Double, Double, Toil and Trouble (1993)
Double, Double, Toil and Trouble is a warm Halloween movie that effortlessly weaves enchantment and adventure into its storyline. The film showcases the Olsen twins in their prime, delivering performances that are as captivating as they are endearing. The plot, which unfolds on Halloween night, involves the twins trying to save their parents from their greedy aunt, adding an engaging layer of suspense and thrill. With a gripping narrative about family and courage, it makes it a perfect pick for a spooky yet fun-filled Halloween movie night.
Halloweentown (1998)
Halloweentown is a charming Halloween movie that perfectly captures the essence of the spooky season while still being suitable for viewers of all ages. The film’s plot revolves around a young girl discovering her witch heritage and saving a town from supernatural creatures, provides an engaging blend of adventure, humor, and mild scares. The film’s whimsical touches, like a microwave with “Bubble, Toil and Trouble” settings, and its array of interesting characters, from Debbie Reynolds‘ delightful witch grandmother to the entertaining villain, add to its appeal.
The Witches (2020)
The Witches (2020) is an excellent non-scary Halloween movie that offers a energetic blend of fantasy, adventure, and mild spookiness. Based on Roald Dahl’s classic novel, the film boasts impressive performances, particularly from Anne Hathaway who wonderfully portrays the Grand High Witch with a captivating mix of charm and menace.
The film’s rich visual effects and imaginative storytelling make it a visually stunning spectacle, while its underlying themes of bravery and friendship add depth to the narrative. Although it has its share of creepy moments, the movie is largely light-hearted and fun, making it suitable for those who want to enjoy the Halloween spirit without getting too scared. It’s a great choice for a family movie night during the Halloween season
The Witches (1990)
The Witches (1990) is a classic, family-friendly Halloween movie that perfectly balances fantasy, adventure, and mild horror. The film tells the story of a young boy who stumbles upon a witches’ convention and must stop them from turning all the children into mice. Anjelica Huston‘s performance as the Grand High Witch is both captivating and delightfully eerie, adding an element of creepiness without being overly scary.
Casper (1995)
Casper is a Halloween favorite that was released in 1995. It’s a live-action/computer-animated supernatural comedy-drama that marked Brad Silberling‘s directorial debut. The film tells the story of Casper, a friendly ghost who haunts a mansion in Maine. Casper befriends a therapist specializing in the afterlife and his daughter when they move into the mansion with the aim of ridding it of wicked spirits. The film is known for its heartfelt and feel-good moments, making it a beloved choice for Halloween movie nights.
Scooby-Doo (2002)
Scooby-Doo would make an excellent film to watch on Halloween because of its perfect blend of mystery, adventure, and light-hearted humor. The movie, based on the long-running animated franchise, brings to life the beloved characters of the Mystery Inc. gang in a live-action/computer-animated fantasy adventure-comedy horror film.
The plot revolves around the gang individually being brought to an island resort to investigate strange occurrences, which adds a thrilling element that’s fitting for a spooky Halloween night. Despite featuring more intense and scary special effects than its cartoon counterpart, the movie maintains a PG rating, making it suitable for family viewing.
Goosebumps (2015)
Goosebumps is a fabulous choice for a Halloween movie due to its perfect blend of comedy, adventure, and spookiness. The film, based on R.L. Stine’s popular children’s book series of the same name, brings to life an array of entertaining and mildly scary monsters, making it suitable for a family audience.
Corpse Bride (2005)
Corpse Bride is an enchanting stop-motion animation film that makes for an engaging family watch on Halloween. Directed by the master of macabre, Tim Burton, the movie offers a unique blend of romance, humor, and just the right amount of spookiness that’s suitable for all ages.
The story revolves around a young groom who accidentally marries a corpse bride instead of his living fiancée, leading to a series of whimsical and otherworldly adventures. The film’s stunning visuals, combined with its heartwarming tale about love and acceptance, make it a captivating watch.
