Heretic
If you’re in the mood for something truly unsettling on the big screen this Halloween, Heretic is the film to see. Directed by Scott Lyus, this new horror delves deep into the murky world of occult practices and possession, weaving a story that’s as atmospheric as it is chilling. Expect a surprising turn from Hugh Grant, who masterfully shifts from his usual charming persona to play a character shrouded in eerie mystery, brooding cinematography and a score that lingers long after the credits roll. A must-watch for those who relish a slow-burn, psychological scare. Catch it in cinemas now – but be prepared to leave the lights on afterwards.
The Substance
Written, directed, and co-produced by Coralie Fargeat, The Substance stars Demi Moore as Elisabeth Sparkle, a once-celebrated Hollywood star who is fired from her aerobics show on her 50th birthday. In hospital after a car crash, she is offered the titular substance that will see her reborn as her youthful self. The only caveat? Time needs to be split: exactly one week in one body, then one week in the other. No exceptions. What could possibly go wrong? In cinemas now.
Blink Twice
The directorial debut of Zoe Kravitz, Blink Twice is a twisty psychological thriller that will have you on the edge of your seat. When tech billionaire Slater King (Channing Tatum) takes a shine to cocktail waitress Frida (Naomi Ackie), he invites her to join him and his friends on his own private island. It is, of course, paradise. That is, until strange things start to happen and Frida begins to question her reality. Will she make it out of this party alive? Stream it.
The Trap
Former rom-com favourite Josh Hartnett plays a father who takes his daughter to a concert. So far, so run of the mil. Soon, however, he becomes aware of the disproportionate police presence in and surrounding the stadium, and learns that the entire concert is a sting operation: they are here to trap a serial killer. Hartnett’s character is, of course, that killer – but will he make it out? M. Night Shyamalan directs. Stream it.
Smile
When a psychiatrist played by Sosie Bacon witnesses a patient’s appalling suicide, a series of horrific supernatural events is triggered. The Guardian says: ‘The combination of a committed central performance from the increasingly gaunt and haunted Bacon, and a jarring, tortured score, makes for an enjoyably nasty brush with the smiling face of evil.’ Steam it.
The Blair Witch Project
Based on the real-life experiences of a group of student filmmakers, this movie scared the pants off students across the globe when it came out in 1999. Considered one of the most successful independent movies ever, The Blair Witch Project consists of spliced together scenes of amateur home video footage, which is what makes it feel so authentic and quite so terrifying. Do not watch this alone. Stream it.
The Others
No Halloween viewing list would be complete without at least one haunted house thriller, and The Others delivers just that with Nicole Kidman at the film’s eerie epicentre. Directed by Alejandro Amenábar, this gothic chiller is all hushed whispers, darkened hallways, and curtains that never open, set against the backdrop of an imposing Victorian mansion. The creeping tension and carefully unwound twists make for a delectably spooky evening in. Stream it.
Practical Magic
Not all Halloween films are designed to petrify; some, like Practical Magic, are a cauldron of cosy, witchy nostalgia. Starring the unbeatable duo of Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman (yes, her again), this ‘90s cult classic melds the ethereal beauty of New England autumns with a dash of whimsical witchcraft. The perfect potion for those who like their magic served with a side of romance, a sprinkling of humour, and a glorious Stevie Nicks soundtrack. Stream it.
Hereditary
A modern-day horror masterpiece, Ari Aster’s Hereditary is the film to reach for if you’re seeking something genuinely unsettling this Halloween. It’s a disturbing exploration of grief, family secrets, and things that go bump in the night, led by Toni Collette in a performance so gripping, you may find yourself inching ever closer to the edge of your seat. Be warned, though: this one haunts. Stream it.
The Witch
Robert Eggers’ The Witch is a masterclass in atmospheric horror, and one that leans heavily into historical authenticity. Set in 17th-century New England, it follows a Puritan family grappling with inexplicable forces beyond their control. It’s a film that understands the terror of the unseen and the unsettling power of silence, with an unnerving performance from Anya Taylor-Joy at its core. Expect chills, goosebumps, and an unnerving soundtrack of dissonant strings. Stream it.
Scream
Few films have defined a genre quite like Wes Craven’s Scream. It’s a slasher flick, yes, but it’s also a wry satire, poking fun at the clichés of horror films while somehow adhering to – and perfecting – them. The result is a gleeful, self-aware bloodbath that’s as clever as it is nerve-wracking. Grab the popcorn, turn down the lights, and prepare to have your wits – and perhaps your sleep – stolen. Stream it.
Prey For The Devil
As a young nun – played wonderfully by the little-known Jacqueline Byers – prepares to perform an exorcism, she comes face to face with a demon that has ties to her traumatic past. This is a proper, old-school horror movie. Stream it.
See How They Run
You may not actually feel frightened by this new Agatha Christie adaptation, which stars Saoirse Ronan, but it is perfect Halloween fare nevertheless. The Guardian calls it: “A likably silly and relentlessly camp whodunnit spoof.” Stream it.
Bram Stoker’s Dracula
This year is the 30th anniversary of Francis Ford Coppola’s 1992 film, which is the only Dracula adaptation ever to win an Oscar. Starring Gary Oldman, Winona Ryder, Anthony Hopkins and Keanu Reeves, this elegant masterpiece is worth watching any time and is perfect for those who sit on the fence about Halloween. Stream it.
Halloween Ends
This good, old-fashioned slasher film is this year’s offering from the Halloween franchise, which first hit the big screen in 1978. Starring Jamie Lee Curtis, it is one for die-hard fans of the spookiest night of the year. Stream it.
And a few to watch with the children…
Hotel Transylvania
This is the first movie in what became a mega franchise – and it is much the best. Run by Dracula, Hotel Transylvania is a luxury retreat to which monsters can escape to relax and avoid persecution by hateful humans. Just imagine the caper that ensues when a human arrives and falls in love with Dracula’s beloved daughter… The cartoon’s big-name voices include Steve Buscemi, Selena Gomez and Adam Sandler. Fun for all the family. Stream it.
The Nightmare Before Christmas
The title of this gem, from the kooky hands of Tim Burton, is misleading. It is most definitely a movie to watch at Halloween. The darkly funny animation – which was nominated for an Oscar for Best Visual Affects – follows the king of Halloween Town as he is growing tired of leading the annual Halloween celebrations, stumbles through a portal to Christmas Town and becomes obsessed by the festive period. Critics like it very much. Writing in Rolling Stone, Peter Travers said: “This dazzling mix of fun and fright…explodes the notion that animation is kid stuff. It’s 74 minutes of timeless movie magic.” Stream it.
Hocus Pocus
Hocus Pocus shows its age (it was made in 1993) but the wacky comedy is all the cosier for it. When three 17th century witches are summoned by a prankster to the present day, the trio sets out to cast a spell on the town and reclaim their youth. Along the way they must vanquish three modern kids and a talking cat. Treats include Bette Midler and an early sighting of Sarah Jessica Parker. Stream it.
Coraline
If Tim Burton had written an Alice in Wonderland horror, it might look something like Coraline. Adapted from Neil Gaiman’s novella, this stop-motion fantasy is at once dazzlingly colourful and deliciously dark. While ostensibly a children’s film, the eerie button-eyed ‘Other Mother’ and creeping dread will make adults shiver just as much. It’s a beguiling, Burton-esque treat that captures the strange allure of the uncanny. Stream it.
