Spooky Season for Scaredy-Cats
By: Ysabel Sarinas
As someone who loves Halloween but gets scared incredibly easily, this time of year always brings up the same question: what do I watch when I want to get in a spooky, but not necessarily scary mood? To all of my fellow easily-frightened baddies who still want something atmospheric, here are some jumpscare-free alternatives to put on your watchlist this month.
Over the Garden Wall (2014)
Cottagecore, but make it creepy. Following two siblings traversing a mysterious, fairytale-style forest, this animated show is the perfect mix of cozy and just the right amount of unsettling. One of the most perfect-for-autumn shows on this list, the series feels like a folk tale come to life—with a beautiful art style and an ambient soundtrack that makes you want to pour a cup of tea and grab a blanket while watching.
Clue (1985)
Tim Curry, the icon that you are. Based on the classic board game, this movie follows a whodunnit murder mystery full of quotable one-liners and plot twists. The rapid pacing and relentless dialogue feel like a moving train in the best way and makes the ridiculousness all the more entertaining.
It’s What’s Inside (2024)
Body horror? I can’t handle it all too well. But body SWITCHING? Sign me up. This movie follows a group of former college friends reuniting and testing out a machine that swaps consciousnesses—leading to a night of secrets, old grudges, and backstabbing. If you’re the type of person who likes listening to mess and drama, but hates being involved, this film definitely delivers. Also, the way they film the body switching is absolutely cinematic.
What We Do In the Shadows (2019)
As a certified Vampire Girlie and card-carrying Sitcom Enthusiast—I had to work hard for both titles, thank you very much—it would be wrong of me not to recommend this horror comedy mockumentary. A spin-off of a 2014 movie with the same name, this show follows a set of vampire roommates sharing a house together and navigating life—or rather unlife. It’s cheesy, full of bits, and is a great pick for when you want something a little more unserious and silly.
Death Becomes Her (1992)
A cult classic that I’m so glad is getting more recent recognition, Death Becomes Her is a dark comedy following two frenemies who, in attempts to stay young and beautiful, turn to magic potions promising immortality. The film is glamourous, gothic, and goofy as hell, exploring how we perceive aging (especially for women and femmes) and the lengths that some may go to maintain their image. Fair warning that watching this movie might give you the urge to start wearing full-length evening gowns just for funsies.
Whether you’re a tried-and-true horror head or scare-averse, hopefully these recommendations provide the fall vibes, monsters, and trickery that make this season so special—all without even needing a jumpscare. Have a fun spooky season!