Romantic Horror Films for Valentine's Day

Finding horror movies that double as compelling love stories can be a challenge, given their often opposing themes. Classic horror films like *The Shining* are terrifying but hardly ideal for a romantic evening. However, horror can indeed be romantic in unique and unexpected ways. Ghost and demon love stories often carry a tragic yet sincere tone, and even the scariest monsters can have a heart if you look closely enough. These films offer an unconventional take on romance, perfect for a Valentine's Day with a twist. So, sit back and prepare to fall in love at first fright!

The Conjuring 2

Can you think of a more iconic horror couple than Ed and Lorraine Warren? Over the past decade, Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga have brought to life this nun-fearing duo who battle unholy evils, yet their love for each other remains the heart of the story. In The Conjuring 2, the Warrens travel to London’s Enfield borough, but their deep connection remains unshaken. Wilson brilliantly portrays Ed's desperate faith as Lorraine pushes her abilities to the edge, while Lorraine's willingness to sacrifice for Ed mirrors his devotion. Theirs is a modern romance tailored for the haunted house enthusiast, undeterred by any crooked men or inverted crucifixes. If you're new to the "Conjuring-verse," check out our guide on how to watch The Conjuring movies in order.

Where to Stream: Max

Spontaneous

Can a film about teenagers spontaneously combusting be romantic? Surprisingly, Brian Duffield’s Spontaneous manages to pull at your heartstrings while also splattering blood. Katherine Langford and Charlie Plummer star as doomed lovers finding solace in each other amidst the chaos of classmates randomly exploding. Their chemistry is undeniable, making us believe that love can endure even the most harrowing circumstances. It's a poignant adaptation of Aaron Starmer’s young adult novel, tackling life's unpredictability with a sweet sincerity that shines through the performances of Langford and Plummer.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Spring

While the idea of love as a monstrous force isn't new, Aaron Moorhead and Justin Benson's Spring crafts a compelling romance between a Lovecraftian entity and a grieving American in Italy. Lou Taylor Pucci plays the American who falls for Nadia Hilker's 2,000-year-old shape-shifting mutant. Their love story is woven with rich backstory, culminating in a crucial decision: will Hilker's immortal character give up her eternal life for love? This choice makes Spring the perfect date night film for horror aficionados.

Where to Stream: Tubi

After Midnight

After Midnight is far from your typical creature feature. It starts with a Floridian recluse protecting himself from a mysterious beast, but soon evolves into a touching exploration of a relationship at a crossroads. Jeremy Gardner, who also writes and co-directs, stars alongside Brea Grant as partners revisiting their passionate history. While the creature effects add tension to midnight attacks, the film's heart lies in Gardner and Grant's journey from their early days of cheap red wine to their current struggles. It's a warm, heartfelt story that doesn't shy away from the fangs.

Where to Stream: Tubi or Hulu

The Mummy (1932)

This classic horror film features Boris Karloff as an ancient mummy revived to reunite with his reincarnated love, played by Zita Johann. Their tragic tale of eternal love requires her to be mummified and resurrected alongside him. Karloff delivers a rare romantic performance, and this Universal Monster movie remains a compelling watch.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Beetlejuice (1988)

Tim Burton's quirky horror comedy may not seem romantic at first, but it offers a unique take on love. After their untimely deaths, the Maitlands (Geena Davis and Alec Baldwin) are granted an eternity together, embodying the ultimate happily-ever-after. Unlike many spirits who linger due to unresolved issues, the Maitlands' afterlife becomes a testament to their enduring love.

Where to Stream: Max

The Addams Family (1991)

While not strictly horror, the Addams Family's world, filled with torture and the macabre, certainly skirts the genre's edges. Gomez and Morticia Addams (Raúl Juliá and Anjelica Huston) are the epitome of a passionate, unbreakable bond, thriving amidst their dark, quirky lifestyle.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

The Mummy (1999)

Stephen Sommers' remake of The Mummy infuses the original's romanticism with action and humor. Arnold Vosloo plays the captivating monster who seeks to resurrect his love by sacrificing a librarian (Rachel Weisz), who finds herself falling for Brendan Fraser's charming rogue. The chemistry between Weisz and Fraser adds a delightful spark to this adventure.

See our guide to the best Brendan Fraser movies.

Where to Stream: Hulu

Shaun of the Dead (2004)

Edgar Wright's Shaun of the Dead is a brilliant blend of zombie satire and heartfelt romance. Shaun (Simon Pegg) must prove himself to his girlfriend Liz (Kate Ashfield) during a zombie apocalypse, showcasing growth and maturity in just one chaotic day.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Cloverfield (2008)

*Cloverfield* is often celebrated for its found-footage style, but it's also a poignant horror story about discovering what truly matters. Amidst a giant monster's attack on New York, Rob (Michael Stahl-David) risks everything to save his ex-girlfriend Beth (Odette Yustman), highlighting the film's bittersweet romance.

Where to Stream: PlutoTV

Only Lovers Left Alive (2013)

Jim Jarmusch's *Only Lovers Left Alive* is an unconventional vampire romance that spans centuries. Tom Hiddleston and Tilda Swinton play immortal lovers who find endless fascination in each other, discussing everything from historical figures to the wonders of nature. It's a testament to enduring love that many can only dream of.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Warm Bodies (2013)

In *Warm Bodies*, a zombie (Nicholas Hoult) falls for a human (Teresa Palmer), blending horror, comedy, and romance. This film injects hope into a post-apocalyptic world, suggesting that love, even the most unusual kind, can be transformative.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Pride & Prejudice & Zombies (2016)

*Pride & Prejudice & Zombies* adds a supernatural twist to Jane Austen's classic. Elizabeth Bennett (Lily James) and Mr. Darcy (Sam Riley) navigate romance and zombie warfare, with their chemistry shining through despite the undead chaos.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Happy Death Day (2017)

*Happy Death Day* combines the horror of a slasher film with the charm of a romantic comedy. Jessica Rothe plays a college student caught in a time loop, reliving her murder until she gets it right. Her chemistry with Israel Broussard adds a romantic layer to this thrilling narrative.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

The Shape of Water (2017)

Guillermo del Toro's *The Shape of Water* is a beautiful blend of horror and romance. Sally Hawkins' mute cleaning lady falls for a mysterious fish-man (Doug Jones), creating a fairy tale-like love story that's both sweet and dark.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Bride Of Chucky

In Bride of Chucky, Don Mancini brings to life a twisted love story inspired by The Bride of Frankenstein. Chucky (Brad Dourif) and his resurrected partner Tiffany (Jennifer Tilly) embark on a killing spree, showcasing that even slasher villains can find love. Their tumultuous yet passionate relationship is both thrilling and darkly comedic.

See our guide to The Chucky movies in order.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Nina Forever

Nina Forever explores the complexities of love and grief in a horror-comedy setting. When Rob's deceased girlfriend Nina (Fiona O'Shaughnessy) intrudes on his new relationship with Holly (Abigail Hardingham), the trio must navigate their intertwined emotions. The film's striking visuals and poignant storytelling make it a unique take on undying love.

Where to Stream: Tubi

Extra Ordinary

From Ireland comes Extra Ordinary, a charming blend of romantic comedy and supernatural horror. Rose (Maeve Higgins), a ghost whisperer, teams up with her crush Martin (Barry Ward) to save his possessed daughter, leading to a series of funny and heartwarming encounters. This film is a delightful addition to any horror fan's Valentine's watchlist.

Where to Stream: Hulu

Note: This list was updated February 13, 2025 to include additional links.