Children’s movies are some of the coziest, funniest, most light-hearted works of cinema out there. Yet, lurking in the shadows of this vibrant genre are films that bring about a very different kind of emotion – an eerie chill that leaves a lasting impression. These are the movies that combine childlike flights of imagination with horrors that can, at times, feel all too real. The result is a unique experience that will enchant and terrify its young audience.
10 Best Classic Horror Movies
From House of Wax to Dracula and Frankenstein, these movies are some of the finest examples of classic horror genre fans can hope to see.
In this list, we have compiled just such movies, from the classics to the obscure, hidden gems. Some of these films do seem to be deceiving by marketing themselves as children’s movies, however, they all have something truly unique to offer.
This post-apocalyptic movie about a ragdoll called 9, after the number etched on his back, is better described as a thought-provoking commentary on war and human destruction than a fun time for little kids.
The story follows a group of sentient, ragdoll-like creatures in a world where humanity is all but wiped out. Featuring a war-ravaged wasteland, death, corpses, and terrifying creatures, the PG-13 rating of 9 is not to be taken lightly, and though this is probably not a kid’s movie, a child can still enjoy it.
9The Witches (1990)
There aren’t many movies out there that make it their business to actively horrify little kids, but The Witches, based on a book by Roald Dahl, is certainly unapologetic in its quest to give children nightmares. The movie follows Luke, who goes on vacation with his grandmother to a seaside resort and finds himself entrapped in the schemes of a convention of evil witches.
These witches have a nefarious plan to turn all the children in the world into mice using a magical potion. The film blends elements of fantasy and humor along with horror and is sure to offer a creepy yet enticing experience to children.
8Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory (1971)
Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory may not be the first movie that comes to mind when thinking of the horror genre, but this surreal fantasy has certainly crept its way into many children’s nightmares.
This certified classic follows the story of Charlie Bucket and his visit to the magical and mysterious chocolate factory owned by the eccentric Willy Wonka. While generally a child-friendly movie, it does have its moments of eerie, dreamlike absurdities with how they show each child failing during the trip which makes you wonder if it might just be a bit much for its young audience.
7The Dark Crystal
The word ‘dark’ is certainly not misplaced in the title of this children’s fantasy. The Dark Crystal follows a young Gelfling named Jen on a quest to heal the powerful and magical crystal that has been corrupted by the evil Skeksis, who rules over the land.
The world of The Dark Crystal is imaginative and magical with a dark, uncanny beauty. This movie will simultaneously terrify you and amaze you with its imagery. It’s an absolute masterpiece of storytelling amidst fantasy for children with some creepy elements that might or might not scare you.
6The Last Unicorn
The Last Unicorn is a charming blend of fantasy and horror that will enchant you with its magical whims while also unsettling you with its haunting and slightly creepy visuals.
15 Best Studio Ghibli Movies, Ranked
Studio Ghibli has been enchanting audiences for decades with their distinct style and touching narratives. This list breaks down their best films.
The movie is about a unicorn who embarks on a quest to find the rest of her kin after realizing she might be the last surviving member of her species. The Last Unicorn is a unique film that offers something to both children and adults of all ages with its beautiful and at times eerie atmosphere.
5Monster House
This Halloween classic is a favorite among the kids with its goofy protagonists, a sentient evil house, and a charmingly spooky story. Monster House follows three kids who discover that the creepy old house across the street from them is in fact a living, malevolent entity.
As the kids investigate the house, they uncover its dark and tragic history. While not the most nightmarish among children’s cinema, Monster House packs enough horror in it with a fun, comedic narrative, resulting in a genuinely enjoyable movie for children.
4The Nightmare Before Christmas
There was a time when Christmas and horror may have seemed an ill-fitted combination, but that was, of course,before this classic convinced us all otherwise. In The Nightmare Before Christmas, Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, gets bored with Halloween and decides to take over Christmas instead.
Misadventures marked by whimsy, hilarity, and the occasional spook ensue. The movie’s iconic characters such as Jack Skellington himself, catchy songs, and delightful storytelling have made it a beloved cult classic that continues to enchant audiences of all ages.
3The Secret Of NIMH
What starts as a cute, dreamy story about a family of mice soon turns into a horrific adventure in this nightmare fuel of a cult classic. The Secret of NIMH is about a field mouse named Mrs. Brisby who embarks on a quest to save her family’s home and her sick son with the help of genetically modified rats that have escaped from a scientific laboratory known as NIMH.
10 Best DreamWorks Animated Movies, Ranked
DreamWorks has been creating incredible animated movies since the late 90s. This list breaks down the very best of their catalogue.
This movie has something for everyone since it’ll probably scare the children with its terrifying visuals while the adults will be contemplating the ethical implications of experimentation and animal cruelty.
2Watership Down
Watership Down has had a rather successful career of terrorizing young minds and breaking tender hearts throughout generations. This adventure-drama follows the harrowing journey of five rabbits in search of a new home after their warren is threatened by human development.
If your child has seemed too happy and hopeful recently, and you want to remind them of pain, suffering, and death, Watership Down is exactly what you need on your next movie night. It’s not recommended to watch this one with very young children as it is much more realistic and mature in its themes than the other movies in this list.
No list of children’s movies, especially not horror ones, can be complete without this cinematic masterpiece. Coraline is about a bored little girl who one day discovers a mysterious hidden door in her new home. This door leads to an alternate version of her reality that seems perfect at first but soon reveals its sinister secrets.
Coraline is a story of courage more than anything else but don’t be surprised if your child cannot make it through the first ten minutes of this freaky, horrifying film. Perhaps there is wisdom in letting children grow a bit first before allowing them to watch Coraline because a permanent fear of buttons after watching this movie does not seem at all unlikely.
