20 Best Halloween Films for UK Single Dads & Parents

The Ultimate Halloween Movie Guide: 20 Best Rated Films for UK Single Parents

Are you a single parent looking for the perfect film to complete your family's Halloween night? Finding a **horror film for kids** that's fun, spooky, but not too scary can be tricky. You need a film that gets high marks from critics and fellow parents.

We've trawled the best of **IMDb** and **Rotten Tomatoes** to bring you the highest-rated **family Halloween films**. These movies are guaranteed to deliver an entertaining night in the **UK**, whether you're celebrating on the 31st or hosting a pre-Halloween weekend party.

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Critically Acclaimed & Loved by Families

These films are the cream of the crop, with high scores that make them perfect for a fantastic, high-quality family film night.

• 1. Coco (2017)

  Rotten Tomatoes: 97% | IMDb: 8.4/10

  A beautiful, colourful story about family and remembrance, set during Mexico’s Day of the Dead. It deals with ghosts and the afterlife in a heartwarming, emotional way.

• 2. Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit (2005)

  Rotten Tomatoes: 95% | IMDb: 7.4/10

  A classic British comedy with a fun monster movie twist. It's gentle, witty, and a brilliant **UK family** favourite that subtly spoofs classic horror tropes.

• 3. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

  Rotten Tomatoes: 95% | IMDb: 7.9/10

  Tim Burton's stop-motion masterpiece. It's visually unique and perfect for older children who love a spooky musical adventure that balances Halloween and Christmas cheer.

• 4. Ghostbusters (1984)

  Rotten Tomatoes: 95% | IMDb: 7.8/10

  The original is still the best! A masterful blend of supernatural action, comedy, and mild scares. It’s perfect for older children (PG rating) who love an iconic adventure.

• 5. The Witches (1990)

  Rotten Tomatoes: 93% | IMDb: 6.8/10

  Based on the book by Roald Dahl, this is a brilliant, dark fantasy. While the witch transformations can be intense, it's a thrilling watch for older kids and a true classic.

• 6. Coraline (2009)

  Rotten Tomatoes: 90% | IMDb: 7.7/10

  One of the most visually stunning and genuinely **creepy films for children**. It features a girl who discovers a darker, alternate version of her life. Suitable for ages 8+ due to its intense atmosphere.

• 7. ParaNorman (2012)

  Rotten Tomatoes: 89% | IMDb: 7.0/10

  A brilliantly animated film about a boy who can speak to the dead. While it features zombies and ghosts, it handles its themes with empathy and humour, promoting a strong message about tolerance and bravery.

• 8. Frankenweenie (2012)

  Rotten Tomatoes: 87% | IMDb: 6.9/10

  Tim Burton's black-and-white homage to classic horror films. It’s a sweet story about a boy who resurrects his pet, with a touch of macabre fun.

• 9. Beetlejuice (1988)

  Rotten Tomatoes: 85% | IMDb: 7.5/10

  A spooky and anarchic comedy about a ghost couple who hire a "bio-exorcist" to scare the new family out of their home. Its wacky humour and inventive visuals make it a **classic Halloween watch**.

• 10. The Addams Family (1991)

  Rotten Tomatoes: 64% | IMDb: 6.9/10

  A brilliant live-action comedy that celebrates all things weird and wonderful. It’s perfect for families who enjoy witty dialogue and a macabre sense of humour without the genuine scares.

• 11. Goosebumps (2015)

  Rotten Tomatoes: 78% | IMDb: 6.3/10

  Based on the popular book series, this film is a fun and fast-paced adventure featuring all the classic monsters from the books. It's the right level of spooky for older kids and provides some great jump scares without being terrifying.

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Ghoulish & Goofy: Animated & Lighthearted Fun

These animated choices are ideal for younger children or for **separated parents** who want a lower-stakes, high-fun film night.

• 12. Monsters, Inc. (2001)

  Rotten Tomatoes: 96% | IMDb: 8.1/10

  This Pixar classic turns the idea of monsters under the bed on its head, revealing them to be harmless (and hilarious!) professionals. It's packed with jokes and heart, making it a fantastic choice for all ages.

• 13. Hotel Transylvania (2012)

  Rotten Tomatoes: 45% | IMDb: 7.1/10

  This film is a lively, fun animated comedy featuring Dracula as a hotel manager for monsters. It's less spooky and more silly, making it perfect for younger children and a great start to a **Halloween movie marathon**.

• 14. Casper (1995)

  Rotten Tomatoes: 46% | IMDb: 6.2/10

  A charming family film about a friendly ghost who just wants a friend. It's a heartwarming tale with just enough spookiness and humour to make it a great option for a relaxed Halloween evening.

• 15. Hocus Pocus (1993)

  Rotten Tomatoes: 39% | IMDb: 6.9/10

  While it doesn't get high marks from all critics, this film is undeniably a **UK Halloween staple**. It’s the ultimate cheesy fun with three hilarious witch sisters brought back to life. No spooky viewing list is complete without it.

• 16. Monster House (2006)

  Rotten Tomatoes: 75% | IMDb: 6.7/10

  A perfect "starter scary" for tweens and teens, this animated film tells the story of three kids who discover their neighbour's house is a living, breathing monster.

• 17. The Corpse Bride (2005)

  Rotten Tomatoes: 84% | IMDb: 7.3/10

  Another Tim Burton stop-motion gem. With beautiful visuals and a poignant story, it explores themes of love and life after death in a family-friendly, Gothic style.

• 18. It's the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (1966)

  Rotten Tomatoes: 95% | IMDb: 8.2/10

  You can't have a Halloween movie marathon without this timeless classic. It's a charming and innocent tale about Charlie Brown and the gang waiting for the elusive Great Pumpkin.

• 19. The Haunted Mansion (2003)

  Rotten Tomatoes: 13% | IMDb: 5.1/10

  While critics weren't huge fans, this is a fun, ghostly comedy with a great performance from Eddie Murphy. It's a popular choice for younger kids who want to be scared but not terrified.

• 20. Gremlins (1984)

  Rotten Tomatoes: 86% | IMDb: 7.3/10

  A fantastic cult classic that balances comedy and genuine scares. It's rated PG, but contains some darker moments and creature-based violence, making it best for older children and teenagers.

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Tips for Single Parents on Movie Night

• Know Your Child's Scare Level: If your child is sensitive, stick to the lighter options like Monsters, Inc. or Hotel Transylvania. Save the creepier ones like Coraline and The Witches for ages 8+.
• Set the Mood: Don't forget the fun! Get the **Halloween sweets**, make some "Monster" popcorn, dim the lights, and snuggle up for the ultimate bonding experience.
• Make it a Theme: Why not match your movie marathon to your costumes? A night of Monsters, Inc. while dressed as Sulley and Mike is a perfect, low-effort celebration for **separated parents** looking to make special memories.

Happy viewing from The5050.org.uk! Which film will you be adding to your **single parent Halloween** list this year?