The spookiest night of the year is fast approaching, and that means one thing: it’s time for movie marathons filled with chills and thrills! Halloween brings friends and family together, and what better way to celebrate than by indulging in some terrifying horror films? Here’s a curated list of must-watch Halloween movies for 2025 that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
This guide not only highlights popular films but also includes hidden gems that deserve your attention. Let’s dive into the lineup!
15. Scream Franchise
As one of the most iconic slasher series, the Scream franchise combines clever writing with shocking plot twists. Memorable characters and intense suspense make this a staple for any Halloween watchlist. Revitalized recently by Jenna Ortega’s performance in Scream VI (2023), it’s more relevant than ever.
14. Halloween Franchise
No Halloween movie list would be complete without the legendary Halloween franchise. With its chilling atmosphere and unforgettable mask, this series captures your attention with every kill. The latest films manage to blend nostalgia with new storylines, making it exciting for a fresh audience while still honoring long-time fans.
13. Thanksgiving
- Release Date: November 17, 2023
- Director: Eli Roth
- Cast: Patrick Dempsey, Addison Rae, Milo Manheim, Jalen Thomas Brooks, Nell Verlaque
- IMDb/Rotten Tomatoes: 6.2/83%
Thanksgiving tells a harrowing tale of revenge against a store owner responsible for a tragic event. The aftermath includes a series of gruesome murders that will keep you guessing until the end. It’s a chilling ride that has the potential to become a beloved franchise.
12. M3GAN
- Release Date: January 6, 2023
- Director: Gerard Johnstone
- Cast: Allison Williams, Violet McGraw, Ronny Chieng
- IMDb/Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 6.3/93%
M3GAN is an unsettling exploration of AI taking control. When a young girl’s aunt builds an AI robotic doll to care for her, chaos ensues. The movie’s dark humor mixed with societal commentary makes it a unique horror experience that you won’t want to miss.
11. Annabelle: Creation
- Release Date: August 11, 2017
- Director: David F. Sandberg
- Cast: Stephanie Sigman, Talitha Bateman, Lulu Wilson
- IMDb/Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 6.5/70%
Part of The Conjuring universe, Annabelle: Creation delivers real scares supported by an engaging plot and well-timed suspense. It tells the backstory of the haunted doll, resulting in genuinely creepy storytelling that’s perfect for Halloween watching.
10. Longlegs
- Release Date: July 12, 2024
- Director: Osgood Perkins
- Cast: Maika Monroe, Blair Underwood, Nicolas Cage
- IMDb/Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 6.6/86%
Longlegs offers a twisty narrative that will keep you guessing. Following an FBI officer trying to capture a serial killer, this film creates an immersive suspense that appeals to both horror and thriller fans alike.
9. Trick ‘r Treat
- Release Date: October 6, 2009
- Director: Michael Dougherty
- Cast: Dylan Baker, Anna Paquin, Brian Cox
- IMDb/Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 6.7/81%
Trick ‘r Treat is an anthology film that beautifully captures the essence of Halloween. With intertwining stories tied together by a mischievous spirit, this classic boasts clever writing that’ll make you think twice about breaking Halloween traditions.
8. The Babadook
- Release Date: May 22, 2014
- Director: Jennifer Kent
- Cast: Essie Davis, Noah Wiseman, Hayley McElhinney
- IMDb/Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 6.8/98%
The Babadook is a masterclass in psychological horror. Its slow-burn narrative engages viewers deeply, ultimately leading to a terrifying experience that stays with you. It focuses on the struggles of a mother and son haunted by dark secrets, making it relatable yet horrifying.
7. The Cabin in the Woods
- Release Date: April 13, 2012
- Director: Drew Goddard
- Cast: Kristen Connolly, Chris Hemsworth, Anna Hutchison
- IMDb/Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 7/92%
The Cabin in the Woods offers a unique mix of horror and comedy. As a group of friends navigate a terrifying weekend getaway, clever storytelling and surprising twists make this a must-see for Halloween.
6. Talk To Me
- Release Date: July 27, 2023
- Director: Danny & Michael Philippou
- Cast: Sophie Wilde, Alexandra Jensen
- IMDb/Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 7.1/94%
Talk To Me is a fresh twist on horror. A group of friends discovers a way to interact with the dead, but they become trapped in a terrifying situation. With clever cinematography and pacing, it showcases that limited budgets can still yield stunning results.
5. The Conjuring 2
- Release Date: June 10, 2016
- Director: James Wan
- Cast: Vera Farmiga, Patrick Wilson
- IMDb/Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 7.3/80%
The Conjuring 2 proves that sequels can be just as impactful as originals. This story of paranormal investigators helps a family in distress offers relentless tension and expertly crafted scares that will keep you glued to the screen.
4. Hereditary
- Release Date: June 8, 2018
- Director: Ari Aster
- Cast: Toni Collette, Alex Wolff
- IMDb/Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 7.3/90%
Considered one of the most disturbing films, Hereditary explores the themes of family trauma and dark legacies. Although it lacks gratuitous gore, its unsettling atmosphere and emotional depth create a lasting impact. This movie is a haunting journey you should not overlook this Halloween.
3. Beetlejuice
- Release Date: March 30, 1988
- Director: Tim Burton
- Cast: Alec Baldwin, Geena Davis
- IMDb/Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 7.4/83%
Beetlejuice blends horror with comedy in a hauntingly entertaining way. This Tim Burton classic captivates audiences with memorable characters and sharp humor. It’s a film you can enjoy repeatedly, and it remains timelessly engaging.
2. The Conjuring
- Release Date: July 19, 2013
- Director: James Wan
- Cast: Vera Farmiga, Patrick Wilson
- IMDb/Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 7.5/86%
The Conjuring remains a benchmark in modern horror. With a compelling story about a family’s haunting and skilled paranormal investigators, it sets a standard in the genre. This chilling experience should be on every Halloween list.
1. A Quiet Place
- Release Date: April 6, 2018
- Director: John Krasinski
- Cast: Emily Blunt, John Krasinski
- IMDb/Rotten Tomatoes Rating: 7.5/96%
A Quiet Place stands out for its innovative take on horror. Set in a world invaded by sound-sensitive creatures, the film keeps you on the edge with its silence and tension. Its unique storytelling and superb performances make it not just a horror movie, but a moving family tale.
Have any of your favorites made it onto our Halloween 2025 watchlist? Remember to keep the lights dim and the snacks close. And if you’re craving more content like this, check out Moyens I/O for all your entertainment needs!