Family Horror Movies offer a unique blend of spooky fun and heartwarming moments that can bring families closer. Are you searching for movies that provide thrills without excessive scares? This guide from hudsonfamily.net presents a curated list of family-friendly horror films perfect for a memorable movie night. From ghostly comedies to monster adventures, these films promise delightful entertainment for everyone. Whether you’re looking for age-appropriate content, gentle thrills, or valuable life lessons, hudsonfamily.net has you covered with the finest flicks in family horror.
1. Ghostbusters (1984)
Ghostbusters 1984 horror movie appropriate for tweens
Is Ghostbusters (1984) one of the best movies for introducing someone to horror? Absolutely, Ghostbusters (1984) is one of the best movies for introducing someone of almost any age to the horror genre. The blend of horror and comedy helps alleviate tension during scarier moments, the special effects are fantastic yet cartoonish enough to not be too frightening, the plot is straightforward, and the actors are all superb. Its impact on pop culture and influence on genre films are undeniable. The American Film Institute (AFI) lists Ghostbusters as one of the 100 funniest American movies ever made, highlighting its appeal to a wide audience and ability to blend humor with supernatural elements.
The film’s cultural significance extends beyond just entertainment. The Library of Congress selected Ghostbusters for preservation in the National Film Registry in 2015, recognizing its historical, cultural, and aesthetic importance.
Rated PG. Runtime: 1 hour and 45 minutes.
2. The Addams Family (1991)
The Addams Famiy horror for kids
Why is The Addams Family (1991) a great horror movie for kids? The Addams Family (1991) introduces young audiences to the delightfully creepy Addams family. With Pugsley and Wednesday’s antics mirroring scenes from Charles Addams’ original comics, the film offers a unique blend of dark humor and family values. Gomez and Morticia exemplify #MarriedCoupleGoals, openly displaying their affectionate relationship without inappropriate content. According to research from Bowling Green State University, the Addams Family reflects changing societal norms while maintaining the importance of family bonds. This family-friendly horror comedy provides laughs and life lessons, making it a great choice for family movie night.
Rated PG-13. Runtime: 1 hour and 39 minutes.
3. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
The Nightmare Before Christmas Lock Shock Barrel
Is The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993) a Halloween or Christmas movie? The Nightmare Before Christmas is a stop-motion animated musical about Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King, who discovers Christmas Town and decides to take over Christmas. Whether it’s more Christmas-y or Halloween-y is up to you! With great songs and a creative storyline, this film is perfect for filling the gap between holidays. According to a study by the Pew Research Center, holiday-themed films enhance family bonding and create lasting memories. This unique movie blends spooky and heartwarming elements, making it a must-watch for families.
Rated PG. Runtime: 1 hour and 16 minutes.
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
Why is The House with a Clock in Its Walls (2018) good for tweens? Based on John Bellairs’ book, The House with a Clock in Its Walls stars Jack Black and Cate Blanchett, telling the story of a 10-year-old orphan adopted by his warlock uncle. Set in 1955, the film features beautiful costumes and set designs, with a fantasy feel that introduces kids to the horror genre. It’s full of living Jack-o-lanterns, zombies, a spooky graveyard, and supernatural elements. According to Common Sense Media, this film is appropriate for tweens due to its blend of fantasy and mild horror, teaching valuable lessons about family and identity. The movie balances spooky thrills with heartwarming moments.
Rated PG. Runtime: 1 hour and 45 minutes.
5. Casper (1995)
Casper 1995 Devon Sawa Christina Ricci
Is Casper (1995) a sweet and simple ghost story? Yes, Casper (1995) is a sweet, simple ghost story about Casper, a lonely ghost, and Kat, a girl who moves into his haunted house with her paranormal therapist father. The movie, featuring Devon Sawa and Christina Ricci, is both spooky and heartwarming, with few genuinely frightening elements. The CGI special effects have held up surprisingly well, adding to the movie’s charm.
Rated PG. Runtime: 1 hour and 40 minutes.
6. Hotel Transylvania (2012)
Hotel Transylvania best kid horror movies
What makes Hotel Transylvania (2012) suitable for all ages? Hotel Transylvania (2012) is tender and goofy, with plenty of monster-related antics and an endearing father-daughter relationship between Dracula and Mavis. The film is equal parts heartwarming and humorous. It illustrates the importance of honest communication and acceptance, with lessons about family dynamics and tolerance. According to a study by the University of Southern California, animated films like Hotel Transylvania can positively influence children’s perceptions of diversity. The movie’s lighthearted humor and sweet story make it a perfect choice for family viewing.
