20 Scary Movies That Are Perfect for Tweens

As a child of the 80s and 90s, I can attest to the fact that these movies were not just a part of my childhood, but a significant influence on it as well. Let’s take a journey down memory lane, shall we?

Finding age-appropriate movies for kids can be difficult for many parents. This is especially true if they’re in that in-between stage of being a child and being a teenager. They want to grow up way faster than necessary, but the parents wish they could stay their little darlings forever.

For children aged eight to twelve, often referred to as ‘tweens’, navigating appropriate media choices, particularly in the horror genre, can be a complex task. This is because they are at an age where they are drawn to the thrill and excitement that these types of films offer, but may still find some content too intense or frightening. To support parents who have tweens with a fondness for the eerie and chilling, we’ve put together a comprehensive list of the top 20 horror movies suitable for this age group. Ranging from beloved animated classics to innovative independent productions, these films will captivate tweens across various tastes and preferences.

20 Coraline (2009)

According to Neil Gaiman’s novel, Coraline is a stop-motion animated movie about the title character, a teenage girl, who stumbles upon a peculiar world hidden behind a concealed door in her recently moved house. This otherworld appears idyllic but seems almost too perfect to believe. If she isn’t cautious, she might uncover sinister secrets lurking beneath its friendly facade. The movie features the talented voice actors like Teri Hatcher, Dakota Fanning, Jennifer Saunders, Dawn French, Keith David, John Hodgman, Robert Bailey Jr., and Ian McShane.

Coraline Is Surprisingly Intense

As Laika Studio’s pioneering full-length movie, “Coraline” showcases some of their most imaginative visuals and thought-provoking moments. Directed by Henry Selick, this captivating animated film reflects his artistic influence in every meticulously animated scene. Some of the more frightening scenes in the movie are quite intense, making it an excellent choice for both older kids and adults. John Linnell from They Might Be Giants contributes his vocal talent to a brief scene, with the band initially signed on to create the film’s entire soundtrack. Pick up or Stream Coraline on Apple TV.

19 The House with a Clock in Its Walls (2018)

As a passionate cinephile, I can’t help but rave about how Jack Black, in his captivating portrayal of warlock Jonathan Barnavelt, breathes life into a mesmerizing blend of humor and heart-pounding suspense in “The House with a Clock in Its Walls”. This enchanting tale follows the journey of young Lewis Barnavelt (Owen Vaccaro), my uncle’s 10-year-old orphaned nephew, who unwittingly stumbles upon an eerie mystery hidden within the walls of our ancestral home. Joined by our neighbor, the enigmatic witch Florence Zimmerman (Cate Blanchett), Lewis uncovers a world I never knew existed – one where magic is as real as the incredible perils it conceals.

Eli Roth’s Family Friendly Flick

Guided by Eli Roth, this movie is an adaptation of John Bellairs’ 1973 book with the same title. According to Rotten Tomatoes, here’s their general opinion:

“Eli Roth, the master of gore, takes a fun-filled, family-friendly detour with a delightful mix of comedy and fright, offering an irresistible dose of amusement.

In essence, you can bet your bottom dollar that they’re correct. While Eli Roth is known for his horror movies like “Hostel” and “The Green Inferno”, he manages to include some mild scares in a film suitable for all viewers. Jack Black continues to charm, and the script by Eric Kripke keeps the action flowing smoothly and entertainingly. If you’re interested, you can watch or rent “The House with a Clock in Its Walls” on Prime Video.

18 Monster House (2006)

The spooky computer-animated film titled “Monster House” was helmed by Gil Kenan and scripted in collaboration with Dan Harmon, Rob Schrab, and Pamela Pettler. On a typical Halloween night, the neighborhood is terrorized by a seemingly possessed house. In response, D.J. Walters (Mitchel Musso) and his companions, joined by some local residents, embark on a quest to defend their community. Yet, as they delve deeper into uncovering the house’s secrets, the shocking truth about its eerie powers could prove overwhelming. Alongside Sam Lerner, Spencer Locke, and Steve Buscemi, they bring this tale of courage and mystery to life.

