We are in the depths of spooky season. And even though the snow is falling where I live – I know it is only October, but that is living in the Canadian Prairies for you – I am excited to wrap up in a cozy blanket with a bowl of popcorn and a bag of M&Ms (these are the superior movie candy, I will be taking no notes) and watch a spooky movie.
But which movies do you watch when there are so many options to choose from. It is true there are many, many options of movies to watch during the Halloween season – whether you want more a more family-friendly Halloween fun vibe, or a shake in your boots, sleep with the lights on kind of vibe.
I have an ongoing list of all types of movies I like to watch during Halloween – or anytime if I’m being honest. I feel very deeply that “spooky” is a state of mind and can be experienced anytime of the year.
This year, I am leaning into book-to-movie adaptations. So, if you are looking for something to watch in the lead up to the big day, here are my favourite spooky book-to-movie (or show) adaptations perfect for Halloween.
1. The Addams Family
I love The Addams Family, and I make it a point to watch all the new versions that come out. While I love them all for what they are, none can compare to my favourite version: “The Addams Family” and “The Addams Family Values” from 1991 and 1993.
I think with a lot of Addams’ fans, this one stands out head and shoulders above the rest. It kept the kooky from the original 1964 sitcom and added in a few more dashes of macabre. It is the version of the ooky family that we measure all others too.
Personally, I feel like it holds enough of the original comic strip to keep the energy and vibe of the story and family alive and thriving.
2. Sleepy Hollow
Sleepy Hollow is an absolute classic. And, even better, there are versions of the story for kids and for adults. While both change the classic Washington Irving story, and up the scary fantastical elements, they are so much fun to watch during Halloween.
For kids, or the family-friendly-light-spooky crowd, watch the Disney version of the story: “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” which was originally told in “The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad”.
For adults, the Johnny Depp-led “Sleepy Hollow”, which also stars Christina Ricci (she may be the Halloween Queen, what do you think?) is an eerie classic. This movie always gives me the chills, in the best way possible. It has upped the creepy and spooky atmosphere Irving set in his book and emphasized the fantastical and mystical.
3. Nancy Drew
I am specifically speaking about the TV version of this popular teen-detective book series. This version is much darker than the yellow-spined book series we all remember. Nancy and her friends as they uncover the ghostly mysteries of Horseshoe Bay.
While it isn’t scary, perse, it is a series that I absolutely love. A murder whodunit and a ghost story all tied up together? Count me in!
4. Practical Magic
"Practical Magic" is a comfort watch for me, and one of my all-time favourite movies. It is cozy in that the problems faced aren’t world ending, and the relationships are all very personal and intimate. We just add in a dash of murder and demonic possession.
No biggie.
I found that it is pretty different from the book. So, if you are coming from that world first, be prepared for a different vibe and energy from the movie. But also, be prepared to fall in love, and want to move into a big Victorian mansion in a small town, complete with midnight margaritas.
5. Coraline
Technically a children’s movie, but is probably too scary for very small children, "Coraline" is based on the amazing book by Neil Gaimen. This stop-motion movie tells the story of Coraline Jones who discovers another world that is a strangely idealized version of her frustrating home, but with sinister secrets of its own.
It is beautiful, and moody, and is set in a drizzly and atmospheric town. It is perfect for autumn, and the sinister secrets make it great for a watch in the lead up to Halloween.
6. The Haunting of Hill House
I watched this one relatively recently. It has a reputation of being scary, and I can see why. While I didn’t find it particularly scary, it has a number of scenes that are particularly spine-tingling.
This one is an adaptation of Shirley Jackson’s 1959 book by the same name. It tells the story of a fractured family confronts haunting memories of their old home and the terrifying events that drove them from it.
I loved the interpersonal story with the supernatural elements deftly woven in. I might just watch this one again soon!
What are your favourite book-to-movie (or show) adaptation to watch during the spooky season?
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