Beetlejuice (1988)
As the moon rises on Halloween night, there’s nothing quite like settling down to watch Beetlejuice. The spooky yet comical film, also directed by Tim Burton, provides the perfect blend of thrills and chuckles that embodies the spirit of Halloween. The tale of the mischievous Beetlejuice and his antics in the afterlife is both eerie and captivating. Whether it’s the unforgettable performance of Michael Keaton, the quirky humor, or the notably gothic aesthetics, every aspect of this movie creates an atmosphere that enhances the chills and festivity of All Hallows’ Eve.
Ghostbusters (1984)
Ghostbusters is an iconic American supernatural comedy film that has left a lasting impact on pop culture. Directed by Ivan Reitman and written by Dan Aykroyd and Harold Ramis, the movie centers around a trio of eccentric parapsychologists in New York City who start a ghost-catching business. Starring Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, and Harold Ramis as the Ghostbusters, the film blends humor, action, and spookiness to create a unique cinematic experience ideal for Halloween viewing.
Ghostbusters (2016)
The 2016 reboot of Ghostbusters features a cast of women this time around. With many veterans of SNL starring in this edition, there are plenty of laughs to be had along the way. We think a Halloween double feature would be a blast for the whole family.
Twitches (2005)
Twitches is a Disney Channel original movie that revolves around the lives of two teen witches who were separated at birth and adopted by two different families. The twins reunite on their 21st birthday and discover they possess magical powers. Their powers increase in strength when they work together, which becomes crucial in their mission to save their kingdom from dark forces. The movie is based on the popular Twitches book series published by Scholastic Press and stars superstar twin sisters Tia and Tamera Mowry.
Twitches Too (2007)
The Twitches story continues with the magical twin sisters, Tia and Tamera, who have fully embraced their witchy lineage. As they continue to hone their powers, they are drawn back to the magical kingdom of Coventry, where they were born. They must confront a dark force that threatens to destroy their birth world. Throughout their journey, they learn more about their late father’s mysterious past and must understand their royal destiny. Like the first film, this sequel is filled with enchanting magic, sisterly love, and exciting adventures.
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Hotel Transylvania (2012)
Hotel Transylvania is an excellent choice for a Halloween movie for several reasons. Firstly, it perfectly captures the spooky yet festive spirit of Halloween with its cast of classic monsters like Dracula, Frankenstein, and the Werewolf. The animation is vibrant and colorful, adding a playful twist to these traditionally scary characters. Secondly, the story is heartwarming and engaging, focusing on themes of family, friendship, and acceptance – values that resonate with audiences of all ages. Lastly, despite being set in a world of supernatural beings, the humor is plentiful and light-hearted, making it a suitable option for families seeking to enjoy a fun, festive movie night without the scares.
Super Monsters Save Halloween (2018)
Super Monsters Save Halloween is a delightful short film that expertly encapsulates the essence of Halloween. The story revolves around the Super Monsters who use their unique abilities to infuse their neighborhood with the Halloween spirit and help a nervous friend overcome his fear. The film’s themes of friendship, bravery, and festive celebration make it a perfect Halloween watch, especially for families with young kids.
The Haunted Mansion (2003)
The Haunted Mansion is an engaging comedy fantasy movie that stars Eddie Murphy as a real estate agent who, along with his family, finds themselves trapped in a haunted mansion. The plot thickens as they attempt to escape the mansion inhabited by 999 grim, grinning ghosts. The movie is filled with hair-raising laughs and eye-popping special effects, making it a spooky comedy adventure. It is particularly noteworthy for its visual effects and the performance of Murphy.
Coraline (2009)
Coraline makes for an excellent Halloween watch due to its dark, fantastical elements and eerie atmosphere. This stop-motion animated film masterfully blends whimsy with creepiness, making it both a delightful and spook-inducing experience. The story follows Coraline, a young girl who discovers a parallel, seemingly perfect world, only to realize it hides a sinister secret. The film’s stunning visuals, imaginative storytelling, and intricate details create a captivating world that draws the viewer in.
