The Best Horror Movies for Date Night
- Photo: Warner Bros. Pictures
The Conjuring franchise has taken over the hearts and souls of the mainstream horror community over the past decade and looking back at the film that started it all, it's incredibly easy to see why. A unique and wonderful blend of legitimate thrills, wonderful writing, and enough jump scares to keep things tense throughout, it is no wonder why both this film and the franchise as a whole became the staple for scary movie date nights throughout the 2010s. With an incredible cast that couples can see in themselves, a love story hidden beneath the surface of the terror, and some of the most brilliant scares of the decade, The Conjuring has cemented itself as the go-to scary movie for couples in today's day and age.
Ironically, the perfect Halloween date night movie is arguably Halloween. A chilling and utterly terrifying film that toes the line of out-of-control slasher and tense mystery, the film manages to both enthrall and terrify while keeping a level of intrigue that will entertain all who watch it. Granted, a vast majority of the film will be watched through your fingers because of how scary the film can be at times, for couples looking for a genuinely spooky time with a movie that they can watch in terror all cuddled up with one another, Halloween may just be the perfect scary movie for date nights.
- Photo: Dimension Films
Audiences would be hard-pressed to find a horror film that ticks all the boxes of the perfect date night movie better than Scream. A terrifying slasher, a hilarious comedy, and a wild and twisted mystery, the film is the perfect amalgamation of everything that makes the ideal scary movie for a couple to watch. Toeing the line between horror and comedy, all who watch the film will immediately find themselves enthralled by the level of detail and expertise on screen, and there are just enough spooky moments to keep the heart pounding.
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- Photo: A Nightmare on Elm Street / New Line Cinema / Public domain
There is arguably no bigger figure in all of horror than Freddy Kruger and his masterful debut in A Nightmare on Elm Street is a shocking, scary, and sensational film that will thrill the scare seekers and terrify the weak-willed. A staple in the Halloween rotation for many couples, there is never a bad time to pop this film in and get the chills all over again. Fun, frightening, and fast-paced at just 90 minutes, A Nightmare on Elm Street is guaranteed to spice up the weekly movie night.
- Photo: Paramount Pictures
Something triggers our horror brains to love witnessing terrible and idiotic characters get their comeuppance, as cheering for the big bad just feels so fun at times, and no film is this more present than in Friday the 13th. While fans might have had to wait another year to get introduced to Jason, the original film offered up a wickedly fun and frightful time that couples are sure to enjoy. Raunchy, exploitative, and downright nasty, Friday the 13th is not going to be every couple's cup of tea, but for those who are willing to let the horror wash over them, this is one of the most fun experiences couples will have watching a film.
- Photo: Warner Bros. Pictures
One of the most important and recognizable horror films ever created, The Shining is a horror film that every couple has to sit through at least once on a date night. Arguably one of the best horror movies for couples to watch, the film has so many beloved and interesting moments that it almost feels more like taking a terrifying walk down memory lane rather than a pulse-pounding experience, even for those who have never actually seen the film. Highly entertaining from start to finish and giving just enough scares to thrill but not enough to bring the nightmare, The Shining is the ideal scary movie for date nights.
- Photo: Lionsgate
An incredibly wicked and wild film, The Cabin in the Woods manages to feel like a fresh, adventurous, and nostalgic horror film that will both scratch an itch hardcore horror fans didn't know they had, and welcome newcomers to the genre with open arms. While it may be a bit high-brow at times, the film manages to have something every couple would love from stoner jokes, semi-nudity, intensive and inventive kills, and of course, Chris Hemsworth.
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- Photo: Blumhouse Productions
Science stated that Sinister is the scariest movie of all time, and for couples looking to get scared silly in their partner's arms, they need to look no further than right here. While it may have an incredible story and phenomenal acting, the true test of the ideal horror movie for couples is if they can have a good time watching it, and Sinister more than delivers the goods. Couples will be watching this film through their eyes as they wrap as close to their partners as humanly possible because around every corner of Sinister, is yet another pulse-pounding jump scare.
