31 Frightening Flicks & TV Shows to Watch This Spooky Season

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Halloween isn’t just for kids—adults deserve their share of spine-chilling thrills and creepy tales too. Whether you’re hosting a grown-up Halloween party or just looking for a terrifying movie marathon, this list of 31 Halloween movies and TV shows for adults has you covered. From classic slasher films and psychological horror to supernatural thrillers and darkly comedic gems, these picks promise to keep you on the edge of your seat. So grab your popcorn, turn down the lights, and get ready for a frightfully good time!

Promotional poster for 'Penny Dreadful' showing a person hunched over, with their body forming the shape of a skull. The dark background and intricate pose convey a sense of gothic horror, combining eerie imagery with a striking visual motif.

1. Penny Dreadful (2014-2016)

Rating: TV-MA | Run Time: 1h per episode | 3 Seasons

This gothic horror series weaves together iconic literary characters like Frankenstein, Dracula, and Dorian Gray into a dark, twisted narrative. With stunning visuals, a gripping storyline, and deep character development, Penny Dreadful offers a haunting look into Victorian horror. Its rich atmosphere and psychological depth make it a must-watch for fans of gothic terror.

Poster for Halloween showing the infamous Michael Myers mask with a chilling expression. The background is a dark, ominous night with the film's title and tagline prominently featured.

2. Halloween (1978)

Rating: R | Run Time: 1h 31m

John Carpenter’s Halloween introduced the world to Michael Myers, a relentless killer stalking babysitters on Halloween night. With its tension-filled atmosphere and iconic soundtrack, it set the gold standard for slasher films. This horror classic remains a must-watch for any fan of the genre and continues to terrify audiences with its slow-burn suspense and brutal simplicity.

Iconic movie poster for 'The Exorcist' depicting a man, silhouetted against a dark background, standing under a streetlight in front of a house. A beam of light shines from an upstairs window, casting an eerie glow. The poster conveys a sense of suspense and the supernatural.

3. The Exorcist (1973)

Rating: R | Run Time: 2h 12m

Often hailed as one of the scariest films of all time, The Exorcist tells the chilling story of a young girl possessed by a demonic entity. The film’s terrifying special effects and psychological intensity made it groundbreaking in the 1970s. Winning two Academy Awards, its legacy continues to haunt viewers with its exploration of faith, fear, and the unknown. My motherkij0 still has nightmares from this one!

Poster for Stranger Things showing the main cast of kids in a retro 1980s setting, with eerie supernatural elements like the Upside Down and a mysterious, glowing demogorgon. The title is featured in a bold, nostalgic font.

4. Stranger Things (2016-Present)

Rating: TV-14 | Run Time: 1h per episode | 5 Seasons

Blending supernatural horror with 80s nostalgia, Stranger Things is a masterclass in suspense, lovable characters, and sci-fi thrills. The show’s blend of friendship, mystery, and horror has made it a fan favorite. Its terrifying creatures, like the Demogorgon and Mind Flayer, make every season a heart-pounding adventure into the unknown.

Movie poster for 'Scream' featuring a close-up of a woman's face with wide eyes and her hand covering her mouth. The background is dark, and the title 'Scream' is in bold red and white lettering, evoking suspense and fear, hinting at the iconic slasher theme.

5. Scream (1996)

Rating: R | Run Time: 1h 51m

This clever, self-aware slasher film redefined the horror genre with its meta-humor and twist-filled plot. Ghostface, the masked killer, terrorizes a group of teens, blending mystery, scares, and laughs. Directed by Wes Craven, Scream is iconic for its ability to poke fun at horror tropes while delivering genuine thrills.

Movie poster for 'The Shining' with a bright yellow background featuring a stylized face and bold black text that reads 'The Shining'. The tagline reads: 'A masterpiece of modern horror'. The film's credits are also listed below.

