Family-Friendly to Freaky: Halloween Movie Ideas by Age

Planning a Halloween sleepover? Nothing sets the spooky mood like the perfect movie lineup.

Whether your crowd wants full-on horror or fun, family-friendly frights, this list has something for every scare level—and every age. Turn down the lights, pass the popcorn, and let the spooky stories begin!

Not ready to pick yet? Save our idea list to Pinterest for Later!

Jump straight to the age-appropriate list, or keep reading for the lowdown on each of these classic Halloween flicks for your next movie marathon!

Does your party need a rocking soundtrack too? Hop over here next to check out our Halloween Playlist Suggestions from toddler parties to grown-up affairs.

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😱 Only the Brave Press Play (R-Rated / Extreme Horror)

For serious horror fans—blood, screams, and jump scares guaranteed.

Hereditary (2018)

When a reclusive grandmother passes away, her grieving family unravels a terrifying legacy tied to the occult. This film is deeply unsettling, combining grief, trauma, and supernatural horror in a way that lingers long after viewing.

It’s slow-burning but extremely intense, with shocking moments and a sense of dread that builds until the final scenes. Not recommended for younger teens due to disturbing imagery and psychological themes.

It (2017)

A terrifying shape-shifting entity, most often appearing as a sinister clown named Pennywise, stalks a group of children in small-town Derry, Maine. It features brutal scenes and deeply creepy visuals, especially for anyone with a fear of clowns. The story also explores themes of bullying, loss, and trauma.

The scares are serious, but it’s wrapped around a coming-of-age story with heart and strong friendships.

Scream (1996)

Both a clever satire and a brutal slasher film, Scream follows a masked killer targeting a group of high school friends while referencing horror movie clichés along the way. It’s gory and intense but also fun and self-aware.

Teens who’ve seen a few horror movies will appreciate the humor, while also jumping at the well-timed scares and suspense.

The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (2003)

This remake of the 1974 cult classic follows a group of teens who cross paths with a sadistic family in rural Texas. Brutal violence, relentless tension, and a grim, sweaty atmosphere make this one of the more intense picks.

There’s little relief from the horror once it begins, so it’s only suitable for viewers who can handle high-stress situations and gore.

Insidious (2011)

When their young son falls into an unexplained coma, his parents discover that he’s become trapped in a dark spirit realm known as “The Further.” This movie mixes haunted house scares with supernatural elements and plenty of jump scares.

While not overly graphic, the eerie visuals and demonic entities make it a chilling ride, especially in a darkened room.

The Babadook (2014)

A widowed mother struggles with grief and her son’s behavioral issues—until they begin experiencing disturbing events tied to a sinister children’s book. The horror in The Babadook is both psychological and supernatural, with a growing sense of dread.

It’s slow and atmospheric rather than gory, but emotionally intense and thought-provoking.

Evil Dead Rise (2023)

Taking the over-the-top gore of the original Evil Dead franchise into a high-rise apartment setting, this installment is both modern and extremely intense. The film features demonic possession, graphic violence, and non-stop action.

This one is not for the squeamish but is a must-watch for horror fans who enjoy chaos, blood, and sharp objects flying.

Smile (2022)

A psychiatrist begins to experience increasingly disturbing events after witnessing a traumatic patient suicide. Those afflicted by the entity are cursed to die horribly while smiling—an image that sticks in your mind.

With a mix of psychological suspense and creepy visuals, Smile is ideal for teens who enjoy mystery-driven horror with supernatural twists.

Talk to Me (2023)

A group of teens find a severed hand that allows them to contact spirits—but their thrill-seeking goes too far. Talk to Me dives into themes of addiction, peer pressure, and grief, wrapped in a chilling possession story.

With disturbing imagery and intense moments of terror, it’s best suited for older teens who can handle darker emotional themes along with supernatural horror.

Midsommar (2019)

A grieving woman travels with her boyfriend and his friends to a remote Swedish village for a once-every-90-years festival—but what begins as a bright, flower-filled folk celebration turns disturbingly sinister.

Midsommar is a slow-burn, psychological horror film with disturbing imagery and themes. It’s artistically brilliant but emotionally intense and best suited for mature teens who can handle unsettling content.

The Exorcist (1973)

When a young girl begins acting in terrifying, unexplainable ways, her mother calls in two priests to perform an exorcism. Considered one of the most iconic and chilling horror films of all time, The Exorcist delivers psychological dread, demonic possession, and deeply unsettling visuals. Not for the faint of heart—best reserved for older teens and up.