Gil Kenan’s Directorial Debut

Exploring the timeless theme of a seemingly ordinary house concealing hidden terrors, the animated film Monster House breathed life into countless childhood fantasies. Its unique animation style added an extra dose of eeriness, amplifying the chilling effects of its subsequent scares and nail-biting finale. Nominated for an Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, this was director Gil Kenan’s debut full-length production. He later resurrected the Ghostbusters franchise with his works Ghostbusters: Afterlife in 2021 and Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire in 2024. Why not give it a watch? Stream Monster House on Netflix.

17 ParaNorman (2012)

I can’t help but express my admiration for another gem from Laika Studio – the movie ParaNorman. In this film, I find myself embodying Norman, an 11-year-old boy with a unique gift: he can converse with the deceased. As Norman navigates life in a small town where his abilities are met with skepticism and disbelief, the movie delves into the universal challenges children face when trying to find their place. In this tale, I’m tasked with saving the town of Blithe Hollow from the vengeful curse of an ancient witch who has been waiting centuries for her revenge.

ParaNorman Is Peak Halloween Cinema

Titled “ParaNorman,” this movie was penned by Chris Butler and jointly directed by him and Sam Fell. It subtly conveys the message that sometimes, embracing our quirks can help us navigate life more effectively. The story revolves around Norman, who takes on a curse, fights off ghosts and skeptics, makes friends, and ultimately becomes his town’s hero, altering numerous lives along the way. Visually, ParaNorman remains impressive to this day, blending seamless stop-motion animation with impressive practical effects. Given its genre, it appeals particularly to kids aged around 12, making it an ideal fit for this list. Why not watch ParaNorman on The Roku Channel?

16 The Witches (1990)

In Roald Dahl’s book titled “The Witches“, we encounter a captivating tale that blends dark fantasy, chilling horror, and humorous elements in an extraordinary manner. This story, famously known as “The Witches“, follows a group of witches disguised as ordinary humans who target children for elimination. A courageous young boy named Luke (Jasen Fisher) finds himself at the center of the action, determined to foil their sinister plans. With the guidance of his grandma Helga (Mai Zetterling), Luke embarks on a magical adventure to prevent the evil schemes of the Grand High Witch, Eva (Anjelica Huston), not just for his own survival but also to protect other children from a similar fate.

A Roald Dahl Cult Classic

Under the guidance of director Nicolas Roeg and producer Jim Henson, “The Witches” is an excellent pick for kids who enjoy a bit of spookiness. This film, released back in the day, showcased remarkable makeup effects that were quite impressive at the time. Although it didn’t make a huge impact on box offices initially, it has since developed a dedicated cult following. If you’re a fan and crave more “The Witches” content, you might want to check out the 2020 adaptation titled “Roald Dahl’s The Witches“. Watch or Stream The Witches on Amazon Prime Video.

15 The Spiderwick Chronicles (2008)

The movie “The Spiderwick Chronicles” is adapted from a series of books by Holly Black and Tony DiTerlizzi, titled the same. This intriguing fantasy film follows the story of three siblings – twins Jared and Simon (portrayed by Freddie Highmore), and their sister Mallory (Sarah Bolger) – who stumble upon a manual about fairies. As they delve into the book’s contents, they find themselves on a quest to uncover its secrets. However, an untrustworthy ogre named Mulgarath (played by Nick Nolte) intends to misuse the guidebook for malicious purposes.

PG-13 Dark Fantasy

Explore the captivating realm of “The Spiderwick Chronicles”, a film that delves deep into the genre of dark fantasy, making it an ideal choice for your teenage companions. Unlike other creature designs that are overly cute, these are far from it, and the consequences are as genuine as they come. The world-building is remarkable, considering it was made for a younger audience. It’s also interesting to note that Mark Waters, renowned for his work on “Mean Girls” in 2004 and “Freaky Friday” in 2003, directed this film. His directorial flair is evident throughout.

