The Ultimate Guide to “Family-Friendly” Halloween Movies From a Christian Perspective
Fall is officially here, and Halloween is just around the corner. For Christians who celebrate the holiday, it can be difficult to find movies that don’t cause you to raise your eyebrows. This guide is a quick overview of many popular family friendly Halloween movies and what could be considered good options for Christian families.
The films included in this list are aimed at older audiences (kids aged 6+).
Disclaimer: This list is not a replacement for using wisdom and discernment. We do not specifically endorse any of the films on this list; we are merely providing information so you can make the choice that’s wisest for your family.
Halloween Movies for Christians: Frequently Asked Questions
Should Christians Celebrate Halloween?
There is no easy answer to this one. Every Christian needs to decide for themselves if celebrating Halloween is spiritually sound. Halloween has a spiritually tricky past, originating with the Celts as they dressed up to ward off ghosts.
Current American trends include costumes, decor, and media that are frightening and sometimes include occult imagery. So, some Christians choose not to celebrate Halloween.
Others believe celebrating Halloween a different way: with candy, silly decorations, and non-threatening costumes. Some just celebrate autumn instead, with pumpkins, scarecrows, and traditionally “fall” themed items. Every Christian should decide if celebrating Halloween is Scripturally sound for them.
Should Christians Watch Halloween Movies?
Some Christians may be able to watch Halloween movies, but they should watch each movie carefully. Everyone has different convictions and preferences, so while magic might seem fun and harmless for one viewer, it can be a stumbling block for another.
There are so many Halloween movies out there. Some contain concerning spiritual elements, while others can be enjoyed by mature Christians with wisdom and discernment.
The goal is to honor God with all that we do, including the movies we watch (1 Corinthians 10:31). So, when we consider Halloween movies for Christians, we need to use sound judgement.
With that in mind, here are some movies we wouldn’t recommend to Christian families.
Halloween Movies That Are NOT Family-Friendly
Beetlejuice (Including the Sequel)
In my opinion, Beatlejuice is not a safe Halloween film for most Christians and families. It contains scary monsters, dismembered ghosts, swearing, many sexual references, and an overall focus on the occult (including a séance). Although a lot of the jokes will go over the heads of kids, I believe that Beetlejuice is not for children, and honestly, I’d hesitate to show it anyone, even adults.
For more information, visit Common Sense Media and Plugged In.
Ghostbusters
Ghostbusters, like Beetlejuice, is also not family-friendly in my opinion, and contains content that doesn’t align with a Christian worldview. The film’s content includes, but is not limited to: some swearing, alcohol use, smoking, multiple scary ghosts, and sexual references/innuendos. It’s also rather dark overall. Despite the PG rating, I’d say Ghostbusters should be at least PG-13. (The newer movies are all PG-13.)
For more information, click here.
Monster House
Even as an adult, I find Monster House so unsettling that I can’t finish it. The whole premise is about a sentient haunted house that tries to kill any inhabitants (or unsuspecting passersby) besides the owner. The owner threatens the neighbor kids with bodily harm and then has a heart attack in front of them. There are explosions, injuries, and some deaths (including one that’s rather traumatic at the end). There are also mentions of kissing, some drinking, the use of cough medicine as a sleeping aid, and some bathroom humor. While there is a tragic story regarding prejudice and its consequences, the moral lessons aren’t enough to make it worth a watch.
Visit Common Sense Media for more information by clicking here.
Scooby Doo (2002 Live Action)
The 2002 live action Scooby Doo film isn’t particularly family-friendly. The film contains sexual references, cross-dressing, references to voodoo, scary monsters, and several characters being possessed by monsters. In my opinion, both Scooby Doo live-action movies should be PG-13. If you want something that contains less questionable content, the original Scooby Doo cartoons are better for families.
Visit Parent Previews for more information by clicking here.
