"Top Romantic Horror Films for Valentine's Day"

Finding great horror movies that are also compelling love stories can be a challenge, as these genres often seem to be at odds. Classic horror films like The Shining are terrifying but hardly ideal for a romantic evening. However, horror movies can indeed be romantic, often in unexpected and poignant ways. Stories of ghostly or demonic love affairs carry a tragic tone yet are deeply sincere. Even the most fearsome monsters can have a heart, if you look closely enough.

For an unconventional Valentine's Day, these films blend horror and romance beautifully. So, sit back and prepare to embrace love at first fright!

The Conjuring 2

Ed and Lorraine Warren, portrayed by Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga, are the epitome of a horror power couple. In The Conjuring 2, they travel to London's Enfield borough to tackle unholy evils, yet their love remains unshaken. Wilson's portrayal of Ed's faith and concern for Lorraine's safety, and her willingness to sacrifice for him, showcases a modern romance perfect for fans of haunted house thrillers. Start your journey into the "Conjuring-verse" with our guide to watching The Conjuring movies in order.

Where to Stream: Max

Spontaneous

Can a film about teenagers spontaneously combusting be romantic? Spontaneous, directed by Brian Duffield, proves it can. Katherine Langford and Charlie Plummer star as young lovers navigating their relationship amidst classmates randomly exploding. Their chemistry and emotional depth make the film a touching exploration of love amidst chaos, based on Aaron Starmer's novel.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Spring

Aaron Moorhead and Justin Benson's Spring explores the idea of love as a monstrous force. Lou Taylor Pucci's character, an American in Italy, falls for Nadia Hilker's 2,000-year-old shape-shifting mutant. Their love story, woven with rich backstory, culminates in a poignant choice about mortality and love, making it an ideal date night film for horror enthusiasts.

Where to Stream: Tubi

After Midnight

After Midnight is more than just a creature feature; it's a heartfelt study of relationships. Jeremy Gardner and Brea Grant star as a couple at a crossroads, with creature effects enhancing the midnight attack sequences. The film delves into fears of abandonment and the power of romantic gestures, making it a warm yet thrilling watch.

Where to Stream: Tubi or Hulu

The Mummy (1932)

This classic horror film features Boris Karloff as a mummy seeking his reincarnated lover, played by Zita Johann. Their tragic tale of immortal love showcases Karloff's rare romantic performance, and the film remains a timeless testament to the power of love across lifetimes.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Beetlejuice (1988)

Tim Burton's Beetlejuice may not seem romantic at first, but it offers a unique take on eternal love. After their untimely deaths, the Maitlands (Geena Davis and Alec Baldwin) find themselves in a blissful afterlife, embodying the ultimate happily ever after.

Where to Stream: Max

The Addams Family (1991)

While not strictly a horror movie, The Addams Family thrives in a world of dark humor and macabre delights. Gomez and Morticia Addams (Raul Julia and Anjelica Huston) are the epitome of a passionate, enduring couple, making their film a perfect blend of horror and romance.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

The Mummy (1999)

Stephen Sommers' The Mummy adds a lively twist to the original's romanticism with witty banter and adventure. Arnold Vosloo's alluring monster seeks to resurrect his love, while Rachel Weisz and Brendan Fraser's characters develop a charming chemistry. For more, 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 comedic take on the zombie apocalypse, but it's also a heartfelt story of personal growth and romance. Shaun (Simon Pegg) must prove himself to his girlfriend Liz (Kate Ashfield) amidst a zombie outbreak, making it a unique blend of horror and love.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Cloverfield (2008)

Cloverfield is known for its found-footage style, but it's also a poignant horror film about discovering what truly matters. Rob (Michael Stahl-David) risks everything to save his ex-girlfriend Beth (Odette Yustman) during a monster attack on New York City, showcasing a deeply romantic narrative.

Where to Stream: PlutoTV

Only Lovers Left Alive (2013)

Jim Jarmusch's Only Lovers Left Alive is a unique vampire romance starring Tom Hiddleston and Tilda Swinton as centuries-old lovers. Their enduring relationship and conversations about life and culture make it one of the most romantic horror films.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Warm Bodies (2013)

Warm Bodies blends horror and romance as a zombie (Nicholas Hoult) falls for a human (Teresa Palmer). This film offers a fresh take on both genres, suggesting that love can bring hope even in the darkest times.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Pride & Prejudice & Zombies (2016)

Burr Steers' Pride & Prejudice & Zombies adds a horror twist to Jane Austen's classic, with Elizabeth Bennett (Lily James) and Mr. Darcy (Sam Riley) fighting zombies while navigating their romance. The film's strong cast makes it a delightful blend of horror and romance.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Happy Death Day (2017)

Happy Death Day combines the slasher genre with a Groundhog Day-like loop, featuring a romantic subplot. Jessica Rothe's character relives her death until she gets it right, with her chemistry with Israel Broussard adding a romantic touch to the horror.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

The Shape of Water (2017)

Guillermo del Toro's The Shape of Water is a fairy tale horror romance about a mute woman (Sally Hawkins) and a mysterious fish monster (Doug Jones). Their love story is both sweet and grim, showcasing del Toro's mastery of blending genres.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Bride of Chucky

Don Mancini's Bride of Chucky introduces Tiffany Valentine (Jennifer Tilly), Chucky's perfect match. Their murderous yet romantic relationship, complete with a resurrection and a crime scene water bed, proves that even villains can find love. For more, 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 as Rob's new relationship with Holly is haunted by his deceased girlfriend, Nina. The film blends horror, comedy, and romance, tackling themes of undying love and moving on.

Where to Stream: Tubi

Extra Ordinary

Extra Ordinary is a charming Irish horror-comedy about ghost whisperer Rose and her crush Martin, who team up to save his possessed daughter. Their budding romance amidst supernatural chaos makes it a delightful watch for horror fans.

Where to Stream: Hulu

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