Hello Coliver! This October is packed with exciting recommendations to celebrate the spirit of Halloween. Whether you prefer to be scared by a horror film, enjoy a mystery-filled series, or read a great book with a supernatural twist, here are our most terrifying and captivating selections to enjoy this month.
The Fall of the House of Usher – Netflix
Based on Edgar Allan Poe’s work, The Fall of the House of Usher is a gothic horror miniseries that explores the dark secrets of a powerful and cursed family. With a gloomy setting and unexpected twists, it’s perfect for those who enjoy classic horror mixed with psychological drama. Ideal for Halloween.
Chucky – Peacock
The iconic killer doll returns in this series that blends classic slasher elements with dark humour. Chucky follows the infamous toy as it continues its reign of terror while also exploring its origins and past. With scares, gore, and an entertaining narrative, it’s a series you can’t miss this October.
The Midnight Club – Netflix
Directed by Mike Flanagan (*The Haunting of Hill House*), The Midnight Club follows a group of teenagers in a hospice who meet to tell horror stories. With each tale, the terror comes to life. It’s a perfect mix of psychological horror and supernatural fear.
What We Do in the Shadows – FX
If you prefer something lighter but still within the supernatural realm, What We Do in the Shadows is a comedy series about vampires living in the modern world. In a mockumentary style, this series pokes fun at horror conventions while delivering laughs and absurd situations.
Saw X (2023)
In the tenth instalment of the iconic horror franchise, Saw X brings back Jigsaw in a brutal survival game filled with deadly traps and psychological torture. Perfect for gore-horror fans looking for a terrifying and visceral experience this Halloween.
Talk to Me (2023)
This Australian supernatural thriller has been one of the surprise hits of the year. Talk to Me follows a group of teenagers who discover an embalmed hand that can summon spirits. As they play with supernatural forces, events spiral out of control. A perfect film for those seeking something fresh and spooky.
The Nun II (2023)
The creepy demon nun Valak returns in this sequel to *The Conjuring* series. Set in a terrifying convent, *The Nun II* offers a gothic atmosphere, unexpected scares, and a plot that delves into the battle between good and evil. Ideal for fans of classic Halloween frights.
Renfield (2023)
If you prefer a blend of comedy and horror, Renfield is the perfect choice. This film, starring Nicolas Cage as an eccentric Dracula, offers a humorous take on the life of his loyal servant, Renfield. Full of blood, laughs, and absurd horror, it’s a fun movie to watch in October.
Mexican Gothic – Silvia Moreno-Garcia
A gothic horror story set in Mexico, Mexican Gothic follows a young woman who travels to a remote mansion to investigate her cousin’s situation. What she uncovers are dark secrets, a decaying family, and indescribable horrors. Perfect for those who love classic horror with a cultural twist.
The Haunting of Hill House – Shirley Jackson
A classic of the genre, this novel follows a group of people exploring a haunted house. With an oppressive atmosphere and a plot that plays with the psychology of its characters, The Haunting of Hill House is an essential read for horror fans.
Coraline – Neil Gaiman
Though a young adult novel, Coraline offers a chilling experience with its alternate world and “other mother.” With its dark tone and eerie atmosphere, it’s a story that can scare both children and adults. Perfect for a Halloween night.
The Shining – Stephen King
A Stephen King classic, The Shining follows the story of Jack Torrance as he becomes the caretaker of an isolated hotel with his family. Supernatural events and Jack’s gradual descent into madness make this one of the most terrifying novels ever. A must-read for October.
“Somebody’s Watching Me” – Rockwell
With its catchy rhythm and paranoia-evoking lyrics, this 80s classic is perfect for adding a spooky touch to your Halloween playlist. Ideal for costume parties or creating a mysterious atmosphere.
“Thriller” – Michael Jackson
No Halloween celebration would be complete without this iconic hit. With its funky rhythms and unforgettable final laugh, Thriller is the perfect soundtrack for the season.
“Disturbia”– Rihanna
This pop hit by Rihanna captures the feeling of unease and discomfort, making it perfect for Halloween. With its dark energy and disturbing lyrics, Disturbia is ideal for a themed night.
“Heads Will Roll” – Yeah Yeah Yeahs
With an electrifying beat and eerie lyrics, Heads Will Roll is a great choice for a high-energy Halloween party while keeping the macabre spirit of the season alive.
Pasaje del Terror at Parque de Atracciones de Madrid
If you’re looking for an adrenaline-filled experience, the Pasaje del Terror at Parque de Atracciones is ideal. This walkthrough features terrifying settings, iconic horror film characters, and guaranteed scares. The park also transforms with Halloween decorations and special events throughout October. Perfect for a spooky night out with friends.
Night of Legends and Mysteries in Madrid’s Hidden Corners
Discover the most mysterious side of Madrid with a guided tour that takes you to the city’s most haunted locations and sites full of paranormal stories. From the Casa de las Siete Chimeneas to the *Palacio de Linares*, you’ll hear tales of ghosts, crimes, and hidden secrets in the heart of the capital. Ideal for mystery and history lovers.
Horror Cinema at the Spanish Film Archive
Throughout October, the Spanish Film Archive organises horror film cycles, featuring both classic and contemporary horror. Enjoy movie marathons ranging from 1930s cult classics to the latest genre releases. A perfect option for film buffs looking for a spooky afternoon.
Terror Escape Rooms in Madrid
Madrid offers several themed horror escape rooms that are perfect for Halloween. From confronting spirits in an abandoned hospital to escaping a cursed cabin in the woods, these experiences offer the perfect blend of adrenaline, teamwork, and, of course, scares. The Rombo Code and Fox in a Box are among the top recommended places.
Visit to Almudena Cemetery
For a more solemn and eerie experience, you can take a guided tour of the Almudena Cemetery, the largest in Madrid. Here you can explore impressive mausoleums and learn about the history of some of the city’s most notable figures while soaking in the perfect gothic and melancholic atmosphere for the Halloween season.
Fancy Dress Party in Malasaña
Malasaña is one of Madrid’s most vibrant neighbourhoods, and during Halloween, it’s filled with themed fancy dress parties. The area’s bars and clubs host special events with costume competitions, live music, and spooky decorations. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a night full of fun, music, and, of course, plenty of laughs.
Halloween at Warner Madrid
The Warner Madrid theme park also celebrates Halloween with special decorations and terrifying shows. You can wander through zones filled with zombies, monsters, and nightmare creatures, while also enjoying shows such as La Llorona or The Curse of the Living Dead. It’s an ideal plan if you want to combine the fun of the rides with the thrill of horror.
I hope you enjoy these new recommendations as much as we do!