Little Shop of Horrors
Little Shop of Horrors may be a musical, but it’s not appropriate for children (hence why it’s rated PG-13… I’m not sure why “family-friendly” lists include it). This movie contains blood, implied mutilation of a dead body, and several deaths at the hands of a bloodthirsty plant. Some swearing and sexual comments occur, as well as some drinking and drug use (laughing gas). The film also contains an abusive relationship involving a sadistic character (who sings a whole song about how he likes to cause pain).
For more information, click here.
Coraline
Check out our previous post about this one—because of the many frightening elements, Coraline is definitely not for kids. Even teenagers and adults should watch with caution.
Our review and parents’ guide for Coraline will be linked here once it’s published, and our reflection on the film’s rating and content will be linked here.
Halloween Family Movies to Consider With Discretion
Listed below are some popular Halloween movies that are considered “family friendly” (complete with a short content guide and verdict for each).
Halloweentown (I, II, and III)
PARENTS‘ GUIDE: Rated TV-PG, except for Halloweentown High, which is TV-G. The movie series is based on a family of witches, so spells/magic use are prevalent. Magic is celebrated, so humans are considered boring. Monsters, skeletons, and ghosts exist. Scary scenes include Kalabar in the movie theater (first movie), humans transforming into monsters (second movie), and an evil knight stalking highschoolers (third movie). The main character has romantic relationships throughout the series, but nothing goes further than a kiss. The series’ biggest issue (besides the magic) is the snarky, often rude way Marnie talks to her family.
VERDICT: I’ll admit that while I love the nostalgia of this series, it doesn’t demonstrate many moral lessons. It’s primarily about magic, which is described as “wanting something, and then letting yourself have it.” Magic is a primarily selfish means to an end, and Marnie has been shown to abuse it on occasion for her own purposes.
Besides the magic, though, I find the family relationships concerning. They clearly care about each other, but they can’t seem to stop arguing. Each of them are concerned with their own goals and make snarky comments when their opinions differ. Sacrifices are made in important moments, but they’re certainly no Brady Bunch.
I love the creativity and fun campiness of these movies, but I do not condone how the characters act. Older kids might like it, but I would use caution to ensure they don’t pick up on bad habits copied from the main characters.
Scary Godmother and Scary Godmother: Jimmy’s Revenge
PARENTS‘ GUIDE: Rated G. Scary Godmother is a witch, and she uses multiple spells throughout the movie. There’s a near-kiss between two middle schoolers and later between a married couple. There are plenty of monsters (Dracula, a werewolf, a skeleton, etc.), and there are moments where characters try to scare each other.
VERDICT: This is a light and silly for-TV movie that’s based on a series of books. Most scary things and creatures, like Bugaboo the monster, are proven to be kind and welcoming, even if their ways are strange. Provided there is no issue with magic and Halloween characters, this movie could be a good lesson about facing your fears and finding friends in dark places. Younger kids would likely enjoy it more than older ones, though, especially with the dated animation style.
Monsterville: R. L. Stine’s Cabinet of Souls
PARENTS‘ GUIDE: Rated PG. There are lots of jump scares with monster close-ups (including a zombie, witch, werewolf, creepy clown, etc.). Characters dance for a contest, and two characters flirt, almost kiss, and then later kiss at the end. There’s a haunted house with scare actors, and one character claims to be an enchantress. A magical cabinet called “the gates of hell” is full of stolen humans who turn into monsters. The villain is called a “minor demon” who feeds off energy from the trapped souls until they disappear.
VERDICT: It’s seemingly marketed as a family movie, but it does give off “horror” vibes with multiple scares, creepy monsters, and a glimpse into the “afterlife” due to the cabinet of souls. Thankfully, the movie doesn’t take itself too seriously or feel life-threatening. One review on Common Sense Media calls it “simple, campy fun.”
Magic is involved, but it’s portrayed as evil and wrong. There’s also the addition of Beth’s concoction of “holy water, sage, vinegar, a couple of other things” that defeats the villain. The themes of loyalty and love are strong, and the concept of “be careful what you wish for” is emphasized. While I do think that the monsters will be too scary for kids, it likely wouldn’t give tweens nightmares.
