As the nights grow longer and the chill of the air sets in, there's no better time to curl up with your favorite snacks and immerse yourself in the world of spine-chilling cinema. Whether you're a fan of supernatural horrors, psychological thrillers, or the classic slasher, Halloween is the time of year to broaden your cinematic horizons. Here's a list of must-watch films to get you in the mood for the spooky season, from fresh hits to timeless classics.

Talk to Me (2023)

If you're looking for a slightly more niche addition to your Halloween watchlist, Talk to Me is the film you didn’t know you needed. This Australian horror combines supernatural elements with an emotional depth that makes it stand out. The plot revolves around a group of ‘somewhat’ friends who discover a way to communicate with spirits through a mysterious embalmed hand. What starts as an innocent thrill quickly turns sinister, making it one of the most unsettling films of the year. Prepare for jump scares and an eerie atmosphere that will haunt you long after the credits roll.

Hereditary (2018)

Hereditary is one of the most popular horrors throughout recent years. Directed by Ari Aster, this psychological horror takes family drama to a new, horrifying level. It’s dark, disturbing, and packed with moments that’ll haunt you for days after. Toni Collette's portrayal of a grieving mother struggling with sinister forces around her is unforgettable. If you haven’t seen this yet, it’s a Halloween essential, especially if you enjoy films that get under your skin and stay there, just try not to lose your head over it…

Robbie Shirley - Content Creator:

‘When it came to the spookiest time of the year, I used to be a big believer in Monster House - but, as time has gone on and I have grown in my tastes, I have elected for something with a little more bite to it. Ari Aster's directorial debut is not just a harrowing portrait of grief and generational trauma, it is in fact one of the scariest, most unsettling films I have ever had the displeasure to watch. The film has layers upon layers to it, which makes it even more disturbing upon reflection, but what makes it even more horrific is the shocking right turn the film takes around the end of the first act.’

A Clockwork Orange (1971)

Not your typical Halloween film, but A Clockwork Orange is a psychological thriller that plays on the horror of human nature. Directed by Stanley Kubrick, the film follows Alex, a sociopathic delinquent, and his journey through a dystopian society. Its surreal,  disturbing imagery and violent themes create a chilling atmosphere, perfect for those looking for something more cerebral this Halloween. It's a haunting look at free will and morality, with a style only Kubrick could pull off.

The Craft (1996)

A cult classic that blends teen drama with witchcraft,  because who doesn’t need a love spell to get their crush to like them back? The Craft is the perfect blend of 90s nostalgia and supernatural thrills. It follows four high school outcasts who discover their powers through witchcraft, but as their powers grow, so do the consequences.  It’s a movie full of dark magic, friendships gone awry, and some iconic one-liners. If you’re in the mood for something spooky but not outright terrifying, this witch flick is a great go-to.

5. Scream (1996)

When it comes to slasher films, Scream is a genre-defining masterpiece. Directed by Wes Craven, this meta-horror flick revived the slasher genre in the 90s with its sharp wit, self-awareness, and, of course, iconic Ghostface killer. The narrative follows a group of teens who become the target of a masked murderer, while simultaneously poking fun at the conventions of horror films. It’s a perfect mix of dark humor and horror, making it a must-watch for any Halloween movie marathon.

Rhiannon Lewis - Executive Producer and Managing Partner:

‘I’ve never been one for horror films—they stress me out way too much. The jump scares, eerie soundtracks, and relentless suspense just leave me on edge for hours afterward. So when Halloween rolls around, my movie choices are less about getting spooked and more about enjoying some nostalgic, slightly freaky fun. My go-tos are always '90s classics like The Craft and Scream, where the thrills are more stylish and self-aware, and the vibe is less intense. 

But I’ll also dive into some '70s psychological freak-outs like Don’t Look Now or The Wicker Man, where the creepiness is more unsettling than outright terrifying. That way, I get into the Halloween spirit without all the anxiety!

I also feel like Halloween is the perfect time to break out one of my all time fav Christmas movies like “The Nightmare Before Christmas”...NO IT’S NOT TOO EARLY!'

A Quiet Place (2018)

For those who love tension-filled horror, A Quiet Place is an absolute must-watch. Directed by and starring John Krasinski, this film centers around a family trying to survive in a post-apocalyptic world where blind creatures hunt anything that make even the slightest sound. The silence throughout the film creates the most eerie and gut wrenching emotion that builds to an explosive climax. It’s a fresh take on the survival horror genre and will have you holding your breath from start to finish.

The Hole (2009)

Underrated but deeply unsettling and probably a good go to for your first ever horror. The Hole tells the story of two brothers who discover a seemingly bottomless hole in their basement after moving into a new house. What lurks in the depths of this hole brings their worst fears to life, creating a psychological horror that’s both gripping and unerving. It’s a lesser-known gem that perfectly fits the mood of Halloween with its mix of creepy visuals and dark suspense. Maybe give it a miss if you’re not the biggest fan of clowns…

The Witch (2015)

No Halloween watchlist would be complete without The Witch. Set in 17th-century New England, this slow-burn horror film witnesses a disfunctional family in the wilderness, succumbing to paranoia and fear of witchcraft. The film’s chilling atmosphere, haunting cinematography, and bone-chilling performances make it one of the scariest films in recent memory.

The Exorcist (1973)

It’s impossible to talk about Halloween films without mentioning The Exorcist. Widely considered one of the scariest movies of all time, this film tells the story of a young girl possessed by a demonic entity and the two priests who try to save her. With its terrifying imagery, iconic moments, and intense performances, The Exorcist is the gold standard of supernatural horror. Even after all these years, it remains a film that will truly leave you sleeping with the lights on.

Get Out (2017)

Jordan Peele’s Get Out is a modern horror masterpiece that combines social commentary with genuine scares. The film follows Chris, as he visits his girlfriend’s family for the first time, only to uncover a terrifying conspiracy. Peele masterfully blends horror, satire and societal issues , creating a film that’s as thought-provoking as it is terrifying. It’s a must-watch for anyone looking for a smart, socially conscious thriller this Halloween.

These Gate approved films are definitely worth the watch, and we’re filmmakers so we seriously know what we’re talking about. So grab your favorite blanket, turn off the lights, and get ready for some proper scares!