Top 10 Horror Movies for Kids

Ghostbusters combines comedy with supernatural horror and became one of the biggest film successes of the 1980s. Three scientists decide to use their knowledge of the paranormal commercially. When they accidentally open a portal to another dimension, New York is in danger. The film is light-hearted, but does not shy away from creepy images. Thanks to strong characters and an iconic soundtrack, Ghostbusters remains one of the most beloved films of its time.

Gremlins starts out as a seemingly innocent Christmas movie. When the rules surrounding the cute creature Gizmo are broken, the tone quickly changes. The city becomes overrun by destructive gremlins that cause chaos. The sequel takes a more absurd and even darker approach. Together the films form a unique mix of horror, satire and slapstick.

The NeverEnding Story is often remembered as a fantastical family film, but it also contains a striking number of gloomy and terrifying moments. The realm of Fantasia is threatened by a mysterious destructive force. As the young empress slowly dies, an unexpected hero must rise. The film combines fairytale images with themes such as loss and hope, which makes it lastingly impressive for young viewers.

This Disney film adaptation of Ray Bradbury's book shows how dark a family film can be. The arrival of a mysterious circus puts a small town on edge. Two boys discover that the ringmaster possesses dark powers and plays on hidden desires. The film has a somber tone and treats the conflict between good and evil in an unusually serious way.

Willow, directed by Ron Howard and written by George Lucas, is a fantasy film with clear fairytale elements and dark edges. The evil queen Bavmorda in particular poses a threat. When released, the film received mixed reviews and was often compared to The Lord of the Rings. Over the years, however, Willow grew into a cult classic that is appreciated for its mix of adventure, magic and excitement.

Beetlejuice marked director Tim Burton's big breakthrough. The film was praised for its visual style, absurd humor and inventive design. A recently deceased couple tries to drive new residents out of their house and calls in an eccentric bio-exorcist. Michael Keaton delivers an unforgettable title role. The film combines creepy elements with black humor and therefore remained accessible to a wide audience.

The Monster Squad is a comedy horror film that reunites classic movie monsters. Dracula returns with plans to dominate the world. A group of teenagers accidentally discover his plot and decide to take action. The film balances between adventure, humor and light horror. The Monster Squad thus grew into a cult film that is especially loved for its nostalgic charm.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0tTlByCG3n0 The Witches is based on the book of the same name by Roald Dahl and combines fantasy with genuine scary moments. The film revolves around a boy who discovers that witches really exist. When he is turned into a mouse, he ends up in the middle of their plans to exterminate children. The witches, disguised as respectable ladies, provide an ominous undertone. The make-up and acting in particular still make this film memorable.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zA-8PBIobkA The Watcher in the Woods takes place in and around an old country house in the middle of the woods. A family with two daughters is confronted with inexplicable and increasingly threatening events. It slowly becomes clear that the disappearance of a girl from the past plays a role. The film builds tension through suggestion and atmosphere rather than explicit horror. With Bette Davis in a prominent role, this Disney production became one of the darkest family films of its time.

While The Muppet Show is synonymous with light and cheerful entertainment, the same makers opted for a much darker tone with The Dark Crystal. The film shows a complete fantasy world in which the conflict between good and evil is central. In the realm of the Gelflings, the Dark Crystal ensures harmony. When the crystal cracks, a power struggle ensues with the evil Skekses. The conflict rages for centuries, until only young Jen remains. The Dark Crystal is known for its rich world-building and oppressive atmosphere, which continues to impress many viewers.