"Top Romantic Horror Films for Valentine's Day"

It's challenging to find horror movies that are also compelling love stories, as these genres often seem to be at odds. Many iconic horror films focus on tearing apart relationships, both emotionally and physically. Take *The Shining*, for instance; it's undoubtedly terrifying, but it's hardly the ideal movie for a romantic date night.

However, horror movies can indeed be romantic, albeit in unexpected ways. Stories of ghosts and demons falling in love with mortals often carry a tragic tone, yet they are profoundly sincere. Even the most fearsome monsters can have a heart if you look closely enough—provided you're not too busy trying to stake them.

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, these nun-fearing spouses battle unholy evils while maintaining a deep bond. In The Conjuring 2, the Warrens travel to London's Enfield borough, yet their love 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 tailored for the haunted house aficionado, 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 who spontaneously combust be romantic? Surprisingly, Brian Duffield's Spontaneous manages to pull at your heartstrings while depicting the gruesome fate of its characters. Katherine Langford and Charlie Plummer star as star-crossed lovers seeking solace amidst their classmates' random explosions. Their chemistry is palpable, making us believe that love can endure even the most dire circumstances. The film, an adaptation of Aaron Starmer's young adult novel, confronts life's unpredictability with a sweet sincerity, thanks to the heartfelt 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 romance between a Lovecraftian entity and a grieving vacationer. Lou Taylor Pucci plays an American in Italy who falls for Nadia Hilker's 2,000-year-old, shape-shifting mutant. Their love story, woven with intricate backstory, culminates in a pivotal decision: will Hilker's immortal character give up her eternal life for Pucci's mortal one? This choice makes Spring the perfect date night movie for horror enthusiasts.

Where to Stream: Tubi

After Midnight

After Midnight is anything but a typical creature feature. It begins with a Floridian recluse barricading himself against a mysterious beast, but soon evolves into a poignant exploration of a relationship at a crossroads. Jeremy Gardner, who writes, co-directs, and stars alongside Brea Grant, takes us through the journey of their romance, from the early days of cheap red wine to the present uncertainties. 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 horror classic features Boris Karloff as an ancient mummy revived to reunite with his reincarnated lover, played by Zita Johann. To achieve eternal union, he must mummify and resurrect her. This tragic tale of undying love showcases a rare romantic side of Karloff and remains a timeless piece of cinema.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Beetlejuice (1988)

Tim Burton's quirky horror comedy Beetlejuice might not seem romantic at first glance, but it offers a unique take on eternal love. After their untimely death, the Maitlands (Geena Davis and Alec Baldwin) are granted the gift of spending eternity together in wedded bliss. Unlike many ghosts, they find happiness in their afterlife, embodying the ultimate romantic ideal.

Where to Stream: Max

The Addams Family (1991)

While not strictly horror, the Addams Family's world is filled with macabre elements, making them "horror adjacent." Gomez and Morticia Addams (Raul Julia and Anjelica Huston) are the epitome of a devoted couple, their passion undiminished by time or circumstance.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

The Mummy (1999)

Stephen Sommers' The Mummy reimagines the original's romanticism with added humor and adventure. Arnold Vosloo's charismatic monster seeks to resurrect his love by sacrificing a librarian (Rachel Weisz), who is falling for Brendan Fraser's charming rogue. The film's lighter tone and the electric 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, but it's also a touching story of personal growth and romance. Shaun (Simon Pegg) must prove himself to his girlfriend Liz (Kate Ashfield) during a zombie apocalypse, turning a day of horror into one of growth and love.

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. As a giant monster attacks New York, Rob (Michael Stahl-David) risks everything to save his ex-girlfriend Beth (Odette Yustman), showcasing a deeply romantic and harrowing 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 play centuries-old vampires whose love endures, finding endless topics to discuss, from historical figures to the intricacies of nature.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Warm Bodies (2013)

In *Warm Bodies*, a zombie (Nicholas Hoult) falls for a human (Teresa Palmer), blending horror and romance in a unique way. Jonathan Levine's film injects humor and hope into the zombie genre, suggesting that even the most unusual love can bring about change.

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) battling zombies while navigating their romance. The film's strong cast makes you wish for more focus on their love story amidst the undead chaos.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Happy Death Day (2017)

*Happy Death Day* combines the slasher genre with a *Groundhog Day*-like time loop, featuring a love story at its core. Jessica Rothe plays a college student reliving her murder day after day, with Israel Broussard as her potential savior. Their chemistry makes this horror comedy a great choice for date night.

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. A mute cleaning lady (Sally Hawkins) falls in love with a mysterious fish monster (Doug Jones), showcasing the power of love in a fantastical setting.

Where to Stream: Prime Video

Bride of Chucky

In Bride of Chucky, Don Mancini pays homage to The Bride of Frankenstein. Chucky (Brad Dourif) finds love with Tiffany Valentine (Jennifer Tilly), a match made in slasher heaven. Despite their murderous tendencies, their relationship is filled with passion and humor, proving 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's new girlfriend Holly is haunted by his deceased ex, Nina, during intimate moments, the trio must navigate their tangled emotions. The film blends horror and comedy to delve into themes of loss and undying love.

Where to Stream: Tubi

Extra Ordinary

Extra Ordinary is an Irish romantic comedy with a supernatural twist. Ghost whisperer Rose teams up with her crush Martin to save his possessed daughter, all while helping locals with their ghostly problems. Their budding romance, set against a backdrop of paranormal antics, makes this film 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.