The Little Vampire
PARENTS’ GUIDE: Rated PG. Vampires exist (hence the name) and drink blood from animals. Tony has recurring nightmares. Multiple fight scenes happen, and one person falls (seemingly to their death). Some gore appears. Snarky comments include “shut up.” A magic amulet exists that can either send the vampires to hell or turn them human. A girl has a crush on a boy, calling him “darling.” Two characters say “God,” and several characters drink. Someone notes that a boy has “cast quite a spell” on a girl (it’s figurative). A vampire hunter uses a light-up cross to repel the vampires. Multiple vampire jokes about drinking blood or someone “being dinner” are present.
VERDICT: I have a soft spot for this movie, mostly because of its focus on friendship. However, I also enjoyed that the vampires want to become human because it’s something you don’t often see in vampire stories. I also like the religious aspect and how friendship transcends barriers.
This movie is a mixed bag, since overall, it comes off as cute and endearing while also trying to be dramatic and moody. Older kids might enjoy it, but the violence and vampires might be too scary for young children. (Although the violence is toned down through most of it.)
Scooby Doo and the Goblin King / Scooby Doo and the Witch’s Ghost / Scooby Doo on Zombie Island
(I am including all these movies in one section because the verdict is the same for all of them.)
PARENTS’ GUIDE FOR GOBLIN KING: Spells are used consistently by both good guys and bad guys. There are many monsters (including goblins, werewolves, witches, and fairies). Dead bodies rise from graves. There are multiple scenes where characters are chased by bad guys and lives are in danger. Multiple characters get turned into monsters. Scooby and Shaggy pretend to be women to get into a goblin party, and goblins flirt with them. Pixies are somewhat scantily clad but not inappropriate.
PARENTS’ GUIDE FOR WITCH’S GHOST: A spell book is used to bring back a ghost (who is depicted as real). The villain wants to bring back a ghost to rule the world together. Wiccans are called “good guys” and use a spell book to send the witch back. Several scary scenes with the ghost occur where she chases characters with fireballs. One scene sets up the Hex Girls to appear like vampires (but they’re actually just in a goth band).
PARENTS’ GUIDE FOR ZOMBIE ISLAND: The practice of voodoo is mentioned. Some crude jokes are used. Many zombies appear and chase after the main characters, and some crumble into pieces. People turn into creepy cat monsters that swarm the island. People are left to die in crocodile-infested waters (the deaths are not shown). The villains disintegrate into nothing.
VERDICT: I find it odd that Scooby Doo’s main premise (aka: the bad guys are just people in masks) is tossed out in all of these movies. These movies miss the fun of figuring out who was behind all the mayhem. Plus, they include more supernatural elements and monsters that can be genuinely scary. Because all of that, I’d avoid showing them to little kids or anyone under the age of 10.
The Corpse Bride
PARENTS’ GUIDE: Rated PG. The main love interest, Emily, is a decaying corpse (complete with a cartoon maggot that pops out of her eye socket). The male main character, Victor, accidentally “marries” this corpse by saying vows and exchanging a ring. Most of the film is set in the Land of the Dead, where dead people continue to live almost normal lives. The main character travels between the Land of the Dead and the real world. Potions and magic are used. The villain stole, lied, and betrayed Emily, later leading to her death. A priest’s intervention appears to have no effect on dead people who return to reality. Two characters duel. Several characters die. Emily disappears into butterflies that fly upward (perhaps a soul ascending to heaven?).
VERDICT: This is a classic Tim Burton film, so it’s definitely spooky. I personally don’t love this movie because there are so many corpses and constant talk about death, but I know some people love the artistry and storyline. It also touches on the concept of souls, which I found interesting, but doesn’t really address the whole “dead bodies being alive” concept.
I was also slightly concerned about the idea of a living person marrying a corpse, but the film mentions those vows are null and void. Because of the creepy visuals and dead-people-coming-back-to-life bit, this would likely be only for for middle schoolers and up.