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- Photo: DreamWorks Pictures
The Ring has become a staple for young adults across the world and even more than 20 years later, its reputation still precedes itself. A chilling and utterly terrifying film that rarely shows gore or nudity, The Ring is perfect for couples looking to spice up movie night. With enough creepy imagery to fill a dictionary, the film relishes in its ability to make audiences uneasy, and when watching from the comfort of your own home, squeezing nice and close is the only way to get through this bone-chilling film.
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Unlike its hyperbolic title suggests, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre actually isn't an incredibly gruesome or masochistic film, instead showcasing the true horrors of humanity without the vile details. Probably best to watch this one with a partner who is at least somewhat on board with a scary movie date night because even though lacks gore and guts, the film is still utterly terrifying. The revving of the chainsaw is always a surefire way to get the blood pumping, and with Leatherface behind the weapon, nightmares and close cuddles are sure to follow.
- Photo: Poltergeist / Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
For one reason or another, paranormal horror films have become the stable of the scary movie date night, and there is no better place to start than with the granddaddy of them all, Poltergeist. A fun, chilling, frightful but never truly scary film, Poltergeist is the perfect film for the couple who want to dip their toes into the spooky genre without diving straight into the deep end or those who already love the genre and want to see its roots. A relentlessly fun and frightening time, the film is arguably the perfect horror film for couples to watch because its easy to follow, incredibly chill, and flat-out fun.
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- Photo: Warner Bros. Pictures
Vampire movies always manage to make the best movies for date night as they manage to incorporate just enough lust to get younger couples excited and fascinating stories to please the older ones, and The Lost Boys is no exception. A film that thrives as a retro 80s throwback that is lost in time, with massive hair, banging music, and that distinct sense of 80s style permeates the film and will have all couples feel like they are transported back in time. Funny enough to entertain nonhorror fans and scary enough to enthrall those who love the genre, The Lost Boys perfectly balances horror and romance to create a must-watch spooky flick.
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- Photo: Warner Bros. Pictures
There is little to say about The Exorcist that anyone who follows pop culture doesn't already know. It is arguably the scariest movie of all time, one of the best horror films ever created, and while it may not be everyone's perfect idea for a scary movie for couples, for the most hardcore of horror fans or those trying to put a little spice in their lives, the film more than lives up to the hype. Sometimes couples just need a good scare, something to make them feel alive and grateful to be with the ones they love, and no film will make you happier to be simply sitting on the couch with your partner from the comfort of your own home than The Exorcist.
- Photo: Columbia Pictures
Horror comedies always manage to blend the two genres together beautifully and create a story the entire (adult) family can enjoy, and no arguably no film blends them better than Zombieland. Yes, the film may be a bit gross at times, but other than some gnarly zombie kills, the film at its core is a fascinating and hilarious journey of love, trust, and friendship, and what could be more perfect for a date night with scary movies than that? Prepare to laugh until it hurts and see images you won't ever be able to unsee in this wickedly spooky and fun film.
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- Photo: Candyman15
One of the most beloved and cherished figures in all of horror, Candyman not only represents one of the finest slashers of the 90s, but also one of the most sensual and provocative horror films of all time. Candyman thrives as a gothic romance tale that, while never getting overtly sexual or perverted in its ways, invokes a feeling of love and lust in the audience, making it the perfect scary movie to watch with your boyfriend or girlfriend. Make sure the blinds are closed because after hearing the sensual voice of Tony Todd calling out to his beloved, couples around the world won't be able to help themselves.
