What Are The Best Scary Family Movies For A Spooky Night?

Scary Family Movies can be a fantastic way to bond with your loved ones and enjoy a thrilling experience together, especially on those cozy nights in. If you’re looking for a list of family-friendly scary movies, look no further; hudsonfamily.net has compiled a list of spooky movies that can build a foundation for becoming horror fans. This guide will help you find the perfect blend of spooky fun and gentle thrills. These family horror films guarantee entertainment for the whole family.

1. What Makes a Movie “Scary Family-Friendly?”

Scary family movies strike a balance between thrills and age-appropriateness. They often include:

Mild Horror Elements: Ghosts, monsters, and spooky settings, but without excessive gore or violence.
Humor: Jokes and comedic relief to alleviate tension.
Positive Messages: Themes of friendship, courage, and overcoming fears.
Age-Appropriate Content: Stories and visuals suitable for tweens and older children.

These elements ensure that everyone, from younger viewers to adults, can enjoy the movie without feeling overwhelmed or disturbed. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), exposure to age-appropriate scary content can help children develop coping mechanisms for fear and anxiety.

2. Top Picks for Scary Family Movies

Here is a curated list of scary family movies that are sure to provide a thrilling and enjoyable experience for everyone:

2.1. Ghostbusters (1984)

Ghostbusters 1984 horror movie appropriate for tweens

Ghostbusters is a classic choice and one of the best movies for introducing someone of almost any age to the horror genre. This horror-comedy blends spooky elements with plenty of laughs. The special effects are impressive but cartoonish enough not to be too scary.

Why it’s great: It’s a pop culture phenomenon with a simple plot and fantastic actors.
Keep in mind: Some parents might find a scene with a risqué ghost allusion uncomfortable, but it often goes unnoticed by younger viewers.
Rating: PG
Runtime: 1 hour and 45 minutes

2.2. The Addams Family (1991)

The Addams Famiy horror for kids

This film introduces the kooky and creepy Addams family. The Addams Family is a lot of fun and showcases the family’s unique dynamic and love for the macabre. Pugsley and Wednesday’s scenes are often taken directly from Charles Addams’ comic strips, adding a special treat for fans.

Why it’s great: The characters are memorable, and the humor is perfect for all ages.
Bonus: Check out the sequel, Addams Family Values, the Wednesday show on Netflix, or the 1960s TV show.
Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 1 hour and 39 minutes

2.3. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

The Nightmare Before Christmas Lock Shock Barrel

A holiday-themed horror film for tweens, The Nightmare Before Christmas, is a stop-motion animation musical about Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King, who discovers Christmas Town.

Why it’s great: It features great songs, unique animation, and a story that blends Halloween and Christmas themes.
Perfect for: November, bridging the gap between Halloween and Christmas.
Rating: PG
Runtime: 1 hour and 16 minutes

2.4. The House with a Clock in Its Walls (2018)

The House with a Clock in Its Walls Jack Black Eli Roth horror film based on a book

Based on John Bellairs’ book, this film stars Jack Black and Cate Blanchett. It tells the story of a 10-year-old orphan who discovers his uncle is a warlock.

Why it’s great: Set in 1955, it features beautiful costumes and set design, blending fantasy and horror.
Elements: Living Jack-o-lanterns, zombies, and a spooky graveyard.
Rating: PG
Runtime: 1 hour and 45 minutes

2.5. Casper (1995)

Casper 1995 Devon Sawa Christina Ricci

Casper is a sweet and simple ghost story about a lonely ghost who befriends a young girl. This film follows Casper, the friendly ghost, as he navigates his afterlife and forms a heartwarming connection with a human girl named Kat.

Why it’s great: It’s a spooky and sweet story with impressive CGI special effects.
Plot: Casper calls a paranormal therapist for help and forms a friendship with his daughter.
Rating: PG
Runtime: 1 hour and 40 minutes

2.6. Hotel Transylvania (2012)

Hotel Transylvania best kid horror movies

This film features classic monsters in adorable renditions, with a fast pace and endearing characters. Hotel Transylvania is tender and goofy. The father-daughter relationship between Dracula and Mavis is really cute.