Monster House (2006)
Monster House is a fantastic, family-friendly Halloween movie that perfectly balances humor, thrills, and a heartwarming storyline. The story follows three children discovering that a neighboring house is a living, breathing, scary monster. While the movie has its share of spooky moments, it’s also filled with charming characters, witty dialogue, and life lessons about friendship and bravery, making it suitable for viewers of all ages. Monster House is a fun, engaging, and slightly eerie choice for a family movie night during Halloween season.
ParaNorman (2012)
ParaNorman is not only a great Halloween movie, but it’s also considered a classic by many fans. The film tells the story of a young boy who can speak to the dead and must save his town from a witch’s curse, making it an intriguing blend of comedy, adventure, and horror. With its dark themes handled in a kid-friendly way, Laika Animation’s unique stop-motion style, and its exploration of the Salem Witch trials through a modern lens, ParaNorman offers both entertainment and depth. Despite being full of ghosts, corpses, zombies, and witches, it’s aimed at older kids and teens, providing just the right amount of spookiness without being too overwhelming.
Girl vs. Monster (2012)
Girl vs. Monster is a Disney Channel original movie directed by Stuart Gillard. The story revolves around a teen girl, Skylar, played by Olivia Holt, who discovers that her parents are monster hunters. This revelation comes to light when she accidentally releases some monsters from a secret containment chamber. Alongside her techno-geek buddy, she embarks on a mission to recapture these escapees. The film combines elements of science fiction and comedy, making it a charming and compelling watch.
The Curse of Bridge Hollow (2022)
The Curse of Bridge Hollow is a American supernatural comedy horror film. The story revolves around a teenage girl who accidentally unleashes an ancient, mischievous spirit on Halloween, leading to a series of eerie and funny events. Despite being set in the fictitious town of Bridge Hollow, the film captures the essence of Halloween with its lively decorations and festive atmosphere. However, it caters more to younger audiences as a gateway to the horror genre rather than satisfying serious horror aficionados.
Hocus Pocus (1993)
There’s something incredibly nostalgic about curling up on the couch with a bowl of popcorn, under the flicker of jack-o-lantern lights, to watch Hocus Pocus on Halloween. This cult-classic film is an enchanting blend of comedy, horror, and fantasy that creates an atmosphere perfect for All Hallows’ Eve. It whisks you away to the mystical town of Salem, where the mischievous Sanderson sisters, brought back from the dead, conjure up their humorous haunts. The film’s spellbinding charm lies not just in the witches’ antics, but also in its heartwarming tale of bravery, friendship, and family. No matter how many times you’ve seen it, Hocus Pocus still manages to capture the spirit of Halloween in a way few films can.
Hocus Pocus 2 (2022)
Hocus Pocus 2 is a delightful sequel to the beloved 1993 Halloween classic, Hocus Pocus. The film, directed by Anne Fletcher and written by Jen D’Angelo, brings back the enchanting Sanderson sisters to modern-day Salem, once again resurrected through the lighting of the Black Flame Candle. The movie retains the original’s blend of fantasy, comedy, and horror, with a plot that echoes the first film but introduces new twists and turns. The Sanderson sisters, after being absent for 29 years, are back and seeking revenge in this charmingly macabre tale that is sure to get you into the Halloween spirit.
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Coco (2017)
Coco is a wonderful Halloween movie option for families because it not only provides entertainment but also educates viewers about the Mexican tradition of Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). Released in 2017, this Pixar and Disney collaboration tells the story of Miguel, a young boy who embarks on a magical journey into the Land of the Dead to uncover his family’s history. While being visually stunning with its vibrant colors and intricate details, the film is also emotionally resonant, teaching important lessons about family, heritage, and remembering our loved ones who have passed away. Its heartwarming narrative, combined with memorable music and engaging characters, makes Coco an excellent choice for a family-friendly Halloween movie night.
