10 Best Family-Friendly Horror Movies To Watch Together

Horror movies such as those from the Conjuring Universe can be particularly scary. They often rely on jump-scares and an overwhelming sense of dread that can leave audiences sleeping with the lights on. However, not all horror movies are designed to send traumatizing chills down your spine, with some being crafted specifically to entertain the whole family.

Of course, these family-friendly horror movies have their fair share of scares and thrills, but they are nowhere near the level of horror being put out by franchises such as Halloween or The Conjuring. The spooky forces at play in these movies are more exciting than terrifying, and are more than overpowered by the presence of comedic moments, over-the-top characters, and heartwarming themes. These movies have the unique ability to give audiences thrills without giving them nightmares.

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10 Goosebumps (2015)

A Wacky And Clever Adaptation

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6/10 Goosebumps PG

Based on R.L. Stine’s book series of the same name, Goosebumps follows teen Zach Cooper after he moves to the small town of Madison, Delaware. After befriending his neighbor Hannah, her eccentric father warns Zach to stay away. Ignoring the warnings, Zach unwittingly sets loose the deadly monsters created by Hannah’s father’s stories. The fate of the entire town rests on Zach’s ability to put the horrifying creatures back where they came from. 

Director Rob Letterman Release Date August 5, 2015 Cast Jack Black , Amy Ryan , Dylan Minnette , Odeya Rush , Ken Marino , Jillian Bell Runtime 103 Minutes

Based on R.L. Stine’s iconic horror book series for kids, Goosebumps is the perfect mix of horror, thrills, and humor for the whole family. Jack Black portrays a fictionalized version of Stine, whose monsters come to life from the stories that he wrote, leading to a thrilling adventure. Black also provides the voice acting for the villainous Slappy the Dummy, the mascot of the Goosebumps franchise who is seeking revenge on Stine for trapping him in a manuscript.

What sets Goosebumps apart is its refreshing, self-aware adaptation of a popular book series.

What sets Goosebumps apart is its refreshing, self-aware adaptation of a popular book series. Rather than just retelling the same stories from the books, Goosebumps takes a meta approach to Stine’s works, creating a family-friendly adventure that is able to tread the fine line between horror and humor. Black’s performance as Stine steals the show, making Goosebumps the perfect horror movie to watch for any fans of the books. What’s more, the Goosebumps franchise is getting a Disney+ TV show, meaning the scares could continue long into the future.

9 Hocus Pocus (1993)

A Cult Classic That Never Gets Old

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7/10 9.7/10 Hocus Pocus PG

Hocus Pocus tells the story of the Sanderson Sisters, a trio of witches who are inadvertently resurrected by a teenage boy on Halloween. When the witches threaten to take over the town of Salem, Massachusetts, it’s up to Max, sister Dani, and friend Alison to stop them with the help of Thackery Binx, one of the Sandersons’ victims trapped in the immortal body of black cat.

Director Kenny Ortega Release Date July 16, 1993 Cast Bette Midler , Sarah Jessica Parker , Kathy Najimy , Omri Katz , Thora Birch , Vinessa Shaw Runtime 96 minutes

It’s impossible to go through a Halloween season and not watch Disney’s cult classic, Hocus Pocus. The movie tells the story of three witches, played by Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy, who are resurrected in modern-day Salem. The witches have one simple goal – to eat children and use their life forces to regain their youth.

The true magic of Hocus Pocus lies in its ability to balance a plot with a pretty gruesome premise, with campy, over-the-top spookiness. The Sanderson Sisters are some of the most memorable villains in Disney history, not just because they’re scary, but because of their exaggerated humor and screen-stealing presence. Combining their fun antics with sharp one-liners is a match made in heaven, making Hocus Pocus one of the best family-friendly horror movies out there.

8 Corpse Bride (2005)

Flipping The Script On Death

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7/10 9/10 Corpse Bride PG

Directed by Mike Johnson and Tim Burton, Corpse Bride is a stop-motion fantasy-horror musical released in 2005. Set in the Victorian Era in England, a groom named Victor accidentally weds Emily, a skeletal woman, while practicing his vows alone in a forest. Whisked away to the Land of the Dead, Victor attempts to help Emily with the circumstances surrounding her fate while trying to escape his new temporary undead home.