Why it’s great: It’s equal parts tender and goofy, with plenty of monster-related antics.
Themes: Honest communication and giving everyone a fair chance.
Rating: PG
Runtime: 1 hour and 31 minutes

2.7. Eight Legged Freaks (2002)

Eight Legged Freaks teen scarlett johanson spider horror film

This film is about a toxic waste mishap that transforms local spiders into gigantic monsters. Eight Legged Freaks is a perfect horror film for tweens – an arachnid rollercoaster. The cast, which includes Scream King David Arquette and a teenage Scarlett Johansson, really gives it their all.

Why it’s great: It cleverly blends humor with horror, creating jump-and-chuckle moments.
Plot: The townsfolk must come together to tackle the eight-legged invasion.
Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 1 hour 39 minutes

2.8. Arachnophobia (1990)

Arachnophobia

Arachnophobia is a suspenseful film about mutant spiders taking over and killing people. While it might leave some viewers with the title phobia, it’s a thrilling experience for those who can handle it.

Why it’s great: It’s a tense film with few jokes, making the spiders all the more menacing.
Consider: Discuss spiders beforehand to avoid scaring impressionable viewers.
Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 1 hour and 49 minutes

2.9. Super 8 (2011)

Super 8 was filmed in Ohio

Before Stranger Things, there was Super 8, a film about a group of friends making a zombie movie who cross paths with an alien.

Why it’s great: It blends sci-fi and horror elements, creating a thrilling mix.
Note: It has loud noises and auditory jump scares.
Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 1 hour 52 minutes

2.10. E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial (1982)

et the extra terrestrial

This classic film is about kids who find an alien, and is known to be heartwarming and adventurous. E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial is a worthy addition to this list and that kids and tweens will love it.

Why it’s great: It’s a touching story with memorable characters.
Audience: Kids and tweens.
Rating: PG
Runtime: 1 hour 54 minutes

2.11. Gremlins 2: The New Batch (1990)

gremlins 2 the new batch horror movie sequel

If your kids loved Gremlins, they’ll enjoy this sequel where Gizmo causes mayhem in a New York City high-rise. This movie provides a rowdy blend of humor and zany Gremlin antics.

Why it’s great: It’s chaotic and funny, with phenomenal puppetry and animatronics.
Themes: A lesson in responsibility wrapped in fun.
Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 1 hour and 46 minutes

2.12. Coraline (2009)

Coraline claymation horror film

Coraline is a visual delight with phenomenal stop-motion animation. It tells the story of a little girl who finds an alternate dimension.

Why it’s great: The animation is visually stunning.
Plot: Coraline finds doppelgängers of her parents who give her plenty of love and attention.
Rating: PG
Runtime: 1 hour and 40 minutes

2.13. Corpse Bride (2005)

Tim Burton Corpse Bride kids animated horror film

Also known as Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride, this film is a stop-motion animated musical. This movie is a very benign jaunt into ghostly horror that is just kinda (literally) blue and sleepy-feeling.

Why it’s great: It’s visually stunning.
Audience: A fine entry point for kids to get into horror.
Rating: PG
Runtime: 1 hour and 17 minutes

2.14. Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark (2019)

Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark horror movies based on books

Set in 1968, Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark is based on Alvin Schwartz’s children’s books and features outrageously cool special effects taken straight from Stephen Gammell’s illustrations.

Why it’s great: The imagery is terrifying, and it can introduce kids to great reading material.
Audience: Tweens.
Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 1 hour and 48 minutes

2.15. Monster House (2006)

Monster House kid friendly horror films

Three kids discover that the creepy house across the street is alive. This film is set in 1983 and takes place on Halloween.

Why it’s great: It’s a spooky adventure that teaches the value of courage and teamwork.
Consider: Flashback scenes of an obese woman being tortured may be difficult to watch.
Rating: PG
Runtime: 1 hour and 31 minutes

2.16. ParaNorman (2012)

Paranorman kid friendly horror movie

ParaNorman is about a boy who can talk to the dead. It mixes humor, mystery, and genuinely eerie moments.

Why it’s great: The zombies, witches, and ghosts provide visual thrills, and it promotes embracing who you are.
Audience: Kids and tweens.
Rating: PG
Runtime: 1 hour and 32 minutes

2.17. The Witches (1990)

The Witches 1990 Roald Dahl horror movies based on books

Based on the Roald Dahl book, The Witches teaches tweens that witches are real and evil, with the goal of destroying all children.

