The 20 Best Horror Movies to Watch this Valentine’s Day

Love is in the air, and that means stores are filled with heart-shaped candies and decorations! Valentine’s Day is a time for romance, whether you enjoy a cozy night in or watching a feel-good movie. No matter your feelings about the holiday, it’s a great excuse to relax and enjoy a fun film.

Looking for a movie to watch with your partner on Valentine’s Day? Or maybe you’re flying solo and want a distraction? Either way, we’ve got suggestions! If you’re feeling less than romantic, a scary horror movie might be just what you need. But if you do love Valentine’s Day and all the hearts and chocolates, these horror films could still be a fun, spooky choice – maybe even sparking some romance! We’ve gathered a list of horror movies perfect for Valentine’s Day, guaranteed to either give you chills or bring you closer together.

‘The Loved Ones’ (2009)

Paramount Pictures

Brent Mitchell, a high school student, doesn’t pay much attention when he rejects Lola Stone’s prom invitation. Lola is very close to her father, and he’s determined to make sure she gets what she wants. When Brent refuses her, Lola’s father abducts him and forces him to attend a private, terrifying prom at their house, where Brent is punished for any perceived wrongdoing.

The Loved Ones is a thrilling horror film that expertly mixes dark comedy, intense violence, and a twisted take on unrequited love. Director Robin McLeavy creates a chaotic and unsettling atmosphere, making viewers appreciate healthy relationships. The movie gets straight to the point, delivering a fast-paced and terrifying experience.

‘The Honeymoon Killers’ (1970)

American International Pictures

Though it might not be a traditional horror film, The Honeymoon Killers delivers a dark and unsettling experience that horror fans will likely enjoy. The film centers on Martha Beck and Raymond Fernandez, a dangerous couple who preyed on women they met through personal ads. While Raymond uses his charm to swindle money from his victims, Martha is the driving force behind the violence, becoming increasingly ruthless. The story is based on the true crimes of the “Lonely Hearts Killers.”

This movie isn’t for everyone, but if you and your partner enjoy strong, unusual characters and dark, disturbing mysteries, you’ll probably love it. It’s a favorite of director John Waters, and for good reason – though he’s known for campy films, this one is a genuinely grim and unsettling love story that doesn’t shy away from being harsh and unpleasant.

‘Bride of Chucky’ (1998)

Universal Pictures

It’s hard to think of a more iconic horror couple than Tiffany and Chucky. Even though it’s been a while since they’ve been on screen together, they’re still remembered as the ultimate ‘partner in crime.’ In this installment, they kidnap an RV and force teenagers Jesse and Jade along for a chaotic journey. Chucky’s goal? To get his body back and complete a ritual that will finally make him human.

Although their relationship is unhealthy, some couples who are intensely passionate, like the Joker and Harley Quinn, have a certain appeal. This movie isn’t one of the more serious Chucky films, and it works better as a funny slasher movie – perfect if you’re looking for something lighthearted for Valentine’s Day.

‘Valentine’ (2001)

Warner Bros. Pictures

The film opens with a scene from an ’80s Valentine’s Day dance, where a lonely boy is repeatedly rejected by four popular girls. One girl does accept his invitation, but later falsely accuses him of assault, leading to public shame and his eventual confinement in a mental institution. Thirteen years later, the now-successful women are targeted by someone wearing a Cupid mask who sends shocking, threatening valentines, seemingly intent on getting revenge. The movie, Valentine, directed by Jamie Blanks, features David Boreanaz, Denise Richards, Marley Shelton, and Katherine Heigl.

This movie has a lot going for it! Denise Richards is fantastic, and the killer creatively uses a bow and arrow that fits the film’s theme. Although it wasn’t a huge critical or commercial success, it was nominated for several Teen Choice Awards and features a wonderfully over-the-top soundtrack packed with popular hard rock and metal songs from the era. If you grew up in the 90s or early 2000s, this movie is a fun, nostalgic treat.

‘My Bloody Valentine’ (1981)

Paramount Pictures

Valentine’s Bluff is holding its annual dance again after a long hiatus. Last time, a mining accident left a terrifying survivor who ruined the event with a series of murders. Everyone thought the killer was locked up, so the town was excited to revive the dance. Unfortunately, the celebration is once again disrupted as people start turning up dead, and a new killer dressed as a miner is on the loose.

When My Bloody Valentine was first released, the MPAA requested nine minutes of cuts to earn an R-rating, and unfortunately, much of that footage is now gone. Despite this, the movie remains surprisingly graphic. But this horror classic offers more than just gore; it’s a compelling slasher mystery elevated by strong performances from the cast, impressive location shooting, and even praise from directors like Quentin Tarantino. It’s a true standout in the slasher genre, and well worth watching over the 2009 remake.