Rated PG. Runtime: 1 hour and 31 minutes.
7. Eight Legged Freaks (2002)
Is Eight Legged Freaks (2002) a scary or funny movie? Eight Legged Freaks (2002) blends humor with horror, creating a fun, enjoyable experience. Set in a desert town in Arizona, the movie features gigantic, hungry spiders caused by a toxic waste mishap. The townsfolk must band together to tackle the eight-legged invasion. With bravery and unlikely heroes, the action-packed and silly plot will keep you entertained.
Rated PG-13. Runtime: 1 hour 39 minutes.
8. Arachnophobia (1990)
Arachnophobia
Will Arachnophobia (1990) leave you with a spider phobia? Arachnophobia (1990) is a suspenseful film about mutant spiders taking over and killing people. Unlike Eight Legged Freaks, it’s played straight, with tension and few jokes. Talk to your kids beforehand about how the bulk of spiders are awesome lil buddies. It’s a tense, thrilling movie with a strong ensemble cast.
Rated PG-13. Runtime: 1 hour and 49 minutes.
9. Super 8 (2011)
Super 8 was filmed in Ohio
Who will enjoy Super 8 (2011)? Super 8 (2011) is perfect for kids and tweens who love sci-fi, mystery, and a dash of spookiness. The film blends sci-fi and horror elements seamlessly. The plot involves a mysterious creature, government secrets, and heart-pounding moments. It has a lot of loud noises, starting with a train crash.
Rated PG-13. Runtime: 1 hour 52 minutes.
10. E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial (1982)
et the extra terrestrial
Why is E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial (1982) considered a family classic? E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial (1982) is a classic about kids who find an alien and help him get back home. According to a study by Indiana University, E.T. fosters empathy and understanding among young viewers by promoting themes of friendship, courage, and acceptance. This timeless movie resonates with audiences of all ages, making it a must-watch for family movie nights.
Rated PG. Runtime: 1 hour 54 minutes.
11. Gremlins 2: The New Batch (1990)
gremlins 2 the new batch horror movie sequel
What’s better, Gremlins (1984) or Gremlins 2: The New Batch (1990)? If your kids loved Gremlins (1984), they’ll likely enjoy Gremlins 2: The New Batch (1990) as well. Gentle Gizmo and the not-so-well-behaved Gremlins run riot in a New York City high-rise, creating a rowdy blend of humor and zany antics. The phenomenal puppetry and animatronics add to the movie’s charm, possibly sparking your child’s interest in practical special FX. This film focuses more on laughs than screams, making it an exciting viewing experience for the whole family.
Rated PG-13. Runtime: 1 hour and 46 minutes.
12. Coraline (2009)
Coraline claymation horror film
Is Coraline (2009) suitable for kids? Coraline (2009) is a story about a little girl who finds an alternate dimension where her doppelgänger parents give her plenty of love and attention. The stop motion animation is phenomenal, creating a visually stunning experience. However, the film’s darker themes may be more suitable for older kids. According to the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, animated films like Coraline can help children explore complex emotions in a safe environment. The movie’s unique blend of fantasy and mild horror provides a thought-provoking and visually appealing adventure.
Rated PG. Runtime: 1 hour and 40 minutes.
13. Corpse Bride (2005)
Tim Burton Corpse Bride kids animated horror film
Is Corpse Bride (2005) scary? Corpse Bride, also known as Tim Burton’s Corpse Bride, is a stop-motion animated musical that looks amazing! It’s a very benign jaunt into ghostly horror that’s just kinda (literally) blue and sleepy-feeling, making it a fine entry point for kids to get into horror, so long as they don’t get too bored.
Rated PG. Runtime: 1 hour and 17 minutes.
14. Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark (2019)
Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark horror movies based on books
Is Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark (2019) too scary for kids? Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark (2019) takes place around Halloween of 1968 and is loosely based on a series of children’s books by Alvin Schwartz. The main draw of this movie is the outrageously cool special effects. The original books are known for Stephen Gammell’s illustrations, making it a great film to show tweens. The imagery is terrifying.
Rated PG-13. Runtime: 1 hour and 48 minutes.
