CNN —
Yes, Megan, this list is tailored specifically for you, so you can have chilling fun without the fright factor that usually accompanies Halloween.
In fact, this carefully curated list is for the Megans in everyone’s life – those who might cringe at the sight of overpriced bags of candy, recoil from the seemingly endless marathon of every “Halloween” movie ever made on television, or prefer to avoid costume stores altogether, feeling more at home sipping apple cider than being spooked.
They could be dubbed Halloween haters, horror averse, or simply hollow of fun. Regardless of the title, they definitely need entertaining movies too! (Interestingly, some of these delightful films were produced by Warner Bros. Pictures, which is also under the umbrella of Warner Bros. Discovery, just like CNN). So, let’s dive into this exciting lineup:
“Hubie Halloween” is a wonderfully quirky Adam Sandler classic that follows the journey of a misunderstood neighborhood outcast who emerges from his shell to confront his deepest fears and save his hometown from festive chaos. TLDR: It’s so bizarre, it’s a must-watch.
“Hocus Pocus” is an annual nostalgic delight for those who relish a touch of witchcraft; it remains an essential watch, especially if you relish seeing Sarah Jessica Parker outside her usual New York City setting. Plus, don’t miss the charming 2022 sequel for a modern twist on the beloved tale.
“Practical Magic” features Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman as enchanting sisters, armed with magical powers and outstanding hair. Need I really say more about the fun of watching witches in action?
“Labyrinth” is a Jim Henson-directed 1986 fantasy that combines a stellar performance by David Bowie with a young Jennifer Connelly’s heartfelt quest through a whimsical maze filled with oddly charming animatronic creatures. Just a thought: maybe skip it if puppets unsettle you!
“Harry Potter” lets you relive the enchanting first Halloween at Hogwarts in “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” or enjoy any film from the beloved series, featuring magical escapades that bring smiles rather than screams.
“Zombieland” offers a clever twist on survival in a zombie apocalypse brought to life by Emma Stone, well before she snagged her two Oscars. This 2009 comedy blends humor and horror with a memorable survival guide twist that will keep you entertained.
“Rocky Horror Picture Show” captivates with its electrifying soundtrack, perfect for musical enthusiasts and devoted fans of Tim Curry (yes, that’s me, waving hi!).
“The Batman” is a thrilling experience for those seeking a brooding portrayal of the iconic superhero, capturing the essence of Gotham through the eyes of Robert Pattinson in this gripping 2022 film directed by Matt Reeves.
“Legally Blonde” serves as the ultimate feel-good movie for all those viewers who, just like Elle Woods, stun in a costume that’s more sexy than scary while showcasing the power of self-expression at Halloween gatherings.
‘Mean Girls’ provides a hilarious throwback, perfect for those who, channeling Cady Heron, prefer to push the envelope at parties by donning costumes that lean towards the scary rather than sexy!
“Halloweentown” is a delightful pick for anyone missing Debbie Reynolds and craving a nostalgic trip down memory lane. Fun fact: The movie’s star, Kimberly J. Brown, is happily married to Daniel Kountz, her co-star from “Halloweentown II” – how adorable is that?
“E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial” features the cutest extraterrestrial disguised as a ghost. Get ready with a box of tissues because, let’s be honest, this film is an emotional rollercoaster!
“Sabrina the Movie” invites you to bewitch yourself with delightful nostalgia featuring the original teenage witch, Melissa Joan Hart, alongside a charmingly young Ryan Reynolds, adding a whimsical touch to this classic adventure.
“Double Double Toil and Trouble” has all the millennials buzzing with excitement, not from fright, but from the joyful nostalgia of this iconic Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen movie that played a pivotal role in shaping their childhood memories!
“Casper” introduces a friendly ghost, complete with a charming storyline featuring a young Christina Ricci from “Addams Family,” that adds a playful twist to the Halloween theme.
“Casper” is a lighthearted choice for those who love a friendly ghost. This 1995 film showcases the adventures of a kind-hearted specter trying to make friends, making it suitable for family viewing without the fear factor.
“Coraline” might be a bit on the eerie side, but it’s more whimsical than terrifying. This animated film tells the story of a girl who discovers a parallel world that is both enchanting and unsettling, making it a unique option for the Halloween season.
“The Addams Family” celebrates the lovable oddballs with iconic humor and charm. This film captures the spirit of Halloween with whimsy rather than horror, making it a perfect pick for those who enjoy quirky antics over scares.
So there you have it—a compilation of Halloween movies that cater to those who cherish the fun of the season without the fright. Grab a cozy blanket, pour yourself some cider, and get ready for a movie marathon that embraces the spirit of Halloween in a light-hearted way!
