Movies to Watch During Spooky Season!

By Sophia Hull

I don’t know about you, but I love movies! I have just started an IB Film Class this year, so movies are always on my mind. To get into the Halloween Mood, here are my top picks for Spooky Season movies that you should check out this month. They’re ranked from least scary to scariest, so you know what you’re in for. I will try to put down movies from different genres so that there is something for everyone (Disclaimer: I have not seen all of these movies. I will be ranking them on how scary they are based on their rating, genre, and plot).

1. It’s the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown (1966): Rated G

Starting off our list is a classic. I think that everyone has probably seen at least one Charlie Brown/Peanuts film and it was most likely this one. It is in no way scary, but it’s a delightful movie that is sure to bring on nostalgia. Besides, what goes better with Halloween than pumpkin

2. Wallace and Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit (2005): Rated G

Wallace and Gromit is my next pick for this list. This movie is the perfect option for people who want to enjoy a goofy British kids movie. Don’t let its rating fool you, this is a creative movie that all ages can enjoy!

3. E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial (1982): Rated PG

This sweet movie about a boy and an alien is yet another classic. If you haven’t seen it yet, now is a perfect time. Its iconic scene is set on Halloween night and there is plenty of candy throughout the film. This isn’t scary, but it’s sure to bring on the Halloween spirit.

4. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993): Rated PG

What kind of list would this be if it didn't include a Tim Burton film on it? The Nightmare Before Christmas is a spooky film centered around Halloween and Christmas. This could be a fun movie to watch as a way to wrap up October and get excited for the coming holidays.

5. Hubie Halloween (2020): Rated PG-13

To keep this list modern, I decided to put a 2020 film on here. Netflix just released Hubie Halloween, a creepy comedy. If you're looking for fresh Halloween fun you should probably check this movie out.

6. Ghostbusters (1984): Rated PG

Ghostbusters has been around for a while, but it’s still a Halloween classic. Demons, the devil, and ghosts galore are here to scratch that Halloween itch. If you've already seen the 1984 movie, or you want something a little more updated you could also check out the newer Ghostbusters movie, made in 2016 with the all-female cast.

7. Psycho (1960): Rated R

Psycho is the oldest movie on this list, and I'd wager one most high schoolers haven't seen. It has all of the makings of a perfect horror film. It has you on the edge of your seats in suspense, and a crazy twist you didn’t see coming at the end.

8. Scream (1996): Rated R

Scream is a perfect slasher movie for Halloween. It also plays with some of the typical horror movie tropes. It is a good laugh at some points and terrifying at others.

9. Halloween (1978): Rated R

What better way to celebrate Halloween than watching a movie with the same name! As Terrifying as it is iconic, Halloween is one you definitely shouldn’t miss.

10. A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984): Rated R

A Nightmare on Elm Street is a movie where no one is safe. Freddy Krueger is the ultimate horror film character. Just remember this movie is petrifying, so don’t watch it alone!

Tip: Enjoy these movies together with your friends via Virtual Watch Party.

Happy Halloween!