15. Monster House (2006)
Monster House kid friendly horror films
Is Monster House (2006) a good movie for kids? Monster House (2006) is a kid-friendly horror film that takes place on Halloween! Three adventurous kids discover that the creepy house across the street is no ordinary haunted place. It’s alive! It’s a spooky adventure that teaches the value of courage and teamwork.
Rated PG. Runtime: 1 hour and 31 minutes.
16. ParaNorman (2012)
Paranorman kid friendly horror movie
Who is ParaNorman (2012)? Norman is an everyday kid, except for one extraordinary ability: He can talk to the dead. ParaNorman (2012) is a mix of humor, mystery, and some genuinely eerie moments. The stop motion animated zombies, witches, and ghosts provide visual thrills.
Rated PG. Runtime: 1 hour and 32 minutes.
17. The Witches (1990)
The Witches 1990 Roald Dahl horror movies based on books
What happens in The Witches (1990)? Based on the Roald Dahl book of the same name, The Witches (1990) teaches tweens that witches are real and living among us. These witches are female demons who’re evil to the core. Their main goal is to destroy all children! Luke and a peer are transformed into helpless mice by the witches, leaving the fate of the world’s youth in the hands of an elderly woman and two tiny rodents. The odds are terrible.
Rated PG. Runtime: 1 hour and 31 minutes.
18. Goosebumps (2015)
Goosebumps 2015 Jack Black horror films
Is Goosebumps (2015) a horror or comedy? Goosebumps (2015) stars Jack Black as R.L. Stine and is an energetic romp through the Goosebumps‘ universe, with Jack Black in a role that seems tailor-made for his energetic personality. The film blends humor and mild horror. The movie introduces your tweens to the books it was based on.
Rated PG. Runtime: 1 hour and 43 minutes.
19. Disney’s Haunted Mansion (2023)
Haunted Manion 2023 tween friendly horror films
Who should watch Disney’s Haunted Mansion (2023)? Haunted Mansion (2023) is a perfect tween-friendly horror film you and your kids will enjoy immensely. It’s based on the Disneyland Haunted Mansion ride, and it’s also appropriate for kids and tweens.
Rated PG-13. Runtime: 2 hours and 3 minutes.
20. The Monster Squad (1987)
The Monster Squad tween friendly horror films
Is The Monster Squad (1987) a great movie? The Monster Squad (1987) is about a group of tween boys and one little girl who have a club based around their love of horror and all things monster. REAL monsters show up in the form of Dracula, the Wolf Man, the Mummy, the Gill Man (Creature), and Frankenstein’s monster, and the club becomes a monster-fighting SQUAD.
Rated PG-13. Runtime: 1 hour and 19 minutes.
21. Hocus Pocus (1993)
Hocus Pocus 1993 kid friendly horror
Is Hocus Pocus (1993) a Halloween movie? Hocus Pocus (1993) is one of the very favorite Halloween movies of many, and kids love it too! Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy star as witch sisters who’ve been summoned to “modern” times (the 1990s) from 1693 via reading aloud from a spooky book. The witches are after eternal youth, and try their very best to get it using quirky spells and slapstick humor.
Rated PG. Runtime: 1 hour and 36 minutes.
22. Halloweentown (1998)
Halloweentown Disney TV halloween movie
Is Halloweentown (1998) a good choice for young viewers? Halloweentown (1998) is a perfect movie for Halloween time and a great gateway into supernatural films for even the youngest viewers. The plot revolves around 13-year-old Marnie, who discovers she’s from a family of witches who originally hailed from Halloweentown, a magical realm. Along with her younger brother and sister and their grandma, Marnie visits Halloweentown on a journey of discovery.
Rated TV-G. Runtime: 1 hour and 24 minutes.
23. Something Wicked This Way Comes (1983)
Something Wicked This Way Comes Mr Dark hand tattoos
What is Something Wicked This Way Comes (1983) about? Based on the 1962 Ray Bradbury novel, Something Wicked This Way Comes (1983) is about the circus coming to town! Led by Mr. Dark, the circus is granting the townsfolks’ wishes. Two tween boys figure out what’s going on at the evil circus and Mr. Dark doesn’t take kindly to their nosiness.
Rated PG. Runtime: 1 hour and 35 minutes.
24. Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein (1948)
Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein
How to introduce younger audiences to black and white horror? Introducing your tween to black and white horror via a horror comedy is a great tactic. 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.
Not Rated. Runtime: 1 hour and 23 minutes.
