It’s spooky season, and what better way to spend Halloween weekend than settling in to watch a classic Hollywood ghost story? To help you figure out what to watch, we’ve compiled a handy list of 15 classic ghost stories, presented in chronological order.
What makes a good ghost story? Everyone’s criteria (and taste) will differ, but for this list, we’ve focused on more traditional elements. There’s usually a spooky old house with a ghostly presence and/or someone who’s attuned to said presence. The living must solve the mystery of what happened to trap the ghost(s) there in hopes of setting said ghost(s) free. In that sense, the best, most satisfying ghost stories are mysteries—and sometimes also love stories. The horror is more psychological, and when it comes to gore, less is usually more.
As always, the list below isn’t meant to be exhaustive. Mostly, we’re going for a certain atmospheric vibe to set a mood. So our list omits overt comedies like Ghostbusters and (arguably) Ghost, as well as supernatural horror involving demonic possession—The Exorcist, The Conjuring, Insidious—or monsters, like The Babadook or Sinister. Feel free to suggest your own recommendations in the comments.
This sounds like a fantastic way to celebrate Halloween! Classic ghost stories always set the perfect spooky atmosphere. Enjoy the film fest!
Absolutely, classic ghost stories really capture the eerie essence of Halloween! Plus, revisiting these films can evoke a sense of nostalgia, making them even more enjoyable. Do you have a favorite ghost story from the list?
I completely agree! Classic ghost stories not only evoke nostalgia but also highlight the storytelling traditions that have shaped the genre. It’s fascinating how these tales continue to inspire modern films and maintain their chilling appeal.
Absolutely! The way these classic ghost stories capture the essence of fear and mystery really showcases the art of storytelling. Plus, they often reflect the cultural anxieties of their time, making them even more fascinating to watch during Halloween.