6. The Shining (1980)

Rating: R | Run Time: 2h 26m

Stanley Kubrick’s adaptation of Stephen King’s novel is a psychological horror masterpiece. Jack Nicholson’s chilling portrayal of a man descending into madness while isolated in a haunted hotel is unforgettable. The Shining’s eerie visuals and unsettling atmosphere make it one of the most iconic horror films ever made.

Poster for The Texas Chainsaw Massacre showing a disturbing image of Leatherface holding a chainsaw in a rural, ominous setting. The film’s title and tagline highlight its brutal, classic slasher horror.

7. The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)

Rating: R | Run Time: 1h 23m

This raw, gritty horror film follows a group of friends who are terrorized by a family of cannibals in rural Texas. The Texas Chainsaw Massacre is notorious for its visceral horror, low-budget feel, and relentless pace. Despite its lack of gore compared to modern standards, the film’s unsettling atmosphere and iconic villain, Leatherface, make it a harrowing experience.

Movie poster for 'A Quiet Place' featuring a woman, played by Emily Blunt, lying in a bathtub looking frightened. The tagline reads: 'If they hear you, they hunt you.' The background is a dimly lit interior with an ominous atmosphere.

8. A Quiet Place (2018)

Rating: PG-13 | Run Time: 1h 30m

In this post-apocalyptic thriller, a family must live in complete silence to avoid creatures that hunt by sound. The film’s tense, gripping atmosphere keeps you on edge from start to finish, with minimal dialogue and masterful sound design amplifying the fear. A Quiet Place is a testament to the power of silence in horror, making it a unique experience.

Movie poster for 'Hereditary' showing a dimly lit and haunting image of two characters, with one in the foreground staring directly ahead with an unsettling expression. The poster evokes an eerie and ominous mood, hinting at a dark family mystery.

9. Hereditary (2018)

Rating: R | Run Time: 2h 7m

Deeply unsettling and full of shocking moments, Hereditary explores grief, family trauma, and a dark supernatural presence. It’s an intense, slow-burning horror film that lingers in your mind long after it’s over. With Toni Collette’s powerful performance, it has become a modern horror classic for its devastating emotional and psychological impact.

Poster for The Conjuring featuring a chilling image of a haunted house with supernatural disturbances. The film's title and tagline hint at the terrifying, real-life paranormal investigation story.

10. The Conjuring (2013)

Rating: R | Run Time: 1h 52m

Based on the real-life paranormal investigations of Ed and Lorraine Warren, The Conjuring is one of the most terrifying haunted house films in recent years. With its masterful use of jump scares and a genuinely creepy atmosphere, it became a hit with horror fans. Directed by James Wan, it revived the supernatural horror genre with its combination of realism and terror.

Movie poster for 'It' featuring a child in a yellow raincoat reaching towards a red balloon held by a sinister, gloved hand emerging from the darkness. The title 'It' is in bold red letters, highlighting the terrifying presence of Pennywise the clown.

11. It (2017)

Rating: R | Run Time: 2h 15m

Stephen King’s classic novel about a demonic clown terrorizing the children of Derry was given a fresh, terrifying adaptation. Pennywise, played by Bill Skarsgård, is the stuff of nightmares, preying on the fears of young kids. It became a massive box office success for its ability to blend horror with heartfelt moments of friendship and courage.

Poster for The Walking Dead featuring the main characters in a desolate, post-apocalyptic landscape overrun by zombies. The series title is prominently displayed with a dramatic, dark background.

12. The Walking Dead (2010-2022)

Rating: TV-MA | Run Time: 1h per episode | 11 Seasons

More than just a zombie show, The Walking Dead dives deep into the human condition, exploring what people will do to survive in a world overrun by the undead. While the walkers bring relentless suspense, it’s the drama, character arcs, and moral dilemmas that have kept viewers hooked for over a decade. The series’ unpredictable twists make it essential Halloween viewing for horror fans.

Poster for Paranormal Activity depicting a spooky, unsettling scene with a camera capturing a disturbing presence in a darkened room. The film's title and tagline emphasize the found-footage horror aspect.