Why it’s great: The makeup effects are fantastic, and it has a lot of haunting concepts.
Consider: It’s intense, so keep it away from younger kids.
Rating: PG
Runtime: 1 hour and 31 minutes

2.18. Goosebumps (2015)

Goosebumps 2015 Jack Black horror films

Starring Jack Black as R.L. Stine, this film is an energetic romp through the Goosebumps universe. Goosebumps plot centers around a teenage boy (Zach) moving next door to a teenage girl (Hannah) and her dad

Why it’s great: Jack Black is a joy, and it can introduce tweens to the books it was based on.
Plot: Monsters from R.L. Stine’s books come to life.
Rating: PG
Runtime: 1 hour and 43 minutes

2.19. Disney’s Haunted Mansion (2023)

Haunted Manion 2023 tween friendly horror films

Haunted Mansion had an unfortunate release date, but it’s a perfect tween-friendly horror film.

Why it’s great: It’s entertaining for both kids and adults.
Bonus: There are other films based on the Disneyland Haunted Mansion ride.
Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 2 hours and 3 minutes

2.20. The Monster Squad (1987)

The Monster Squad tween friendly horror films

This film is about a group of kids who fight real monsters like Dracula, the Wolf Man, the Mummy, and Frankenstein’s monster.

Why it’s great: It has amazing effects, refreshing takes on classic monsters, and heartwarming moments.
Audience: Tweens.
Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 1 hour and 19 minutes

2.21. Hocus Pocus (1993)

Hocus Pocus 1993 kid friendly horror

Hocus Pocus features Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy as witch sisters summoned to modern times. This movie has been summated by Christi Bandy as having just a smidge of suspense as the two child leads try to defeat the witches before it’s too late which will give kids and tweens spooky thrills without being too scary.

Why it’s great: It has a smidge of suspense and plenty of humor.
Characters: A talking black cat and a zombie.
Rating: PG
Runtime: 1 hour and 36 minutes

2.22. Halloweentown (1998)

Halloweentown Disney TV halloween movie

Halloweentown is a perfect movie for Halloween time and a great gateway into supernatural films.

Why it’s great: It’s adorable.
Plot: A 13-year-old discovers she’s from a family of witches from Halloweentown.
Rating: TV-G
Runtime: 1 hour and 24 minutes

2.23. Something Wicked This Way Comes (1983)

Something Wicked This Way Comes Mr Dark hand tattoos

Based on the Ray Bradbury novel, Something Wicked This Way Comes is about an evil circus that grants the townsfolks’ wishes with sinister consequences.

Why it’s great: It has suspense and teaches the lesson to be careful what you wish for.
Plot: Two boys figure out what’s going on at the evil circus and are hunted by Mr. Dark.
Rating: PG
Runtime: 1 hour and 35 minutes

2.24. Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein (1948)

Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein

This film introduces younger audiences to black and white horror via a horror comedy. Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein Like The Monster Squad and Hotel Transylvania, features all of the “core” movie monsters together in one film with plenty of comedy antics to keep antsy tweens focused.

Why it’s great: It’s fast-paced and silly and features all the core movie monsters.
Audience: Tweens.
Rating: Not Rated
Runtime: 1 hour and 23 minutes

2.25. Classic Universal Monster Movies

frankenstein meets the wolfman publicity still

The old Universal monster films are classics and fine viewing for younger kids and tweens.

Frankenstein Meets the Wolfman Runtime: 1 hour and 14 minutes
The Wolf Man Runtime: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Dracula Runtime: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Creature from the Black Lagoon Runtime: 1 hour and 19 minutes
The Invisible Man Runtime: 1 hour and 11 minutes
Frankenstein Runtime: 1 hour and 10 minutes
The Bride of Frankenstein Runtime: 1 hour and 15 minutes
The Mummy Runtime: 1 hour and 13 minutes

2.26. The Mummy (1999)

The Mummy 1999 horror action movies

This film is an action-adventure with comedy and Brendan Fraser. Finding someone who doesn’t enjoy The Mummy (1999) is like finding someone who hates cold drinks on a hot summer day.

