Top 14 Horror Films Perfect for Couples

The Conjuring draws inspiration from the lives of Ed and Lorraine Warren, whose marriage exemplifies building a partnership through shared passions. For the real Warrens, this passion was either paranormal investigation or profiting from the gullible, depending on your perspective. However, the film portrays them as deeply committed to each other and unwavering in their belief in the supernatural. Additionally, The Conjuring features gripping horror scenes that will have your partner clinging to you in fear.

Streaming on: HBO Max

Horror films have often been criticized for their sexist undertones, which can deter many potential viewers. However, The Woman flips the script on the genre’s traditionally misogynistic themes. The film tells the story of a “civilized” man imprisoning a wild woman in his basement, portraying systemic cruelty and oppression as the true evils rather than non-conforming women. It’s a bold feminist statement that dismantles patriarchal structures in a visceral and unforgettable way.

Streaming on: Prime Video

Cabin in the Woods is an ideal pick for couples where one partner loves horror and the other doesn’t. Its clever humor and self-aware storytelling make it accessible for those who aren’t fans of scares, while its nods to horror tropes and genre in-jokes will satisfy even the most dedicated horror enthusiasts.

Paid rental only.

For a horror film that showcases a balanced dynamic in a male-female relationship, look no further than Rosemary’s Baby

. While the plot revolves around Rosemary’s charming yet sinister husband and his manipulative behavior, the elderly satanist couple, Minnie and Roman Castevet, steal the show as horror’s most progressive pair. They work as equals in their long-term mission, with Minnie wielding as much—if not more—power as her husband in their quest to bring chaos to humanity.

Streaming on: Fubo, Showtime, DirecTV

This Swedish vampire masterpiece is arguably the greatest horror film about romance ever created. Oskar, a lonely 12-year-old boy who endures constant bullying, finds solace in Eli, a centuries-old vampire disguised as a teenage girl. She offers him confidence and friendship, but only if he assists her in finding new prey. While their bond may seem exploitative, it’s a poignant reminder that love can take many unexpected forms.

Streaming on: Prime Video

If you and your partner are contemplating suburban life and starting a family, Vivarium is a must-watch. This underrated indie film follows a young couple who visit a sterile suburban neighborhood to view a “starter home” and find themselves trapped. Their situation worsens when a mysterious child appears, demanding their care and attention, completing their nightmarish confinement.

Streaming on: Prime Video, DirecTV

While I acknowledge that some people aren’t fans of horror movies—though I can’t quite grasp why—films like The House are perfect for them. This anthology features three stop-motion tales centered around a haunted house, exuding an eerie, unsettling vibe without relying on jump scares, gore, or violence. It’s all about the atmosphere, offering a chilling experience without the typical horror tropes, yet it remains deeply satisfying.

Streaming on: Netflix

If parenthood is on your mind, The Babadook is a must-watch. It delves into the fears and challenges of raising a child like few films have. The protagonist struggles with her own mental stability while caring for a child with severe emotional issues. The film uses the Babadook as a metaphor for the overwhelming weight of mental illness, loneliness, and grief—terrifying enough on its own, but even more so when it affects your child.

Streaming on: AMC+

While there’s no explicit nudity, The Love Witch is a visual feast for couples who appreciate artistic creativity—its stunning aesthetics make it feel almost surreal. The film follows a witch whose spells for love and desire spiral out of control, but the true star is the meticulously crafted 1960s-inspired production design. The larger-than-life characters exude a sophisticated allure, but it’s the impeccable shot composition and attention to detail that truly captivate and set the mood.

Streaming on: Fubo, Peacock, AMC+, Vudu, Tubi, Kanopy, Redbox, Shudder

The Hunger stands as the ultimate sexy vampire film. Starring Catherine Deneuve, Susan Sarandon, and David Bowie, it weaves a tale of love, lust, and betrayal among decadent 1980s vampires and their prey. The film exudes the icy sophistication of its era, highlighted by a memorable love scene between Deneuve and Sarandon that Roger Ebert famously praised as the movie’s standout moment.

Streaming On: HBO Max

This unique film follows two deeply flawed individuals who isolate themselves in a remote house to perform a grueling, months-long occult ritual. To achieve their goal, they must confront their darkest secrets, endure betrayals, and learn to trust each other despite their flaws. It’s a powerful metaphor for the challenges and complexities of relationships.

Streaming on: AMC+, DirecTV

If you and your partner prefer more sophisticated horror, Cat People is a perfect choice. The film’s premise—Irena, a mysterious Serbian woman, appears to transform into a lethal black panther when sexually aroused—was groundbreaking for its time and is executed with subtlety and finesse. Rather than relying on overt visuals, Cat People emphasizes atmosphere and psychological tension, making it a timeless classic.

Streaming on: HBO Max

Despite flying under the radar in 2015, Final Girls is a hidden gem that surpasses expectations. Much like Cabin in the Woods, it’s less a traditional horror film and more a clever blend of horror and comedy that critiques the genre. The plot—modern teens trapped in a 1970s slasher movie—sounds gimmicky, but the film delivers unexpected twists, genuine scares, and heartfelt moments that might even bring you to tears.

Paid rental only.

If you and your partner are contemplating the end of your relationship, Midsommar is an ideal film to watch together. The central couple in the story is deeply dysfunctional, with Dani clinging to a toxic relationship out of fear of loneliness. However, after encountering a pagan cult and witnessing harrowing events, she transitions from dependence to liberation. The path isn’t smooth, but as the saying goes, you can’t achieve something meaningful without facing a few challenges.

Streaming on: Showtime, Kanopy, DirecTV