- Photo: Universal Pictures
The Strangers should undoubtedly not be a first date night movie. It probably shouldn't even be a second, third, or tenth date night movie if we are being completely honest here. A film where a couple on the verge of a breakup gets terrorized by a group of deranged killers is plenty scary to get the spine-tingling, but watching it from the comfort of your own home is absolutely terrifying. Only go into this film knowing you and your partner won't be getting a wink of sleep, but it will make you incredibly grateful that you have someone who will protect you like our two protagonists take care of themselves.
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- Photo: Scream 2 / Dimension Films17Scream 2, a sequel to the infamous horror film Scream, is a chilling thrill ride that keeps audiences on edge. Sidney Prescott (Neve Campbell), survivor of the original Woodsboro murders, attempts to rebuild her life at Windsor College, only to find herself once again targeted by Ghostface (voiced by Roger L. Jackson). The movie also showcases Gale Weathers (Courteney Cox) and Dewey Riley (David Arquette), characters who return from the first installment, grappling with their past trauma while trying to unravel the new mystery. Directed by Wes Craven, this film is a blend of suspense, mystery and smart commentary on horror sequels, without forgetting its roots in slasher terror.More Scream 2
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- Photo: Psycho18In the chilling classic Psycho, Marion Crane (Janet Leigh) absconds with stolen cash, seeking solace at the remote Bates Motel. The proprietor, Norman Bates (Anthony Perkins), is a peculiar young man dominated by his puritanical mother. Marion's disappearance triggers an investigation led by her sister, Lila (Vera Miles), and boyfriend, Sam Loomis (John Gavin). Directed masterfully by Alfred Hitchcock, this iconic horror-thriller won several awards, including an Academy Award nomination for Leigh's performance. Psycho's suspense-filled plot twists and haunting score have left an indelible mark on cinematic history.More Psycho
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While it may be weighed down by controversy today, Jeepers Creepers is still a wonderful little slice of spooky horror that has just enough spooks and gore to be considered an ideal scary movie for couples without pushing the boundaries too far. With superb acting and a terrifying creature running amok throughout, couples who aren't particularly into horror movie date nights can still find plenty of fun in the tense and atmospheric world created by the Creeper.
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- Photo: Sleepy Hollow
Beautifully toeing the line between outright horror and spooky atmosphere, Tim Burton's Sleepy Hollow does what nearly all of his films do, give audiences a nice subtle taste of spookiness while still offering a fun and inventive story. Mixing elements of horror, fantasy, and most importantly for date nights, romance, Sleepy Hollow is the perfect film for those who don't want to be scared but simply want to get lost in a gothic world with their partners and leave the real world far behind.
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- Photo: Universal Pictures
One of the quintessential horror films of all time, John Carpenter's The Thing definitely isn't a first date kind of film but would be one heckuva story if couples were to make it one. One of the most gruesome, tense, and disgusting horror films ever created, for hardcore horror fans, The Thing has to be a staple of date night scary movies forever as it is undoubtedly one of the greatest to ever be created. For those couples who find horror more as a special treat and not an everyday occurrence, it will be perfect for tricking your partner into cuddling up nice and close to escape the visceral and terrifying images on screen.
- Photo: Lionsgate22
Saw might be a little bit difficult to snuggle up and watch with a loved one as the definitive starting point for the “torture porn” subgenre in horror is a brutal watch even by today's standards, but therein lies its charm. For fans of the genre, seeing a truly revolutionary piece of art unfold is greater than nearly anything, and for those who aren't big on horror, this is a great way for horror fans to throw their loved ones in on the deep end of scary movies for date night to see exactly how much blood and guts they can get away with.
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- Photo: Jaws / Universal Studios / Public domain23In the classic thriller Jaws, the quiet summer resort of Amity Island is thrown into chaos by a deadly great white shark. Police Chief Martin Brody (Roy Scheider) must team up with oceanographer Matt Hooper (Richard Dreyfuss) and grizzled shark hunter Quint (Robert Shaw) to stop it. Directed by Steven Spielberg, this film redefined the horror genre, creating the concept of a summer blockbuster. The film's tension-filled plot and iconic score won it three Academy Awards, including Best Original Score for John Williams. Despite its simple premise, Jaws remains an enduring masterpiece of suspense and fear.