14 Goosebumps (2015)

Titled “Goosebumps,” this is another hilarious teen comedy horror film featuring Jack Black. Directed by Rob Letterman and penned by Darren Lemke, it is inspired by R.L. Stine’s beloved book series, “Goosebumps.” The movie follows a fictionalized account of the author (played by Jack Black). As creatures from Stine’s vast collection of books come to life in reality, he must join forces with his daughter, Hannah (Odeya Rush), and new neighbor, Zach (Dylan Minnette) to save their town.

A Nostalgic Treat

A staple book series for many tweens, Goosebumps is the ultimate nostalgia trip for kids and adults alike. Iconic characters from Goosebumps all make some form of an appearance here, with the fan-favorite Slappy the Dummy (also voiced by Jack Black) from the Night of the Living Dummy books serving as the main villain and antagonist. Though the film went through a prolonged production period, the final result is something that’s as fun as it is spooky. The real-life R. L. Stine even makes a brief cameo as the in-universe version of Jack Black, in a fun nod to each other’s performances. Buy or Rent Goosebumps on Apple TV.

13 Gremlins (1984)

One of the greatest comedy horror films to ever be produced is Gremlins. It depicts the story of what happens when a young boy named Billy (Zach Galligan) is gifted a “mogwai” as a pet by his oblivious father. This odd pet is named Gizmo (voiced by Howie Mandel), and while he may be cute and cuddly at first, he has a horrible surprise in store if he’s fed after midnight. Phoebe Cates, Hoyt Axton, and Polly Holliday co-star.

One of the First PG-13 Films

Under the direction of Joe Dante and script by Chris Columbus, the film titled “Gremlins” offers a delightfully frightening experience for everyone, although some parts might be too intense for young viewers. Its dark themes earned it one of the first PG-13 ratings, alongside “Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom“. Despite the significant amount of graphic violence, which is unusual in movies meant for tweens, it’s primarily used for physical humor rather than sheer horror. Watch or Purchase Gremlins on Prime Video.

12 The Haunted Mansion (2003)

The Haunted Mansion was brought to life by director Rob Minkoff and screenwriter David Barrenbaum. This movie is heavily influenced by the Walt Disney theme park ride and attraction with the same title. The story unfolds around a real estate agent named Jim Evers, portrayed by Eddie Murphy, his wife Sara (Marsha Thomason), and their children Michael and Megan (Marc John Jefferies and Aree Davis). On vacation, they unwittingly find themselves ensnared within a — you’ve got it — haunted mansion. In the meantime, various ghosts and eerie creatures try to break the curse that binds them within the mansion’s premises.

Eddie Murphy, Haunted Houses, and More

Although it may not be the scariest movie in this collection, its use of horror elements makes it suitable for tweens. Eddie Murphy shines in his leading role, and director Rob Minkoff put a lot of effort into it after co-directing The Lion King previously. The movie even made almost double its budget at the worldwide box office. For fans of the original attraction, there are five hidden Mickeys scattered throughout the short film. Why not give Disney+’s The Haunted Mansion a watch?

11 The Monster Squad (1987)

In the late 1980s, The Monster Squad was a film that sparked strong opinions among viewers. Penned by Fred Dekker and Shane Black, and directed by Dekker himself, this movie showcased the iconic Universal Studios monsters on a global conquest mission. The infamous Count Dracula (portrayed by Duncan Regehr) orchestrated the takeover, but the “Monster Squad,” a band of young admirers of classic horror icons, thwarted their plans.

Now a Beloved Cult Classic

It’s important to note that a sequel isn’t likely due to the movie’s poor performance both critically and financially. Originally, it only managed to earn $696 per screen during its opening weekend (according to Box Office Mojo). However, over time, “Monster Squad” gained popularity, eventually earning cult status among audiences who admired its distinctive interpretation of classic monsters. Director Fred Dekker had previously impressed horror enthusiasts with his work on “House,” a 1985 Steve Miner horror comedy, and “Night of the Creeps,” which combined B-movie elements with an effort to merge the slasher genre with an alien invasion concept.