Remember that the spirit of Halloween isn’t confined to jump scares and horror. It’s about embracing the season’s magic, the joy of dressing up, and the pleasure of a good story. These non-scary Halloween movies offer a delightful blend of fun, fantasy, and fall vibes without the fright. So whether you’re planning a family movie night or a low-key Halloween party, these films will surely bring a smile to your face and keep the nightmares at bay. Happy viewing, and have a spooktacular Halloween!
For even more Halloween movie recommendations, keep reading. We’ve got the best family-friendly Halloween movies and shows on Netflix to share with you.
Scaredy Cats
This Halloween show for the whole family has good and evil, black cats, witches, and magic. It’s imaginative, with quirky kiddos learning about a new world. Yes, there are cats. And, yes, there will be shapeshifting!
Are You Afraid of the Dark?
If you grew up watching Nickelodeon, as so many of us did, Are You Afraid of the Dark? is the exact fix your family needs to get a little spooky (and a bit nostalgic) this Halloween season. This revival of the classic 90s staple arrived in 2019 and, without a doubt, it holds true to the original.
Liar, Liar, Vampire
When Caitlyn, the most popular girl in school, mistakes new kid Davis for a vampire, he gains instant star status. Davis enlists the help of his next-door neighbor, Vi, to dial up his vampire act. Together, will they fool the school? This one is silly and lighthearted and a lot of fun for children of all ages.
The Little Vampire
Rudolph, a kid obsessed with learning about the dead, meets and befriends an unusual friend. Together, Tony and Rudolph join up to keep Rudolph and his family safe from a group of vampire hunters. This is another one of the animated films on the list that has some remarkable animation that will leave your entire family in awe.
Nightbooks
The film follows Alex, a boy obsessed with scary stories, who is imprisoned by an evil young witch in her New York City apartment. The more youthful bookworms in your life will love this Halloween movie that blends legendary spooky tale-telling with a wicked witch’s scrutiny.
The Worst Witch
Here is a fun Halloween series for kids that the whole family can binge together. it’s not easy being a witch which is particularly true for Mildred Hubble, the bumbling heroine of Jill Murphy’s popular books who finds herself at a school for witches. She may be a witch-in-training, but that’s where all great witches start!
The Boy Who Cried Werewolf
When a family inherits an old mansion in Romania, kids Hunter and Jordan can’t wait to hop on a plane to visit. But they soon discover that this is no ordinary house when old secrets and the dark history of the mansion are finally revealed. With some hoping to discover monsters, they eventually appear too close to home.
Dark Shadows
Here’s a great film that’s tons of fun for kids who are tweens and teens. Tim Burton knows a thing or two about Halloween movies, and his 2012 gothic romp is no different. A centuries-old vampire returns to his run-down estate where he discovers his descendants who are a bit more up-to-speed with modern society than he is. Chaos ensues for your viewing pleasure.
La Leyenda de la Nahuala
This movie takes place in the year 1807 in the city of Puebla, New Spain. Leo San Juan, a timid 9-year-old boy, lives with his grandmother and his older brother, Nando. Leo is always frightened, due to the legend of the Nahuala that his brother told him about. The legend speaks at an old abandoned house, in which “La Nahuala”, a witch, lives. This one is real fun for all.
Hubie Halloween
A choice for mature tweens and teens, Hubie Halloween is a real treat for all. What really makes this a terrific Halloween family movie is the comedic mixed with creepy, as Adam Sandler’s goofy and charming Hubie saves his town on Halloween night. A few scares and plenty of laughs all around with this pick.
Monster Island
When a young boy named Lucas finds out he’s not really a human; the news changes his entire world. This is especially true since his first monster transformation happened in front of the most popular kids at school. The animation in this one really is remarkable. You just might find yourself rooting for a monster or two!