Director Mike Johnson , Tim Burton Release Date September 23, 2005 Cast Johnny Depp , Helena Bonham Carter , Emily Watson , Tracey Ullman , Paul Whitehouse , Joanna Lumley , Albert Finney , Richard E. Grant , Christopher Lee Runtime 77 Minutes

Tim Burton is a master of animated horror, with his 2005 movie, Corpse Bride, being a testament to his ability to bring visually stunning stop-motion to the genre. Corpse Bride follows Victor (Johnny Depp), a nervous man who is practicing his wedding vows, when he accidentally puts the ring on the finger of a deceased bride, Emily (Helena Bonham Carter). Victor is then transported to the Land of the Dead, a land full of color and whimsy.

Corpse Bride defies audience expectations by making the “real world” dark, gothic, and gloomy, while making the Land of the Dead vibrant and joyful. By flipping the script on orthodox notions of the afterlife, Corpse Bride manages to deal with the rather heavy themes of death and grief while maintaining its family-friendly tone. Burton’s signature aesthetic is at play throughout the whole movie, with animation that is sure to resonate just as strongly with adults as it does with children.

7 Ghostbusters (1984)

A Humorous Movie That Has Stood The Test Of Time

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8/10 Ghostbusters PG-13

The product of director Ivan Reitman and writers Dan Aykroyd and Harold Ramis, Ghostbusters was a comedy/sci-fi movie that puts three out-of-work parapsychologists in New York City into the unlikely role of ghost hunters when the supernatural forces begin to emerge in the city. Establishing their new business after having a ghostly encounter at the New York Public Library, Peter Venkman, Ray Stantz, and Egon Spengler head over to their first call from Dana Barrett (Sigourney Weaver), who’s new unwanted supernatural houseguest will set of paranormal events that will make New York believe in the eccentric scientists. The Ghostbusters will have to live up to their reputation to have a chance against the demi-god responsible for New York’s new haunted status.

Director Ivan Reitman Release Date June 8, 1984 Cast Bill Murray , Dan Aykroyd , Sigourney Weaver , Harold Ramis , Rick Moranis , Annie Potts , Ernie Hudson Runtime 105 minutes

There are few family-friendly horror movies as iconic as Ghostbusters. Yes, there are some slightly rude scenes and lines of dialogue that may be inappropriate for younger viewers, but it’s impossible to deny the whimsical family-friendly charm of the movie. Ghostbusters follows a group of eccentric scientists who start a business of catching ghosts in New York City, eventually facing a Sumetrian goddess of evil.

While the ghosts may appear to be terrifying at first, Ghostbusters plays this off in such a silly way that it’s impossible not to laugh. From Slimer to the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man, these wacky specters have become some of the most iconic villains in movie history. Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Ernie Hudson, and the late, great Harold Ramis are truly allowed to shine in their roles as the Ghostbusters, with comedic performances that have stood the test of time for 40 years.

6 ParaNorman (2012)

A Stop-Motion Horror Movie That Is More Heartwarming Than Scary

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9/10 ParaNorman pg

ParaNorman is a stop-motion animated movie about a young boy who uses his ability to see and communicate with the dead to save his town from an ancient witch’s curse. The voice cast includes Kodi Smit-McPhee, Anna Kendrick, Casey Affleck, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, Leslie Mann, Jodelle Ferland, Bernard Hill, Tucker Albrizzi, and John Goodman.

Director Sam Fell Release Date September 13, 2012 Cast Anna Kendrick , Kodi Smit-McPhee Runtime 93minutes

ParaNorman is one of the most unique and creative zombie films ever produced. It tells the story of Norman, a boy who has the ability to see and communicate with ghosts, as he fights to save his town from a centuries-old curse. While ParaNorman is full of various typical horror characters, such as zombies and witches, its true value lies in its social commentary, primarily how it handles Norman’s journey of self-discovery.

ParaNorman
gives audiences an important message about embracing differences and finding strength in who you truly are

Norman learns to embrace his unique talent for communicating with ghosts, rather than hide it from his peers. ParaNorman gives audiences an important message about embracing differences and finding strength in who you truly are, rather than trying to change for other people. The scary moments in the movie are tempered by the quirky sense of humor from Norman and the rest of the characters, making ParaNorman a stop-motion horror movie that is more heartwarming than hair-raising.