13. Paranormal Activity (2007)

Rating: R | Run Time: 1h 26m

This found-footage horror film follows a couple documenting the terrifying paranormal events in their home. With its minimalist approach and slow-building tension, Paranormal Activity became a sensation, proving that simple scares can be the most effective. It kickstarted a new wave of supernatural horror and remains one of the most successful indie films of all time.

Poster for Trick 'r Treat featuring the character Sam, a creepy, pumpkin-headed figure, surrounded by Halloween-themed imagery. The film’s title and tagline highlight its anthology format with multiple Halloween stories.

14. Trick ‘r Treat (2007)

Rating: R | Run Time: 1h 22m

This anthology horror film weaves together several Halloween-themed stories, blending dark humor and genuine scares. Its unique structure and homage to Halloween traditions make it a fan favorite. Whether it’s vengeful spirits or sinister creatures, Trick 'r Treat delivers all the thrills horror fans crave during the spooky season.

Movie poster for 'A Nightmare on Elm Street' featuring a woman lying in bed with a terrified expression, as a set of monstrous, clawed hands appears above her. The poster is dark, with a nightmarish quality that foreshadows the horror to come.

15. A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)

Rating: R | Run Time: 1h 31m

Wes Craven introduced the world to Freddy Krueger, a killer who haunts teens in their dreams. The concept of a villain that can attack you while you sleep gave audiences nightmares, solidifying A Nightmare on Elm Street as a horror classic. Freddy’s sharp claws and terrifying dream sequences make this one of the most iconic slasher films of all time.

Movie poster for 'Freaky' depicting a person with shaving cream on their face and holding a large knife. The title 'Freaky' is displayed below, along with the names Vince Vaughn and Kathryn Newton.

16. Freaky (2020)

Rating: R | Run Time: 1h 42m

This horror-comedy offers a fresh twist on the slasher genre by having a high school girl switch bodies with a serial killer. Combining slasher thrills with body-swap humor, Freaky is fun, fast-paced, and perfect for Halloween. Its mix of gore and dark comedy makes it an entertaining watch for older audiences.

Poster for Sleepy Hollow featuring Johnny Depp as Ichabod Crane, with a dark, gothic backdrop and the iconic Headless Horseman. The film’s title and tagline emphasize its eerie, Burtonesque style.

17. Friday the 13th (1980)

Rating: R | Run Time: 1h 35m

One of the original slasher films, Friday the 13th introduces us to Jason Voorhees, the hockey mask-wearing killer who haunts Camp Crystal Lake. Known for its suspenseful kills and camp setting, it paved the way for a series of sequels that solidified Jason as one of horror’s most iconic villains. It’s essential viewing for slasher film fans.

Movie poster for 'Sleepy Hollow' featuring a foggy, moonlit forest with the ominous figure of the Headless Horseman riding a black horse. In the foreground, there are two central characters looking solemn, hinting at mystery and horror elements.

18. Sleepy Hollow (1999)

Rating: R | Run Time: 1h 45m

Tim Burton’s Sleepy Hollow is a dark, atmospheric adaptation of Washington Irving’s classic tale. Starring Johnny Depp as Ichabod Crane, the film follows his investigation into a series of decapitations in the eerie town of Sleepy Hollow. With its gothic visuals, moody atmosphere, and supernatural thrills, it’s a perfect blend of mystery and horror for the Halloween season.

Movie poster for 'The Cabin in the Woods' showing an isolated wooden cabin, twisted and seemingly floating, in a three-dimensional cube shape. The background is dark and foreboding, giving an impression of horror and unpredictability.

19. The Cabin in the Woods (2012)

Rating: R | Run Time: 1h 35m

The Cabin in the Woods takes the typical horror movie trope of a group of friends vacationing at a secluded cabin and flips it on its head. This meta-horror film plays with the audience’s expectations, combining satire with genuine scares. Directed by Drew Goddard and written by Joss Whedon, it's a smart, genre-bending thriller with unexpected twists.

