As Halloween festivities begin to ramp up, the horror movie craze is filled with intense jump scares, blood and terrifying monsters. However, not everyone is up for the nightmares that come with some of the most popular horror films. For those who prefer a cozy couch and a delightfully scary Halloween movie, here is a list of enjoyable horror movies that will not leave one sleeping with the lights on.
Coraline (2009)
This animated classic is the perfect introduction to the horror film genre because it still has the dark, eerie effect of a classic horror film, but with an uncanny twist that is appropriate for all ages. The main character, Coraline, voiced by Dakota Fanning, moves to a new house while feeling neglected by her parents. She finds a secret doorway to a seemingly perfect parallel world, although in reality it is filled with danger. This film is loved by many because of its iconic stop-motion animation that makes the characters unique. Using this type of animation allows the movie to flow smoothly while still emphasizing intricate details.
Happy Death Day (2017)
This horror-comedy is based on a college student who, on her birthday, was murdered by a masked killer. This day starts to repeat over and over again as she tries to survive her “Death Day,” and each day has a new twist in the story. This movie has a humorous tone that helps to blend the two genres seamlessly.
Scream (1996)
This classic slasher horror film has the perfect mix of suspense and violence. The original movie is more thrilling than terrifying compared to the more recent adaptations. As it is an older film with fewer disturbing, gory scenes and more traditional ‘90s teenage movie elements, it helps weaken its horror elements. The plot surrounds a group of high school students, specifically Sidney Prescott, who are being hunted by a masked killer called Ghostface. The clever opening scene draws the audience in immediately, and the memorable characters make this movie gripping. Scream incorporates a self-aware sense of humor into each situation.
Shaun of the Dead (2004)
This movie is about an electronics salesman named Shaun who, in the face of a zombie apocalypse, decides to step up with his friend Ed at his side. He attempts to save his loved ones and make amends with his girlfriend. “Shaun of the Dead” is a light-hearted comedy with a horror flair, making it the perfect movie for the Halloween season.
Zombieland (2009)
This horror-comedy follows four zombie apocalypse survivors who form a “family” as they go on a road trip across the Southwest United States to find a safe place. The characters include a nerdy young man who follows strict rules for survival, a violent, rugged survivor and two con artist sisters. As the four work together to survive the journey, their ultimate goal is to make it to an apparently safe amusement park that is zombie-free. “Zombieland” has horror elements while centering on the satirical humor and fast-paced situations that make it a light, enjoyable watch for new-to-horror viewers.
Killer Klowns from Outer Space (1988)
This movie is known for its funky animation style of circus-clown aliens whose goal is to invade a small town and capture humans. “Killer Klowns from Outer Space” mixes over-the-top effects and animation with the classic ‘80s movie charm.
The Blair Witch Project (1999)
This documentary-style movie is uniquely filmed in first-person on a video camera. It follows three film students who travel to a small town to collect footage on the legend of the Blair Witch. The raw footage reveals the suspense in real time and creates an authentic feel to the plot of the film as students attempt to discover more about the local murderer. This movie is perfect for viewers new to the horror genre since there is no gore or violence. All of the “scare” lies in the viewer’s imagination.
Edward Scissorhands (1990)
Edward Scissorhands is about an artificially created, innocent young man with scissors for hands who was the incomplete result of his inventor, who died mid-experiment. As Edward grows up, he is adopted into a family, but he is ultimately rejected by the people he meets because of his different looks and behavior from the other small town residents. This movie has a stunning visual aesthetic and a moving story with an eerie vibe.