5 Hotel Transylvania (2012)

A Modern Classic With Dracula And Monsters

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6/10 8/10 Hotel Transylvania PG

The first installment in the Hotel Transylvania franchise, Hotel Transylvania follows Johnny (Andy Samberg), a human who unwittingly wanders into the castle of Count Dracula (Adam Sandler) where he meets and falls in love with the Count’s daughter, Mavis (Selena Gomez). Hotel Transylvania also features comedic reimaginings of various movie monsters including Frankenstein (Kevin James), the Wolfman (Steve Buscemi), the Invisible Man (David Spade), and the Mummy (CeeLo Green), in a family-friendly animated adventure.

Director Genndy Tartakovsky Release Date September 28, 2012 Cast Steve Buscemi , Fran Drescher , David Spade , Andy Samberg , Kevin James , Selena Gomez , Adam Sandler , Molly Shannon , CeeLo Green Runtime 91 minutes

The first installment in the Hotel Transylvania franchise has become one of the most beloved family-friendly horror movies of all time. Adam Sandler provides the voice of Count Dracula, the founder of the titular hotel which acts as a place for other monsters, such as Frankenstein and the Invisible Man, to relax and escape the clutches of humans. However, Dracula’s plans go awry when a human, Jonathan (Andy Samberg), stumbles across the hotel and falls head-over-heels for his daughter, Mavis (Selena Gomez).

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Hotel Transylvania is able to flip the script on typical expectations of monsters, making them all lovable characters. Dracula’s overprotective parent persona is a source of both humor and heart, and is likely to resonate with any parent watching the movie with their kids. Themes of acceptance, independence, and family all combine to make Hotel Transylvania a must-watch for the whole family this Halloween season.

4 The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

A Combination Of Halloween And Christmas

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9/10 8.7/10 The Nightmare Before Christmas PG

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Henry Selick directs The Nightmare Before Christmas, a stop-motion fairytale from the mind of Tim Burton. Jack Skellington is the king of Halloween and one of Halloweentown’s most beloved citizens, but he longs for something more. When he stumbles across a magical door that leads him to discover Christmas, he makes it his mission to replace Santa Claus and bring festive cheer to his perpetually spooky hamlet.

Director Henry Selick Release Date October 29, 1993 Cast Catherine O’Hara , Glenn Shadix , Ken Page , William Hickey , Chris Sarandon , Paul Reubens , Danny Elfman Runtime 76 minutes

The debate whether The Nightmare Before Christmas is a Halloween movie or a Christmas movie is one of the hottest discourses in animation. While we may never get an answer, this doesn’t stop families from enjoying Tim Burton’s classic stop-motion movie. The movie follows Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, as he accidentally discovers Christmas Town and attempts to bring the joy of the festive season to his own gothic home.

The Nightmare Before Christmas is unique in its ability to blend the joys of both Halloween and Christmas together so seamlessly. The movie creates a world that is dark, yet whimsical, creepy, yet enchanting. Coupling this with a killer soundtrack by Danny Elfman, The Nightmare Before Christmas provides more than enough family-friendly entertainment to get you through the Halloween (and maybe even Christmas) season.

3 Harry Potter And The Prisoner Of Azkaban (2004)

Dark Magic And Thrilling Adventures

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7/10 Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban pg-13

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (2004) is the third film in the Harry Potter film series. Based on the 1999 novel of the same name by J.K. Rowling, the film was directed by Alfonso Cuarón, with a screenplay by Steve Kloves. The movie stars Daniel Radcliffe in the title role, alongside Rupert Grint and Emma Watson, who play his best friends, Ron and Hermione. The film follows Harry’s third year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, and his attempt to solve the mystery of his connection to Sirius Black, played by Gary Oldman, who recently escaped from Azkaban prison.

