Finding great horror movies that are also compelling love stories can be a challenge, as these genres often seem to be at odds. Iconic horror films like *The Shining* are terrifying but hardly set the mood for romance. Yet, horror movies can indeed weave romance into their narratives in surprising and poignant ways. Stories of ghostly or demonic beings falling for mortals carry a tragic yet sincere tone, and even the most fearsome monsters can have a heart beneath their terrifying exteriors.
These films offer a unique twist on Valentine's Day viewing, blending love and fright to create unforgettable experiences. Let's explore some of the best horror movies that also celebrate romance:
The Conjuring 2
Ed and Lorraine Warren, portrayed by Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga, are the epitome of a horror power couple. In *The Conjuring 2*, they travel to London's Enfield borough to confront unholy evils, yet their love remains steadfast. Ed's unwavering faith in Lorraine, especially when she pushes her abilities to the edge, and Lorraine's readiness to sacrifice for Ed, make their relationship a beacon of modern romance amid haunted settings. If you're new to the "Conjuring-verse," our guide to watching *The Conjuring* movies in order can help you start your journey.
Where to Stream: Max
Spontaneous
Can a film about teenagers randomly combusting be romantic? *Spontaneous* proves it can. Katherine Langford and Charlie Plummer star as young lovers navigating their relationship amidst the chaos of their peers exploding without warning. Their bond transcends the fear of death, offering a heartfelt exploration of love's resilience in the face of life's unpredictability. This film, based on Aaron Starmer's novel, captures the essence of young love with sincerity and charm.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Spring
*Spring* explores the idea that love can be monstrous yet beautiful. Aaron Moorhead and Justin Benson craft a compelling romance between an American traveler (Lou Taylor Pucci) and a 2,000-year-old shape-shifting entity (Nadia Hilker). Their love story delves into themes of mortality and sacrifice, culminating in a decision that tests the boundaries of their affection. It's a perfect blend of horror and romance, ideal for a date night.
Where to Stream: Tubi
After Midnight
*After Midnight* is a unique creature feature that doubles as a poignant relationship study. Jeremy Gardner and Brea Grant play a couple at a crossroads, with creature attacks serving as a backdrop to their emotional journey. The film traces their romance from its passionate beginnings to its current challenges, exploring themes of abandonment and the power of romantic gestures. It's a warm and heartfelt story with a thrilling twist.
Where to Stream: Tubi or Hulu
The Mummy (1932)
This classic horror film features Boris Karloff as an ancient mummy seeking to reunite with his reincarnated love (Zita Johann). The narrative revolves around the mummy's quest to bring her back to life, blending horror with a tragic tale of immortal love. Karloff's performance as a romantic lead is a standout, making this film a timeless exploration of love and loss.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Beetlejuice (1988)
Tim Burton's *Beetlejuice* might not seem romantic at first, but it offers a unique take on everlasting love. After their untimely deaths, the Maitlands (Geena Davis and Alec Baldwin) find themselves in a ghostly afterlife, yet their love remains strong. Their journey becomes a testament to enduring romance, making them an ideal couple even in death.
Where to Stream: Max
The Addams Family (1991)
While not strictly horror, *The Addams Family* lives in a world where macabre elements are everyday occurrences. Gomez and Morticia Addams, portrayed by Raul Julia and Anjelica Huston, embody a passionate and unwavering love, making them one of the happiest couples in cinematic history. Their enduring affection adds a romantic layer to their delightfully dark world.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
The Mummy (1999)
Stephen Sommers' *The Mummy* reinvents the classic tale with a more adventurous and romantic flair. The chemistry between Rachel Weisz and Brendan Fraser as the librarian and the rogue adventurer adds a lively spark to the film. Their journey, filled with witty banter and daring escapades, elevates the story into a thrilling and romantic 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* blends horror and romance with a satirical edge. Shaun (Simon Pegg) must navigate a zombie apocalypse to prove his worth to his girlfriend, Liz (Kate Ashfield). The film's blend of humor and heartfelt moments showcases Shaun's growth as a person and partner, making it a unique and touching romantic horror.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Cloverfield (2008)
*Cloverfield* is often praised for its innovative found-footage style, but it's also a poignant story of love amidst chaos. As a monster attacks New York, Rob (Michael Stahl-David) risks everything to save his ex-girlfriend, Beth (Odette Yustman). Their journey is harrowing yet deeply romantic, highlighting what truly matters in times of crisis.
Where to Stream: PlutoTV
Only Lovers Left Alive (2013)
Jim Jarmusch's *Only Lovers Left Alive* is a beautifully crafted vampire romance. Tom Hiddleston and Tilda Swinton star as centuries-old vampires whose love has endured through time. Their conversations, ranging from celebrity encounters to the intricacies of nature, showcase a relationship that continues to flourish after hundreds of years.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Warm Bodies (2013)
*Warm Bodies* offers a fresh take on the zombie genre by intertwining it with romance. A zombie (Nicholas Hoult) falls for a human (Teresa Palmer), challenging the boundaries between life and death. Their story is both humorous and touching, suggesting that love can thrive even in the most unlikely circumstances.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Pride & Prejudice & Zombies (2016)
*Pride & Prejudice & Zombies* adds a horror twist to Jane Austen's classic tale. Elizabeth Bennett (Lily James) and Mr. Darcy (Sam Riley) navigate their romance while fighting off zombies. The film's blend of romance and action creates a unique viewing experience, with the strong performances of the cast enhancing the love story.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Happy Death Day (2017)
*Happy Death Day* combines the horror of a slasher film with the time-loop concept of *Groundhog Day*, adding a romantic subplot. Jessica Rothe's character relives the same day, facing her death repeatedly until she solves her predicament. Her chemistry with Israel Broussard adds a romantic layer to the film, making it an engaging choice 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. The film follows a mute cleaning lady (Sally Hawkins) who falls in love with a mysterious fish creature (Doug Jones). Their story is a fairy tale wrapped in horror, exploring themes of love, acceptance, and the beauty found in the unusual.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Bride of Chucky
*Bride of Chucky* brings a romantic twist to the horror genre with the introduction of Tiffany Valentine (Jennifer Tilly), Chucky's long-lost love. Their tumultuous relationship, filled with murder and mayhem, showcases a unique bond between two killers. Their journey, complete with romantic and deadly escapades, adds a quirky yet compelling layer to the *Chucky* series.
See our guide to The Chucky movies in order.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Nina Forever
*Nina Forever* delves into the complexities of love and grief. When Rob's deceased girlfriend, Nina, returns as a corpse during his intimate moments with his new partner, Holly, the film explores the lingering impact of past relationships. The narrative blends horror and romance, tackling themes of loss and the struggle to move forward.
Where to Stream: Tubi
Extra Ordinary
*Extra Ordinary* is a charming Irish horror-comedy that combines romance with supernatural elements. Rose, a ghost whisperer, teams up with her crush, Martin, to tackle paranormal issues while their romance blossoms. Their journey, filled with quirky supernatural encounters and heartfelt moments, makes this film 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.
