Best Valentine's Day Horror Movies to Watch

Horror aficionados know their beloved genre doesn’t confine its chills and thrills to Halloween alone; it’s a year-round celebration of the macabre, the eerie, and the downright spooky. Indeed, horror films have a long-standing tradition of embracing holiday cheer with a sinister twist, offering up festive frights in films like Black Christmas, the clownish carnage of Terrifier 3, and the yuletide terror of Krampus. Valentine’s Day is no exception to this rule, serving as the perfect backdrop for tales of heartbreak, obsession, and the occasional arrow through the heart—courtesy of Cupid’s less benevolent twin. So, if you’re ready to swap out roses for riddles and chocolates for chills, join us as we dive into a list of Valentine’s Day horror movies sure to make your heart beat faster.

Heart Eyes (2025)

Just in time for the Hallmark holiday, this new horror-comedy release follows a serial killer who targets couples, dubbed “Heart Eyes” . His latest target are Ally and Jay who are made to collaborate on a marketing design when a previous one garners controversy. Their budding romance soon brings Heart Eyes right to them for a bloody, heartfelt flick.

An easy way to get the look for a night out at the movies is with some Heart Stickers and Pasties. Maybe cut some holes in them so you’re able to actually watch the movie.

My Bloody Valentine (1981)

Set in the small mining town of Valentine Bluffs, the movie revolves around a Valentine’s Day dance that reignites a tragic event from the town’s past. Twenty years earlier, an accident at the local mine trapped and killed several miners due to the negligence of supervisors who left early to attend the dance. The sole survivor, Harry Warden, went mad and later murdered the supervisors, vowing further carnage should the town ever hold another Valentine’s Day dance.

My Bloody Valentine is a classic in the genre, and its sequel/remake would be one of the few good ones to come out of the 2000’s.

My Bloody Valentine 3D (2009)

The remake revitalizes the original 1981 slasher classic with a modern twist and the added spectacle of 3D technology, something that was all the hype then after Avatar became the highest grossing film of all time. This version of the film is set in the mining town of Harmony, where a tragic mining accident caused by Tom Hanniger’s negligence results in several deaths and the awakening of a vengeful killer, Harry Warden. Ten years later, Tom returns to Harmony, only to find himself suspected as the townsfolk are picked off by a miner-clad murderer.

Directed by Patrick Lussier (Dracula 2000), this film leverages Lussier’s experience with genre conventions to deliver high-intensity scares and gory effects to make full use of the 3D format.

Easy way to pull this look together is with a Gas Mask and a Fake Pick Axe Prop Weapon. Or you could get the whole look damn near perfect with this World War Post Apocalyptic Soldier Adult Rental Costume.

The Silence of the Lambs (1991)

With horror back in the spotlight this Oscar season, its worth mentioning the last big picture to make some noise at the Academy Awards. FBI trainee Clarice Starling seeks to apprehend a serial killer known as Buffalo Bill, who skins his female victims. To catch him, Clarice must solicit the help of imprisoned cannibalistic serial killer, Dr. Hannibal Lecter, whose razor-sharp intellect and manipulative tactics add a chilling depth to the narrative.

Directed by the late, great Jonathan Demme, The Silence of the Lambs is ideal for horror enthusiasts, exploring love and sacrifice through the lens of its intense, eerie storyline. Clarice’s interactions with Lecter are charged with a peculiar tension bordering on a twisted form of intimacy, providing a compelling, dark counter-narrative to the typical Valentine’s Day romance.

The movie’s critical acclaim, including winning the “Big Five” Academy Awards, and its status as a cultural touchstone in horror, make it a perfect pick for some who like their horror more based in real life.

Need some liver to go with your fava beans and a nice Chianti? Check out our Gore Props and Body Parts Props for all your, uhm, fine dining needs.

Hannibal (2001)

Set ten years after his escape, the film follows Lecter now living in Florence, Italy, under a new identity. Clarice Starling, still haunted by her past interactions with Lecter, is manipulated back into the pursuit as new horrors unfold and old adversaries resurface.

Directed by Ridley Scott, known for his visionary work in films like Alien and Blade Runner, Hannibal showcases Scott’s flair for combining stunning visuals with deep, dark narrative elements.

Hannibal goes much further into the strange relationship between Lecter and Starling, weaving a tale of obsession, power, and eerily twisted affection, making it a compelling, if unconventional, narrative for those looking for an alternative to traditional Valentine’s Day themes. Chow down on some well cooked brain bits if you need a snack to watch with this one.

Bram Stoker’s Dracula (1992)

Bram Stoker’s Dracula, directed by Francis Ford Coppola, is a lush and visually stunning adaptation of the classic novel. The film tells the story of Count Dracula, who travels from Transylvania to London, inspired by a photograph of Mina Murray, the fiancée of young solicitor, Jonathan Harker. Dracula believes Mina to be the reincarnation of his long-lost love. As Dracula pursues Mina in England, he leaves a trail of chaos, horror, and bloodshed.