Director Alfonso Cuarón Release Date May 31, 2004 Cast Gary Oldman , David Thewlis , Daniel Radcliffe , Emma Watson , Rupert Grint , Robbie Coltrane , Timothy Spall , Maggie Smith , Michael Gambon , Richard Griffiths , Fiona Shaw , Alan Rickman Runtime 144 Minutes

Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban is arguably the most unique movie in the series. It marked director Alfonso Cuarón’s only contribution to Harry Potter, and as such has a gothic, darker tone than even the later movies. The Prisoner of Azkaban follows Harry’s third year at Hogwarts, as he tries to evade the clutches of Sirius Black, the man who allegedly betrayed his parents to Voldemort.

With its combination of eerie Dementors, a howling werewolf, and the suspense of Sirius’ presence, The Prisoner of Azkaban can easily be considered a horror movie. While some themes may be unsuitable for younger audiences, the plot remains altogether fairly wholesome, if a bit convoluted when time travel is involved. It’s a fantastic choice for families who want to experience some dark fantasy without delving too far into the more terrifying movies.

2 The Addams Family (1991)

They’re Creepy And They’re Kooky

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The Addams Family (1991) PG-13

The Addams Family is directed by Barry Sonnenfeld and follows the eccentric Addams family as they reunite with a man claiming to be the long-lost Uncle Fester. As the family plans a celebratory gathering, suspicions arise about Fester’s true identity, challenging the family’s trust and unity.

Director Barry Sonnenfeld Release Date November 22, 1991 Cast Raul Julia , Anjelica Huston , Christopher Lloyd , Christina Ricci , Carel Struycken , Dan Hedaya , Jimmy Workman , Elizabeth Wilson , Dana Ivey , Judith Malina , Paul Benedict , Christopher Hart , John Franklin , Tony Azito , Mercedes McNab , Douglas Brian Martin , Steven M. Martin , Maureen Sue Levin , Darlene Levin , Allegra Kent , Richard Korthaze , Ryan Holihan Runtime 99 Minutes Expand

The delightfully horrific and eccentric world of the Addams Family is brought to life in Barry Sonnenfeld’s 1991 adaptation. This version of The Addams Family is often considered one of the most beloved, and follows the titular aristocrats as they attempt to reconnect with the long-lost Uncle Fester.

Dark humor, iconic characters, and witty one-liners all make
The Addams Family
one of the most imaginative and well-known family-friendly horror movies of all time.

Dark humor, iconic characters, and witty one-liners all make The Addams Family one of the most imaginative and well-known family-friendly horror movies of all time. The movie is easy to laugh at, particularly when it focuses on just how different the Addams Family are to the rest of the world around them.

However, this humor also brings with it a strong message of staying true to yourself, no matter how different you may feel. The eerie, gothic tone of The Addams Family makes it a must-watch for those families who want to delve into some delightfully morbid fun without scaring the younger ones.

1 Scooby-Doo: The Movie (2002)

The Defining Live-Action Adaptation Of Scooby-Doo

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8/10 Scooby-Doo (2002) PG

Scooby-Doo is a 2002 film that reimagines the beloved Hanna-Barbera cartoon. Starring Freddie Prinze Jr., Sarah Michelle Gellar, Matthew Lillard, and Linda Cardellini, the movie follows Mystery Inc. as they reunite to solve a puzzling supernatural mystery at Spooky Island. Directed by Raja Gosnell, the film combines live-action and CGI to bring the iconic characters and their comedic escapades to life.

Director Raja Gosnell Release Date June 14, 2002 Cast Freddie Prinze Jr. , Sarah Michelle Gellar , matthew lillard , Linda Cardellini , Rowan Atkinson , Isla Fisher , Miguel A. Núñez Jr. , Steven Grives Runtime 86 Minutes

While critics may have disregarded Scooby-Doo: The Movie when it first released, this live-action adaptation of the adventures of Mystery Incorporated has since amassed a cult following among all ages. Scooby-Doo follows the gang as they travel to Spooky Island, a tropical resort that is harboring deep secrets. It’s a fun-filled, spooky adventure that is full of the same heart and entertainment that made the original animated series so beloved.

The highlight of the movie is undoubtedly each character’s casting. From Matthew Lillard as Shaggy to Linda Cardellini as Velma, each actor seems to effortlessly bring their character to life, exploring a fresh take on the dynamics between them as they do so. This is the defining live-action adaptation of Scooby-Doo, and blends just the right amount of spookiness with the slapstick humor that fans of the original series have come to expect.

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