Finding great horror movies that are also compelling love stories can be a challenge, as these genres often seem to be at odds. Classic horror films like The Shining are terrifying but hardly ideal for a romantic evening. However, horror movies can indeed be romantic, often in unexpected and poignant ways. Stories of ghostly or demonic love affairs carry a tragic tone yet are deeply sincere. Even the most fearsome monsters can have a heart, if you look closely enough.
For an unconventional Valentine's Day, these films blend horror and romance seamlessly. Get ready to embrace love at first fright!
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 tackle unholy evils, yet their love remains unshaken. Wilson's portrayal of Ed's faith and concern for Lorraine's safety, and her willingness to sacrifice for him, showcases a modern romance perfect for fans of haunted house thrillers. No crooked men or inverted crucifixes can dampen their bond. For those 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? Brian Duffield's Spontaneous proves it can. Katherine Langford and Charlie Plummer star as lovers navigating their relationship amidst classmates randomly exploding. Their chemistry and emotional journey highlight the resilience of love against all odds, making this adaptation of Aaron Starmer's novel a touching and sincere watch.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Spring
Aaron Moorhead and Justin Benson's Spring explores the idea of love as a monstrous force. Lou Taylor Pucci's character, an American in Italy, falls for Nadia Hilker's 2,000-year-old shape-shifting mutant. Their love story, woven with rich backstory, culminates in a pivotal choice: will Hilker's character give up immortality for a mortal life with Pucci's? This makes Spring an ideal date night film for horror enthusiasts.
Where to Stream: Tubi
After Midnight
After Midnight is an unconventional creature feature that delves into the heart of a relationship. Jeremy Gardner and Brea Grant star as partners at a crossroads, with creature effects enhancing the midnight attack sequences. The film retraces their journey from early romance to current challenges, exploring themes of abandonment and the power of romantic gestures. It's a warm embrace with a hint of danger.
Where to Stream: Tubi or Hulu
The Mummy (1932)
This classic horror film features Boris Karloff as an ancient mummy seeking his reincarnated lover, played by Zita Johann. Their tragic tale of immortal love showcases Karloff's rare romantic performance, making it a timeless piece that still resonates today.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Beetlejuice (1988)
Tim Burton's Beetlejuice may not seem romantic at first, 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, embodying the ultimate happily ever after.
Where to Stream: Max
The Addams Family (1991)
While not strictly a horror movie, The Addams Family thrives in a world where dark themes are everyday occurrences. Gomez and Morticia Addams (Raul Julia and Anjelica Huston) exemplify a passionate and enduring love, making them one of the happiest couples in cinema.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
The Mummy (1999)
Stephen Sommers' The Mummy adds a lively twist to the original's romanticism with witty banter and action. Arnold Vosloo's alluring monster seeks to resurrect his love, while Rachel Weisz and Brendan Fraser's characters develop a charming chemistry. For more on Brendan Fraser, see our guide to his best movies.
Where to Stream: Hulu
Shaun of the Dead (2004)
Edgar Wright's Shaun of the Dead is a comedic take on the zombie apocalypse, but it's also a heartfelt story of personal growth and romance. Shaun (Simon Pegg) must prove himself to his girlfriend Liz (Kate Ashfield) amidst a zombie outbreak, making for a hilarious yet touching narrative.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Cloverfield (2008)
Cloverfield is known for its found-footage style, but it's also a poignant horror story about discovering what truly matters. Amidst a giant monster attack on New York, Rob (Michael Stahl-David) risks everything to save his ex-girlfriend Beth (Odette Yustman), showcasing a bittersweet romance.
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 joy in their shared experiences and conversations.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Warm Bodies (2013)
Warm Bodies blends horror and romance as a zombie (Nicholas Hoult) falls for a human (Teresa Palmer). This film injects optimism into the zombie genre and adds a touch of humor to the rom-com, suggesting that love can indeed save the world.
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 it a delightful blend of romance and action.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Happy Death Day (2017)
Happy Death Day combines the slasher genre with a Groundhog Day-like loop, featuring a love story at its core. Jessica Rothe's character relives her murder until she gets it right, with her chemistry with Israel Broussard adding a romantic touch to the horror comedy.
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. Sally Hawkins' mute cleaning lady falls in love with a mysterious fish monster (Doug Jones), creating a romantic subplot that's both sweet and grim.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Bride of Chucky
Don Mancini's Bride of Chucky introduces Jennifer Tilly's Tiffany Valentine, Chucky's perfect match in crime and romance. Despite their lethal nature, their relationship showcases that even slasher villains can find love. For more on the series, 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 as Rob's new relationship with Holly is haunted by his deceased girlfriend, Nina. The film blends horror and comedy to delve into the emotional turmoil of moving on, making it a unique take on undying love.
Where to Stream: Tubi
Extra Ordinary
Extra Ordinary is a charming Irish romantic comedy with a supernatural twist. Rose, a ghost whisperer, teams up with her crush Martin to tackle paranormal issues, all while their budding romance blossoms amidst ghostly antics. It's a delightful blend of horror and romance perfect for Valentine's Day.
Where to Stream: Hulu
Note: This list was updated on February 13, 2025, to include additional streaming links.
