Halloween is here, but not everyone longs for the scares that come with it. Or, even if you do like the spookier parts of fall, sometimes you may want something less spine-chilling. 

The following suggestions range from campy comedies to noir superhero films. Enjoy this season with some terrific movies. 

“Hocus Pocus”

This Disney classic sees teenagers Max and Allison, accompanied by Max’s sister Dani, awaken long-dead witches in Salem, Massachusetts. The movie’s director is Kenny Ortega, a Disney veteran behind “High School Musical” and “Descendants.” If you want to enjoy a cozy classic Disney romp, Hocus Pocus is for you.

“Hocus Pocus” can be watched on Disney+ with a subscription or rented from most digital movie retailers.

“Scary Movie”

I will admit, “Scary Movie” has not aged very well. Despite this, I still think this movie is extremely funny. The comedy follows Cindy and her friends being haunted by a killer in a whodunnit spoof of “Scream.” The movie was released in 2000, which is very apparent. The references are very of the time, but in a way that I feel makes this movie endearing. This Wayans brothers comedy may not be for everyone, but I recommend giving it a shot.

“Scary Movie” can be watched on Paramount+ with a subscription or rented from most digital movie retailers.

“Scooby-Doo” (2002)

Campy and fun, 2002’s live-action “Scooby Doo” brings some all-time performances from its cast. The movie sees Mystery Incorporated getting back together after their separation two years previously. This movie is an absolute classic, one made by its all-time cast and crew. Matthew Lillard, Freddie Prinze Jr. and Sarah Michelle Geller are true standout castings for their roles. The movie was written by James Gunn, who directed the “Guardians of the Galaxy” trilogy. If you haven’t already, watch “Scooby Doo” as soon as you can.

“Scooby Doo” can be watched on Max with a subscription or rented from most digital movie retailers.

“Paranorman”

Often overshadowed by visually similar movies like “Coraline” and “Nightmare Before Christmas,” 2012’s “Paranorman” deserves its spot in the limelight. The movie follows outcast Norman, who can talk to the dead, trying to stop a centuries-old curse on his town. The movie is a cute homage to horror classics like “Night of the Living Dead” and “Halloween” that stands out against other animated movies. With a killer voice cast that includes John Goodman and Anna Kendrick, “Paranorman” is a terrific film to sit with this October.

“Paranorman” can be watched on Prime Video with a subscription or rented from most digital movie retailers.

“Knives Out”

Murder mysteries are an amazing genre to watch in the fall, and “Knives Out” is a great one to pick. With an insanely star-studded cast, this film stays interesting and funny. Ana de Armas, Jamie Lee Curtis, Daniel Craig, Chris Evans and the whole cast give amazing performances, but Michael Shannon is the secret star. He never gives up a chance to make the small jokes that make the movie feel so full, but not over stuffed. Don’t pass up this clever mystery if you have the chance to watch it. And, if you enjoy it, there’s a sequel that is also spectacular.

“Knives Out” can be watched on Philo with a subscription, The Roku Channel for free or rented from most digital movie retailers.

“The Batman”

Okay, listen, this is one of my favorite movies of all time and made me love movies more than I already did. I cannot be unbiased in recommending this movie so highly. While it is long, “The Batman” earns its length with beautiful cinematography, amazing performances and well-done action set pieces. Matt Reeves is a truly visionary director who leads a cast that elevates the movie beyond its existing beauty. Whether you have or you haven’t watched “The Batman” before, watch it this fall.

“The Batman” can be watched on Max with a subscription or rented from most digital movie retailers.

“Coco”

This season is not just home to Halloween, but also Dia de los Muertos. Pixar’s “Coco” is a beautiful journey about the love of music and celebration of heritage. With beautiful animation and writing, “Coco” deserves a watch this fall, whether it be for the first time or not.

“Coco” can be watched on Disney+ or Hulu with a subscription or rented from most digital movie retailers.

“The Rocky Horror Picture Show”

“The Rocky Horror Picture Show” is a wholly unique movie that is unlike any other; a true romp that revels in queer culture and humor. As Janet and Brad drive to their honeymoon, their car breaks down in front of a castle. The couple goes to the castle to use the phone, where they meet Dr. Frank-N-Furter and his gang of misfits. Rocky Horror is a funny and campy cult classic that will be shown this Halloween at the Capitol for free. I’ll be there and so should you.

“The Rocky Horror Picture Show” can be watched on Hulu with a subscription or rented from most digital movie retailers.

News Reporter Malone Farmer can be reached at [email protected].