- Photo: Universal PicturesA mysterious plague turns the recently deceased into flesh-eating zombies. A small group, including two Philadelphia SWAT team members (Ken Foree and Scott Reiniger), seek refuge in a suburban shopping mall. As the undead horde grows, tensions rise within the group and the external threat becomes more dire.More Dawn of the Dead
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- Photo: The ProdigySarah and John Blume are thrilled when their young son Miles starts to show signs of rapid development and extreme intelligence. Their family bliss soon turns into a living nightmare when Miles' behavior becomes increasingly erratic and violent by his eighth birthday. After seeking help from two experts, Sarah is horrified to learn that her beloved prodigy may be under the grip of a dark and supernatural force.
- Photo: Columbia PicturesIn Fright Night, Charley Brewster (Anton Yelchin) is an average teenager with ordinary worries until his new neighbor, Jerry Dandrige (Colin Farrell), moves in. Unsettling events lead Charley to suspect that Jerry is a vampire preying on the neighborhood. Unable to convince anyone about his fears, he turns to Peter Vincent (David Tennant), a washed-up actor famous for playing vampire hunters. This horror-comedy reimagines the 1985 classic, blending suspense and humor. As Charley and Peter go toe-to-toe with Jerry, they uncover dark secrets and face blood-curdling challenges.More Fright Night
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- Photo: Pathé DistributionThe Descent, a British horror film, plunges you into the depths of uncharted subterranean territory. The story follows six women, led by Sarah (Shauna Macdonald) and Juno (Natalie Mendoza), who embark on a caving expedition deep in the Appalachian mountains. Unbeknown to them, the caverns are home to a horde of flesh-eating creatures. As survival instincts kick in, friendships are tested and secrets surface. Directed by Neil Marshall, this claustrophobic thriller won the British Independent Film Award for Best Director in 2005. Amidst darkness and despair, The Descent is a chilling exploration of fear itself.More The Descent
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- Photo: Paramount PicturesParanormal Activity is an innovative horror movie that pushes the boundaries of the genre. This intimate thriller, directed by Oren Peli, primarily revolves around a couple - Katie (Katie Featherston) and Micah (Micah Sloat). The duo experiences inexplicable occurrences in their suburban home, leading them to believe it's haunted. Armed with a simple video camera, they document their chilling encounters over several weeks. As the nocturnal events intensify, their relationship strains under the weight of fear. The movie won Best First Feature at the 2009 Scream Awards, testament to its unique approach to suspense and terror.More Paranormal Activity
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- Photo: Rogue PicturesShaun of the Dead is a British horror-comedy film, where Shaun (Simon Pegg) plays an ordinary salesman whose life spirals into zombie-infested chaos. His best friend, Ed (Nick Frost), joins him in this unexpected journey. The duo's lackadaisical attitude towards the undead apocalypse creates a unique blend of horror and humor, making it a standout in its genre. Directed by Edgar Wright, the movie received critical acclaim upon release for its clever script and memorable performances. It's not just about surviving zombies; it's also about rekindling relationships and seizing control of one's life amidst all the madness.More Shaun of the Dead
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- Photo: Warner Bros. Pictures30In the movie Gremlins, a young man named Billy Peltzer (Zach Galligan) receives an unusual pet, a Mogwai called Gizmo (voiced by Howie Mandel), as a Christmas gift. This seemingly harmless creature comes with three important rules: no bright lights, no water, and never feed it after midnight. When these rules are inadvertently broken, the small town of Kingston Falls is overrun by destructive creatures known as Gremlins. Directed by Joe Dante and produced by Steven Spielberg, this 1984 film blends comedy, horror, and fantasy elements to create an unforgettable cinematic experience.More Gremlins
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