It's spooky season, and the search for Halloween-appropriate viewing options is already underway. Although Disney's direct-to-consumer streaming platform, Disney+, may not offer the scariest choices, there are plenty of fantastic movies that will get you in the Halloween spirit without excessive blood and gore.
These movies capture the essence and atmosphere of the season without going overboard with shocking elements. They are perfect to have on while you carve your pumpkin or prepare your Halloween snacks. They have a charming and enjoyable appeal, while still being low-intensity. (And don't worry, we're still hoping for a proper digital release of Disney's Halloween Treat, an old TV special that combined shorts, excerpts, and musical segments, making it the ideal Disney Halloween sampler.)
Discover some exciting Halloween viewing options by scrolling down and stay updated with the latest Disney+ news.
Also, don't forget to explore our handpicked selection of the top Halloween movies on Netflix, Prime Video, and Hulu for more great recommendations.
Editor's note: This article was updated October 2023 to include Haunted Mansion and Spooky Buddies.
Haunted Mansion (2023)
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Run Time: 2 hr 3 min | Genre: Comedy | Director: Justin Simien
In Disney's Haunted Mansion, Gabbie (played by Rosario Dawson) seeks help from Ben (LaKeith Stanfield), Father Kent (Owen Wilson), Bruce (Danny DeVito), and Harriet (Tiffany Haddish) to rid her new mansion of its haunted spirits. This second film adaptation of the popular theme park attraction combines horror and comedy seamlessly, showcasing a talented ensemble cast that includes Jamie Lee Curtis and Jared Leto. Katie Dippold's writing captures both hilarious and poignant moments, and Disney fans will enjoy searching for hidden references throughout the movie. With its sass, clever humor, and stunning visuals, Haunted Mansion offers something for everyone.
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Spooky Buddies (2011)
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Run Time: 1 hr 28 min | Genre: Family | Director: Robert Vince
Starring Tucker Albrizzi, Diedrich Bader, and Ameko Eks Mass Carroll, Spooky Buddies is a captivating adventure. These beloved dogs, known from the popular Buddies series, embark on a thrilling quest in a haunted mansion to confront the villainous Wawrick the Warlock. Directed by Robert Vince, Spooky Buddies enchants its young audience, hitting all the right notes with its child-friendly elements. With exciting and entertaining moments throughout, the talented voice acting brings each dog's character to life. Filled with joy and a lighthearted atmosphere, Spooky Buddies is the perfect choice for children, especially on a rainy Halloween day.
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“Trick or Treat” (1952)
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Director: Jack Hannah | Run Time: 9 min
Starring June Foray, Clarence Nash, and The Mellomen.
This delightful Halloween treat has just been added to Disney+. Running for a little over 8 minutes, this Donald Duck short showcases Huey, Dewey, and Louie donning their iconic Halloween costumes. The plot revolves around Witch Hazel, who aids the boys in seeking revenge on Donald, as he fully embraces the mischievous side of trick-or-treating. With stunning Technicolor animation and skillful direction by Jack Hannah, known for overseeing the eerie Disney short "The Old Mill" years ago, as well as the impressive backgrounds and layout by Yale Gracey, who later became an Imagineer and contributed numerous effects and illusions to Disneyland's Haunted Mansion. "Trick or Treat" is an irresistibly charming short that perfectly complements your Halloween viewing. (Warning: The unbelievably catchy theme song will linger in your mind until Thanksgiving.)
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Werewolf By Night (2022)
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Run Time: 52 min | Director: Michael Giacchino
Cast: Gael García Bernal, Laura Donnelly, Harriet Sansom Harris
Starring Gael García Bernal (Maya and the Three), Marvel's Werewolf By Night follows the story of Jack Russell, a powerful superhero who utilizes his lycanthropic abilities as a member of a covert monster-hunting team to combat evil. The series showcases captivating performances by Laura Donnelly from Outlander and the incomparable Harriet Sansom Harris. Director Michael Giacchino masterfully creates a visually stunning cinematic experience, particularly noteworthy for a streaming project. Giacchino skillfully incorporates practical effects and plays with shades of gray to bring the story of Werewolf By Night to life, with clever pops of color that add depth to the black-and-white landscape. The transformation of this comic book adaptation to the screen was expertly executed by Heather Quinn and Peter Cameron. Don't miss out - watch the exciting trailer now!
