Halloween is a magical time of year, filled with costumes, sweets, and of course, movies! Whether you have little ones or older kids, finding the perfect Halloween movie that balances spooky and family-friendly can be challenging. But fear not! We’ve compiled the ultimate guide to kid-friendly Halloween movies that are guaranteed to delight kids of all ages, from the littlest pumpkins to the most fabulous ghouls.
The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad (1949)
Let’s start our spooky movie marathon with a classic from the Disney vault – “The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad.” This film is a collection of two animated featurettes, with the second one being the spooky tale of Ichabod Crane and the Headless Horseman. It’s a perfect introduction to the Halloween season for little kids, with just the right amount of fright to keep them on the edge of their seats.
Beetlejuice (1988)
For older kids and tweens, “Beetlejuice” is a must-watch Halloween movie. This quirky comedy, directed by Tim Burton, follows the story of a recently deceased couple who enlist the help of a mischievous ghost named Beetlejuice to scare away the new owners of their beloved home. With its offbeat humour and unforgettable characters, “Beetlejuice” is a fun and spooky ride that will have the whole family laughing.
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
While not a traditional Halloween movie, “E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial” captures the spirit of the season with its heartwarming tale of friendship and adventure. When young Elliott discovers a friendly alien in his backyard, he embarks on a journey to help E.T. return home. This beloved family film is perfect for big kids and tweens, and its iconic Halloween scene featuring E.T. dressed as a ghost is a highlight of the movie.
Poltergeist (1982)
If you’re looking for a much more intense Halloween movie, “Poltergeist” is a classic choice. While it may be too scary for little kids, older kids and teens will appreciate this spine-tingling tale of a suburban family plagued by malevolent spirits. With its iconic scenes and memorable scares, “Poltergeist” is a must-watch for horror-loving families looking for some Halloween thrills.
It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (1966)
No Halloween movie marathon is complete without a visit from the Peanuts gang. “It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” is a timeless classic that follows the adventures of Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and the gang as they celebrate Halloween. From trick-or-treating to Linus’ unwavering belief in the Great Pumpkin, this charming film captures the essence of Halloween and is perfect for little kids and big kids alike.
Coraline (2009)
For older kids and tweens who enjoy a touch of darkness in their Halloween movies, “Coraline” is a visually stunning and delightfully twisted choice. Based on Neil Gaiman’s book, the film tells the story of a young girl who discovers a secret door in her new home that leads to a parallel world. However, this alternate reality isn’t as wonderful as it seems, and Coraline must navigate a world of danger and deception. With its unique animation style and captivating storyline, “Coraline” is a Halloween movie that will leave a lasting impression.
Gremlins (1984)
If your kids are ready for some mischievous Halloween fun, “Gremlins” is the perfect choice. When Billy receives a mysterious creature called a mogwai as a gift, he must follow three important rules to prevent chaos from ensuing. But when those rules are broken, all hell breaks loose as mischievous and destructive gremlins wreak havoc on the town. “Gremlins” is a mix of comedy and horror that will entertain older kids and tweens with its memorable characters and clever storytelling.
Ghostbusters (1984)
Who you gonna call? The Ghostbusters, of course! This iconic supernatural comedy is a Halloween staple that combines humour, adventure, and a whole lot of ghosts. When New York City is overrun by paranormal activity, a group of scientists-turned-ghostbusters steps in to save the day. With its catchy theme song and unforgettable characters, “Ghostbusters” is a fun and lighthearted Halloween movie that the whole family can enjoy.
Edward Scissorhands (1990)
For teens who appreciate a touch of darkness and romance, “Edward Scissorhands” is a Halloween movie that will leave a lasting impression. Directed by Tim Burton, the film tells the story of Edward, a young man with scissors for hands who is taken in by a suburban family. As Edward navigates the complexities of human relationships and struggles to find his place in the world, the film explores themes of acceptance, identity, and love. With its stunning visuals and poignant storytelling, “Edward Scissorhands” is a Halloween movie that transcends the genre.
The Addams Family (1991)
They’re creepy, and they’re kooky, mysterious and spooky, and they’re back in the spotlight. “The Addams Family” is a Halloween classic that follows the eccentric and macabre Addams family as they navigate the challenges of everyday life. From their love of all things dark and twisted to their unique family dynamics, the Addams family is a delightfully bizarre bunch that will capture the hearts of tweens and teens.
Conclusion
There is a Halloween movie for every age and taste, from animated classics to spooky comedies. Whether you’re looking for gentle scares or thrilling adventures, these kid-friendly movies are sure to entertain the whole family. So grab some popcorn, dim the lights, and prepare for a spooktacular movie night that will create lasting memories for years. Happy Halloween!