It’s October 31, and you shut out the tune of whistling winds and leaves crunching between trick-or-treaters’ feet in preparation to turn on a good movie surrounded by the warmth of a crackling fire. Whether you choose to watch a movie about a group of kids in search of a giant pumpkin, or a thriller about a masked serial killer in search of his next victims, there’s nothing better than the comforting feeling of staying in on a chilly October night and watching a seasonal film. From feel-good to frightening, here’s a list of must-see Halloween movies.

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

Though it’s intended for children and was first released over 50 years ago, this movie is a staple for the Halloween season, and certainly the opposite of scary. Following a lighthearted tale of the infamous Peanuts gang on the lookout for a Santa-like pumpkin, this movie will have you feeling nostalgic for the innocent perspective of Halloween.

• The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

A classic movie directed by the notorious Tim Burton, The Nightmare Before Christmas follows the story of Jack Skellington, who discovers Christmas after living in a world where it’s constantly Halloween. Although it might leave you anticipating the Christmas season, it’s a must-see for Halloween.

• Halloweentown (1998)

A Disney original, Halloweentown is about kids who follow their mysterious grandma to Halloweentown and discover that they come from a line of witches. The simple yet peculiar storyline will have anyone feeling the spirit of Halloween. 

• Hocus Pocus (1993)

This Disney film follows the fantastic tale of 3 witches released by two curious teenagers in Salem. This whimsical story is considered a classic, and any Halloween without it would be incomplete. Its sequel is set to be released in the fall of 2022.

• Hubie Halloween (2020)

Released on Netflix last fall, this movie features actor and comedian Adam Sandler, alongside Kevin James, Shaquille O’Neal, and many more of your favorite celebrities. It follows the charming tale of oddball Hubie Dubois who proves himself one Halloween night. It combines mystery and comedy, landing it a spot in the middle of the list.

• Beetlejuice (1988)

Transitioning into the scarier movies on the list, “Beetlejuice” combines fantasy, comedy, and sandworms. Its plot is somewhat eccentric; it’s centered around ghosts who are stuck haunting a house joined by the slightly offbeat Beetlejuice. That being said, it’s a cult classic that’s too amusing to skip this Halloween.

• The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975)

The original midnight movie, The Rocky Horror Picture Show has been on people’s Halloween movie watchlist for nearly 50 years. Lovebirds Brad and Janet stumble upon a mysterious mansion occupied by a rather odd array of characters. The unconventional themes for the time it was released have contributed to its timelessness and can be enjoyed by a wide range of people.

• Ghostbusters (1984)

With multiple reboots of this iconic movie, watching any of them will complete the Halloween feel. It follows 4 bizarre scientists who amass fame after becoming ghost exterminators and in the end must save the city. There are some scary scenes here and there, but, overall, it’s considered a movie suitable for the whole family.

• A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984)

Somewhat of a jump from “Ghostbusters,” this movie is responsible for terrorizing the world through iconic movie villain Freddy Krueger. He attacks teenagers in their dreams, which kills them in real life. People who watch it have claimed to never have a good night’s sleep again.

• Halloween (1978), Halloween Kills (2021)

This movie places dead last on a scale from feel-good to frightening. Continuing the story of notorious serial killer Michael Myers, the new Halloween Kills is a must-see before the Halloween season is over. A serial killer lurking around his hometown on the hunt for more victims, this movie franchise is not for those who are easily spooked.