Halloween is almost here, and the options for spooky movie marathons are endless. From the timeless chills of 1978's "Halloween" to more recent frights like "Weapons," there’s something out there to get your heart racing this October. But if you’re the type who jumps at shadows, avoids nightmares, or has little ones around, you might be hunting for a lighter, scare-free alternative.
This article is part of Trick or Stream, a seasonal series where Tom's Guide writers share their favorite horror movies and thrillers.
'Beetlejuice'
Few films capture the perfect balance of spooky and silly like the 1988 classic "Beetlejuice." While a new sequel exists, the original remains untouchable. The story begins with Adam and Barbara Maitland (Alec Baldwin and Geena Davis) meeting an untimely end, but don’t worry, there’s no graphic violence here. After becoming ghosts, they realize a new family named the Deetzes has moved into their home.
When the Maitlands’ attempts to scare them away fail spectacularly, they turn to the one being they were warned to avoid: Beetlejuice (Michael Keaton). Meanwhile, the Deetzes’ teenage daughter, Lydia (Winona Ryder), is the only one who sees the ghosts and quickly forms a bond with them. With just enough creep factor to keep things interesting and heaps of humor, it’s a Halloween treat. Bonus: The dinner table dance to “Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)” is pure cinematic magic.
Stream on HBO Max
'It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown'
Watching "It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown" on streaming may not feel quite the same as the classic broadcast, but it’s still a Halloween tradition that you can now complete on Apple TV. The special follows our beloved Peanuts gang through their Halloween adventures. Linus, ever the optimist, is obsessed with the arrival of the Great Pumpkin, while Lucy dons her witch’s mask and dismisses her brother’s pumpkin fervor as foolish. Snoopy and his Red Baron antics only add to the fun.
Between trick-or-treating, whimsical costumes and iconic Peanuts dance sequences, the special offers a comforting wave of nostalgia. It’s the perfect mix of lighthearted Halloween vibes and childhood memories.
Stream on Apple TV
'Monster House'
"Monster House" may have initially seemed like a film for kids, but it quickly proves to be a fun, thrilling watch for adults, too. The story revolves around a mysterious, creepy house next door, patrolled by the cantankerous Horace Nebbercracker. DJ and his friends, curious and daring, decide to investigate, uncovering surprises — and scares — along the way.
The house itself is practically a character, breathing and reacting in ways that make every scene exciting. While there are moments that might be too intense for very young children, the movie’s charm lies in its combination of adventure, humor and the timeless theme of kids banding together to face the unknown. It’s an animated Halloween ride that’s spooky enough to entertain but never truly terrifying.
Stream on Peacock
'E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial'
No Halloween movie list would be complete without a bit of childhood magic, and "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial" fits the bill perfectly. Steven Spielberg’s timeless tale follows Elliot (Henry Thomas), who discovers a small alien in his backyard. Using candy to coax the extraterrestrial into his home, Elliot eventually introduces E.T. to his siblings, sparking a bond that is both touching and adventurous.
As the story unfolds, government officials discover E.T.’s presence, complicating the young trio’s attempts to help him return home. Heartwarming, suspenseful, and occasionally tear-jerking, "E.T." is a reminder of the wonder and emotion of childhood adventures and is perfect for a Halloween night that leans more toward heartfelt than frightening.
Stream on Netflix
'Ghost'
Among the many actors I miss seeing in new films, Patrick Swayze is one of them. "Ghost" is a movie most of us know, but it's a good one for Halloween if you shy away from horror. The title gives away that there's obviously some supernatural action, but nothing is too alarming. Patrick Swayze stars as Sam, who has a nice life with his girlfriend, Molly (Demi Moore). One night on their way home, he's killed in a robbery gone wrong.
Yet, Sam doesn't get taken to the other side like he expected; instead, he stays behind. As he watches Molly and makes failed attempts at communicating with her, he realizes there was something more involved in his demise. He recruits the help of a psychic, Oda Mae (Whoopi Goldberg), who tries to help him communicate with Molly. There's a perfect blend of humor, romance and the supernatural, making this more than just another standard romance film.
Stream free on Hoopla
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