25. Any of the Old Universal Monster Movies
frankenstein meets the wolfman publicity still
Which Universal Monster movie is a good starting point? The old Universal monster films are classics for a reason! They’re fine viewing for younger kids and tweens alike, and are great for their overall horror education. My dad recommends Frankenstein Meets the Wolfman as his top pick for tween viewers; after Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein, of course. These films offer timeless tales of horror, suspense, and the macabre, perfect for introducing kids to the genre’s roots.
26. The Mummy (1999)
The Mummy 1999 horror action movies
What makes The Mummy (1999) universally appealing? Action! Adventure! Comedy! Brendan Fraser! Finding someone who doesn’t enjoy The Mummy (1999) is like finding someone who hates cold drinks on a hot summer day. The Mummy updates the spirit of the old Universal classic beautifully. It keeps the horror spirit alive while placing the audience on a fast-paced ride of special effects and elaborate action sequences.
Rated PG-13. Runtime: 2 hours and 4 minutes.
27. Monsters, Inc. (2001)
Monsters Inc 2001 cartoon monster movie
Is Monsters, Inc. (2001) suitable for little kids? Monsters, Inc. (2001) is that magical movie where the monsters under your bed turn out to be more goofy than scary. It’s a heartwarming and chuckle-worthy adventure, perfect for kids and tweens. The idea of monsters living under our beds or in our closets is a classic horror trope that deserves to be explored. Little kids are well-served by learning that they don’t need to be afraid to go to sleep.
Rated G. Runtime: 1 hour and 32 minutes.
28. Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit (2005)
wallace gromit in the curse of the wererabbit uk childrens horror film
Why should younger tweens watch Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit (2005)? Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit (2005) is perfect for kids and younger tweens. The British charm, the crazy contraptions, and the clever humor make it enjoyable for all ages. It’s loaded with funny moments and a dash of mystery.
Rated G. Runtime: 1 hour and 25 minutes.
29. Frankenweenie (2012)
Frankenweenie 2012 horror remake
Is Frankenweenie (2012) a macabre tale? You and your kids will enjoy Frankenweenie (2012), a cute stop-motion animated interpretation of the classic Frankenstein story. Directed by Tim Burton, this kids horror film revolves around a young boy who is inspired to harness the power of electricity to bring his beloved dog back to life. Frankenweenie is a macabre, yet somehow heartwarming, tale about the power of love, friendship, and the consequences of playing with the forces of life and death.
Rated PG. Runtime: 1 hour and 27 minutes.
30. Scooby-Doo (2002)
Scooby Doo 2002 still holds up
Is Scooby-Doo (2002) still enjoyable? Scooby-Doo (2002) takes the characters and core concepts of the original cartoons and breathes new life into them. It’s super colorful and thoroughly entertaining with an all-star cast giving their archetypal roles their absolute all!
Rated PG. Runtime: 1 hour and 26 minutes.
31. The Munsters (2022)
The Musnters 2022 Daniel Roebuck horror films for tweens
Who is The Munsters (2022) for? Today’s tweens, much like myself, have zero emotional connection to the old show and can go into The Munsters (2022) with fresh, honest eyes. It’s a live-action cartoon — a vividly-colored horror comedy with iconic characters acting out goofy scenarios. It’s fun.
Rated PG. Runtime: 1 hour and 49 minutes.
32. Little Shop of Horrors (1986)
Little Shop of Horrors 1986 best horror movie musicals
Is Little Shop of Horrors (1986) one of the best horror musicals? Little Shop of Horrors (1986) is one of the absolute best horror movie musicals in existence, and younger audiences have loved it since it came out.
Rated PG-13. Runtime: 1 hour and 34 minutes.
33. Return to Oz (1985)
Return to Oz
Why is Return to Oz (1985) considered a horror film? In Return to Oz (1985), Dorothy returns to Oz, but its not as she left it. The yellow brick road has been reduced to rubble, her friends have been turned to stone, and the Nome King has taken over! There are some intense moments, such as Princess Mombi. It may not have been billed that way (originally), but it absolutely 100% is a horror fantasy movie.
Rated PG. Runtime: 1 hour and 53 minutes.
34. Ernest Scared Stupid (1991)
Ernest Scared Stupid 90s childrens horror
How does Ernest Scared Stupid (1991) teach kids how to fight evil? Perhaps the real way to defeat evil trolls is through unconditional kindness! Ernest Scared Stupid gives rise to the “Got Milk?” era of monster fighting. Many in peer groups were traumatized and many still are. The “older” kids — 4th through 6th grade — absolutely LOVED it!