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Miss Peregrine’s Home For Peculiar Children (2016)
Director: Tim Burton | Run Time: 2 hr 7 min
Cast: Eva Green, Asa Butterfield, Chris O'Dowd, Allison Janney
Tim Burton's recent films may have been disappointing, but his 2016 adaptation of the popular young adult fantasy series reminds us of the talented filmmaker he used to be. This horror-themed take on the X-Men introduces us to a young boy named Jake, who embarks on a journey to meet Miss Peregrine, the extraordinary headmistress of a mysterious home that he's only heard about in bedtime stories. This home is filled with children who possess unique powers. "Miss Peregrine's Home For Peculiar Children" perfectly captures Burton's strengths as a director - his ability to create empathy for characters who feel like outsiders and his talent for showcasing the importance of finding a community where one can truly belong. -Liam Gaughan
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Hocus Pocus 2 (2022)
Director: Anne Fletcher | Run Time: 1 hr 47 min
Cast: Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, Kathy Najimy, Whitney Peak
The Sanderson sisters make a long-awaited return! Nearly three decades after their last night of mischief, the witches are brought back to life when two Salem teenagers, Whitney Peak and Belissa Escobedo, accidentally ignite the Black Flame Candle. Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy effortlessly reprise their iconic roles, while newcomers Hannah Waddingham and Tony Hale shine in their own right in this beloved cult classic. Hocus Pocus 2, just as enjoyable as the original, delivers a touching tale about the strength of sisterhood. - Meredith Loftus
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The Simpsons “Treehouse of Horror” Episodes (1989-present)
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Created by: Matt Groening
Cast: Dan Castellaneta, Julie Kavner, Nancy Cartwright, Yeardley Smith
The spooky special episodes of The Simpsons are the embodiment of Halloween, and Disney+ has every single one. Personally, I find it hard to beat the excellence of "Treehouse of Horror IV" from season 5. In this episode, Homer hilariously sells his soul to the devil (who happens to be Flanders) for a mere donut. Additionally, there is a clever parody of "Nightmare at 20,000 Feet" from The Twilight Zone, featuring a gremlin attacking Bart's school bus. Not to mention, the episode also includes a brilliant riff on Bram Stoker's Dracula, with Mr. Burns convincingly portraying the iconic vampire. This all takes place within a framing device that pays homage to Rod Serling's often overlooked Night Gallery. Another must-see is "Treehouse of Horror VI" from season 7. It contains the uniquely captivating segment called "Attack of the 50-Foot Eyesores," where all the signs and billboards of Springfield come to life. There is also a hilarious spoof of Nightmare on Elm Street, with Groundskeeper Willie stepping in as the amusing substitute for Freddy. Notably, the groundbreaking "Homer" segment is featured in this episode, displaying some characters in their first-ever 3D computer animation form (along with a killer Tron joke). Ultimately, any installment of The Simpsons' Halloween specials will suffice for a festive viewing.
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The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad (1949): "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow"
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Director: Jack Kinney, Clyde Geronimi, James Algar | Run Time: 1 hr 8 min
Starring Eric Blore, J. Pat O'Malley, and John McLeish, this two-film special feature, produced during the company's post-World War II lean years, will surely catch your attention. Running for a concise 68 minutes, the second part is centered around "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow," a captivating tale based on Washington Irving's classic story. It follows the eerie experiences of Ichabod Crane, a teacher who finds himself in Sleepy Hollow, New York, where the terrifying Headless Horseman sends shivers down his spine. Despite sticking to the original storyline, the film still manages to deliver a thrilling impact, showcasing heart-stopping visuals such as the Horseman galloping across the covered bridge, clutching a fiery pumpkin. Disney has enthusiastically embraced this iconic character and its associated imagery for Halloween festivities, even featuring a full-speed Headless Horseman running down Main Street USA in the Magic Kingdom. Furthermore, Tim Burton shamelessly integrated this memorable figure into his live-action, R-rated adaptation of Sleepy Hollow. It's evident that this film has left a lasting impression.