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🎬 Creepy But Not Nightmare Fuel (PG-13 / Teens 13+)

Perfect for those who love suspense and eerie twists without too much gore.

A Quiet Place (2018)

In a post-apocalyptic world, creatures with hypersensitive hearing have wiped out much of humanity. A family must live in near silence to survive—any sound could mean death. The suspense in this film is built around silence, which makes even the smallest noises heart-pounding.

It’s tense, emotional, and features a few well-placed jump scares, but lacks gore, making it ideal for teens who prefer their horror more suspenseful than gruesome.

The Others (2001)

Set in a gloomy mansion just after World War II, a mother and her two light-sensitive children begin to suspect they’re not alone. This is a slow-burn gothic ghost story with an eerie atmosphere and a twist ending that sticks with you.

There’s no gore, but the mood is deeply unsettling, ideal for teens who love a psychological mystery.

Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark (2019)

Based on the classic book series, this film features a group of teens who accidentally unleash a haunted book that writes terrifying stories into reality. Each “story” brings a unique creature and scare, from grotesque monsters to unnerving visual effects.

While it’s not graphic, the film has enough creepy imagery to give older kids and younger teens a good fright.

The Sixth Sense (1999)

This psychological thriller follows a young boy who can see the dead and a child psychologist trying to help him. With its famous twist ending and eerie atmosphere, the film strikes a balance between emotional storytelling and genuinely spooky moments.

It’s creepy and unsettling rather than terrifying, making it perfect for teens who prefer a haunting story to outright horror.

Coraline (2009 – Animated)

When a curious girl finds a hidden door to a parallel world that mirrors her own, she quickly learns that this “Other” world harbors dark secrets. The stop-motion animation adds to the unsettling tone, and the “Other Mother” is downright creepy.

While not overly scary, it’s intense in a surreal way and perfect for tweens and teens with a taste for the weird.

Goosebumps (2015)

When the creatures from R.L. Stine’s Goosebumps books are accidentally released, chaos breaks out across a small town. This movie blends comedy, adventure, and light scares, making it a great option for older tweens and younger teens who want Halloween-themed thrills without full-blown horror.

It’s fun, fast-paced, and family-friendly with just the right amount of spooky.

Monster House (2006 – Animated)

Three kids discover that a creepy house in their neighborhood is actually alive—and hungry. With stylized animation and a surprisingly eerie tone, Monster House walks the line between a fun adventure and mild horror. Great for tweens who want a little scare without nightmare fuel.

Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children (2016)

A teenage boy discovers a magical orphanage full of children with strange abilities, hidden in a time loop and hunted by terrifying monsters. Directed by Tim Burton, the film has a dark fairytale vibe with creepy undertones and fantastical visuals.

It’s more of an eerie fantasy adventure than a horror film, but still delivers Halloween-appropriate chills.

Happy Death Day (2017)

A college student is murdered on her birthday—but wakes up to relive the same day over and over again until she solves her own murder. This horror-comedy blends slasher tension with Groundhog Day-style time loops, giving viewers fun jump scares without over-the-top gore.

Great for tweens and teens who want scary with a twist of humor.

The Woman in Black (2012)

A young lawyer travels to a remote village and discovers a haunted house plagued by the ghost of a vengeful woman. With gothic scenery, ominous fog, and old-fashioned ghost story pacing, this one builds tension without relying on gore.

It’s moody and atmospheric—perfect for teens who enjoy period dramas with a supernatural twist.

Krampus (2015)

This dark Christmas horror-comedy follows a dysfunctional family who loses their holiday spirit—only to be visited by the terrifying anti-Santa, Krampus. Creepy creatures, holiday chaos, and eerie snowstorms combine for a fun-but-frightening experience.

It’s scary in a fantasy way, with a mix of humor and folklore that’s best suited for teens who enjoy a little mischief with their horror.

Lights Out (2016)

A family is tormented by a malevolent spirit that only appears in the dark. This supernatural thriller is full of shadowy scares and nerve-jangling moments, and while it’s PG-13, it delivers some serious frights. A perfect pick for teens who want something truly eerie.

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🎃 Family Frights and Fall Favorites (PG & Light PG-13)

Ideal for mixed-age sleepovers, tweens, or families who want fun with a Halloween vibe.

Hocus Pocus (1993)

When three kooky witches are accidentally resurrected on Halloween night, a group of kids and their immortal cat must stop them from stealing the youth of Salem’s children. Full of spooky fun, talking cats, spell-casting, and musical numbers, Hocus Pocus has just the right amount of creepy without being too scary.

It’s a nostalgic favorite with lots of humor, making it great for mixed-age sleepovers.

