Finding great horror movies that are also great love stories can be a challenge, as these genres often pull in opposite directions. Iconic horror films like The Shining are more about tearing loved ones apart than bringing them together, making them less than ideal for a cozy date night. However, horror movies can still be romantic in their own unique ways. Stories of ghostly or demonic romances often carry a tragic yet sincere tone, and even the most terrifying monsters can reveal a heart beneath their fearsome exteriors.
These films are perfect for an unconventional Valentine's Day. So, sit back and get ready to believe in love at first fright!
The Conjuring 2
Can you name a more iconic horror couple than Ed and Lorraine Warren? In the past decade, Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga have portrayed these nun-fearing spouses who bravely confront unholy evils, with their care for each other always at the forefront. In The Conjuring 2, the Warrens travel to London's Enfield borough, but their loving bond remains strong, unaffected by jet lag. Wilson masterfully conveys Ed's panicked faith when Lorraine pushes her abilities to the brink, just as Lorraine is always ready to sacrifice for Ed. Theirs is a modern romance tailored for the haunted house enthusiast, and no crooked men or inverted crucifixes can break their connection. 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 movie about teenagers who spontaneously combust be romantic? Against all odds, Brian Duffield's Spontaneous manages to tug at the heartstrings while its characters face gruesome fates. Katherine Langford and Charlie Plummer play star-crossed lovers finding solace in each other as their classmates randomly explode. Their chemistry is undeniable, making us believe that love can endure even the most harrowing circumstances. Their story is a heartfelt adaptation of Aaron Starmer's young adult novel, tackling life's unpredictability with the sweet sincerity of Langford and Plummer's performances.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Spring
The idea that love can be monstrous isn't new, but Aaron Moorhead and Justin Benson craft a compelling romance between a Lovecraftian entity and a lonely traveler in Spring. Lou Taylor Pucci plays an American in Italy, seeking solace from depression, who falls for a local, Nadia Hilker, who turns out to be a 2,000-year-old shape-shifting mutant. Their love story, woven with delicate backstories, culminates in a pivotal decision: will Hilker's immortal creature give up eternity for a mortal life with Pucci's character? This choice makes Spring the perfect date night film for horror aficionados.
Where to Stream: Tubi
After Midnight
After Midnight is an unconventional creature feature that evolves into a heartfelt exploration of relationships. Jeremy Gardner, who writes, co-directs, and stars, alongside Brea Grant, portrays a couple at a crossroads. While creature effects heighten the tension of midnight attacks, the film primarily revisits the couple's journey from their early, wine-filled romance to their current struggles. Gardner's script delves into fears of abandonment and the power of romantic gestures, from karaoke renditions of Lisa Loeb to confronting mysterious lifeforms with shotguns. It's a warm embrace with a hint of danger.
Where to Stream: Tubi or Hulu
The Mummy (1932)
This horror classic features Boris Karloff as an ancient mummy who revives to reunite with his reincarnated lover, played by Zita Johann. To achieve eternal love, he must mummify and resurrect her. This tragic tale of undying love showcases Karloff in a rare romantic role, and like many Universal Monster movies, it remains impactful and engaging.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Beetlejuice (1988)
Tim Burton's quirky horror comedy, Beetlejuice, might not seem romantic at first glance, especially since the protagonists die early on. However, their death grants the Maitlands (Geena Davis and Alec Baldwin) an eternity together in wedded bliss. Unlike many ghosts haunted by unfinished business, the Maitlands embody the ideal of domestic happiness, making them a romantic beacon even in the afterlife.
Where to Stream: Max
The Addams Family (1991)
While not strictly horror movies, the Addams Family's world is filled with macabre humor and dark themes, making them horror-adjacent. Gomez and Morticia Addams (Raúl Juliá and Anjelica Huston) are a couple whose undying passion for each other remains unwavering, showcasing a love that thrives amidst the bizarre and the sinister.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
The Mummy (1999)
Stephen Sommers' blockbuster reimagining of The Mummy infuses the original's romanticism with witty dialogue and adventurous spirit. Arnold Vosloo's charismatic monster seeks to resurrect his love by sacrificing a librarian (Rachel Weisz), who is just beginning to fall for a charming rogue (Brendan Fraser). The lighter tone and strong chemistry between Weisz and Fraser make for a captivating watch.
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 both a hilarious zombie satire and a touching story about personal growth and romantic redemption. Shaun (Simon Pegg) must earn back the respect of his girlfriend Liz (Kate Ashfield), and it's only during a zombie apocalypse that he manages to do so, making it a unique blend of horror and heartfelt romance.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Cloverfield (2008)
While Cloverfield is often celebrated for its innovative found-footage style, it's also a poignant horror film about discovering what truly matters amid tragedy. As a giant monster wreaks havoc on New York City, Rob (Michael Stahl-David) races towards the danger to save his ex-girlfriend Beth (Odette Yustman), showcasing a harrowing yet romantic journey.
Where to Stream: PlutoTV
Only Lovers Left Alive (2013)
Jim Jarmusch's Only Lovers Left Alive defies the conventional vampire movie, delivering one of the most romantic horror films ever. Tom Hiddleston and Tilda Swinton play centuries-old vampires whose enduring love allows them to find new depths in their conversations, from celebrity encounters to the intricacies of fungi, showcasing a relationship many would envy.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Warm Bodies (2013)
In Warm Bodies, a zombie (Nicholas Hoult) falls for a human (Teresa Palmer), blending horror comedy with a touching romance. The film suggests that love, even in its most unusual forms, can bring hope and redemption to a world in chaos, offering both humor and heartfelt moments.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Pride & Prejudice & Zombies (2016)
Pride & Prejudice & Zombies adds a supernatural twist to Jane Austen's classic, with Elizabeth Bennet (Lily James) and Mr. Darcy (Sam Riley) battling zombies while navigating their tumultuous relationship. The film's strong cast elevates the romance, making it a delightful blend of horror and love story.
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 compelling love story. Jessica Rothe's self-absorbed college student relives her murder day repeatedly until she gets it right, with her chemistry with Israel Broussard adding a romantic layer to the horror comedy, making it perfect for a date night.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
The Shape of Water (2017)
Guillermo del Toro's The Shape of Water offers a romantic subplot to the Creature from the Black Lagoon, as a mute cleaning lady (Sally Hawkins) falls in love with a mysterious fish monster (Doug Jones). This enchanting tale blends horror and fairy-tale elements, showcasing del Toro's skill in crafting both sweet and grim narratives.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Bride of Chucky
Don Mancini's Bride of Chucky pays homage to The Bride of Frankenstein, introducing Jennifer Tilly's Tiffany Valentine as Chucky's perfect match. Despite the anatomical challenges, Chucky resurrects Tiffany after killing her, and the two embark on a murderous rampage while sharing moments of intimacy, proving that even villains can find love.
See our guide to The Chucky movies in order.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Nina Forever
Nina Forever explores the complexities of love through a horror-comedy lens. After losing his girlfriend Nina, Rob starts dating Holly, only to find Nina's undead presence disrupting their intimacy. The film delves into grief and expectations, using striking cinematography to highlight the messiness of undying love.
Where to Stream: Tubi
Extra Ordinary
Extra Ordinary is an endearing Irish romantic comedy with supernatural elements. Ghost whisperer Rose teams up with her crush Martin to tackle paranormal issues while saving his possessed daughter. Their playful flirting amidst ghostly encounters, combined with Will Forte's quirky musical contribution, 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.