10 The Addams Family (1991)

One classic example of horror-comedy is “The Addams Family,” an unusual and occasionally eerie clan who embrace their dark, mysterious, and peculiar nature as a positive trait. Derived from the characters created by Charles Addams, the movie draws heavily from the popular television series with the same title. In this movie, various macabre family members endeavor to reunite with their long-lost Uncle Fester. However, doubts surface when this man claiming to be their uncle struggles to recall his own life history.

A Classic Horror Family

For teens who have a penchant for the macabre, it’s undeniably fitting to include “The Addams Family” in this collection. Starring Anjelica Huston as Mother Morticia, Raúl Juliá as Gomez, Christopher Lloyd as Uncle Fester, Judith Malina as Grandmama, Christina Ricci and Jimmy Workman as the children Wednesday and Pugsley, respectively, and Carel Struycken as Lurch, their peculiar family is as timelessly iconic as they are amusingly odd. Catch them on Paramount+.

9 The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

If you’re seeking a chilling, spooky narrative experience, you won’t be disappointed by the legendary Tim Burton. Recognized for his contributions to films such as The Nightmare Before Christmas, a distinctive animated stop-motion dark fantasy, Burton possesses an uncanny ability to create a suspenseful and eerie atmosphere on screen.

In this film, Jack Skellington, played by Chris Sarandon and Danny Elfman, who is the ruler of Halloween Town, finds himself feeling unfulfilled in his Halloween-themed city. When he discovers Christmas Town, he devises a plan to capture Santa Claus (Ed Ivory), all while contending with his longtime foe, Oogie Boogie (Ken Page). Accompanied by Sally (Catherine O’Hara), the Mayor (Glenn Shadix), and their loyal dog Zero, Jack experiences the value of family and uncovers the essence of Christmas.

Perfect for Halloween (Or Christmas)

As a movie enthusiast, I must confess that while not outright frightening, this film does have moments that might send a shiver down your spine, so tread with caution when those eerie scenes come along. However, this stop-motion masterpiece is a timeless classic during the holiday season. The enchanting score by Danny Elfman, the mesmerizing voice acting, the breathtaking animation under the guidance of Henry Selick, and other elements combine to create one of the most visually captivating films ever made. In fact, it was even nominated for an Academy Award in the Best Visual Effects category, making history as the first animated film to be recognized in this category. Don’t miss out on experiencing The Nightmare Before Christmas on Disney+.

8 Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark (2019)

In the movie adaptation of Alvin Schwartz’s “Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark”, we follow a group of three teenagers – Stella (Zoe Colletti), Auggie (Gabriel Rush), and Chuck (Austin Zajur) – who find themselves in a chilling predicament. On a fateful night in 1986, they play a prank on their school bully, Tommy, which in turn leads to an unexpected turn of events. Tommy retaliates by locking them inside a house rumored to be haunted. However, the house holds more than just ghost stories as they discover a book that seems to tell real-life terrifying tales. This sets off a mystery and investigation unlike any other.

Just As Scary As the Books

Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark” is one of the eerier movies on this list, and it might be advisable for older tweens to steer clear as it could frighten younger viewers. The original books were renowned for their chilling illustrations, and the fact that these images now move on screen makes them even more unsettling. Given that the film is directed by André Øvredal, who has previously received praise for “Trollhunter” and “The Autopsy of Jane Doe”, it’s a good idea to have a pillow handy during the movie’s more intense scenes. You can watch Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark on Netflix.