Rated: PG. Runtime: 1 hour and 31 minutes.
35. House on Haunted Hill (1959)
house on haunted hill william castle vincent price horror film
Who is in House on Haunted Hill (1959)? House on Haunted Hill (1959) is a classic horror film starring Vincent Price. The plot revolves around an eccentric millionaire who offers $10,000 to anyone who can spend the night in a supposedly haunted mansion. The film cleverly plays with the audience’s expectations.
Not Rated. Runtime: 1 hour and 15 minute.
36. Mad Monster Party? (1967)
Mad Monster Party classic kids horror
Is Mad Monster Party? (1967) scary? Mad Monster Party? (1967) is a stop motion animated Rankin/Bass holiday special with some of the most adorable renditions of the classic movie monsters you’ll ever see. Rankin/Bass’ Mad Monster Party? is veeeeeeeeeeeeeeery mellow and perfect for unwinding with.
Not rated. 1 hour and 34 minutes.
37. Any of the Monster High Movies
Monster High Haunted
Where can I find the “old” Monster High movies? The photo above is from Monster High: Haunted (a personal favorite, since I love ghost movies), but all of the “old” (2010-2016) Monster High films are a lot of fun.
38. SHORT: “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow (1949)
The Legend of Sleepy Hollow Disney Halloween short
What is The Legend of Sleepy Hollow (1949) about? Included in The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad (1949), the short segment “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” is a Halloween Disney classic. It’s the animated story of the headless horseman!
Not Rated. Runtime: 34 minutes.
39. VERY SHORT: “Trick or Treat” (1952)
Trick or Treat 1952 huey dewey louie duck halloween
What is the best part of “Trick or Treat” (1952)? There’s no denying how great the song “Trick or Treat for Halloween” by The Mellomen is in the film Trick or Treat (1952). It’ll be stuck in your head for weeks after you watch this, and you won’t even mind. This short film is about Huey, Dewy, and Louie Duck making friends with a witch named Hazel.
Not Rated. Runtime: 8 minutes.
A Note Before Diving Into Any Horror Films…
please don
How to choose horror movies that are right for your family. Please don’t traumatize your kiddos! It’s generally not recommended to expose children under five to the horror genre. Their brains aren’t developed enough to distinguish reality (scary!) from fantasy (fun!) and they may end up truly terrified by what’s shown on screen. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, exposure to age-inappropriate content can lead to anxiety and sleep disturbances in young children.
Of course, in the end, YOU know YOUR child(ren) best! You’ll always be the best judge as to what will (or won’t) scare the crap out of ’em!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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What are some family horror movies suitable for young children?
Hotel Transylvania, Monsters, Inc., and Scooby-Doo are excellent choices for young children. They offer lighthearted humor, fun characters, and minimal scares.
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Are there any holiday-themed family horror movies?
Yes, The Nightmare Before Christmas (which can be viewed for both Halloween and Christmas) and Halloweentown are great holiday-themed options that blend spooky and festive elements.
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What if my child is easily scared?
Start with movies that balance humor and horror, such as Ghostbusters or The Addams Family. You can also check resources like DoesTheDogDie.com for potential triggers.
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How can I introduce my tween to classic horror movies?
Abbott and Costello Meet Frankenstein and the old Universal Monster movies are excellent starting points. These classics are foundational and can spark interest in the genre.
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What are some more suspenseful family horror movies for older kids?
Arachnophobia, Super 8, and Something Wicked This Way Comes offer suspenseful storylines with age-appropriate scares for older kids and tweens.
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Are there any animated family horror movies based on books?
Yes, Coraline and Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark are based on popular children’s books and offer unique visual experiences along with engaging narratives.
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What are some tips for making movie night more fun?
Create a themed snack menu, dim the lights, and encourage family discussions after the movie. This enhances the viewing experience and promotes family bonding.
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How can I tell if a movie is too scary for my child?
Consider your child’s sensitivity, read reviews, and watch trailers beforehand. Use resources like Common Sense Media to gauge age appropriateness.
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Are there any monster-themed family horror movies besides Hotel Transylvania?
Monsters, Inc. and The Monster Squad are great alternatives, offering fun monster characters and engaging storylines.
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What are the benefits of watching family horror movies together?
Family horror movies can provide shared experiences, promote courage, and teach valuable lessons about teamwork and resilience, all while having a fun and spooky time.
Looking for More Family Entertainment Tips?
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