Romantic Horror Films Perfect for Valentine's Day

Finding a horror movie that also serves as a compelling love story can be a challenge, as these genres often pull in opposite directions. Classic horror films like The Shining may be spine-chilling, but they're far from ideal for a cozy date night. Yet, horror movies can indeed be romantic, often in surprising ways. Tales of ghostly or demonic romance carry a tragic beauty, and even the most fearsome monsters can reveal a tender heart beneath their terrifying exteriors.

For an unconventional Valentine's Day, these films blend horror with heartfelt romance, proving that love can thrive amidst the frights. So, sit back and get ready to believe in love at first fright!

The Conjuring 2

Name a more iconic horror couple than Ed and Lorraine Warren. In the past decade, Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga have brought to life the nun-fearing spouses who battle unholy evils, always prioritizing their love for each other. In "The Conjuring 2," the Warrens travel to London's Enfield borough, yet their loving bond remains unshaken. Wilson masterfully portrays Ed's anxious faith whenever Lorraine pushes her abilities to the edge, mirroring Lorraine's willingness to sacrifice for Ed. Theirs is a modern romance tailored for horror enthusiasts, undeterred by crooked men or inverted crucifixes. For those new to the "Conjuring-verse," check out our guide on watching The Conjuring movies in order.

Where to Stream: Max

Spontaneous

Can a film about teenagers who spontaneously combust be romantic? Brian Duffield's "Spontaneous" defies the odds by intertwining romance with horror, as Katherine Langford and Charlie Plummer portray star-crossed lovers finding solace amidst their classmates' random explosions. Their relationship's peaks make us believe that love can endure even the most harrowing situations, while their troughs illustrate a bond that transcends death. This film is a poignant adaptation of Aaron Starmer's young adult novel, effectively exploring life's unpredictability with the genuine chemistry between Langford and Plummer.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Spring

While the idea of love as a monster isn't novel, Aaron Moorhead and Justin Benson's "Spring" crafts a compelling romance between a Lovecraftian creature and a grieving traveler. Lou Taylor Pucci plays an American in Italy, seeking solace, who falls for Nadia Hilker's 2,000-year-old, shape-shifting mutant. Their love story is intricately woven with backstory, culminating in a pivotal decision: will Hilker's immortal character give up her eternal life for a mortal one with Pucci's? This ultimate choice makes "Spring" the perfect horror-themed date night movie.

Where to Stream: Tubi

After Midnight

"After Midnight" is far from your typical creature feature. It begins with a Floridian recluse barricading himself from a mysterious beast, but soon evolves into a heartfelt exploration of a relationship at a crossroads. Jeremy Gardner, who writes, co-directs, and stars, alongside Brea Grant, revisits their characters' passionate journey from early romance to current uncertainties. The film delves into fears of abandonment and the power of romantic gestures, all while maintaining a warm, albeit sharp-toothed, embrace.

Where to Stream: Tubi or Hulu

The Mummy (1932)

This horror classic features Boris Karloff as an ancient mummy revived to reunite with his reincarnated love, portrayed by Zita Johann. To achieve eternal union, he must mummify and resurrect her. This tale of undying love showcases a rare romantic side of Karloff and remains a testament to the enduring appeal of Universal's Monster movies.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Beetlejuice (1988)

Tim Burton's quirky horror-comedy "Beetlejuice" might not seem romantic at first glance, given the early demise of its protagonists. Yet, it offers a unique gift to the Maitlands (Geena Davis and Alec Baldwin): an eternity to spend together in blissful domesticity. Unlike many restless spirits, the Maitlands embody a romantic ideal, achieving their happily ever after even in death.

Where to Stream: Max

The Addams Family (1991)

Though not strictly horror, the Addams Family's world is filled with macabre delights, making them "horror adjacent." It's hard to find a more devoted couple than Gomez and Morticia Addams, whose unwavering passion for each other remains a beacon of love in their peculiar universe.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

The Mummy (1999)

Stephen Sommers' "The Mummy" reimagines the classic tale with a dash of humor and adventure. Arnold Vosloo's captivating monster seeks to resurrect his beloved by sacrificing a librarian (Rachel Weisz), who finds herself falling for Brendan Fraser's charming rogue. The film's lighter tone and the electric chemistry between Weisz and Fraser elevate its romantic elements.

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" blends zombie satire with a touching story of personal growth and romance. Shaun (Simon Pegg) must prove himself to his girlfriend Liz (Kate Ashfield) amidst a zombie apocalypse, transforming in just one day from a slacker to a hero.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Cloverfield (2008)

While "Cloverfield" is renowned for its found-footage style, it's also a poignant horror film about discovering what truly matters during a crisis. As a giant monster ravages New York, Rob (Michael Stahl-David) risks everything to save his ex-girlfriend Beth (Odette Yustman), showcasing a deeply romantic commitment.

Where to Stream: PlutoTV

Only Lovers Left Alive (2013)

Jim Jarmusch's "Only Lovers Left Alive" is a unique vampire tale that doubles as one of the most romantic horror movies. Tom Hiddleston and Tilda Swinton portray immortal lovers who, after centuries together, continue to find joy in each other's company, discussing everything from celebrities to fungi.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Warm Bodies (2013)

In "Warm Bodies," a zombie (Nicholas Hoult) falls for a human (Teresa Palmer), blending horror with a heartwarming rom-com. Jonathan Levine's film injects hope into a post-apocalyptic world, suggesting that even the strangest love can offer redemption.

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 between their romantic skirmishes. The film's strong cast makes you wish for more focus on the romance amidst the undead action.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Happy Death Day (2017)

"Happy Death Day" combines the slasher genre with a "Groundhog Day" twist, featuring a love story at its core. Jessica Rothe plays a college student caught in a time loop, reliving her murder until she gets it right, with Israel Broussard's character offering crucial support and sparking a romantic connection.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

The Shape of Water (2017)

Guillermo del Toro's "The Shape of Water" is a fairy tale and horror story rolled into one, exploring the romance between a mute cleaning lady (Sally Hawkins) and a mysterious fish-man (Doug Jones). Del Toro masterfully blends sweetness with darkness, crafting a tale where love conquers all.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Bride Of Chucky

In "Bride of Chucky," Don Mancini pays homage to "The Bride of Frankenstein" with Chucky finding love with Jennifer Tilly's Tiffany Valentine. Despite their violent natures, Chucky and Tiffany's relationship is a testament to the idea that even villains deserve romance, complete with their own quirky moments of intimacy.

See our guide to The Chucky movies in order.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Nina Forever

"Nina Forever" explores the complexities of love through a horror-comedy lens, where Rob's new relationship with Holly is haunted by his deceased girlfriend Nina. The film delves into grief and the challenges of moving on, with stunning cinematography that blends horror with emotional depth.

Where to Stream: Tubi

Extra Ordinary

"Extra Ordinary" is an Irish romantic comedy with horror elements, following ghost whisperer Rose and her crush Martin as they tackle supernatural issues while nurturing their budding romance. The film's blend of humor, horror, and heartfelt moments makes it a delightful addition to any horror fan's Valentine's Day watchlist.

Where to Stream: Hulu

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