October is here and the spooky season is upon us, but for some people this can be a time of terror because everywhere you look there is a horror movie. But why should you miss out on the Halloween fun just because you don't like a bit of gore or to be terrified out of your wits? What about the people who love Halloween but don't want to watch Saw or Final Destination? So I have decided to compile a list of 6 Halloween films suitable for those who don't want a fright.
Nightmare Before Christmas
Okay, I know that this film has the word ‘Christmas’ in the title, but it doubles up well as a non-scary Halloween film. This is an iconic musical and a cult classic from our beloved Disney. The film follows the misadventures of Jack Skellington, Halloweentown's beloved pumpkin king, who has become bored with the same annual routine of frightening people in the "real world." When Jack accidentally stumbles on Christmastown, all bright colors and warm spirits, he gets a new lease on life -- he plots to bring Christmas under his control by kidnapping Santa Claus and taking over the role. But Jack soon discovers even the best-laid plans of mice and skeleton men can go seriously awry.
This one may be a 15 but it is far from scary. It is actually quite a darkly humorous film with Johnny Depp shining alongside Christina Ricci. It is classic Tim Burton with its monochromatic tones and fantasy feel to it. It is as though you are entering into this new world and you quickly become entrapped by the film desperate to find out the answer to the many questions that you have. This is definitely one of my favourite films.
The Harry Potter Series
What would all of our lives be like without the cultural phenomena that is Harry Potter? Even now it still has a profound effect on millions of people all over the world; it transcends ages, location, and background so how could I leave it off this list? Any of the films are great for Halloween, but I would particularly recommend Prisoner of Azkaban as it's got everything in it and you cannot help but be transported right back to your childhood.
Hocus Pocus
Now come on, who doesn't love this film? It is iconic with its famous Salem Witches who are played by the equally famous actresses of Sarah Jessica Parker, Bette Midler, and Kathy Najimy. The film is about a young boy who brings these witches back from the dead in an attempt to woo and impress his classmate, unfortunately this does not go exactly to plan as he thought as the witches try to steal the youth of our protagonists young sister.
The Addams Family
Who doesn't know the iconic family that is the Addams? They are creepy and they're kooky, mysterious and spooky and that is the exact reason why we love them! With hilarious family dynamics and an interesting plot, this film is an easy and light-hearted watch that everyone can enjoy. I personally believe that it is Christina Ricci as Wednesday Addams who makes the film. Her perfectly stoic expression that looks so out of place on a young girl is perfect for creating a contrast with her typical classmates. I would recommend this film to everyone at any time of the year!
The Rocky Horror Picture Show
Now this one is definitely for the older audience with its strong sexual overtones throughout the whole thing (conveyed through music, of course). The musical element adds a charm to the film and will have you moving in your seat and if you are with the right people, doing the Time Warp in your living room; or is that just me…?
Anyway, it is no surprise that this film is so successful, a brilliant plot combined with catchy show tunes that stay with you for the next week or two!
Whether scary or not scary in the slightest, what are some of your favourite Halloween movies? Make your voice heard in the comments section below, or on our Twitter or Facebook pages - let us know!
