As autumn leaves start to fall and a crisp chill fills the air, movie enthusiasts and Halloween aficionados begin to buzz with anticipation. The silver screen is set to come alive with an array of Halloween-themed films in 2024. From bone-chilling horrors to family-friendly adventures, this year’s lineup offers something for every taste. Let’s explore the most anticipated Halloween movies hitting theaters and streaming platforms this spooky season.
Highly Anticipated Halloween Blockbusters
The world of cinema is bringing forth some major Halloween-themed blockbusters this year, each promising to captivate audiences with a unique take on the holiday.
- “The Witching Hour”
Ari Aster, renowned for his mind-bending horrors like “Hereditary” and “Midsommar,” returns with “The Witching Hour.” This psychological thriller follows a group of friends who unknowingly awaken an ancient coven during a Halloween party. Starring Florence Pugh, Willem Dafoe, and Toni Collette, the film is set to release on October 13, 2024. With Aster’s reputation for unsettling imagery and a star-studded cast, “The Witching Hour” is poised to be the talk of the season.
What Halloween Movies Are Coming Out This Year
- “Hollow’s Eve”
Jordan Peele reunites with his “Get Out” star Daniel Kaluuya for “Hollow’s Eve,” a social thriller set in a small town with dark Halloween traditions. Also featuring Lupita Nyong’o and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, this film is scheduled for release on October 25, 2024. Peele’s knack for blending horror with social commentary promises to deliver another thought-provoking and terrifying experience that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats. - “The 13th Door”
Mike Flanagan, creator of “The Haunting” series, brings us “The 13th Door,” a haunted house story with a twist. When a family moves into a supposedly cursed home, they discover a mysterious 13th door that only appears on Halloween night. Starring Carla Gugino, Rahul Kohli, and Kate Siegel, this film is set to premiere on October 4, 2024. Flanagan’s expertise in crafting atmospheric horror makes this a must-see for genre fans.
Spine-Chilling Horror Releases
For those who crave intense scares and psychological thrills, 2024 offers a selection of horror films that promise to keep you up at night.
- “Whispers in the Dark”
Robert Eggers, director of “The Witch” and “The Lighthouse,” returns to his New England roots with “Whispers in the Dark.” Set in colonial Massachusetts, this folk horror explores the terrifying consequences when a group of children stumbles upon an ancient artifact while trick-or-treating. Starring Anya Taylor-Joy, Ralph Ineson, and Harvey Scrimshaw, the film is slated for release on October 18, 2024. Eggers’ attention to historical detail and slow-burning tension promises an immersive and frightening experience.
Spine-Chilling Horror Releases
- “Nightmare Frequency”
From Jennifer Kent, director of “The Babadook,” comes “Nightmare Frequency,” a psychological horror about a radio DJ who begins receiving disturbing calls on Halloween night. Featuring Essie Davis, Noah Jupe, and Thomasin McKenzie, this film will hit theaters on October 11, 2024. Kent’s signature style of personal horror takes center stage, exploring themes of grief and trauma in a way that’s sure to resonate with audiences. - “The Pumpkin King’s Revenge”
Fede Álvarez, known for his intense remakes and original horrors, delivers “The Pumpkin King’s Revenge.” This slasher film follows a group of teenagers who awaken a vengeful spirit while vandalizing a pumpkin patch on Halloween. Set to release on October 31, 2024, and starring Jane Levy, Stephen Lang, and Dylan Minnette, this movie aims to breathe new life into the slasher genre for a new generation of horror fans.
Family-Friendly Halloween Flicks
Halloween isn’t just for horror enthusiasts. This year brings some delightful options for family viewing that capture the fun and magic of the holiday.
- “Monster Mash Academy”
Pixar brings its magic to Halloween with “Monster Mash Academy,” an animated adventure set in a school for young monsters learning to be scary. Set to release on October 4, 2024, this film promises to delight audiences of all ages while exploring themes of self-acceptance and friendship. With Pixar’s trademark blend of humor and heart, “Monster Mash Academy” is sure to become a Halloween favorite for years to come.
Family-Friendly Halloween Flicks
- “The Halloween Heist”
“The Halloween Heist” is a live-action family adventure directed by Chris Columbus, known for “Home Alone” and the first two “Harry Potter” films. When a group of kids discovers their town’s Halloween candy has been stolen, they embark on a wild adventure to save the holiday. Starring Mckenna Grace, Jacob Tremblay, and Jack Black, this movie is set to release on October 11, 2024. With its mix of comedy and light scares, “The Halloween Heist” is perfect for a family movie night.
Halloween-Themed TV Specials and Streaming Releases
The small screen is getting into the Halloween spirit with a variety of special events and new series premieres.
Top Streaming Halloween Specials:
- Netflix’s “31 Nights of Fright”
- New episode of “Stranger Things: Halloween Special” (October 27)
- “The Haunting of Bly Manor: All Hallows Eve” – sequel series (Premieres October 1)
- “Goosebumps: The Interactive Experience” – choose-your-own-adventure special (October 13)
- HBO Max’s “Conjuring Universe: All Hallows’ Eve” Limited series exploring hauntings on Halloween night throughout history (Premieres October 7)
- Disney+’s “Hocus Pocus: The Next Generation” New series focused on a trio of young witches in modern-day Salem (Premieres October 1, weekly episodes)
Halloween-Themed TV Specials and Streaming Releases
Returning Favorites and Sequels
Beloved franchises are also joining the Halloween lineup, offering new chapters in familiar stories.
- “Halloween: The Final Night”
David Gordon Green concludes his “Halloween” trilogy with “Halloween: The Final Night.” Starring Jamie Lee Curtis, Andi Matichak, and Kyle Richards, this film promises to be the ultimate showdown between Laurie Strode and Michael Myers. Set for release on October 31, 2024, it aims to give a satisfying conclusion to the long-running franchise. - “A Quiet Place: All Hallows Eve”
The “A Quiet Place” franchise expands with a Halloween-set entry. Directed by John Krasinski and starring Emily Blunt, Millicent Simmonds, and Noah Jupe, this film explores how the Abbott family and their community navigate the dangers of their silent world during trick-or-treat season. Scheduled for release on October 18, 2024, it adds a new layer of tension to the established universe.
Returning Favorites and Sequels
Conclusion
The 2024 Halloween movie season is shaping up to be an exciting one for cinema lovers. From high-profile blockbusters to indie darlings, from spine-tingling horrors to family-friendly adventures, there’s something for everyone in this year’s lineup.
Whether you’re braving the theaters or cozying up at home with a streaming service, these Halloween releases promise to deliver the perfect mix of thrills, chills, and entertainment.
