Published September 28, 2026
By RUBY IRANMANESH
Want to get into the fall spirit of Halloween, but hate scary movies? Here are five entertaining films to watch during October that don’t cause recurring nightmares. Everyone deserves to enjoy Halloween, not just the thrill-seekers.
Courtesy of Columbia Pictures
“The Craft”
Released in 1996, this eerie film tells the story of three high school students who are interested in witch magic, but are unable to practice spells until they find a fourth member. Miraculously, a new girl moves to town with a set of unique talents and joins the group. The gothic ‘90s vibe, teenage nostalgic feel, young women’s empowerment and impressive acting performances make this film an entertaining watch for the Halloween season.
Courtesy of Warner Bros
“Beetlejuice”
With a funny but spooky storyline, “Beetlejuice” is about a recently deceased couple who is stuck haunting their house and the obnoxious family that moves in. The couple attempts to scare the newcomers away by themselves, but is eventually forced to hire another ghost, known as Beetlejuice, for help. With an incredible cast, “Beetlejuice” blends dark comedy, satire and fall aesthetics to create an unconventional but entertaining film.
Courtesy of 20th Century Fox
“Edward Scissorhands”
Starring Johnny Depp and Winona Ryder, the perfect acting duo for a Tim Burton film, “Edward Scissorhands” is a funny but spooky fairytale about an artificial man with hands made of scissors who is taken in by a suburban family and falls in love with their teenage daughter. Burton’s use of dark lighting, sharp shadows and spooky visuals make this movie perfect to watch during a gloomy fall afternoon.
Courtesy of Warner Bros
“Lost Boys”
This 1987 film tells the story of two teenage brothers who move to a California town to live with their grandfather and quickly discover that their new home is crawling with vampires. The storyline combines comedy, pop culture, teen angst and gothic horror. Plus, aspects of the film feel especially similar to ‘80s teen-adventure classic “The Goonies,” making it very nostalgic-feeling.
Courtesy of Dimension Films
“Scream”
Released in 1996, “Scream” follows a masked serial killer known as Ghostface who terrorizes teenagers in the small town of Woodsboro. After high schooler Sidney Prescott becomes the killer’s main target, she works together with news reporter Gale Weathers and local Deputy Sheriff Dewey Riley to investigate the suspicious situation. The fun jumpscares, iconic scenes and constant unpredictability make an exciting film, keeping watchers on the edge of their seat.