Why it’s great: It keeps the horror spirit alive while placing the audience on a fast-paced ride.
Elements: Action and adventure.
Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 2 hours and 4 minutes

2.27. Monsters, Inc. (2001)

Monsters Inc 2001 cartoon monster movie

Monsters, Inc. is where the monsters under your bed turn out to be more goofy than scary. This film is perfect for kids and tweens and has plenty of laughs for adults too, and the computer animation still holds up shockingly well

Why it’s great: The monsters under the bed turn out to be goofy.
Themes: Overcoming fear.
Rating: G
Runtime: 1 hour and 32 minutes

2.28. Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit (2005)

wallace gromit in the curse of the wererabbit uk childrens horror film

Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit is perfect for kids and younger tweens. The British charm, the crazy contraptions, and the clever humor make it enjoyable for all ages.

Why it’s great: It’s a wild adventure loaded with funny moments.
Audience: Kids and younger tweens.
Rating: G
Runtime: 1 hour and 25 minutes

2.29. Frankenweenie (2012)

Frankenweenie 2012 horror remake

If you’re in a good place emotionally, you and your kids will enjoy Frankenweenie, a cute stop-motion animated interpretation of the classic Frankenstein story.

Why it’s great: It’s a macabre tale about love, friendship, and the consequences of playing with life and death.
Consider: It’s about a dog that dies.
Rating: PG
Runtime: 1 hour and 27 minutes

2.30. Scooby-Doo (2002)

Scooby Doo 2002 still holds up

Scooby-Doo takes the characters and core concepts of the original cartoons and breathes new life into them, it has been said to still hold up in this modern day. This show is one of the great tween-friendly horror films out there.

Why it’s great: It’s super colorful and thoroughly entertaining.
Plot: The Mystery, Inc. gang gets called out to a resort on Monster Island.
Rating: PG
Runtime: 1 hour and 26 minutes

2.31. The Munsters (2022)

The Musnters 2022 Daniel Roebuck horror films for tweens

The Munsters is a live-action cartoon, a vividly-colored horror comedy with iconic characters acting out goofy scenarios.

Why it’s great: It’s a lot of fun and a near-perfect pilot episode to a new show.
Audience: Tweens.
Rating: PG
Runtime: 1 hour and 49 minutes

2.32. Little Shop of Horrors (1986)

Little Shop of Horrors 1986 best horror movie musicals

Little Shop of Horrors is one of the absolute best horror movie musicals.

Why it’s great: Younger audiences have loved it since it came out.
Consider: May make younger children afraid to go to the dentist.
Rating: PG-13
Runtime: 1 hour and 34 minutes

2.33. Return to Oz (1985)

Return to Oz

If your kid enjoyed The Wizard of Oz, they’ll probably love Return to Oz. This film has been a comfort film to many.

Why it’s great: Happy endings all around.
Plot: Dorothy returns to Oz to find it not as she left it.
Rating: PG
Runtime: 1 hour and 53 minutes

2.34. Ernest Scared Stupid (1991)

Ernest Scared Stupid 90s childrens horror

This film is about defeating evil trolls through unconditional kindness. Ernest Scared Stupid gives rise to the “Got Milk?” era of monster fighting.

Why it’s great: It is memorable with incredible rubber monster suits.
Audience: Tweens.
Rating: PG
Runtime: 1 hour and 31 minutes

2.35. House on Haunted Hill (1959)

house on haunted hill william castle vincent price horror film

House on Haunted Hill is a classic horror film directed by William Castle. Vincent Price offers $10,000 to anyone who can spend the night in a haunted mansion.

Why it’s great: It is a fun, atmospheric tale of suspense.
Plot: Eerie events cause tension and fear among the guests.
Rating: Not Rated
Runtime: 1 hour and 15 minute

2.36. Mad Monster Party? (1967)

Mad Monster Party classic kids horror

Mad Monster Party? is a stop-motion animated Rankin/Bass holiday special with adorable renditions of the classic movie monsters.

Why it’s great: It’s mellow and won’t give children nightmares.
Audience: Very small children.
Rating: Not rated
Runtime: 1 hour and 34 minutes

2.37. Monster High Movies

Monster High Haunted

The Monster High films are a lot of fun for kids and tweens who love the characters.