Poster for Sweeney Todd featuring Johnny Depp in a brooding, dramatic pose with his razor blade. The film’s title and tagline emphasize its dark, musical take on revenge.

20. Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street (2007)

Rating: R | Run Time: 1h 56m

In this musical horror, Johnny Depp stars as Sweeney Todd, a barber seeking vengeance in Victorian London. With its dark humor, macabre storyline, and haunting songs, Sweeney Todd is a visually stunning adaptation of the Stephen Sondheim musical. Directed by Tim Burton, it’s a must-watch for those who enjoy gothic tales with a dash of bloody revenge.

Movie poster for 'What We Do in the Shadows' depicting three vampire characters resting humorously in open coffins. The image captures the comedic and light-hearted tone of the movie, contrasting the vampire theme with an everyday sense of comfort.

21. What We Do in the Shadows (2014)

Rating: R | Run Time: 1h 26m

This hilarious mockumentary follows a group of vampires living in modern-day New Zealand, blending horror and comedy in a brilliant way. Directed by Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement, What We Do in the Shadows is a clever and lighthearted take on vampire lore. Its unique style and laugh-out-loud moments make it a refreshing entry into the horror-comedy genre.

Movie poster for 'The Babadook' showing a shadowy, eerie figure in a top hat with claw-like hands. The background is mostly black, with the title 'The Babadook' in bold white letters, creating an atmosphere of unsettling horror.

22. The Babadook (2014)

Rating: Not Rated | Run Time: 1h 34m

A psychological horror film that delves into grief and trauma, The Babadook tells the story of a mother and son haunted by a sinister creature from a children’s book. The film’s slow-burn tension and emotionally charged performances make it a deeply unsettling watch. Its exploration of mental health and motherhood set it apart from traditional horror, offering both emotional depth and terrifying scares.

Movie poster for 'Jeepers Creepers' depicting a torn fabric through which an eye peers out ominously. The title appears in rough, scratchy lettering, emphasizing a sense of lurking terror and an unknown horror.

23. Jeepers Creepers (2001)

Rating: R | Run Time: 1h 30m

Jeepers Creepers follows two siblings who are hunted by a terrifying creature after witnessing it dispose of a body. The film’s relentless tension and creepy antagonist, known as "The Creeper," make it a standout in early 2000s horror. It’s a road-trip nightmare that delivers suspenseful thrills from start to finish.

Movie poster for 'Rosemary's Baby' featuring the silhouette of a baby carriage atop a grassy hill, with the image of a woman's face faintly visible in the background. The green, shadowy tones and the overall minimalist design evoke a sense of mystery and impending dread.

24. Rosemary’s Baby (1968)

Rating: R | Run Time: 2h 17m

Roman Polanski’s Rosemary’s Baby is a psychological horror masterpiece that follows a woman who suspects her unborn child is part of a sinister plot. The film’s unsettling atmosphere and slow-burn terror have made it a classic of the genre. With strong performances, particularly by Mia Farrow, Rosemary’s Baby leaves viewers questioning reality, paranoia, and trust.

Movie poster for 'Get Out' featuring a close-up of a man's face, looking terrified, with tears streaming down his cheeks. The background is dark, emphasizing the emotional intensity and psychological horror of the film.

25. Get Out (2017)

Rating: R | Run Time: 1h 44m

Jordan Peele’s Get Out is a socially charged horror film that tackles themes of race, privilege, and identity with masterful suspense. The story follows Chris, a Black man visiting his white girlfriend’s family, only to discover a disturbing secret. Get Out earned critical acclaim, winning Peele an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay, and its unique blend of horror and social commentary makes it essential viewing.

Poster for Let the Right One In featuring a young girl with a ghostly, unsettling look, set against a cold, dark backdrop. The film’s title and tagline suggest its unique and haunting take on the vampire genre.

