Romantic Horror Movies Perfect for Valentine's Day

It's a rare feat to find horror movies that also serve as touching love stories, given that these genres often stand in stark contrast. Many iconic horror films, like The Shining, focus on tearing apart the bonds between characters, making them less than ideal for a cozy date night.

Yet, horror and romance can intertwine in surprising ways. Stories of spectral beings and demons falling in love with mortals often carry a tragic yet sincere tone. Even the most fearsome monsters can possess a heart, if you know where to look—and aren't too busy trying to stake it.

These films are perfect for an unconventional Valentine's Day. So, sit back and prepare to embrace love at first fright!

The Conjuring 2

Can you name a more iconic horror couple from the past decade than Ed and Lorraine Warren? Portrayed by Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga, they are nun-fearing spouses battling unholy evils, yet their love remains their top priority. In The Conjuring 2, the Warrens travel to London’s Enfield borough, but their deep connection remains unshaken. Wilson brilliantly captures Ed's anxious faith as Lorraine pushes her abilities to the limit, just as Lorraine is always ready to sacrifice for Ed. Theirs is a modern romance for fans of haunted houses, unbreakable even by crooked men and inverted crucifixes. If you're new to the "Conjuring-verse," check out our guide to watching The Conjuring movies in order.

Where to Stream: Max

Spontaneous

Is a film about teenagers who spontaneously combust capable of being romantic? Against all odds, Brian Duffield’s Spontaneous weaves romance into its explosive narrative. Katherine Langford and Charlie Plummer portray star-crossed lovers finding solace amidst classmates randomly exploding. Their chemistry is palpable, making us believe that love can endure even the grimmest of circumstances. Their story is a poignant adaptation of Aaron Starmer’s young adult novel, tackling life's unpredictability with a touch of sweet sincerity, thanks to the enchanting 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 masterfully crafts a compelling romance between a Lovecraftian creature and a lonely traveler. Lou Taylor Pucci plays an American in Italy seeking solace from depression, who becomes enamored with Nadia Hilker, a local revealed to be a 2,000-year-old shape-shifting mutant. Their love story is intricately woven with rich backstory, culminating in a pivotal choice: will Hilker's immortal being give up eternity for a mortal life with Pucci? This ultimate decision makes Spring the perfect date night film for horror enthusiasts.

Where to Stream: Tubi

After Midnight

After Midnight defies the norms of creature features. It begins with a Floridian recluse fortifying his home against a mysterious beast, but evolves into a heartfelt exploration of relationships. Jeremy Gardner, who writes, co-directs, and stars alongside Brea Grant, retraces the journey of their passionate courtship from joyous moments to their current crossroads. The film delves into fears of abandonment and the power of romantic gestures, blending creature effects with emotional depth. It's a warm embrace with a sharp edge.

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 lover, played by Zita Johann. Their immortal love story, however, requires her mummification and resurrection. This tragic tale showcases Karloff's rare romantic lead, and like many Universal Monster movies, it remains compelling.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Beetlejuice (1988)

While Tim Burton's Beetlejuice may not seem romantic at first glance, with its protagonists dying early on, it offers a unique twist. After their untimely deaths, the Maitlands (Geena Davis and Alec Baldwin) are granted an eternity to spend together, turning their afterlife into a romantic ideal of domestic bliss. They embody the ultimate happily ever after, even beyond death.

Where to Stream: Max

The Addams Family (1991)

Though not strictly horror, the Addams Family's world is filled with macabre humor, making them horror-adjacent. It's hard to find a couple more devoted than Gomez and Morticia Addams, whose passion for each other has never faltered.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

The Mummy (1999)

Stephen Sommers’ The Mummy adds a lively twist to the original's romanticism with witty dialogue and adventurous spirit. Arnold Vosloo plays a captivating version of the monster, intent on resurrecting his true love by sacrificing a librarian (Rachel Weisz), who is just beginning to fall for a charming adventurer (Brendan Fraser). The chemistry between Weisz and Fraser is top-notch.

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 masterfully blends zombie apocalypse satire with a heartfelt story of personal growth and romance. Shaun (Simon Pegg) must prove himself to his girlfriend Liz (Kate Ashfield), and it's only during a zombie outbreak that he truly rises to the occasion, making it a humorous yet poignant tale.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Cloverfield (2008)

*Cloverfield* is often praised for its found-footage style and monster movie elements, but it's also a compelling horror story about discovering what truly matters. As a giant monster attacks New York, Rob (Michael Stahl-David) runs toward the danger to save his ex-girlfriend Beth (Odette Yustman), showcasing a bittersweet yet romantic journey.

Where to Stream: PlutoTV

Only Lovers Left Alive (2013)

Jim Jarmusch's *Only Lovers Left Alive* is an unconventional vampire movie that doubles as one of the most romantic horror films. Tom Hiddleston and Tilda Swinton portray immortal vampires who, after centuries together, continue to find joy in each other's company, discussing everything from historical figures to the intricacies of fungi. It's a testament to enduring love.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Warm Bodies (2013)

In *Warm Bodies*, a zombie (Nicholas Hoult) falls for a human (Teresa Palmer), blending horror comedy with a touching romance. This film flips the rom-com and zombie genres, suggesting that love, even the most unusual kind, can bring hope and redemption.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Pride & Prejudice & Zombies (2016)

*Pride & Prejudice & Zombies* adds a supernatural twist to Jane Austen’s classic, featuring Elizabeth Bennett (Lily James) and Mr. Darcy (Sam Riley) fighting zombies amidst their romantic tensions. While the undead action is entertaining, the strong performances make you wish for even more focus on the romance.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Happy Death Day (2017)

*Happy Death Day* combines the horror of a slasher flick with the time-loop concept of *Groundhog Day*, adding a love story into the mix. Jessica Rothe plays a self-absorbed college student reliving the day of her murder, with Israel Broussard as her potential savior. Their chemistry makes the film a perfect pick for date night.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

The Shape of Water (2017)

Guillermo del Toro’s *The Shape of Water* is a captivating blend of fairy tale and horror, featuring a romance between a mute cleaning lady (Sally Hawkins) and a mysterious fish monster (Doug Jones). Del Toro expertly balances sweetness and darkness, crafting a story that resonates deeply.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Bride Of Chucky

Don Mancini's Bride of Chucky pays homage to The Bride of Frankenstein, introducing Jennifer Tilly’s Tiffany Valentine as Chucky's (Charles Lee Ray) perfect match. Despite their anatomical differences, their murderous partnership and romantic escapades, including a notorious water bed scene, showcase that even slasher villains can find love.

See our guide to The Chucky movies in order.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Nina Forever

Love can be complicated, especially when an ex's ghost disrupts new relationships. In Nina Forever, Rob's new romance with Holly is haunted by Nina's corpse, creating a unique horror-comedy about navigating grief and new love. The film's striking visuals and emotional depth make it a compelling watch.

Where to Stream: Tubi

Extra Ordinary

From Ireland comes Extra Ordinary, a delightful blend of romantic comedy and supernatural elements. Rose, a ghost whisperer, teams up with her crush Martin to tackle paranormal issues, all while their budding romance blossoms amidst quirky supernatural encounters. It's a charming 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.