Girl vs. Monster
PARENTS’ GUIDE: Rated TV-PG. Several girls have a crush on a boy and touch his shoulder or flirt. One character mentions someone was “practically forcing him to date her.” Someone says “God” and “smoking hot” (as a joke). Some bathroom humor is used. Someone falls down stairs (three separate times) and injures their neck. Several electronics explode dramatically in a lab, complete with sparks, smoke, and a containment unit’s door exploding open. There are multiple creepy monsters, including a scarecrow and an old hag. One of the monsters is immortal and “can possess souls for all eternity.” This monster later possesses a person, but the person is okay. There’s a conversion joke about someone becoming a monster hunter (someone calls them “reformed”).
VERDICT: This movie definitely feels like a for-TV Disney original, but I can’t deny its charm. The blatant message of facing your fears is powerful, and the actors do a great job at depicting terror and humor as the script demands. The monsters joke around, too, which lessens the overall fear factor. In my personal opinion, this movie might be fine for younger kids if they aren’t scared of monsters.
Ernest Scared Stupid
PARENTS’ GUIDE: Rated TV-PG. An unseen monster hunts down a screaming girl, and from his point of view, villagers trap him in chains. Some magic occurs in the film, with phrases like “whatever’s in voodoo vogue,” “the spirits are loose again,” “the seventh son of the seventh son,” “Gemini,” and “evil demons make me strong” used. Silly insults are used like “butt heads,” “snot wad,” etc. A giant ugly troll catches children (and a dog) and turns them into wooden dolls. A girl kisses a boy on the cheek. Frequent cartoon-style violence, like a man falling from a billboard and someone being hit by a bowling ball (but everyone is fine). Some swears, including “d*mn” once. There are many close-up shots of big, ugly trolls, complete with goo on their face. Trolls turn into giant bubbling masses of goo. Someone calls Ernest a “multiple personality,” and a “great bunch of guys,” which could be considered offensive.
VERDICT: This comedy has a decently scary story about a troll that turns children into wooden dolls and seeks to take over a town. It all centers on a bizarre man named Ernest P. Worrell, who is clueless and slightly delusional, albeit caring. His ridiculous comedy (shown through exaggerated facial expressions and voices) might make younger kids laugh, but it feels out of place when juxtaposed with a storyline that actually threatens life and limb.
I’m most concerned by how the adults act in this movie. They are bumbling at best and negligent/ineffective at worst. I kept waiting for just one parent to stand up to the trolls, but their kids end up being the ones in charge (which can be empowering for kids who are watching). There’s also one line from Old Lady Hackmore that makes me concerned: “Sometimes you gotta do what you know is right, no matter what anyone else tells ya!” It feels too much like she’s telling the kids to ignore the adults and follow what they think is right.
I did like the overall theme of love triumphing over evil, but it was brushed off so quickly it didn’t land well. Overall, some kids might be scared by the many close-ups of the ugly trolls and how children are transformed into dolls, but older kids may be able to tolerate it (although they probably won’t like the ridiculous humor as much).
*Myne Note: I’ve mentioned this film before, but this would personally be my pick of one of the scariest Halloween films. What I saw of it was horrifying as a kid.
Invisible Sister
PARENTS’ GUIDE: Rated TV-G. A girl has a crush on a boy, and it’s a major plot point throughout the film. Two characters almost kiss. Someone says, “speak of the devil.” One character chronically tells white lies to his best friend, but she calls him out on it every time. Some bathroom humor with gas, including a messy boy’s bathroom, occurs. Some violence happens during a lacrosse game where opponents go flying. A zombie is seen in a haunted house.
VERDICT: The story revolves around the relationship between two sisters, but it would have been more impactful if we saw more of their interactions beforehand. Despite that (and despite the cheesiness overall), it’s a touching story about learning to walk in other people’s shoes and having the courage to step out of your comfort zone. In my personal opinion, I’d say this movie is quite tame, and most would be able to tolerate it due to the overall lack of questionable content.
