Halloween is a time for thrills and chills, but it's also an opportunity for families to enjoy some light-hearted fun together. This curated list of films offers a mix of spooky, funny, and heartwarming stories that are perfect for viewers of all ages. From animated adventures to live-action comedies, these films capture the spirit of Halloween while ensuring that the scares are kept to a minimum, making them ideal for a family movie night.

The Witches (1990)
Description: Based on Roald Dahl's book, this film tells the story of a boy who discovers a convention of witches planning to turn all children into mice. It's spooky yet whimsical, perfect for a family Halloween watch.
Fact: The film was directed by Nicolas Roeg, known for his work on more adult-oriented films.


The Addams Family (1991)
Description: The quirky and macabre Addams Family come to life in this live-action adaptation. It's a fun, family-friendly take on the classic characters, with just enough dark humor for Halloween.
Fact: Anjelica Huston, who played Morticia, was nominated for a Golden Globe for her performance.


Hocus Pocus (1993)
Description: This beloved classic follows three witches resurrected on Halloween night in Salem, Massachusetts. It's a perfect blend of comedy and mild spookiness, making it a Halloween staple for families.
Fact: The film was initially considered a box office disappointment but has since become a cult classic. The Sanderson Sisters are now iconic Halloween characters.


The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Description: Jack Skellington, the pumpkin king of Halloween Town, discovers Christmas Town and decides to bring Christmas back to his own town. This stop-motion animated film is both eerie and enchanting, suitable for all ages.
Fact: Tim Burton did not direct the film; Henry Selick did, although Burton was heavily involved in its creation.


Casper (1995)
Description: This heartwarming tale of a friendly ghost and a young girl is both spooky and sweet. It's a great introduction to the supernatural for kids, with plenty of laughs and a touching story.
Fact: The film was the first feature-length movie to feature a CGI character in a lead role.


Coraline (2009)
Description: Coraline discovers an idealized parallel world behind a secret door in her new home. This stop-motion film by Henry Selick is visually stunning and has just the right amount of eerie for a family Halloween viewing.
Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature.


Monster House (2006)
Description: A group of kids discover that a neighbor's house is actually a living, breathing monster. This CGI-animated film offers just the right amount of scares for younger viewers while still being entertaining for adults.
Fact: The film was originally planned to be live-action but was changed to animation to better capture the house's movements.


Hotel Transylvania (2012)
Description: Count Dracula runs a hotel for monsters, but things get complicated when a human stumbles upon it. This animated film is full of laughs and has a sweet message about acceptance.
Fact: Adam Sandler, who voices Dracula, also co-wrote the film.


ParaNorman (2012)
Description: Norman, a boy who can speak to the dead, must save his town from a centuries-old curse. This stop-motion animation is both funny and touching, with a message about understanding and acceptance.
Fact: The film was the first stop-motion movie to use 3D printers to create its characters' faces.


It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (1966)
Description: This timeless animated special captures the essence of Halloween with the Peanuts gang. It's gentle, funny, and full of the spirit of the season, making it a must-watch for families.
Fact: The Great Pumpkin was inspired by the Easter Bunny, a character from the Peanuts comic strip.