7 Corpse Bride (2005)

In another captivating creation from the legendary Tim Burton, the stop-motion animation film Corpse Bride unfolds an unusual love story. The protagonist is Victor, voiced by Johnny Depp, who is on the brink of a prearranged marriage with Victoria (voiced by Emily Watson). Although they grow to have feelings for each other, Victor gets cold feet and flees into the woods. Here, he rehearses his vows and mistakenly places Victoria’s wedding ring on what he believes is a tree branch. To his surprise, it was actually the hand of a deceased woman, Emily (voiced by Helena Bonham Carter), whom he has just unwittingly wed, leading to a series of ghostly escapades.

Colorful Terror

This film may not be outright terrifying, but it undeniably falls within the horror genre and manages to be both entertainingly spooky and enjoyable simultaneously. Boasting a stellar voice cast headed by Johnny Depp and Helena Bonham Carter, as well as direction from Tim Burton and Mike Johnson, it received an Academy Award nomination for Best Animated Feature. Danny Elfman, who previously worked on the film, provides the score. Purchase or Stream Corpse Bride on Amazon Prime Video.

6 Hotel Transylvania (2012)

As someone who appreciates a good laugh, I can confidently say that among these “horror” films, Hotel Transylvania stands out as one of the least frightening, opting instead for a humorous twist on the Dracula tale. In this story, our protagonist, Count Dracula (Adam Sandler), is not just any ordinary vampire; he’s the owner of the eponymous hotel, a haven where classic monsters unwind and escape from the world.

A Fantastically Frightening Family Film

This prominent animated franchise has certainly captured the hearts of adults and tweens, blending the comedic talents of Adam Sandler and Andy Samberg with incredible direction from Genndy Tartakovsky, whose prior credits include Samurai Jack and Batman: The Animated Series. It’s a fantastic film for horror fans and families alike, showing a genuine appreciation for classic monsters while introducing plenty of hilarious comedy to an engaging story. It would more than quadruple its budget at the global box office while earning a Golden Globe nomination for Best Animated Feature Film. Stream Hotel Transylvania on Peacock.

5 The Boxtrolls (2014)

Based on Alan Snow’s novel “Here Be Monsters!”, the film “The Boxtrolls” narrates the tale of a boy named Eggs (Isaac Hempstead-Wright), who grew up in an unusual manner. He was nurtured by a band of trash-loving creatures known as Boxtrolls, who were being pursued by a ruthless exterminator called Archibald Snatcher (Ben Kingsley). In an effort to shield his adopted family from harm, Eggs embarks on a journey to find the limits of his courage and determination. Among the Boxtrolls are Fish, Wheels, and Bucket, all of whom are brought to life by the talented voice actor Dee Bradley Baker, renowned for his work in “Legends of the Hidden Temple”, “Avatar: The Last Airbender”, various animated “Star Wars” series, and other projects.

Equally Cute and Creepy

Under the guidance of directors Graham Annable and Anthony Stacchi, The Boxtrolls serves as a charming entry into the horror-fantasy comedy genre. Although not overtly terrifying, it offers an adequate amount of thrilling action to keep young preteens engrossed in their quest for a monster movie. With its intricate and detailed stop-motion animation, this film garnered more than six Annie Award nominations, as well as nods for Best Animated Feature from the Golden Globes and Academy Awards. Catch The Boxtrolls on The Roku Channel.

4 The BFG (2016)

Under the guidance and joint production of Steven Spielberg, and penned by the late Melissa Mathison, the film titled “The BFG” is an adaptation from Roald Dahl’s book with the same name. The narrative centers around Sophie (portrayed by Ruby Barnhill), a ten-year-old orphan who finds herself in a perilous predicament. She gets abducted by a giant known as “Runt” (Mark Rylance) and taken to his dwelling in Giant Land, where he refuses to let her go back to the human realm. He warns her that if she attempts escape, other giants might consume her. Eventually, Sophie embarks on an extraordinary adventure during which she discovers the true essence of being human.

