Turn off the lights and make yourself comfortable on the sofa; you’re going to be scared with many of these Halloween movie picks from the Here & Now staff.

And don’t worry if horror movies aren’t your thing. We’ve got a few suggestions that still evoke those fall vibes without the thrilling scares or gag-worthy gore.

Choice of films Here and now staff members

On the scarier side

“The Rocky Horror Picture Show” (1975)

“It’s the perfect time of year to enjoy this 1975 cult classic. Whether you’re a virgin or Janet, the best way to watch this film is in a live shadow screening.”

– Allison Hagandigital producer

“Hellraiser” (1987)

“There’s nothing like a horror film from the 1980s. ‘Hellraiser’ has all the elements needed for a film that’s both scary and fantastic. A puzzle box that transports you to a realm similar to a purgatory mixing pain and pleasure? Check. Iconic and terrifying monsters that arise from this realm? Check.

“Based on director Clive Barker’s short story ‘The Hellbound Heart,’ the first ‘Hellraiser’ film will make you want to speed up the entire franchise before the spooky season ends.”

– Grace Griffindigital producer

“Scream” (1996)

“I rewatch Wes Craven’s ‘Scream’ every year around this time. It’s both a parody of classic horror tropes and a scary slasher that redefines the genre and subverts expectations.

“The franchise gets goofier and gorier as it goes on, and I particularly enjoy the roles of Jenna Ortega and Melissa Barrera in “Scream V” and “Scream VI.”

“Follow the ‘Scream’ films with any element of the ‘Scary Movie’ franchise for a double dose of horror parody.”

– Grace Griffin, digital producer

“Happy Death Day” (2017)

“In my opinion, this is a perfect horror comedy to watch with friends on Halloween night. In the film, the main character Tree relives his death over and over again in a “Groundhog Day” style. The only way to break the cycle is to solve your own murder.

“There are some great fight scenes but no excessive gore, so even the most timid viewers might enjoy this one.”

– Grace Griffin, digital producer

Autumn atmosphere only

“It’s the Great Pumpkin Charlie Brown” (1966)

“Don’t ignore the OGs of Halloween specials. Why? Because you can pick any character and decide which one represents the political moment we find ourselves in in America.

“Is Linus waiting for the Great Pumpkin? Charlie putting rocks in his bag of candy? Lucy holding the football? Or Snoopy living in a fantasy land? Whatever you want to give it meaning or symbolism, this movie does a surprisingly good job of giving you what you need.”

– Will Walkeyfloating producer

“Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” (2001)

“The ‘Harry Potter’ films are so sentimental! Everything about them is scream-inducing. They are so magical with a bit of intrigue and suspense, which fits well with the spooky theme. The candlelit dinners, the beer at the butter, fall matches, it all just screams spooky season.

“I love snuggling under a blanket with my favorite comfort snacks and going through a full ‘Harry Potter’ marathon, but the first couple in particular are filled with nostalgia for me this time of year.”

– Hafsa Quraishiassociate producer

“When Harry Met Sally” (1989)

“People have written thesis projects about this film, but for me, ultimately, it comes down to a slow-burn, beautifully filmed love story. I’m a big fan of romances rooted in friendship and it must years for Harry and Sally to realize that they are each other’s person.

“Also, the scenes of them in those 1990s sweaters (which aren’t as good quality anymore) walking through the crisp fall leaves or chatting in the Met with the orange and red foliage? cutting-edge cinema.”

– Kalyani Saxenaassociate producer

“Pride and Prejudice” (2005)

“It’s a perfect movie that’s worth watching any time of year.”

– Kalyani Saxena, associate producer