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Mr. Boogedy (1986) & Bride of Boogedy (1987)
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Director: Oz Scott | Run Time: 2 hr 25 min
The movie Mr. Boogedy was originally aired as part of the Disney Sunday Movie series in the spring of 1986. Despite its unusual timing, as the story revolves around Halloween, it follows a family led by Richard Masur, including a young Kristy Swanson, who own a joke shop. They move into a noticeably haunted house in the small town of Lucifer Falls. The family gradually uncovers the truth about the town and the house, with the help of a sinister-looking real estate agent played by John Astin. Although the tone sometimes leans too heavily towards comedy, it remains an enjoyable and silly experience. If you're interested in the continuation of the story, you can also find Bride of Boogedy on Disney+. This sequel premiered almost a year later and sadly does not include Swanson, but it does feature Eugene Levy as a skeptical general store owner. Overall, it is a positive addition to the series.
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Gargoyles (1994)
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Created by: Greg Weisman
Starring Keith David, Salli Richardson, Jeff Bennett, and Bill Fagerbakke, Gargoyles represents the pinnacle of Disney television animation during its golden age. This groundbreaking half-hour animated drama revolves around a remarkable group of medieval warriors, who were imprisoned in stone for a millennium. Now revived in present-day New York City, they valiantly combat crime, battle other creatures, and embark on a quest to unravel the enigmatic reasons behind their resurrection. Notably eerie and thought-provoking, Gargoyles fearlessly explores mature themes beyond the supernatural realm (including an acclaimed episode centered around an accidental shooting). The first two seasons emit a spine-chilling, Halloween-like atmosphere (though the third season, under different production, falls short and can be skipped). If you haven't experienced this masterpiece before, you owe it to yourself to indulge. Gargoyles effortlessly matches the caliber of renowned dramatic animated series, boasting stunning animation and intricately crafted storylines.
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Frankenweenie (2012)
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Director: Tim Burton | Run Time: 1 hr 28 min
Cast: Catherine O'Hara, Martin Short, Martin Landau, Charlie Tahan
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The Scream Team (2002)
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Director: Stuart Gillard | Run Time: 1 hr 28 min
Cast: Mark Rendall, Kat Dennings, Robert Bockstael
There are several horror-themed Disney Channel Original Movies (or DCOMs) such as Don’t Look Under the Bed, Girl vs. Monster, and Phantom of the Megaplex. More recent franchises like Descendants and Zombies can also fall into this category, although they focus more on music rather than monsters. However, one DCOM that stands out is The Scream Team. It effectively combines humor and scares in a way that few others have achieved. The film has a more sophisticated look, clearly drawing inspiration from movies like Peter Jackson's The Frighteners. Additionally, the cast includes notable actors such as Eric Idle, Tommy Davidson, Kathy Najimy, and a young Kat Dennings. The plot revolves around a wholesome family moving into an old house after the death of their grandfather. They uncover a mysterious plot involving ghosts who haven't moved on and an evil spirit who killed his wife. Amidst the broader moments, the film can become quite intense. The reasons for The Scream Team not attaining the same cult popularity as other, more comedic DCOMs remain unclear. Nevertheless, its availability on Disney+ provides an opportunity for its rediscovery.
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The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1996)
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Director: Gary Trousdale, Kirk Wise | Run Time: 1 hr 31 min
Cast: Tom Hulce, Demi Moore, Tony Jay
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The Hunchback of Notre Dame stands as one of the remarkable animated epics of the Disney Renaissance era. While it showcases a monstrously deformed protagonist, previously portrayed by Lon Chaney, and includes a hauntingly disturbing musical number ("Hellfire!"), the film also introduces a trio of gargoyles that evoke mixed emotions of horror and adoration. Disney took a daring leap by adapting Victor Hugo's somber novel into a cheerful Broadway-style musical, further pushing boundaries by incorporating dark and eerie elements, including a harrowing journey into a sinister gypsy underworld. Regrettably underrated, this Disney animated gem, The Hunchback of Notre Dame, serves as a perfect appetizer for Halloween festivities, to be enjoyed during the day, preparing viewers for more intense experiences later in the night. And if you happen to have a Festival of Fools-themed snack spread, additional points to you!
