Whether you're a fan of spine-chilling horror or lighthearted spooky tales, New England has something for everyone. From the misty streets of Salem to the hauntingly beautiful forests of Vermont, these films capture the essence of New England's Halloween spirit. In this post, we've compiled a list of 10 must-watch Halloween movies set in New England that will get you in the mood for the season. Grab your popcorn and prepare for a frightfully fun movie marathon that celebrates the unique charm and spooky stories of this iconic region!
Hocus Pocus
Hocus Pocus is a Halloween-themed family comedy that follows three witches—Winifred, Sarah, and Mary Sanderson—who are resurrected in modern-day Salem, Massachusetts after 300 years. The witches, played by Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy, are determined to steal the life force of children to regain their youth. However, a group of teenagers, along with a talking black cat named Binx, must stop them before they wreak havoc on the town. Filled with magic, humor, and spooky fun, the film has since become a beloved Halloween classic.
Hubie Halloween (2020)
Hubie Halloween is a comedy-horror film starring Adam Sandler as Hubie Dubois, a well-meaning but eccentric man who takes it upon himself to keep his hometown of Salem safe every Halloween. Despite being mocked by locals for his odd behavior, Hubie is determined to protect the town from any dangers during the holiday. When people begin to mysteriously disappear, Hubie suspects something truly sinister is happening. Armed with his trusty thermos and good intentions, Hubie must prove that he’s more than just the town joke. The film combines slapstick humor with lighthearted Halloween fun.
Urban Legend (1998)
Urban Legend is a slasher horror film set at a university where a series of brutal murders takes place, each mimicking popular urban legends. The story follows Natalie, a student who begins to suspect that a killer is using these legends as inspiration for the crimes. As her friends are targeted one by one, Natalie races to uncover the killer's identity before becoming the next victim. Along the way, she learns unsettling truths about her past and those around her. The film blends suspense, mystery, and horror, capitalizing on the creepy allure of urban myths.
The Unholy (2021)
The Unholy is a supernatural horror film that follows a disgraced journalist, Gerry Fenn, who stumbles upon a mysterious miracle in a small town. A young deaf girl named Alice suddenly gains the ability to hear and speak after experiencing a vision of the Virgin Mary. As word of Alice’s miraculous healing powers spreads, more inexplicable events occur, attracting widespread attention. However, Gerry soon discovers that the source of Alice's abilities may be far more sinister than divine. The film explores themes of faith, deception, and the dangers of misplaced belief.
IT (2017)
IT is a supernatural horror film based on Stephen King's novel of the same name. Set in the town of Derry, Maine, the story follows a group of kids known as "The Losers' Club" as they are terrorized by a malevolent entity that often appears in the form of a clown named Pennywise. The creature preys on their deepest fears, luring children to their doom. As the kids bond and confront their personal struggles, they must summon the courage to face Pennywise and stop its reign of terror. The film blends coming-of-age themes with chilling horror, making it a gripping and terrifying experience.
The Witch (2015)
The Witch is a psychological horror film set in 17th-century New England. The story follows a deeply religious Puritan family that is exiled from their village and settles on a remote farm near a mysterious forest. As strange and unsettling events begin to occur, the family is torn apart by paranoia and fear, believing that one of their own, teenage daughter Thomasin, may be in league with a witch. The film explores themes of isolation, religious fanaticism, and the dangers of superstition. Known for its eerie atmosphere and slow-building tension, The Witch is a haunting tale of dread and suspicion.
The Conjuring (2013)
The Conjuring is a supernatural horror film based on the real-life experiences of paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren. The story follows the Perron family, who move into a secluded farmhouse in Rhode Island and soon begin experiencing terrifying paranormal events. Desperate for help, they call upon the Warrens, who uncover a dark and malevolent presence tied to the house's history. As the haunting escalates, the Warrens must confront the powerful entity to save the family. The film is known for its chilling atmosphere and is the first entry in The Conjuring universe of horror films.
Lords of Salem (2012)
Lords of Salem is a horror film directed by Rob Zombie, set in the eerie town of Salem, Massachusetts. The story follows Heidi, a local radio DJ, who receives a mysterious record from a band called "The Lords." When she plays it on the air, it triggers nightmarish visions and awakens a dark curse connected to Salem's witch trials. As Heidi’s grip on reality unravels, she becomes entangled in a sinister plot orchestrated by a coven of witches. The film combines psychological horror with supernatural elements, delving into themes of witchcraft and possession.
Slender Man (2018)
Slender Man is a supernatural horror film centered on the internet-created urban legend of the same name. The story follows a group of teenage girls who attempt to summon the mysterious and faceless figure known as Slender Man. After one of their friends goes missing, the others begin to experience nightmarish visions and disturbing occurrences. As they delve deeper into the dark legend, they struggle to escape Slender Man's grip, which leads to tragic consequences. The film explores themes of obsession, fear, and the dangers of urban myths.
Beetlejuice (1988)
Beetlejuice is a dark fantasy comedy directed by Tim Burton. The story follows a recently deceased couple, Adam and Barbara Maitland, who find themselves trapped as ghosts in their own home. When an obnoxious family moves in, they attempt to scare them away but fail, leading them to hire a mischievous and chaotic "bio-exorcist" named Beetlejuice. Played by Michael Keaton, Beetlejuice's antics spiral out of control, resulting in bizarre, supernatural hijinks. The film blends quirky humor with Burton's signature gothic style, becoming a cult classic.