Underperformed, But Not Forgotten

Unfortunately, “The BFG” ranks as one of Steven Spielberg’s lowest-grossing films in the U.S., earning approximately $55 million domestically according to The Hollywood Reporter. Despite leaning towards dark fantasy rather than horror, this movie contains some frightening moments and handles themes like death, making it an ideal choice for older children eager to explore more complex subjects. It’s a film that deserves more recognition as one of the least appreciated adaptations of Roald Dahl’s work. Notably, “The BFG” was Spielberg’s first project with Walt Disney Pictures, and it marks the final screenplay credit for Melissa Mathison before her passing in 2015. She had previously written the scripts for “Kundun,” “E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial,” and the English version of Studio Ghibli’s “Ponyo.” You can stream “The BFG” on Disney+.

3 E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)

A classic creature feature also by Steven Spielberg, is E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, most often shortened to just E.T. It’s a film all tweens need to see at least once in their lifetimes. This classic movie tells the tale of Elliot (Henry Thomas), a boy who makes friends with an alien he names E.T. (Pat Welsh, Kayden Green, and Spielberg himself). Eventually, after hiding E.T.’s existence, Elliot must find a way to help his new friend get back to his extraterrestrial home. Peter Coyote, Robert MacNaughton, and Drew Barrymore.

E.T. Can Be Extra Terrifying

Audience members of this film can gain insights into the essence of a genuine home and family, as the narrative highlights the strength of friendship and affection. Although E.T. isn’t primarily categorized as horror, there are some spooky moments and comical scenes that should keep younger pre-teens engaged throughout the movie. It’s understandable that it might be a bit frightening for some young viewers, considering that E.T.’s appearance is quite striking, and the overall plot initially stemmed from an extraterrestrial horror concept. Eventually, it won awards for Best Original Score, Best Sound, and Best Visual Effects at the Oscars. Purchase or Rent E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial on Prime Video.

2 Goosebumps 2: Haunted Halloween (2018)

Haunted Halloween” is another movie that has some frightening elements, but not so scary that it would scare your teenagers. The story continues from the previous film, following Sarah (Madison Iseman) and her younger brother Sonny (Jeremy Ray Taylor), along with his friend Sam (Caleel Harris). They find a mysterious book in an old house in their town, which accidentally brings Slappy the Dummy (voiced by Mick Wingert), the villain from the first “Goosebumps” movie, back to life. Slappy then causes chaos and terror across the town, using magic to create more Halloween-themed horrors. The kids must work together to retrieve the stolen book and capture Slappy before he destroys everything they care about.

A Double Dose of Goosebumps

Check out “Goosebumps 2: Haunted Halloween” now available on Apple TV! Directed by Ari Sandel, this movie brings back Jack Black as a fictionalized R.L. Stine and offers a fresh take on the original film. Fans of the franchise will appreciate its faithful recreation of what made the first one so captivating, while also introducing some exciting new elements.

1 Ghostbusters (1984)

Despite potentially being a bit too racy for certain audiences, this legendary horror-comedy masterpiece, famously known as Ghostbusters, is destined to be remembered in film history. The original ghost tale follows a group of paranormal investigators – Peter (played by Bill Murray), Ray (Dan Aykroyd), and Egon (Harold Ramis) – who establish a ghost-catching company in New York City, eventually encountering a danger that could very well bring about the end of our world. Rounding out the stellar cast are Ernie Hudson, Sigourney Weaver, Rick Moranis, Annie Potts, and William Atherton in this iconic horror comedy.

Who You Gonna Call?

Created by Aykroyd and Ramis, and helmed by director-producer Ivan Reitman, the timeless movie Ghostbusters offers a captivating exploration into the realm of the supernatural. Following its debut, Ghostbusters expanded into a sprawling franchise encompassing beloved series like The Real Ghostbusters and Extreme Ghostbusters, multiple movie sequels, video games, board games, comic books, merchandise ranging from clothing to music, and theme park attractions based on the film. A defining work of the 1980s, it has solidified itself as a pop culture classic that continues to resonate with audiences today. Watch or Stream Ghostbusters on Prime Video.

2024-09-29 03:06