Finding great horror movies that are also compelling love stories can be a challenge, as these genres often seem to be at odds with each other. Classic horror films like The Shining are more about tearing loved ones apart than bringing them together, making them less than 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 might carry a tragic tone, but they are frequently heartfelt. Even the most terrifying monsters can have a tender side, if you look closely enough.
These films are perfect for an unconventional Valentine's Day, blending horror with romance to create a unique viewing experience. So, sit back and get ready to believe in love at first fright!
The Conjuring 2
Name a more iconic horror couple than Ed and Lorraine Warren. In the past decade, it's hard to top the dynamic duo portrayed by Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga. As a married couple who battle unholy evils, their deep bond is always at the forefront. In The Conjuring 2, the Warrens travel to London's Enfield borough, yet their strong connection remains unshaken. Wilson masterfully conveys Ed's anxious faith when Lorraine's powers are pushed to dangerous limits, while Lorraine consistently shows her willingness to sacrifice for Ed. Theirs is a modern romance tailored for fans of haunted houses, undeterred by crooked men or inverted crucifixes. 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 who spontaneously combust be romantic? Against all odds, Brian Duffield's Spontaneous manages to pull at the heartstrings even as it splatters blood. Katherine Langford and Charlie Plummer star as star-crossed lovers navigating romance amidst the chaos of their peers randomly exploding. Their relationship showcases the power of love to endure even the most horrific circumstances, with highs that inspire hope and lows that highlight their enduring bond. This adaptation of Aaron Starmer's young adult novel confronts life's unpredictable nature, making it a touching watch thanks to the genuine chemistry between Langford and Plummer.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Spring
The idea that love is a monster may not be new, but Aaron Moorhead and Justin Benson's Spring brings a fresh twist to this theme. The film follows an American, played by Lou Taylor Pucci, who travels to Italy to escape his troubles and falls for a local woman, portrayed by Nadia Hilker. Unbeknownst to him, she is a 2,000-year-old, shape-shifting mutant. Their love story delicately weaves through layers of backstory, culminating in a pivotal choice: will Hilker's character give up immortality for a mortal life with Pucci's? This decision makes Spring an ideal date night film for horror enthusiasts.
Where to Stream: Tubi
After Midnight
After Midnight is far from your typical creature feature. It begins with a man in Florida barricading himself against a mysterious beast, but quickly evolves into a heartfelt exploration of a relationship at a crossroads. Jeremy Gardner, who writes, co-directs, and stars, alongside Brea Grant, takes us through the journey of their romance from its passionate beginnings to its current challenges. While creature effects are crucial during the midnight attacks, the film's heart lies in the couple's journey, confronting fears of abandonment and celebrating the boundless nature of romantic gestures. 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 revived to reunite with his reincarnated lover, played by Zita Johann. To be together eternally, he must mummify and resurrect her. This tale of undying love showcases a rare romantic side of Karloff and remains a compelling watch, much like other Universal Monster movies.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Beetlejuice (1988)
Tim Burton's quirky horror comedy may not seem romantic at first glance, but it offers a unique take on eternal love. After their untimely death, the Maitlands, played by Geena Davis and Alec Baldwin, are granted the gift of spending eternity together in wedded bliss. Unlike many ghosts who linger due to unresolved issues, the Maitlands embody the ideal of domestic happiness, even in the afterlife.
Where to Stream: Max
The Addams Family (1991)
While not strictly horror movies, the Addams Family films are steeped in a world where macabre activities are commonplace. Gomez and Morticia Addams, portrayed as a blissfully happy couple, exemplify enduring passion and love, making them a standout in the realm of horror-adjacent romance.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
The Mummy (1999)
Stephen Sommers' blockbuster remake of The Mummy infuses the original's romanticism with humor and adventure. Arnold Vosloo's charismatic monster seeks to resurrect his love by sacrificing a librarian, played by Rachel Weisz, who is falling for Brendan Fraser's charming rogue. The film's lighter tone and the electric chemistry between Weisz and Fraser make it a standout.
See our guide to the best Brendan Fraser movies.
Where to Stream: Hulu
Shaun of the Dead (2004)
Edgar Wright's satirical take on the zombie apocalypse genre is both a laugh riot and a touching story of personal growth and romance. Shaun, played by Simon Pegg, must prove himself to his girlfriend Liz (Kate Ashfield) amidst a zombie outbreak, ultimately finding his path to becoming a better partner in one chaotic day.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Cloverfield (2008)
While often praised for its found-footage style, Cloverfield also tells a poignant story of love amidst disaster. As a giant monster attacks New York, Rob (Michael Stahl-David) risks everything to save his ex-girlfriend Beth (Odette Yustman), showcasing a deeply romantic and courageous act.
Where to Stream: PlutoTV
Only Lovers Left Alive (2013)
Jim Jarmusch's unique take on the vampire genre is unexpectedly romantic. Tom Hiddleston and Tilda Swinton play centuries-old vampires whose love endures through time, finding endless topics to discuss, from historical figures to the intricacies of nature. Their relationship is a testament to enduring love.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Warm Bodies (2013)
In this quirky horror comedy, a zombie (Nicholas Hoult) falls for a human (Teresa Palmer), blending romance with the undead. The film injects hope into the zombie genre, suggesting that love can overcome even the most dire circumstances, making it both funny and touching.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Pride & Prejudice & Zombies (2016)
This adaptation of Jane Austen's classic adds a thrilling twist with zombies. Elizabeth Bennett (Lily James) and Mr. Darcy (Sam Riley) navigate romance and combat the undead. While the zombie action is entertaining, the strong performances make you wish for more focus on their romantic tension.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Happy Death Day (2017)
This clever horror comedy combines the time-loop concept of Groundhog Day with a slasher twist. Jessica Rothe plays a college student reliving her murder day after day, finding romance and redemption with Israel Broussard's character. Their chemistry makes it a perfect date night film.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
The Shape of Water (2017)
Guillermo del Toro's Oscar-nominated film blends fairy tale romance with horror. A mute cleaning lady (Sally Hawkins) falls in love with a mysterious fish monster (Doug Jones), creating a story that is both sweet and dark. Del Toro masterfully balances romance and horror, making it a standout film.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Bride of Chucky
Don Mancini's Bride of Chucky introduces Tiffany Valentine (Jennifer Tilly), Chucky's ex-fling, who shares his bloodlust. After Chucky kills and resurrects her, the two embark on a killing spree, blending romance with horror. Their tumultuous yet passionate relationship proves that even villains can find love.
See our guide to The Chucky movies in order.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Nina Forever
Love can be complicated, especially when your deceased girlfriend, Nina, haunts your new relationship. In Nina Forever, Rob's new romance with Holly is disrupted by Nina's corpse, leading to a messy and emotional exploration of grief and love. The film's striking visuals and deep themes make it a unique blend of horror and romance.
Where to Stream: Tubi
Extra Ordinary
This Irish romantic comedy blends elements of Paranormal Activity and Ghostbusters into a charming tale. Rose, a ghost whisperer, teams up with her crush Martin to save his possessed daughter, all while navigating their budding romance. Their sweet interactions and the film's light-hearted take on the supernatural make it a delightful watch for horror fans.
Where to Stream: Hulu
Note: This list was updated February 13, 2025 to include additional links.
