What should you watch on Halloween? Browse our guide for a psychologically damning time
We started this list because most of you seem to lack taste — kidding? There’s a distinct lack of adventure when it comes to choosing horror films for the big night. Considering most have had all year to decide, it doesn’t come as a shock that, still, in 2025, no one knows what they’re picking.
I’m guessing you’re a typical “let’s watch “The Shining” followed by “The Evil Dead” type of person? And while these titles are decent, they reek of a groundhog day safe space. So, just shut up and leave it to us, because here is your official itinerary for spooky art house/thrilling films to watch.
Angst (1983)
This is the director’s (Gerald Kargl) only film, which makes this an intriguing watch, but also, why? The film follows a newly released serial killer who returns to his psychopathic ways. The trailer for Angst alone is an anxiety-inducing ride and is sure to trigger viewers into watching it.
Our verdict: For those who like their coffee strong.
Duration: 1 hour 27 minutes
Rating: Unrated. Likely close to 18.
Clean, Shaven (1993)
Described as one of the most shocking and realistic portrayals of schizophrenia, Clean, Shaven sees Peter Greene take on the role of Peter Winter, who, still living with his condition, has just been released from a mental institution. His first port of call is to locate and fight for his daughter, who has been placed in adoptive care — though he is haunted by terrifying delusions in his search for meaning and reconnection. It is directed by Lodge Kerrigan.
Our verdict: Best for horror fans who want to go deeper
Duration: 1 hour 19 minutes
Rating: 18
The Innocents (1961)
Starring Deborah Kerr as Miss Giddens, The Innocents is one of the older titles on this list and slightly more tame, but it still packs a Halloween punch and remains compositionally relevant today.
Giddens is a young governess for two children, though the home she navigates convinces her that the house and its grounds are haunted. The film is directed by Jack Clayton. Every scene is presented like fine art and opens the doorway for a truly spooky night.
Our verdict: For the faint hearted and the easily scared.
Duration: 1 hour 35 minutes
Rating: 12
Threads (1983)
Prepare to wear some properly fitted underwear — something you should be doing anyway. I guess what I mean is, wear a nappy, you’re going to need it. Threads is the film you kept reaching for but constantly put down. Maybe it looked too old or wasn’t quite your taste. Tonight, you’re picking it up, watching it, and will be frightened by the horrors of nuclear war.
Our verdict: While not a traditional horror film, it is indeed still a hard watch. If you’re after something more supernatural, you’re better off skipping this one.
Duration: 1 hour 52 minutes
Rartng: 18
Possession (1981)
Ok, this is an upgrade from The Exorcist. It’s an intriguing and terrfying watch, full of practical effects, and gaslighting scenes. All I’ll say is that it stars Sam Neill and Isabelle Adjani and features horrifying moments of anxiety and shocking scenes.
Our verdict: If you want to take it up a nothc, and prefer a psychological edge, then Possession is likely the best contender for Halloween.
Duration: 2 hours 4 minutes
Rating: 18
Audition (1999)
This is one of the more jarring contenders, with a startling use of cinematography. It is directed by Takashi Miike, known for the action epic fiklm, 13 Assasins. The film follows Shigeharu Aoyama after the death of his wife, who asks a filmmaker friend to organise a fake audition. However, he hopes to use it as a way to find a new girlfriend. Who should he choose? You’ll have to watch to find out.
Our verdict: This film is probably better watched first before bed. Great if you want to diversify your itinerary.
Duration: 1h 55m
Rating: 18
The Ring (2002)
While everyone fawns over jump-scare cinema like ‘Hereditary’, The Ring silently waits for you to be immersed in a world of cinematic beauty. Its lack of colour grading cuts deep, with a wide range of compositional choices that enhance director Gore Verbinski‘s work. From close-up shots and subtle scores to pertinent acting, Naomi Watts and Martin Henderson perform at their best. A YouGov poll found nearly 70% of respondents found it scary.
Our verdict: The Ring is perfect for most viewers, with its persisting atmopsheric shots and an edge of your seat narrative. It’s one of the few gems that offers a great balance.
Duration: 1h 55m
Rating: 15
Stanisland Magazine 
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