Halloween Movie Reviews

By Tanvi Chaudhary

Preparing to watch some movies this Halloween? Well, here is a diverse selection of films that cater to every ghost, ghoul, and movie enthusiast out there. From timeless classics to heart-pounding horror masterpieces, this curated list promises a mix of scares and laughs. Whether you’re seeking the eerie ambiance of vintage scares, the thrill of contemporary horror, or delightful animations perfect for family movie night, this selection of ten Halloween movies is sure to cater to all your spooky cravings. So, grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and get ready for a hauntingly good time at the movies!

Session 9 (2001)

Session 9 unfolds as an intense psychological horror, where a group of asbestos removal workers becomes entangled in the history of an abandoned mental institution. The film’s deliberate pace, coupled with the decaying setting and the characters’ deepening paranoia, crafts a tangible sense of dread. Each discovery in the hospital uncovers not just dark secrets but also the fragile state of the human mind, offering an unsettling experience that leaves viewers questioning their own sanity. For anyone yearning for a psychologically immersive and spine-chilling narrative, Session 9 delivers a nightmarish journey through the twisted corridors of the human psyche.

Rating: R

Poltergeist (1982)

This iconic film weaves a tale of a suburban family terrorized by vengeful spirits, tapping into our primal fears of the supernatural. What makes Poltergeist a perfect Halloween choice is its ability to turn the familiar—our homes—into a source of horror. The flickering TV screens, haunted toys, and eerie apparitions create an atmosphere of unrelenting suspense. With its spine-chilling moments and a palpable sense of dread, Poltergeist is a haunting cinematic masterpiece that continues to haunt the dreams of viewers, making it an essential watch for anyone seeking a truly terrifying Halloween experience.

Rating: PG

Casper (1995)

Casper weaves a delightful Halloween tale where the supernatural meets heartfelt friendship. The film’s mix of a ghost and genuine human emotions creates a perfect blend for the Halloween season. Casper, the friendly ghost, and his uncles create a story with playful spookiness, transforming their haunted mansion into an inviting yet eerie setting. The film’s seamless integration of live-action and CGI brings these supernatural characters to life, making them both endearing and slightly mischievous. Casper delivers a timeless message of acceptance, emphasizing the power of friendship and kindness, making it a heartwarming choice for Halloween movie nights.

Rating: PG

Hereditary (2018)

Review: Hereditary is a chilling masterpiece with unconventional horror, plunging viewers into a world of familial terror and supernatural dread. The story, filled with grief and ancestral secrets, delves deeply into the psyche, unraveling a sinister legacy that haunts every frame. The actors’ mesmerizing performances intensify the emotional and psychological impact. From its haunting visuals to its spine-tingling score, Hereditary lingers in the mind long after the credits roll, leaving an indelible mark. For those seeking a profoundly unsettling and psychologically intricate horror experience, Hereditary is an unmissable journey into the darkest corners of the human soul.

Rating: R

Scared Shrekless (2010)

Scared Shrekless is a hilarious Halloween adventure set in the whimsical world of Shrek. This animated special features everyone’s favorite ogre (and donkey), and is packed with the series’ trademark humor. The story follows Shrek and his friends as they navigate a spooky, enchanted castle on Halloween night, and parody classic horror tales, infusing them with Shrek’s unique charm and wit. With its witty dialogue, colorful animation, and lovable characters, Scared Shrekless strikes a perfect balance between spooky and silly, making it an ideal treat for viewers during the Halloween season.

Rating: Unrated

The Ritual (2017)

Set in a Scandinavian forest where a group of friends encounters an ancient evil, The Ritual takes viewers on a terrifying journey. This atmospheric horror film seamlessly blends psychological horror with folk horror elements. Its eerie woodland setting, unsettling creature design, and tension-building narrative make it a compelling and spine-chilling choice for Halloween. The film’s exploration of fears and ancient rituals adds depth to its scares, making it a standout horror movie.

Rating: R

Crimson Peak (2015)

Crimson Peak is a visually grand gothic tale with a haunted mansion at its center. The film’s lavish set designs and eerie atmosphere transport viewers to a world of dark secrets and vengeful spirits. Its Gothic romance elements, coupled with supernatural occurrences, make it a perfect Halloween watch for those who appreciate atmospheric horror. The film’s themes of love, betrayal, and the supernatural create a hauntingly beautiful narrative, making it an ideal choice for a Halloween night filled with mystery and dread.

Rating: R

Ghostbusters (1984)

Ghostbusters is a Halloween classic that combines ghostly encounters with comedy genius. The film’s memorable catchphrases, iconic ghosts, and the camaraderie of the Ghostbusters team make it a joyous and entertaining Halloween choice. Its supernatural elements are balanced by humor, making it an ideal film for anyone looking for a lighthearted yet spooky experience.

Rating: PG

The Frighteners (1996)

Featuring a protagonist who communicates with the dead, The Frighteners creates a unique blend of horror and comedy. Its inventive storyline and ghostly encounters, combined with humor, create an entertaining and spooky experience. The film’s exploration of the afterlife and the battle against malevolent spirits adds depth to its supernatural elements, making it a thrilling choice for Halloween enthusiasts who enjoy a mix of scares and laughs.

Rating: R

Haunt (2019)

Haunt is a spine-chilling Halloween experience. Set against the backdrop of an extreme haunted house attraction, the film thrusts viewers into a nightmarish labyrinth of fear, where every corner holds a new and gruesome surprise. The film’s masterful use of practical effects and atmospheric tension creates a relentless storm of scares, ensuring that each moment is laced with terror. As the characters navigate this house of horrors, Haunt immerses its audience in a relentless journey, making it a standout choice for anyone seeking an adrenaline-fueled Halloween thrill.

Rating: R