From eerie elegance to full-blown fright, spooky season is the perfect time to indulge in horror’s most haunting (and surprisingly empowering) stories. Whether you love psychological thrillers, supernatural scares, or a touch of social commentary, our ultimate Halloween watchlist has something for everyone. Members of our Fat Girls Traveling Community have shared their favorite Halloween films, series, and even a podcast. So grab your popcorn, dim the lights, snuggle up, and get ready for a Halloween binge-watch that’ll send shivers down your spine!
Sinners
A chilling exploration of guilt and moral decay, Sinners follows a small-town preacher whose congregation begins to vanish one by one. As secrets unravel, it’s clear that the biggest monster of all might be human. This film’s slow-burn tension, incredible music, unique production style, and religious undertones will haunt you. This horror film is perfect for fans of Hereditary and The Witch.
Midsommar
Midsommar is a mesmerizing and horrifying exploration of cult rituals and traditions as a group of traveling friends become entangled in a Swedish midsummer celebration that takes a sinister turn. With stunning visuals and a disturbingly immersive atmosphere, it’s a favorite among those who appreciate unconventional and deeply unsettling horror experiences and is considered Florence Pugh’s breakout role.
US
Jordan Peele’s Us flips the American Dream on its head with a terrifying tale of doppelgängers rising from the shadows to reclaim their place in society. Lupita Nyong’o delivers a powerhouse dual performance that’s equal parts haunting and heartbreaking.
Stranger Things: Is the perfect Halloween treat, with its supernatural and nostalgic ’80s vibes. Join a group of friends as they confront government conspiracies and otherworldly creatures in a small town. It’s a captivating blend of nostalgia, intrigue, and supernatural phenomena, making it an irresistible choice for Halloween enthusiasts.
Hereditary
This slow-burning psychological horror film explores the unraveling of a family’s dark secrets after the death of their secretive grandmother. This meticulously crafted film delivers exceptional performances and a sense of unrelenting dread that lingers long after the credits roll.
The Substance
The Substance stars Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley in a grotesquely glamorous horror masterpiece that satirizes Hollywood’s obsession with youth and beauty. A mysterious “substance” that promises eternal perfection spirals into grotesque madness. Proving that when perfection becomes an addiction, the body pays the price.
Candyman
While researching superstitions in a housing project in Chicago Helen, a skeptical graduate student learns about Candyman. The hook-handed knife-wielding figure that some of her neighbors believe to be responsible for a recent murder starts stalking Helen. Candyman dives deep into the intersections of race, gentrification, and myth. Say his name five times, and you’ll summon not just the ghost of vengeance, but a reminder of history’s haunting presence in today’s world.
Train to Busan
Train to Busan is a masterclass in storytelling and emotional depth. It’s a reminder that courage comes in all sizes and that compassion can be just as powerful as survival instincts. This Korean zombie film delivers emotional gut punches alongside heart-pounding chaos. As a viral outbreak sweeps through South Korea, passengers on a speeding train must fight to survive.
Sleepy Hollow: A visually stunning and darkly atmospheric film directed by Tim Burton. Released in 1999, it offers a unique take on Washington Irving’s classic short story, “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow.
The Ritual
The Ritual is a suspense-filled cinematic journey that seamlessly blends horror and suspense. Join a group of friends as they venture into the eerie Swedish wilderness, where an unspeakable evil lurks, keeping you at the edge of your seat throughout.
Get Out
Get Out is a groundbreaking horror-thriller that delves into deep-seated racial tensions. When a young Black man visits his white girlfriend’s family estate, he uncovers disturbing secrets that plunge him into a nightmarish and suspenseful ordeal. This thought-provoking film masterfully combines horror with social commentary.
Midnight Mass: Sink your teeth into Midnight Mass, a supernatural Netflix story that leaves you craving more. Uncover the enigmatic events on a remote island, where a charismatic priest brings miracles and mysterious occurrences, blurring the lines between faith and fear.
Castlevania
An animated series that weaves a dark tale of vampires, demon hunters, and a world teetering on the brink of destruction. With rich storytelling, complex characters, and stunning animation, it’s a compelling choice for those who love the dark and gothic side of horror.
Light-Hearted Choices
For those who prefer lighter Halloween fare:
What We Do In The Shadows
“What We Do In The Shadows” is a hilarious mockumentary that takes you inside the lives of four vampire roommates. With witty humor and absurd situations, this film is a must-watch for those who appreciate a fresh and comical take on the supernatural.
The Worst Witch: A campy classic you may enjoy on YouTube, with a claim that it might have inspired elements of “Harry Potter.”
Hocus Pocus + Hocus Pocus 2
The Hocus Pocus franchise is the ultimate Halloween movie pairing filled with witches, magic, and laughter. When three witches return to Salem on Halloween night, it’s up to a group of kids and a talking cat to thwart their wicked plans.
The Nightmare Before Christmas: Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas” is a visually enchanting film that straddles the line between Halloween and Christmas, following the Pumpkin King’s quest to understand the magic of Christmas. It’s a delightful choice for those who want a whimsical blend of both holidays.
KPop Demon Hunters
This upcoming animated adventure follows a group of K-pop idols who moonlight as demon hunters. With stunning visuals and a soundtrack that slaps, it’s giving Blackpink meets Buffy the Vampire Slayer—and we’re here for it. Fun, fierce, and fabulously weird, KPop Demon Hunters celebrates sisterhood, strength, and sparkle. It’s proof that horror can also be stylish and empowering.
Podcast Pick
Old Gods of Appalachia: For those who prefer audio scares to a Halloween watchlist, “Old Gods of Appalachia” promises spooky and spectacular storytelling. If you like listening to heart-racing podcasts, check out these 10 Spooky Podcasts Haunting The Airwaves.
Prepare for a Spine-Tingling Halloween Season
With this diverse list of spine-chilling movies, series, and even a podcast, you’re sure to have a thrilling and chilling Halloween season. Whether you’re a horror enthusiast or prefer a lighter, spooky atmosphere, these recommendations have got you covered. If you’re also looking for more literary ways to get in the spooky mood, check out our blog post on 4 recommended horror books. Get ready to be thrilled, chilled, and thoroughly entertained!
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