Source: The Xavierite
Everyone knows that Disney has a solid lineup of Halloween classics. Creepy flicks, including “Hocus Pocus,” “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” and “Halloweentown,” have been a large and looming presence in October movie marathons for years. However, there are some less recognized movies, shows, and shorts that you can find on Disney+ to add a breath of fresh life (or in this case, death) to your spooky watchlist.
“The Haunted Mansion” (2003, 2021, 2023)
There are three different movies named after the famous Disney ride, including a Muppet version, which is the most lighthearted. The 2003 movie is a good balance of Eddie Murphy’s comedy and a host of happy haunts. The most recent addition to the Mansion’s movie mythos leans much more into the horror aspect while still having some laughs. After all, how could you not with comedy giants like Danny DeVito and Owen Wilson? The 2003 and 2021 films have been on Disney+ for a while, and the 2023 version will be available for streaming starting on October 4.
“Frankenweenie” (1984, 2012)
Tim Burton’s take on the Frankenstein story has a heartwarming twist. Victor Frankenstein is a young boy scientist who brings his dog Sparky back to life after an unfortunate accident. Whether you are watching the 30 minute live action original or the feature length stop motion movie, you’ll be rooting for a boy, his dog, and their happily ever afterlife.
“The Simpsons Treehouse of Horror” (1990-present)
When Disney obtained 20th Century Fox, they also obtained the massive Simpsons catalog, including the Halloween themed “Treehouse of Horror” episodes. The 34 episodes (as of September 2023) cover all things spooky, scary, and silly. Disney+ currently has a section featuring these episodes in their Halloween collection, so you don’t have to dig through every season of the Simpsons to find them. My personal favorites are the first six installments.
Classic Cartoons
Sometimes you crave a simple, quick Halloween fix, and Disney+ has you covered. You can watch some classics from your childhood starring Mickey, Donald, Goofy, and many more crazy cartoon characters. My favorites are “Trick or Treat” (1952), “Lonesome Ghosts” (1937), and “The Skeleton Dance” (1929). “Trick or Treat” finds Donald Duck on the wrong side of a witch when he tries to trick his nephews. “Lonesome Ghosts” follows Mickey, Donald, and Goofy as they run a ghost extermination service called in to take care of a haunted house. “The Skeleton Dance” is a Silly Symphony short that shows off skeletal dance moves to a spooky score.
Whatever you choose to watch this Halloween season, happy haunts to you!
Written by: Becki Brown