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Maleficent: Mistress of Evil (2019)
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Director: Joachim Rønning | Run Time: 1 hr 58 min
Cast: Angelina Jolie, Elle Fanning, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Sam Riley
Maleficent: Mistress of Evil, released in 2019, went relatively unnoticed despite having a promising release date before Halloween and surpassing its lackluster predecessor. The film allows Angelina Jolie to fully embody her role as the winged witch, Maleficent, who becomes upset over the impending wedding of Aurora and Prince Philip. In this installment, Maleficent learns more about her troubled past and encounters a formidable villainess, played by Michelle Pfeiffer, surpassing her wickedness. What sets this film apart, especially for Halloween enthusiasts, is its focus on various creatures, including one played by Chiwetel Ejiofor, and the notion that evil can reside within anyone, regardless of appearance. Furthermore, Maleficent: Mistress of Evil delivers a highly satisfying and visually captivating climax, intensifying the longstanding conflict between mankind and the fairy world. Finally, fans will be pleased to see Maleficent transform into a powerful creature, though not quite resembling her iconic dragon-form from Sleeping Beauty.
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Halloweentown (1998)
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Director: Duwayne Dunham | Run Time: 1 hr 24 min
Cast: Debbie Reynolds, Judith Hoag, Kimberly J. Brown
No Halloween-themed DCOM has had the same impact as Halloweentown. It not only spawned a successful franchise, including sequels like Halloweentown II: Kalabar's Revenge, Halloweentown High, and Return to Halloweentown High, but it also captures the essence of Halloween like no other. In the movie, a group of kids decides to follow their grandmother (played by Debbie Reynolds, who delivers a stellar performance) on her annual Halloween visit. They board a bus filled with adults in costumes, only to realize that they have entered a whole new world called Halloweentown. This world is home to various creatures like ghouls, goblins, witches, warlocks, and even a talking skeleton cab driver. While the plot revolves around one of the kids learning to embrace her witch heritage, there are also elements of a demon being angry at the kids' mom for marrying a human, which adds an interesting twist. However, the true magic lies in the captivating world of Halloweentown, brought to life through impressive prosthetic and animatronic effects. It resembles a charming New England town populated by creatures designed by the talented Rick Baker. It's no wonder that Halloweentown is a staple film during Halloween season—it immediately immerses you in the holiday's spirit and leaves you with a joyful smile on your face.
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Hocus Pocus (1993)
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Director: Kenny Ortega | Run Time: 1 hr 36 min
Cast: Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, Kathy Najimy
The fact that Hocus Pocus initially didn't gain much attention is amusing, considering that it has now become a cult phenomenon. Disney continuously releases new Hocus Pocus merchandise every Halloween, such as costumes, T-shirts, and Funko Pops, which are eagerly snatched up by fans. They have even incorporated the Sanderson Sisters into their Halloween parties in Walt Disney World's Magic Kingdom, with a spectacular stage show. Additionally, it seems that a sequel to the film is approaching reality. This is wonderful news because Hocus Pocus is an exceptional and enjoyable movie that truly deserves its status as a modern classic. The performances by Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy as the Salem witches are outstanding. The witches, who were cursed on Halloween night in 1693, are resurrected in the present day, creating a captivating story. The film offers everything you could want for Halloween, including witches, a young Doug Jones playing a zombie, a talking cat, and an abundance of Halloween decorations, along with a heartwarming coming-of-age tale. Moreover, it strikes the perfect balance between humor and scares. Let's celebrate Hocus Pocus, the beloved Disney film that has exceeded all expectations. Watch the trailer here.
