Unconventional Valentine's Day: Horror Movies That Are Also Love Stories
Finding a great horror movie that's also a great love story is a challenge, as the two genres often seem diametrically opposed. Many classic horror films focus on the destruction of relationships, both literally and figuratively. However, that doesn't mean romance can't thrive in the horror realm; it just takes unexpected forms. Tales of supernatural beings falling for mortals often possess a tragic beauty, revealing the heart even within the most terrifying monsters.
This Valentine's Day, consider these films that offer a unique blend of fright and romance:
The Conjuring 2
Ed and Lorraine Warren, portrayed by Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga, are an iconic horror couple. Their unwavering devotion to each other shines even amidst their battles against demonic forces. Their love story is a modern romance with a haunted house twist, proving their bond is stronger than any supernatural threat.
Where to Stream: Max
Spontaneous
This surprisingly romantic film follows teenagers facing spontaneous human combustion. Katherine Langford and Charlie Plummer portray doomed lovers finding solace in each other amidst the chaos. Their connection transcends the horrific circumstances, creating a poignant and enduring love story.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Spring
Love as a monster? Aaron Moorhead and Justin Benson masterfully explore this theme. Lou Taylor Pucci's character falls for Nadia Hilker's 2,000-year-old shape-shifting mutant. Their unlikely romance culminates in a profound choice: immortality or a mortal life together.
Where to Stream: Tubi
After Midnight
This creature feature transcends typical monster movie tropes. Jeremy Gardner and Brea Grant portray a couple facing personal and monstrous challenges. The film is a heartfelt exploration of love, fear of abandonment, and the extraordinary lengths people go to for each other.
Where to Stream: Tubi or Hulu
The Mummy (1932)
Boris Karloff stars as a resurrected mummy seeking his reincarnated lover (Zita Johann). Their tragic tale of immortal love showcases Karloff's rare romantic performance and remains a captivating classic.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Beetlejuice (1988)
Tim Burton's quirky horror comedy offers a unique take on romance. The Maitlands (Geena Davis and Alec Baldwin), after death, are granted an eternity together, representing a happily ever after even beyond the grave.
Where to Stream: Max
The Addams Family (1991)
While not strictly horror, the Addams Family's world of macabre humor makes them "horror adjacent." Gomez and Morticia Addams exemplify enduring passion and unwavering love.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
The Mummy (1999)
This blockbuster remake adds witty banter and action to the original's romantic elements. Rachel Weisz and Brendan Fraser's chemistry shines as their characters navigate danger and burgeoning romance.
Where to Stream: Hulu
Shaun of the Dead (2004)
Edgar Wright's zombie satire is a hilarious yet heartfelt story about personal growth and strengthening romantic bonds. Shaun (Simon Pegg) must earn his girlfriend's respect amidst a zombie apocalypse.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Cloverfield (2008)
Beyond its found-footage kaiju premise, Cloverfield explores a young man's rediscovery of what matters most during a catastrophic event. His determination to save his ex-girlfriend adds a layer of poignant romance.
Where to Stream: PlutoTV
Only Lovers Left Alive (2013)
Jim Jarmusch's unique vampire film showcases a centuries-long romance between Tom Hiddleston and Tilda Swinton's immortal characters. Their enduring connection and intellectual conversations highlight a truly exceptional love.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Warm Bodies (2013)
A zombie falling for a human? Jonathan Levine's horror-comedy subverts both genres. The unlikely romance offers a message of hope and the redemptive power of love.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Pride & Prejudice & Zombies (2016)
This adaptation adds zombies to Jane Austen's classic, but the core remains the captivating romance between Elizabeth Bennett (Lily James) and Mr. Darcy (Sam Riley).
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Happy Death Day (2017)
A Groundhog Day-style slasher with a romantic twist. Jessica Rothe's character relives her murder repeatedly, developing an unexpected connection with Israel Broussard's character.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
The Shape of Water (2017)
Guillermo del Toro's Oscar-nominated film delivers a fairy tale-like monster romance. A mute cleaning lady (Sally Hawkins) falls for a mysterious amphibian creature (Doug Jones).
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Bride of Chucky
Chucky finds love with Tiffany Valentine (Jennifer Tilly), a killer doll and human pairing that proves even slasher villains deserve love. Their chaotic relationship is both thrilling and darkly humorous.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Nina Forever
This horror-comedy explores a complex love triangle involving a living couple and the undead ex-girlfriend. The film tackles grief, expectations, and the complications of undying love.
Where to Stream: Tubi
Extra Ordinary
This Irish romantic comedy blends paranormal activity with adorable romance. A ghost whisperer (Rose) and her crush (Martin) team up to save his daughter, their relationship blossoming amidst supernatural chaos.
Where to Stream: Hulu
Note: This list was updated February 13, 2025 to include additional links.
