Romantic Horror Films for Valentine's Day

It's a challenge to find horror movies that double as compelling love stories, since these genres often pull in opposite directions. Classic horror films like The Shining excel at tearing apart relationships in terrifying ways, making them less than ideal for a cozy date night.

However, horror movies can indeed be romantic, often in surprising and unconventional ways. Stories about ghosts and demons falling for mortals carry a tragic tone yet are deeply sincere. Even the scariest monsters can have a heart, if you look closely enough (and aren't too busy trying to stake them).

For those looking to celebrate Valentine's Day with a twist, these films blend horror with romance beautifully. So, sit back and prepare to fall in love at first fright!

The Conjuring 2

In the realm of horror couples, few are as iconic as Ed and Lorraine Warren, portrayed by Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga. Their journey in The Conjuring 2 takes them to London’s Enfield borough, but their love remains steadfast. Wilson brilliantly captures Ed’s frantic faith as Lorraine pushes her abilities to the edge, mirroring her readiness to sacrifice for him. It's a modern romance tailored for fans of haunted houses, where no crooked men or inverted crucifixes can diminish their bond. 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 who spontaneously combust be romantic? Surprisingly, yes. Spontaneous, directed by Brian Duffield, intertwines romance with horror as Katherine Langford and Charlie Plummer play lovers navigating a world where classmates explode without warning. Their chemistry and emotional highs make us believe that love can endure even the most harrowing circumstances, while their lows showcase a bond that transcends death. This adaptation of Aaron Starmer’s novel confronts life's unpredictability with a touch of sweet sincerity, thanks to the endearing performances of Langford and Plummer.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Spring

While the idea that love is monstrous isn't new, Aaron Moorhead and Justin Benson's Spring crafts a compelling romance between a Lovecraftian creature and a grieving American, played by Lou Taylor Pucci, who finds solace in Italy. He falls for Nadia Hilker's character, a 2,000-year-old shape-shifting mutant. The film weaves a rich backstory into their love story, culminating in a pivotal decision: will Hilker’s immortal creature give up her eternal life for a mortal existence with Pucci’s character? This makes Spring an ideal horror date movie.

Where to Stream: Tubi

After Midnight

After Midnight is an unconventional creature feature that evolves into a heartfelt exploration of a relationship. Jeremy Gardner, who writes, co-directs, and stars, and Brea Grant portray partners at a crossroads. While creature effects enhance the midnight attack scenes, the film focuses on retracing the couple's journey from their early romance to their current challenges. Gardner’s screenplay delves into fears of abandonment and the power of romantic gestures, ranging from karaoke to confrontations with mysterious beasts. It's a warm embrace, but watch out for the fangs.

Where to Stream: Tubi or Hulu

The Mummy (1932)

This classic horror film features Boris Karloff as a mummy revived to reunite with his reincarnated lover, played by Zita Johann. Their tragic tale of eternal love hinges on the mummy's need to mummify and resurrect her to be together forever. Karloff delivers a rare romantic performance, and this Universal Monster movie remains impressively timeless.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Beetlejuice (1988)

Tim Burton’s quirky horror comedy might not seem romantic at first, especially with the early demise of its protagonists. However, Beetlejuice gifts the Maitlands (Geena Davis and Alec Baldwin) an eternity to live together in wedded bliss, turning their afterlife into a romantic ideal of domesticity. They embody the ultimate happily ever after, even in death.

Where to Stream: Max

The Addams Family (1991)

While not strictly horror, the Addams Family live in a world where dark themes like torture and murder are everyday occurrences, making them horror-adjacent. Gomez and Morticia Addams, portrayed by Raúl Juliá and Anjelica Huston, are a couple whose passion has never faltered, setting a high bar for marital bliss.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

The Mummy (1999)

Stephen Sommers’ remake of The Mummy amplifies the romance of the original with witty banter and action. Arnold Vosloo plays a captivating version of the monster who seeks to resurrect his love by sacrificing a librarian, played by Rachel Weisz, who is falling for Brendan Fraser's charming rogue. The chemistry between Weisz and Fraser is top-notch, making this a standout romantic horror 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 satire of zombie apocalypse films, filled with humor yet also a touching story about personal growth and romance. Shaun, played by Simon Pegg, must prove himself to his girlfriend, Liz (Kate Ashfield), and it's during a zombie outbreak that he finally does so, making this film both horrifying and hilariously romantic.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Cloverfield (2008)

*Cloverfield* is renowned for its found-footage style, but it's also a poignant horror film about discovering what truly matters in a crisis. As a giant monster ravages New York City, Rob (Michael Stahl-David) races into danger to save his ex-girlfriend, Beth (Odette Yustman). It's a harrowing, clever, and bittersweetly romantic tale.

Where to Stream: PlutoTV

Only Lovers Left Alive (2013)

Jim Jarmusch’s *Only Lovers Left Alive* is not your typical vampire movie, yet it's one of the most romantic horror films ever made. Tom Hiddleston and Tilda Swinton star as centuries-old vampires still finding new depths in their relationship, discussing everything from historical figures to the intricacies of fungus. It's a testament to enduring love.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Warm Bodies (2013)

In *Warm Bodies*, a zombie, played by Nicholas Hoult, falls in love with a human, portrayed by Teresa Palmer. This horror comedy flips the rom-com and zombie genres, suggesting that even the weirdest kind of love can offer hope and salvation in a post-apocalyptic world. It's both funny and touching.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Pride & Prejudice & Zombies (2016)

*Pride & Prejudice & Zombies* adds a thrilling twist to Jane Austen's classic by introducing zombies. Elizabeth Bennett (Lily James) and Mr. Darcy (Sam Riley) navigate romance and undead warfare. The film's strong cast makes you wish for even more focus on the romance amidst the zombie action.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Happy Death Day (2017)

*Happy Death Day* cleverly merges the slasher genre with a *Groundhog Day* concept, complete with a love story. Jessica Rothe plays a self-absorbed student who relives her murder day repeatedly until she gets it right. Her chemistry with Israel Broussard adds a perfect romantic touch, making it an ideal date night choice.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

The Shape of Water (2017)

Guillermo del Toro’s *The Shape of Water* blends fairy tale romance with horror, giving the Creature from the Black Lagoon the love story he deserved. A mysterious fish monster (Doug Jones) finds love with a mute cleaning lady (Sally Hawkins). Del Toro masterfully balances sweetness and darkness, creating a captivating tale.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Bride of Chucky

In Bride of Chucky, Don Mancini pays homage to The Bride of Frankenstein. Chucky, the killer doll, finds a match in Jennifer Tilly’s Tiffany Valentine, his ex-fling with a penchant for murder. After Chucky kills and resurrects Tiffany, they embark on a killing spree, but also share moments of romance, proving that even villains need love.

See our guide to The Chucky movies in order.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Nina Forever

Nina Forever explores the complexities of love with a horror-comedy twist. Rob, grieving his lost love Nina, starts dating Holly, only for Nina's corpse to intrude on their intimate moments. The film delves into grief and expectations, offering a unique take on undying love.

Where to Stream: Tubi

Extra Ordinary

From Ireland comes Extra Ordinary, a charming blend of romantic comedy and horror. Ghost whisperer Rose teams up with her crush Martin to tackle supernatural issues, including his possessed daughter. Their flirtation and genuine connection, set against a backdrop of quirky paranormal events, make this film a delightful choice for horror fans on Valentine's Day.

Where to Stream: Hulu

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