Twitches I & II
PARENTS’ GUIDE: Rated TV-PG. Darkness invades the country as a shadow monster, and multiple people are killed by it. The names of the main characters are based on Artemis and Apollo from Greek mythology. Magic is used consistently throughout to affect everyday life (like adjusting a mannequin) and to combat evil. Inter-dimensional travel is shown by traveling through closets and portals through walls. The darkness arrives multiple times throughout the film and makes flowers die, causes things to catch on fire, etc. It also chases after multiple people. The twins use their combined powers to dispel the darkness at the climax of the movie.
VERDICT: I struggle a bit with this movie because the whole concept is about witches (twin witches, specifically, aka “twitches”). Magic is used by both the good guys and the bad guys, but I did appreciate that it’s not just used for selfish reasons. What truly carries the film is the talent of the main actresses. Their reactions feel authentic, and the banter feels real because fun fact, it is—they’re twins in real life! There’s a strong focus on family and doing what’s considered “right,” but because of the magic, this movie would be better for older kids who understand that witchcraft is wrong.
Hocus Pocus
PARENTS’ GUIDE: Three witches create a potion and force a child to drink it, then inhale her “life force” until she dies. There’s a shot of swinging feet to indicate a hanging. The witches use a spell to turn someone into an effectively immortal cat. The witches use other spells throughout the film to cause harm and scare others. There’s some innuendo and crude jokes, including mentioning that the main character is a virgin. A dead body comes to life as a zombie. The witches “die” but are brought back to life twice. Mentions of a “white witch” occur. Two characters appear as ghosts walking towards heaven.
VERDICT: My nostalgia clouds my judgement with this one, but I can objectively admit that there are a lot of concerns in this movie. The main villains are witches, and while their actions are clearly condemned, they serve as comic relief despite using spells and potions to “suck the lives out of all the children of Salem.”
I also didn’t appreciate the fluidity of life and death, depicted with the seemingly-eternal cat and a zombie that rises from the dead. Pagan methods are used to counter the witches (namely salt), although the cemetery’s status as “hallowed ground” is a nod to religion.
However, I will say the main actresses (Kathy Najimy, Bette Midler, and Sarah Jessica Parker) are phenomenal, so I do enjoy a re-watch of it every October. But I would recommend this only for older kids who understand the dangers of witchcraft and everything associated with it.
The Haunted Mansion (2003 Version)
PARENTS’ GUIDE: Rated PG. Tarot cards are shown, including a drawn image of a naked man (not detailed). A man is seen hanging from the ceiling after su***de. Several characters have a drink at a restaurant. Mentions of a devil’s curse and “d*mning everyone to h*ll.” There is a threat of death multiple times, and one character drinks poison. Lots of ghosts exist. Several swears, including “g*d” and “h*ll,”plus the phrase “get jiggy with my wife,” are used. Someone has a copy of Sports Illustrated with a bikini model on it. Many zombies come to life, and several close-up shots are shown. A “gypsy” lady is depicted as a floating head in a glass ball. A fireplace opens up into the gates of hell, and a fiery monster drags a character down into the depths. Several characters kiss. A ghost revives a dead person. Ghosts return to heaven.
VERDICT: The concept of a movie based on a beloved Disney ride is neat, but the film itself is…lacking. The story itself is alright, and I appreciate the themes of bravery, family, and long-lasting love. However, the characters themselves are pretty flat. I didn’t particularly like the main character, Jim Evers, because he’s selfish for about 90% of the movie. Although, I’ll give credit to Eddie Murphy, who does a great job adding his characteristic humor to the role.
The 2023 version of this movie is worse, in my opinion, and it’s also darker (hence its PG-13 rating). Overall, I’d say either of the Haunted Mansion movies are only for older kids since there’s some swearing, scary moments, hints of taboo magic, and supernatural elements.
