There’s no doubt that fall is the coziest season. Everyone is back in school and the weekends are designated for relaxation. Nothing is more enjoyable than getting comfortable on the couch with a fun Halloween film. Each year, I look forward to spending time with my family and watching my favorite movies to get me into the Halloween mood. Without further ado, here are my top 5 favorite family Halloween movies ranked.
- Casper
Starting at number 5 is Casper. This family-friendly movie directed by Brad Silberling was released in 1995 and is a classic for the spooky season. The movie occurs in a small town where a girl named Kat, played by Christina Ricci, and her dad, played by Bill Pullman, move into an abandoned mansion to rid the house of spirits. To their surprise, they find a friendly ghost with the name of Casper, played by Malachi Pearson, residing in the home. This is a feel-good nostalgic film that is perfect for Halloween. As a kid, I remember watching this movie all the time, regardless of the season. This movie can be watched for free on Tubi or on Peacock, Prime Video, or Apple TV with a subscription.
- Beetlejuice
Ranked number 4 on my list is Beetlejuice. The creepy 1988 comedy is about a couple who tragically died in a car accident and came back as spirits. The couple, played by Geena Davis and Alec Baldwin, is stuck occupying a house in Connecticut that they are not allowed to leave without being attacked. A family of three from New York decided to move into the cottage and renovate it. The deceased couple works to scare away the unbearable family and summon a nasty ghoul named Beetlejuice to get the job done. This movie is an iconic Halloween comedy that all families can enjoy. Each year, I look forward to watching the silly spooky movie. This film can be enjoyed with a subscription to Prime Video, Apple TV, and Vudu.
- The Nightmare Before Christmas
Sitting at number 3 on my list is The Nightmare Before Christmas, a well-loved kids Halloween film from 1993. The debate continues each year on whether or not this Disney classic is a Halloween or Christmas movie, but I think it is a Halloween movie. The King of Halloween Town, Jack Skellington, voiced by Danny Elfman, wants nothing more than to experience the real world. He stumbles into Christmas Town and experiences a whole new atmosphere. His newfound love for Christmas leads Jack to sabotage the holiday and bring it back home to share with the people of Halloween Town. Unfortunately, Jack’s scheme doesn’t go as expected as he causes chaos and confusion for all the citizens. This heartfelt movie makes one empathetic toward the poor pumpkin king. I love watching this movie with its unique animation, catchy songs, and sweet storyline. You can find this movie on streaming services such as Disney+, Apple TV, and Prime Video with a subscription.
- Ghostbusters
The flick that ranks 2nd place on my list is Ghostbusters. The 1984 sci-fi comedy appeals to audiences of all ages. When paranormal activity occurs all around New York City, the citizens call out for help. A squad of four geeks also known as “The Ghostbusters” come to the rescue. The nerdy members are Dr. Peter Venkman played by Bill Murray, Dr. Ray Stantz played by Dan Aykroyd, Dr. Egon Spengler played by Harold Ramis, and Winston Zeddemore, played by Ernie Hudson. The four ghost exterminators work together to protect New York City from being terrorized by ghosts and supernatural forces. I remember watching this movie for the first time as a little kid and being captured by the silly animation and goofy characters. This is a family-friendly watch that everyone will love and you can enjoy it on Peacock, Hulu, Apple TV, or Prime Video with subscriptions to each.
- Hocus Pocus
Earning first place as my favorite Halloween movie is Hocus Pocus. The classic Halloween movie was released in 1993 and has been a family favorite ever since. This movie is about a boy, played by Omri Katz, who moves to Salem with his family. The poor boy unintentionally brings three nasty witches back to life and must defeat them before they become immortal and take over. The timeless movie contains just enough spook and wit to be everyone’s favorite, and of course, it wouldn’t be a Disney movie without at least one catchy song. After watching you’ll find yourself singing “I Put a Spell on You” which is performed by Sarah Jessica Parker, Bette Midler, and Kathy Najimy. Every year I look forward to sitting on the couch with a nice bowl of popcorn and my family and enjoying this film. You can find this movie available on Disney+, Hulu, Apple TV, and Prime Video all with subscriptions.
As fall gradually begins to creep up on us, be sure to check out all of these seasonal films and determine where they rank on your list.