26. Let the Right One In (2008)

Rating: R | Run Time: 1h 55m

This Swedish vampire film is a chilling and tender coming-of-age story about a young boy who befriends a mysterious girl who happens to be a vampire. Let the Right One In balances horror and heart, offering a unique take on the vampire genre. Its haunting visuals and quiet, yet eerie tone make it a standout international horror film.

Poster for Carrie showing a dramatic image of Carrie White drenched in blood at her prom night, with a look of rage. The film’s title and tagline emphasize its blend of horror and high school drama.

27. Carrie (1976)

Rating: R | Run Time: 1h 38m

Based on Stephen King’s novel, Carrie follows a shy high school girl who unleashes her telekinetic powers after being bullied. With unforgettable performances, especially by Sissy Spacek, and one of the most iconic prom scenes in film history, Carrie is both heartbreaking and terrifying. The film’s exploration of isolation, cruelty, and revenge makes it a timeless horror classic.

Movie poster for 'The Witch' featuring a close-up of a black goat’s head with piercing eyes, set against a dark background. The eerie lighting and the goat's unsettling gaze evoke a sinister atmosphere, reflecting the supernatural and folk horror elements of the film.

28. The Witch (2015)

Rating: R | Run Time: 1h 32m

Set in 17th-century New England, The Witch is a slow-burn horror film about a family torn apart by suspicion, fear, and supernatural forces. The film’s haunting cinematography and eerie atmosphere create a deeply unsettling experience. The Witch received critical acclaim for its authenticity and psychological horror, making it one of the most unique horror films of the decade.

Movie poster for 'Underworld' showing the central character, a woman in black leather, standing on a ledge overlooking a dark city. She holds a gun, and the moon looms in the background, highlighting the film's dark, action-packed vampire-versus-werewolf theme.

29. Underworld (2003)

Rating: R | Run Time: 2h 1m

Underworld is a stylish action-horror film that pits vampires against werewolves in a centuries-old war. Kate Beckinsale stars as Selene, a vampire warrior caught in the middle of this supernatural battle. The film’s sleek visuals, gothic world-building, and thrilling action sequences make it a fun and engaging watch for fans of both horror and fantasy.

Poster for The Haunting of Hill House featuring a dark, eerie image of a haunted mansion with ghostly figures and a dramatic title. The show’s title and tagline suggest its psychological depth and supernatural elements.

30. The Haunting of Hill House (2018)

Rating: TV-MA | Run Time: 50m per episode | 1 Season

This Netflix series is a reimagining of Shirley Jackson’s classic novel, blending family drama with supernatural horror. The show’s slow-burn tension, emotional depth, and terrifying ghostly apparitions make it one of the most well-crafted horror series in recent years. With its eerie atmosphere and haunting visuals, The Haunting of Hill House is a must-watch for fans of psychological horror.

Movie poster for 'Poltergeist' featuring a young child with hands pressed against a TV screen filled with static. The room is dark, with the light from the TV casting an eerie glow, creating an unsettling atmosphere that foreshadows supernatural events.

31. Poltergeist (1982)

Rating: PG | Run Time: 2h

A family’s home is haunted by vengeful spirits in this Steven Spielberg-produced horror classic. From creepy clown dolls to the iconic “They’re here” line, Poltergeist offers plenty of scares without relying on gore. It remains a staple of supernatural horror, filled with memorable scenes and terrifying encounters.

A close-up of eerie hands with sharp nails, entangled in delicate cobwebs, set against a dark, moody background.

There you have it—31 Halloween movies and TV shows to fill your October nights with chills, thrills, and unforgettable scares. Whether you're a fan of classic slashers, psychological horror, or supernatural mysteries, there's something here for every kind of horror enthusiast. For more spooky content, movie recommendations, and Halloween inspiration, be sure to like, subscribe, or follow us!

Happy Haunting!

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A ghostly figure draped in a white sheet with black eye holes, floating through a dimly lit forest, creating a haunting Halloween atmosphere.