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Mighty Joe Young (1998)
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Director: Ron Underwood | Run Time: 1 hr 54 min
Cast: Bill Paxton, Charlize Theron, Rade Šerbedžija, Naveen Andrews
During the late 1990s, when the world experienced a rise in giant monster movies such as Roland Emmerich's Godzilla and Peter Jackson's King Kong, Mighty Joe Young emerged as Disney's contribution to this genre. Considered by many as an underrated gem, this film stars Bill Paxton and Charlize Theron in an adventure that focuses on a giant gorilla and a malicious poacher seeking revenge. Although the story itself is not particularly unique, there are exhilarating action sequences reminiscent of director Ron Underwood's previous work on Tremors. The magnificent portrayal of Mighty Joe Young, brought to life by the exceptional talents of Rick Baker and Industrial Light & Magic, is a truly remarkable cinematic achievement, possessing both expressiveness and a touch of fear. If you are looking for a creature feature that can be enjoyed by the entire family, Mighty Joe Young is an excellent choice.
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Mickey Mouse Shorts, from “Ghoul Friend" to "Going to Pieces" (2013-2019)
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Created by: Paul Rudish
Cast: Chris Diamantopoulos, Bill Farmer, Tony Anselmo
The Mickey Mouse cartoons, created by Paul Rudish in 2013, are an absolute blast. They aren't afraid to explore bizarre and creepy situations, which fits well with the character's original flexibility. One particularly appropriate episode for Halloween is "Ghoul Friend," available in the season 1 collection on Disney+. In this episode, Mickey's car breaks down next to a spooky graveyard, where he encounters a truly disturbing zombie version of Goofy. It's amazing that Disney allowed one of its iconic characters to be transformed into a ghoul with exposed bones, missing eyeballs, and dripping goo. What's even more impressive is how this short captures both horror and heart, with a cute ending. Although the other shorts throughout the four-season run may not have the same Halloween theme, they still make for great seasonal viewing. For example, "Black and White" shows Mickey losing all his paint after being scared by a scary movie, "Entombed" features Mickey and Minnie visiting an ancient Egyptian pyramid with typical spooky outcomes, and "Going to Pieces" is abstract yet equally strange and unsettling, as Goofy falls apart and Donald and Mickey have to put him back together. It's like a Disney version of Very Bad Things. All of the Mickey Mouse episodes are a must-watch, but these are particularly fantastic for the PSL season.
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Coco (2017)
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Director: Lee Unkrich | Run Time: 1 hr 45 min
Starring Anthony Gonzalez, Gael García Bernal, and Benjamin Bratt, Pixar's Coco is set during the Day of the Dead, a Mexican holiday with similar imagery to Halloween. However, instead of being a spooky occasion, it is a time for remembrance and the return of ancestral spirits. While it may not be traditionally Halloween-themed, Coco offers delightful elements for Halloween enthusiasts, including young Miguel's journey to the Land of the Dead filled with skeleton characters, the presence of the monstrous alebrije Pepita, and a central plot point involving a murder. The film offers both entertainment and a significant message about cherishing the memories of lost loved ones, which is particularly relevant in a year marked by many farewells.
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The Haunted Mansion (2003)
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Director: Rob Minkoff | Run Time: 1 hr 27 min
Starring Eddie Murphy, Terence Stamp, and Wallace Shawn, The Haunted Mansion is a film adaptation of the beloved Disney theme park attraction. Although it doesn't quite capture the extensive mythology and perfect blend of scares and laughs found in the original ride, it still provides plenty of enjoyment (especially when watched alongside other cheesy, made-for-TV Disney content). Eddie Murphy portrays a real estate agent who unknowingly becomes involved in a supernatural ritual when spirits target his wife. The movie offers visual references to the original attraction, most notably in a scene where Murphy and his children ride in a skeletal horse-drawn carriage through a cemetery filled with comedic elements from the ride. Additionally, the impressive makeup effects by Rick Baker, particularly in a sequence where Murphy and his son find themselves trapped in a catacomb with various undead creatures, are worth noting. While not essential, this feel-good, family-friendly Halloween film is sure to appeal to viewers of all ages.
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