With Halloween approaching, it’s time to start planning some scary movie marathons.
Students can watch anything from the family-friendly “Hocus Pocus” to the disturbing “The Shining” or the cult classic “The Rocky Horror Picture Show.” But which scary movie is a must for the season?
“Hocus Pocus”
“Hocus Pocus” is one of those titles that comes to mind when you think of Halloween movies. In the years since it came out in 1993, this Disney movie has become a cult favorite. The Sanderson sisters are a trio of witches who are brought back to life after lighting a black candle, causing trouble in present-day Salem, Massachusetts.
Their story is a delightful mix of humor, magic and trickery. Even though it’s now old enough to be considered a classic, “Hocus Pocus” is still loved today, proving it’s a favorite for everyone who celebrates Halloween.
A movie doesn’t have to be scary to make you feel like it’s Halloween, and the film’s talking black cat and dead ex-boyfriend are great examples of Halloween tropes.
“The Nightmare Before Christmas”
In “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” Tim Burton does a great job of combining the magic of two holidays: Halloween and Christmas. Since its release in 1993, this stop-motion classic has become a staple during Halloween, thanks to the collaboration of Tim Burton and Henry Selick.
Jack Skellington, known as the Pumpkin King, has adventures in Halloweentown and Christmastown are both beautiful and moving. Many people watch it for Halloween and Christmas celebrations because of its eerie appeal and holiday themes.
Songs like “This Is Halloween” and “What’s This?” will stay with viewers long after finishing the movie because of their unique and scary melodies.
HARRY POTTER FRANCHISE
Even though it doesn’t have a Halloween vibe, the Harry Potter franchise is a popular film series to watch during the spooky season. Viewers go on a fantasy trip to a world where witches, wizards and magical creatures are all over.
Because there are so many Halloween-themed motifs and magical creatures like werewolves and trolls, the “Harry Potter” movie series is an excellent choice for viewers who want to enjoy the world of witchcraft and wizardry.
Although the movies aren’t considered horror, they fit right in with the Halloween aesthetic.
“Halloween”
“Halloween” has to be on any list of Halloween movies. The 1978 movie was the first time people met Michael Myers, a ruthless murderer who would become an icon of slasher films.
The scary soundtrack and John Carpenter’s great cinematography will always be remembered as classics in the horror genre. “Halloween” is the best movie for viewers who enjoy getting scared.
As time passed, the “Halloween” saga stood the test of time and inspired many other slasher films like “Friday The 13th,” “Scream” and “My Bloody Valentine.” In the past four decades, there have been a lot of sequels and remakes, but none of them are as creepy and perfect as the original.
“The Shining”
The psychological horror in Stanley Kubrick’s “The Shining” can still give viewers the creeps 43 years after it came out. Some scary scenes will always be remembered: the lonely Overlook Hotel, the creepy twins and the famous “Here’s Johnny!” moment.
“The Shining” uses fictional elements, like the Overlook Hotel’s haunting presence, to show how horrible addiction and violence are in real life. These fears are buried in the story’s undertones for a constant state of fear.
It’s not your typical slasher movie, but it might be a good choice for viewers who like psychological horror.
“The Rocky Horror Picture Show”
“Let’s do Time Warp again!” As far as Halloween movies go, “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” is also an unusual favorite. Ever since it came out in 1975, this peculiar movie has been considered a cult classic. It’s more than just a Halloween movie, it’s a viewing experience.
There are screenings at midnight in theaters across the country. It has catchy music, and audiences are encouraged to participate. Movie-enthusiasts should see “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” for Halloween if they want to do something unconventional.
The list can go on and on, but ultimately, it is up to personal preference on what movie is deemed the best for Halloween day. The first pick can be one of these, all of these or none.
Whether students prefer a film that’s light-hearted like “Hocus Pocus,” the Harry Potter franchise or “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” a slasher film like “Halloween” or a psychological horror like “The Shining,” Halloween movies make the season more enjoyable.
What’s your favorite Halloween movie?
Results of last week’s poll: What’s your favorite album of 2023?
Lil Uzi Vert – “Pink Tape” – 0%
Taylor Swift – “Speak Now (Taylor’s Version)” – 42%
Lana Del Rey – “Did you know that there’s a tunnel under Ocean Blvd” – 33%
Lil Yachty – “Let’s Start Here” – 8%
Travis Scott – “UTOPIA” – 17%
Kali Uchis – “Red Moon In Venus” – 0%