The Haunted Mansion (2003)

When a real estate agent and his family visit a spooky mansion, they discover friendly (and not-so-friendly) spirits haunt it. This Disney film features ghostly effects, slapstick comedy, and a few spooky moments but keeps it all very family-friendly.

Great for kids 8+ and a lighthearted option for a Halloween-themed movie night.

Casper (1995)

A friendly ghost befriends a young girl after her paranormal therapist father moves them into a haunted mansion. Casper mixes ghostly antics with gentle themes of loss and friendship.

The ghost effects are mild and kid-friendly, and there are a few moments of emotional depth that make it more than just a silly supernatural comedy.

The Addams Family (1991)

This darkly comedic tale centers around the delightfully macabre Addams clan and their efforts to fend off a greedy imposter. The film is filled with gothic style, witty one-liners, and over-the-top spooky charm.

While the humor is quirky and dark, it’s all in good fun, and teens and tweens will enjoy the cleverness behind the creepiness.

Monster House (2006 – Animated)

Three neighborhood kids suspect the creepy house across the street is actually alive—and they’re right. This animated film is suspenseful and dark at times, but it balances thrills with humor and strong visuals.

It’s a great pick for tweens and kids 9+ who are ready for something a bit bolder than standard cartoons.

Monster Squad (1987)

A group of misfit kids must defend their town when Dracula and a band of classic monsters (like the Wolfman and Frankenstein’s monster) return to wreak havoc. Think The Goonies meets Dracula, with a mix of adventure, scares, and ’80s nostalgia.

Some mild language and frights mean this one leans more tween/teen, but it’s a fun pick for those ready for something a little edgier.

ParaNorman (2012 – Animated)

Norman, a boy who can talk to ghosts, must save his town from a zombie apocalypse and a centuries-old curse. The animation is vivid, and while the story includes spooky visuals and eerie themes, it’s ultimately a tale about bullying, acceptance, and bravery.

It strikes a nice balance of funny and heartfelt with just the right level of scares for ages 9+.

Frankenweenie (2012 – Animated)

After a young boy brings his beloved dog back to life with a science experiment, things spiral out of control in this black-and-white stop-motion film by Tim Burton. It’s a spooky, funny take on classic monster movies, with sweet emotional undertones.

A great option for younger kids who enjoy Halloween themes without anything too intense.

Corpse Bride (2005 – Animated)

A shy groom accidentally finds himself married to a ghost bride and trapped in the land of the dead in this visually striking stop-motion film from Tim Burton. The tone is dark yet romantic and whimsical, with some spooky skeletons and ghostly imagery.

It’s more melancholy than scary, but teens and tweens who enjoy gothic themes will love it.

Hotel Transylvania (2012 – Animated)

In a monster-run hotel hidden from humans, Dracula tries to keep his daughter safe—until a human boy accidentally crashes the party. This fun animated flick is more comedy than horror, featuring silly versions of all the classic monsters.

Perfect for younger kids who want to get in the Halloween spirit without any real scares.

Ghostbusters (1984)

When paranormal activity surges in New York City, four unlikely heroes set out to bust ghosts and save the world. Ghostbusters blends comedy, action, and just enough creep factor to feel Halloween-appropriate. It’s a fun throwback that older kids and tweens will enjoy, especially if they like quirky humor and slime over true scares.

The Witches (2020)

In this adaptation of Roald Dahl’s story, a boy discovers a secret society of child-hating witches who turn kids into mice. Both the 1990 and 2020 versions deliver eerie fun, imaginative visuals, and a creepy atmosphere. Some scenes may be too intense for very young kids, but brave tweens will enjoy the magical mystery.

Beetlejuice (1988)

After a couple dies in a car crash, they haunt their home and accidentally summon the outrageous ghost Beetlejuice to scare away the new inhabitants. This Tim Burton classic is weird, hilarious, and full of imaginative visuals.

It’s spooky without being terrifying, though some of Beetlejuice’s antics may be better suited to older tweens and up.

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👻 Little Ghouls Movie Night (Ages 3–7)

Cozy up with these non-scary flicks for preschoolers and early elementary kids. This selection is gentle, age-appropriate, and designed to make Halloween feel magical instead of scary. (We’ve included run time for these too as we know littles may have a shorter concentration span!)

Room on the Broom (2012 – Animated)

Based on the beloved book by Julia Donaldson, this short animated film follows a kind-hearted witch and her cat as they make room for new friends on their flying broomstick. With gentle suspense, rhyming narration, and a warm message about friendship, it’s a delightful first “spooky” movie for preschoolers and early elementary kids.