A Witches’ Ball
This movie follows a young witch, Beatrix, who is eager to start learning her new craft. It’s full of important lessons about not giving up when the going gets tough. For parents who are/were fans of NSYNC, you will be pleased to learn that Joey Fatone stars in this fun film for kids.
Spookley the Square Pumpkin
Spookley looks different than all the other pumpkins, but with the help of a scarecrow and a spider, he overcomes his feelings of insecurity. In this charming Halloween cartoon, your kids will learn that being different is actually a superpower.
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The Spooky Tale of Captain Underpants: Hack-A-Ween
Melvin tries to cancel Halloween, but he can’t take the fun out of the holiday when Harold and George make their own plans for a spooky event. To you and your kids’ surprise, you likely will find that their own counter-Halloween programming is a big success.
Stranger Things
So, most definitely not for younger children, Stranger Things could be the right option if you have got some teens who want in on the Halloween fun. Over the course of four seasons audiences of been treated to a host of monsters and supernatural activity. Again, this is a very scary series so make sure your kids are mature enough to handle it.
StarBeam: Halloween Hero
StarBeam: Halloween Hero is an adorable, not very spooky pick for young children about the greedy Captain Fishbeard, who is robbing everyone’s Halloween candy. It’s up to StarBeam to put a stop to it and save the day. Watch as your kids cheer StarBeam on!
True: Tricky Treat Day
If your children are big fans of True and the Rainbow Kingdom, they’ll love this Halloween special, where True and her friends have to save the day from a hungry Yeti. It’s a great option for those younger kiddos.
DreamWorks Spooky Stories
We all still love Shrek, right? This spooky-fun series contains three hilariously eerie episodes, including the classic “Scared Shrekless” and a “Monsters vs. Aliens” short. You’ll hear some members of the original voice cast (like Mike Myers and Antonio Banderas) and the whole vibe is perfect for a fun family Halloween watch.
Spooky Stories 2
Seth Rogen, Will Arnett, and Hugh Laurie headline the sequel to Spooky Stories which will most likely have you feeling more laughed out than freaked out. This second installment is the best way to keep the Halloween party going after you finish the first one.
A Go! Go! Cory Carson Halloween
As most parents and kids likely know, king-sized candy bars are a winning prize while trick-or-treating. The crew in A Go! Go! Cory Carson Halloween gets it. In order to get to them, they have to venture out to the spooky part of town. This Halloween special is short and sweet and the perfect thing for your younger children.
A Babysitter’s Guide to Monster Hunting
This movie tells the story of a very intelligent teen babysitter, Kelly Ferguson (Tamara Smart) who discovers that there are boogeymen and monsters set out to scare children at night. And as the title implies, she learns to hunt them. The monsters are a bit scary and a bit offbeat. Tweens and teens will love this one.
Okko’s Inn
In this entry from Japan, a magical bond forms between a young girl and a ghost who lives in her grandmother’s inn. This movie is more than just friendly ghosts, though, it’s about family, friendship, and grief. This movie is only slightly spooky but it will lodge itself into your heart. You might surprise yourself when you find yourself getting teary-eyed watching it.
Super Monsters
One of the most fun Halloween shows for younger children is a Netflix original called Super Monsters. It’s about preschoolers trying to get a grip on their superpowers that they inherited from their famous monster parents. It’s so cute you will probably enjoy it too.
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Super Monsters Save Halloween
If your kiddos enjoyed the first Super Monsters, keep that ball of fun rolling with this installment. The lovable characters are going to save Halloween by getting their friends and neighbors into the Halloween spirit.
Monster House
Monster House follows the story of three teens who are convinced a creepy house in their neighborhood is actually a scary living creature, and they set out to destroy it. The movie was produced by none other than Steven Spielberg, and Steve Buscemi voices an eccentric child-scaring neighbor. Watch this with your kid once and they will want to watch it for every Halloween that follows.
There you go! Now, you know all of the great Halloween content that Netflix offers for a (slightly) freaky family fun night.