‘Thirst’ (2009)

Focus Features

In the film Parasite, Song Kang-ho plays Sang-hyun, a priest who feels lost and agrees to participate in a medical trial hoping to find a cure for a deadly illness. When the treatment works, he and his church gain popularity, but Sang-hyun soon discovers a terrifying side effect: he’s become a vampire. He struggles to resist his urge to feed on blood, and his life gets even more complicated when he falls in love with Tae-ju, the wife of an old, ailing friend. After turning Tae-ju into a vampire as well, Sang-hyun must deal with her increasing thirst for blood and willingness to kill to get it.

“Thirst” is a gripping, scary, and captivating film that’s both intensely sensual and genuinely frightening. It offers a fresh take on a familiar story and features a compelling connection between stars Song Kang-ho and Kim Ok-vin. The movie also gained significant recognition at the 2009 Cannes Film Festival, winning the Jury Prize and being nominated for the Palme d’Or.

‘Ready or Not’ (2019)

Fox Searchlight Pictures

In the thriller Ready or Not, Grace (Samara Weaving) grew up in foster care, so she’s understandably nervous meeting her new husband Alex’s incredibly wealthy and eccentric family all at once on their wedding day. They’re judgmental and mean-spirited, and things quickly take a dark turn when they force her to participate in a deadly game of hide-and-seek. It turns out Alex’s family plans to hunt her down and kill her as part of a bizarre ritual before sunrise.

Directed by Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett (known for Abigail and Scream VI), this horror thriller is a fun, suspenseful ride – especially if you’ve ever had issues with your in-laws! Brian Tyler’s score (from films like Bug and The Final Destination) perfectly builds the tension. Despite being made with a small budget, the movie was a huge box office success, earning over $57 million – almost ten times what it cost to make. If you’re a fan of strong female leads in horror, and want to see Samara Weaving shine, you won’t want to miss this one.

‘Only Lovers Left Alive’ (2013)

Jim Jarmusch’s Only Lovers Left Alive features Eve (Tilda Swinton) and Adam (Tom Hiddleston), a sophisticated and striking vampire couple. They’ve been together for centuries, are highly cultured, and enjoy the company of fascinating people like Kit Marlowe (John Hurt). Though often separated, Adam falls into a deep depression, prompting Eve to seek him out. Their reunion offers a glimmer of hope, but the arrival of Ava (Mia Wasikowska), Eve’s rebellious sister, quickly disrupts their peaceful existence and brings unexpected problems.

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Jim Jarmusch’s style is all over Only Lovers Left Alive, a film where the vampire protagonists mostly discuss art, technology, and philosophical ideas. It’s a dreamy, romantic movie ideal for watching with someone you love. The film was nominated for the Palme d’Or at the 2013 Cannes Film Festival and has since been widely considered one of Jarmusch’s finest achievements by both contemporary and later critics.

‘Revenge’ (2018)

Rezo Films

In the thriller Revenge, Jen (Matilda Lutz) anticipates a romantic weekend getaway with her married lover, Richard (Kevin Janssens), at his remote desert house. However, Richard’s friends, Stan (Vincent Colombe) and Dimitri (Guillaume Bouchède), unexpectedly arrive early. While Richard is away, Stan attacks Jen, and the situation worsens when Richard returns and attempts to bribe her into silence. When Jen threatens to reveal the affair to Richard’s wife, all three men begin to pursue her through the desert, armed with hunting equipment.

Set in a harsh desert landscape, Revenge feels reminiscent of Mad Max as Jen relentlessly pursues her vengeance. Writer and director Coralie Fargeat expertly portrays the intense emotions and brutal action, earning her nominations for Best Director and Best Limited Feature at the Fangoria Chainsaw Awards. If you’re looking for a clever twist on a common horror trope, Revenge delivers, and is especially fitting for a solo Valentine’s Day viewing with its strong, independent lead.

‘A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night’ (2014)

Kino Lorber / Vice Films

The film A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night was famously described as the first “Iranian vampire Western.” It features a unique protagonist, known simply as The Girl (played by Sheila Vand), who is a skateboarding vampire wearing a chador. She’s reminiscent of the solitary heroes in old spaghetti Westerns, wandering the city streets at night and delivering her own brand of justice by punishing wrongdoers and helping those in need.

This black-and-white film is surprisingly captivating, and its unique style is immediately noticeable. Featuring music from Radio Tehran and Federale, it’s easily the most stylish and atmospheric Western horror film you’ll find, with a clear nod to the classic Nosferatu. Beyond just scares, the movie explores the idea of what it truly means to be a vampire. With its beautiful gothic visuals, it’s a perfect choice for a moody and memorable movie night.

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2026-02-09 03:36