Run time 25 minutes

Curious George: A Halloween Boo Fest (2013 – Animated)

Curious George and the Man with the Yellow Hat enjoy Halloween festivities in this sweet, non-scary adventure. George hears about a legendary scarecrow and sets out to solve the mystery. It’s fun, festive, and completely free of frights—perfect for introducing Halloween traditions to little ones.

Run time 57 minutes

Spooky Buddies (2011)

Adorable talking golden retriever pups head out on a Halloween adventure to stop an evil warlock’s spirit from returning. With cute costumes, light suspense, and kid-friendly humor, Spooky Buddies is a gentle introduction to Halloween movie fun for preschoolers and early elementary kids. It has just enough spooky atmosphere to feel festive, without any real fear.

Run time 1 hour 24 minutes

Spookley the Square Pumpkin (2005 – Animated)

Spookley is teased for being square instead of round, but his shape turns out to be helpful when a storm hits the pumpkin patch. This sweet musical teaches kids about embracing differences and being proud of who you are. The songs are catchy, and the animation is mild and cheerful.

Run time 47 minutes

Mickey’s House of Villains (2001 – Animated)

When the Disney villains take over the House of Mouse, it’s up to Mickey and friends to save the day. This Halloween-themed collection includes classic Disney shorts wrapped in a fun, slightly mischievous storyline. Great for ages 4+, especially Disney fans.

Run time 1 hour 8 minutes

It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (1966 – Animated)

A timeless Halloween favorite, this Peanuts special follows Linus as he waits for the mythical Great Pumpkin while the rest of the gang trick-or-treats. There are no scares—just nostalgic charm, gentle humor, and simple animation that make it a cozy, family-friendly choice.

Run time 25 minutes

Monsters, Inc. (2001 – Animated)

In a world where monsters generate energy by scaring children, everything changes when a human toddler accidentally enters their world. While the idea of monsters might sound scary, this Pixar film flips the script, showing that monsters are more scared of kids than the other way around. Funny, heartwarming, and great for ages 5+.

Run time 1 hour 32 minutes

Toy Story of Terror! (2013 – Animated)

This TV special finds Woody, Buzz, and the gang trapped in a spooky roadside motel. It’s got mild suspense and clever twists, but never anything too dark. Perfect for Toy Story fans who want a quick Halloween-themed adventure.

Run time 1 hour 4 minutes

Thomas & Friends: Halloween Adventures (2007 – Animated)

This themed Thomas & Friends episode features a collection of Halloween and autumn episodes, including spooky (but never scary) train tales with fun music and moral lessons. With friendly animation and familiar characters, it’s a safe and enjoyable Halloween choice for the youngest viewers.

Run time 57 minutes

Pooh’s Heffalump Halloween Movie (2005)

Roo and his new friend Lumpy try to capture a “Gobloon” in hopes of getting wishes on Halloween night. This adorable story about bravery and friendship is filled with music and gentle giggles. Ideal for very young viewers who love the Hundred Acre Wood.

Run time 1 hour 6 minutes

(Whatever you do, don’t let little kids confuse this one with R-rated Winne the Pooh Blood and Honey!)

Scooby-Doo and the Witch’s Ghost (1999)

The Mystery Inc. gang visits a New England town famous for its spooky witch legends—only to find there may be some truth behind the tales. With ghosts, gags, and classic Scooby-Doo antics, this movie offers light suspense and supernatural fun without real fear. A great Halloween pick for ages 6 and up.

Run time 1 hour 6 minutes

The Dog Who Saved Halloween (2011)

When a new neighbor moves in, Zeus the dog senses something suspicious is afoot. This talking-dog Halloween caper is silly, harmless, and packed with family-friendly laughs. It’s a gentle way to get young kids excited about Halloween themes—especially animal lovers!

Run time 1 hour 28 minutes

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Making Halloween Movie Night Magical

Whether you’re planning a night of full-on frights for teens or a cozy pumpkin pajama party for little ones, the right movie can set the perfect Halloween mood.

Consider age appropriateness—not just for content, but also for emotional maturity. A spooky setting (dim lighting, popcorn, cozy blankets) helps create the atmosphere, but always make sure there’s a quiet, safe “escape” space where younger kids can retreat if things feel too intense.

Make the evening more festive with themed snacks and drinks (we’ve got Halloween party recipes for all ages!) and consider pairing your movie night with crafts or a costume contest to break up screen time.

Planning more than just a movie night? We also have party planning tips, games, and printables to help you throw a Halloween sleepover they’ll never forget.

© Little Party Pixie 2025

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© Little Party Pixie 2025