Romantic Horror Films for Valentine's Day

Finding great horror movies that are also compelling love stories can be challenging, as these genres often pull in opposite directions. Classic horror films like *The Shining* can be terrifying, but they're far from ideal for a cozy date night. However, this doesn't mean that horror and romance can't blend beautifully; they just do so in unexpected ways. Stories of ghosts and demons falling for mortals often carry a tragic tone but are deeply sincere. Even the scariest monsters can have a heart, if you look closely enough.

For those looking for an unconventional Valentine's Day, here's a list of horror films that also celebrate love. So, sit back and prepare to believe in love at first fright!

The Conjuring 2

Name a more iconic horror couple than Ed (Patrick Wilson) and Lorraine Warren. Over the past decade, Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga have portrayed the nun-fearing spouses who bravely confront unholy evils, with their love for each other always at the forefront. In *The Conjuring 2*, the Warrens travel to London’s Enfield borough, but their strong bond remains unshaken. Wilson masterfully conveys Ed's anxious faith whenever Lorraine pushes her psychic abilities to dangerous limits, just as Lorraine is always ready to make sacrifices for Ed. Theirs is a modern romance tailored for the haunted house crowd, undeterred by crooked men or inverted crucifixes. 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 spontaneously combusting be romantic? Surprisingly, Brian Duffield’s *Spontaneous* manages to pull at the heartstrings while depicting gruesome scenes. Katherine Langford and Charlie Plummer star as doomed lovers who find solace in each other as their classmates randomly explode. Their passionate chemistry makes us believe that love can endure even the most horrifying circumstances. The film, based on Aaron Starmer’s young adult novel, tackles life's unpredictability with a sweet sincerity, thanks to the heartfelt performances of Langford and Plummer.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Spring

The notion that love can be monstrous isn't new, but Aaron Moorhead and Justin Benson craft a compelling romance in *Spring*. Lou Taylor Pucci plays an American in Italy, seeking solace from depression, who falls for a local, Nadia Hilker. Hilker's character is revealed to be a 2,000-year-old shape-shifting mutant. The film delicately weaves a love story about unlikely partners, culminating in a pivotal decision: will Hilker's immortal being give up her eternal life for a mortal existence with Pucci's character? This choice makes *Spring* the ideal horror-themed date night movie.

Where to Stream: Tubi

After Midnight

*After Midnight* is far from a typical creature feature. It begins with a Floridian recluse barricading himself against a mysterious beast, but it evolves into a touching study of relationships. Jeremy Gardner, who writes, co-directs, and stars alongside Brea Grant, portrays a couple at a crossroads. While creature effects are crucial during midnight attacks, the film focuses on Gardner and Grant revisiting their romantic journey, from early days of cheap red wine to their current dilemmas. Gardner’s script explores fears of abandonment and the boundless nature of romantic gestures, from karaoke to confronting strange creatures. It's a warm embrace, but watch out for the fangs.

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, played by Zita Johann. To be together forever, he must mummify and resurrect her. This tragic tale of immortal love showcases a rare romantic side of Karloff and remains a timeless piece of Universal Monster cinema.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Beetlejuice (1988)

Tim Burton’s quirky horror comedy *Beetlejuice* might not seem romantic at first glance, as the protagonists die early on. However, their afterlife offers them an eternal chance at wedded bliss. Unlike many ghosts who linger due to unresolved issues, the Maitlands (Geena Davis and Alec Baldwin) become a romantic ideal of domesticity, achieving the ultimate happily ever after.

Where to Stream: Max

The Addams Family (1991)

While not strictly horror movies, the *Addams Family* films exist in a world where dark themes like torture and murder are everyday norms, making them "horror adjacent." You'd be hard-pressed to find a more devoted couple than Gomez and Morticia Addams, whose passion for each other remains unwavering.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

The Mummy (1999)

Stephen Sommers’ *The Mummy* takes the romanticism of the original and injects it with witty banter and adventure. Arnold Vosloo plays the alluring mummy, intent on resurrecting his true love by sacrificing a librarian (Rachel Weisz), who is falling for a charming rogue (Brendan Fraser). The film's brighter tone and the excellent chemistry between Weisz and Fraser make it a standout.

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 the zombie genre, packed with humor and heart. It's also a story about personal growth and becoming a better partner. Shaun (Simon Pegg) must earn back his girlfriend Liz's (Kate Ashfield) respect, and it's only during a zombie apocalypse that he manages to do so in a single, chaotic day.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Cloverfield (2008)

*Cloverfield* is often praised for its found-footage style, but it's also a poignant horror film about discovering what truly matters during a crisis. As a giant monster attacks New York City, Rob (Michael Stahl-David) risks everything to save his ex-girlfriend Beth (Odette Yustman). This harrowing, clever, and bittersweetly romantic film showcases the power of love in the face of disaster.

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 play immortal vampires who have been together for centuries, still finding new things to discuss, from historical anecdotes to scientific curiosities. Their enduring love is something to aspire to.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Warm Bodies (2013)

In *Warm Bodies*, a zombie (Nicholas Hoult) falls for a human (Teresa Palmer), blending romance and horror in a unique way. Jonathan Levine’s film adds humor and optimism to the zombie genre while exploring the power of love to heal even the most broken world. It's both funny and touching, making it a must-watch.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Pride & Prejudice & Zombies (2016)

*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 romantic tensions. The film is entertaining, but the strong performances make 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 concept of *Groundhog Day* with a slasher film, complete with a love story. Jessica Rothe plays a self-absorbed college student who relives her murder until she gets it right. Her chemistry with Israel Broussard, who helps her escape her time loop, makes the film perfect for a date night.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

The Shape of Water (2017)

Guillermo del Toro’s *The Shape of Water* is a beautifully crafted monster romance, giving the Creature from the Black Lagoon the love story he deserved. A mysterious fish monster (Doug Jones) finds true love with a mute cleaning lady (Sally Hawkins). This film blends fairy tale elements with horror, showcasing del Toro's mastery in storytelling.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Bride Of Chucky

*Bride of Chucky* pays homage to *The Bride of Frankenstein* with Chucky finding love with Tiffany Valentine (Jennifer Tilly). Despite their violent tendencies, Chucky and Tiffany are a perfect match. After Chucky resurrects Tiffany as a living dead girl, they embark on a murderous spree, but also share tender moments. This film proves that even villains deserve love.

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. When Rob starts dating Holly, his deceased girlfriend Nina's corpse intrudes on their intimate moments. This lovestruck horror-comedy delves into the trio's tangled emotions, with stunning cinematography capturing the visceral nature of their connection. It's a poignant look at undying love.

Where to Stream: Tubi

Extra Ordinary

*Extra Ordinary* is an Irish romantic comedy infused with supernatural elements. Ghost whisperer Rose teams up with her crush Martin to save his possessed daughter while helping locals with their ghostly problems. Their budding romance is adorable, set against a backdrop of quirky supernatural antics. With Will Forte's humorous addition, it's a charming film for horror fans celebrating Valentine's Day.

Where to Stream: Hulu

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