The Nightmare Before Christmas
PARENTS’ GUIDE: Rated PG. Lots of monsters (including a mini devil) who are dead, injured, decaying, or otherwise misshapen, including Sally, who is made of sewn together body parts. Someone says that Jack is a “witch’s dream,” and there are some minor insults thrown around. A major emphasis is placed on scaring/injuring people. Sally poisons the doctor multiple times, and Santa is kidnapped, tied up, and threatened with death. Sally mentions having a vision/premonition that comes true. Two characters kiss.
VERDICT: This movie musical isn’t usually on my watch list because of the creep factor, although it’s undoubtedly creative and well-executed. The characters are unsettling and frightening, and they frequently mention scaring or injuring others (although it’s clear they don’t mean it maliciously). Personally, I also really don’t like the idea of Christmas being a “scary” holiday. I wouldn’t rate this as “PG” across the board, but Tim Burton fans will thoroughly enjoy it. Older kids only for this one.
However, the soundtrack is definitely worth a listen—there are some truly talented voice actors and singers.
A Babysitter’s Guide to Monster Hunting
PARENTS’ GUIDE: Rated TV-PG. Many monsters appear in this film, but most of them look like cartoons. Some monsters get injured with some gore, and there’s some crude humor with gas. A girl has a crush on a boy and acts awkward around him. Several characters say “God” and one says “d*mn.” Several scary scenes happen, including ones with the Grand Guignol and the Cat Lady threatening people. There’s one particularly scary scene with lots of cats coming after the main character.
VERDICT: This Netflix original probably won’t win any awards, but the story is decent. A secret society of babysitters committed to protecting their charges from monsters around the world? Kinda cool. Some helpful lessons of bravery (particularly against nightmares or monsters) and withstanding insults from bullies, along with friendship are present. This could also be a good watch for kids who have started a babysitting job, provided they aren’t scared of monsters.
Casper
PARENTS’ GUIDE: Rated TV-PG. Ghosts exist and can’t cross over to the afterlife. A priest attempts an exorcism of ghosts but ends up with his head turned backwards and covered in ectoplasm (but otherwise fine). A decent amount of swearing occurs, including “for Christ’s sake,” “God,” “h*ll,” “p*ss off,” “b*tch,” etc. A man is a therapist to ghosts. Ghosts frequently pull scary, exaggerated faces to scare people. One comment that alludes to sex is said, and a ghost mentions “getting a girl in his bed.“ A male ghost dresses up like a woman as a joke and kisses a man. A ghost pantomimes hanging himself. A ghost has a crush on a living girl. A woman kisses a man, a boy kisses a girl, and a boy kisses a girl’s cheek. A woman tries to kill a man multiple times, but she ends up falling off a cliff and dying. The ghosts scheme to commit murder. A man gets drunk and kisses three male ghosts, one of whom appears to like it. The same man mentions “cleaning out every bar” in the town. A ghost enters a machine that runs on “primordial soup” that turns him back into a living person. A ghost gives someone the ability to be human for a night.
VERDICT: I watched this film as a kid and remember it as somewhat off-putting. As an adult, I’m shocked by the amount of inappropriate jokes. Sure, it’s engaging, and the ghost animation is neat. But the story doesn’t have much to it and has a lot of references to death. The boundary between the living and the dead is depicted as quite flexible, not to mention there’s a therapist for ghosts, which feels bizarre. Overall, older kids might find the somewhat crude humor funny, but there aren’t many redeeming factors here for anybody.
More Family-Friendly Movies to Watch in October
Need movies to watch that aren’t Halloween-themed but are somewhat adjacent? Check out this short list of family-friendly movies that fit the PG range:
- Coco
- Monster’s Inc.
- Kiki’s Delivery Service
- Z-O-M-B-I-E-S (and all the sequels)
- Wallace and Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit
- The Book of Life
- It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown!
- This one is Halloween themed, but I couldn’t leave it off this list.
And there you have it: the ultimate guide to family-friendly Halloween movies from a Christian perspective! As we watch more movies, we hope to add to this list to guide you in your Halloween movie watching.
Did we hit the mark? Leave a comment below with one of your favorite Halloween movies!
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*Disclaimer: This article is an opinion piece.