Monster High: New Ghoul @ School Runtime: 23 minutes
Monster High: Fright On! Runtime: 46 minutes
Monster High: Why Do Ghouls Fall in Love? Runtime: 46 minutes
Monster High: Escape from Skull Shores Runtime: 46 minutes
Monster High: Friday Night Frights Runtime: 46 minutes
Monster High: Ghouls Rule Runtime: 1 hour and 11 minutes
Monster High: Scaris: City of Frights Runtime: 1 hour and 1 minute
Monster High: 13 Wishes Runtime: 1 hour and 13 minutes
Monster High: Frights, Camera, Action! Runtime: 1 hour and 13 minutes
Monster High: Freaky Fusion Runtime: 1 hour and 13 minutes
Monster High: Haunted Runtime: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Monster High: Boo York, Boo York Runtime: 1 hour and 11 minutes
Monster High: Great Scarrier Reef Runtime: 1 hour and 11 minutes

2.38. The Legend of Sleepy Hollow (1949)

The Legend of Sleepy Hollow Disney Halloween short

This Halloween Disney classic is about the animated story of the headless horseman! The Legend of Sleepy Hollow (1949), is Included in The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad*.

Why it’s great: Its a Halloween Disney Classic.
Plot: The animated story of the headless horseman.
Rating: Not Rated
Runtime: 34 minutes

2.39. Trick or Treat (1952)

Trick or Treat 1952 huey dewey louie duck halloween

This short film is about Huey, Dewy, and Louie Duck making friends with a witch named Hazel. Trick or Treat is a well know and popular short.

Why it’s great: The song “Trick or Treat for Halloween” is great.
Plot: Huey, Dewy, and Louie Duck make friends with a witch named Hazel.
Rating: Not Rated
Runtime: 8 minutes

3. Considerations Before Watching

Before diving into scary family movies, consider these points:

Age Appropriateness: Generally, it’s not recommended to expose children under five to the horror genre, as their brains may not distinguish reality from fantasy.
Individual Sensitivities: Every child is different. Know what your child can handle.
Check Triggers: Use resources like DoesTheDogDie.com to check for potential triggers.
Create a Safe Environment: Watch the movie in a comfortable setting where kids feel safe to express their emotions.

4. Tips for a Fun Movie Night

To make the movie night even more enjoyable:

Set the Mood: Dim the lights, prepare snacks, and create a cozy atmosphere.
Discuss the Movie Afterward: Talk about the themes, characters, and any scary moments to help kids process their emotions.
Provide Reassurance: Remind children that it’s just a movie and that everything is make-believe.

According to child psychologists, discussing the movie can help children understand and manage their fears, turning a potentially scary experience into a valuable learning opportunity.

5. Addressing Common Concerns

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about scary movies for kids:

Q1: At what age is it appropriate to introduce scary movies?
- The appropriate age varies, but generally, children over seven can handle mild horror elements. Always consider your child’s maturity level.
Q2: How can I tell if a movie is too scary for my child?
- Look for signs of distress such as nightmares, anxiety, or excessive fear. If your child exhibits these signs, it’s best to avoid similar movies in the future.
Q3: What if my child gets scared during the movie?
- Pause the movie, talk about their fears, and offer comfort. You can also try turning on the lights or switching to a lighter movie.
Q4: Can scary movies be beneficial for kids?
- Yes, when approached correctly. Age-appropriate scary content can help children develop coping mechanisms for fear and anxiety.
Q5: Are there any specific themes to avoid?
- Avoid movies with excessive violence, gore, or themes that could be particularly disturbing to children, such as realistic depictions of harm to children or animals.
Q6: What makes a scary movie family-friendly?
- A family-friendly scary movie includes mild horror elements, humor, positive messages, and age-appropriate content.
Q7: How can I prepare my child for a scary movie?
- Talk about the movie beforehand, explaining that it is just a story and not real. You can also watch trailers together to gauge their reaction.
Q8: Should I watch the movie with my child?
- Yes, watching the movie with your child allows you to provide comfort and reassurance during scary moments.
Q9: What are some alternatives to scary movies for a family movie night?
- Consider watching animated movies, comedies, or adventure films that are suitable for all ages.
Q10: Where can I find reviews of family-friendly scary movies?
- Websites like hudsonfamily.net, Common Sense Media, and IMDb offer reviews and age ratings to help you make informed decisions.

6. Discover More at Hudsonfamily.net

For more recommendations and in-depth reviews, visit hudsonfamily.net. Our website offers a wide range of articles, stories, and resources to help you create memorable family moments. Whether you’re looking for advice on raising children, tips for maintaining strong relationships