Coppola’s adaptation stands out for its emphasis on romance and tragedy, intertwined with the Gothic horror elements faithful to Stoker’s narrative. The film is noted for its innovative practical effects, opulent costume design, and a haunting score. No better way to celebrate V-Day than watching a blood sucking stalker who won’t leave your girl alone.

Gary Oldman’s portrayal of the Count has many looks, some luxurious, some monstrous. But you won’t get either without the essentials, like some Vampire Colored Contact Lenses and some Fake Vampire Fangs.

Warm Bodies (2013)

Warm Bodies offers a unique twist on the traditional horror genre by blending zombie apocalypse elements with romantic comedy. The film centers on R, a zombie who becomes involved with Julie, a human survivor, after he saves her from a zombie attack. As their relationship develops, R begins to show signs of regaining his humanity, setting off a chain of events that could transform the entire lifeless world.

A lovely gem of the 2010’s in the wake of horror comedy becoming more popular with films like Shaun of the Dead, The Cabin in the Woods, and Zombieland, Warm Bodies counts itself among the list to warm even the coldest of hearts this holiday.

While this version of a zombie isn’t nearly as gory as we’ve come to expect from the genre, you’ll at least want some Fake Scar SFX Makeup to look a little less alive.

Bones and All (2022)

Cannibal cinema has a new heartthrob with Timothée Chalamet and Taylor Russell. Maren, a young woman grappling with her unsettling urge to consume human flesh meets Lee, a drifter with similar appetites, and together they embark on a journey across the American Midwest, seeking answers and acceptance while wrestling with their macabre desires.

For Valentine’s Day, Bones and All will work up your appetite. Maybe just stick to chocolate, though.

Seems like an obvious one, but the main component here is blood & bones, right? So, look no further than all our Fake Blood quantities and varieties.

Crimson Peak (2015)

Taking place in the early 20th century and centering on Edith Cushing, an aspiring author who falls in love with the charming yet mysterious Sir Thomas Sharpe, a tragic event sees Edith moving to Crimson Peak, Thomas’s dilapidated mansion in England, only to discover it harbors ghostly secrets.

Del Toro’s craftsmanship shines in Crimson Peak, with its elaborate costumes and the hauntingly beautiful, yet eerie mansion serving as the film’s centerpiece. The narrative mixes elements of classic gothic literature with horror, and its story of love intertwined with betrayal and the supernatural make it a captivating watch for a couple’s night in.

You can get the gothic look all for yourself with our selection of Victorian Costumes.

Strange Darling (2023)

This one we have to be careful what we say here, lest we spoil anything. But Strange Darling was a recent standout film in the genre, following a serial killer involved in a masochistic relationship, and surprisingly, things don’t end with a bouquet of roses. But what is surprising is just how effective the storytelling is, especially given its told out of chronological order, keeping us guessing as to where things are going, where things started, and where it all went wrong. Perhaps not the best couple’s watch, but for any single people this holiday, this might just make you feel a lot better about not having to worry about having a crazy partner.

Only Lovers Left Alive (2013)

Only Lovers Left Alive is a distinctively stylish and contemplative take on the vampire genre by director Jim Jarmusch. The film revolves around Adam and Eve, two centuries-old vampires who reunite in the desolate city of Detroit. Adam, a reclusive musician disillusioned with human society, and Eve, a vibrant and philosophical being, find solace in each other’s company as they face the modern world’s challenges.

Jarmusch crafts a moody, atmospheric film that delves into themes of love, existential dread, and the passing of time, all wrapped in a beautifully languid package. The film stands out in the vampire genre for its focus on the introspective and intimate aspects of immortal life rather than traditional horror elements. Tom Hiddleston and Tilda Swinton deliver profound performances, bringing depth and authenticity to their roles as sophisticated, cultured vampires who are more concerned with art and literature than with preying on humans.

An American Werewolf in London (1981)

An American Werewolf in London is a landmark film in the horror-comedy genre, directed by John Landis. This film tells the story of two American backpackers, David and Jack, who are attacked by a werewolf while traveling through the English countryside. Jack is killed, while David survives only to discover he’s becoming a werewolf himself. As he grapples with his fate, David is haunted by nightmarish visions and the ghost of his deceased friend, warning him of the curse.

The romantic subplot between David and a young nurse named Alex adds a touch of tenderness to the otherwise gruesome narrative, making it a fitting choice for those who enjoy a love story with a twist. The film is especially noted for its groundbreaking makeup effects by Rick Baker, which won the first-ever Academy Award for Best Makeup, setting a high standard for creature effects in cinema.

Getting this look might take more than a few helping hands, just like the makeup team. But you can always go the quicker route and get a Werewolf Latex Mask, and leave the howling to the real wolves.

Corpse Bride (2005)

Corpse Bride, directed by Tim Burton, known for his gothic and whimsical style in films like Edward Scissorhands and The Nightmare Before Christmas, offers a beautifully melancholic and animated exploration of love and death. The film follows Victor Van Dort, a young man who accidentally proposes to a deceased bride named Emily while practicing his wedding vows in the forest. As Victor is whisked away to the Land of the Dead, he navigates a complex situation between his commitment to Emily and his feelings for his living fiancée, Victoria.

Tim Burton’s distinctive visual style shines in Corpse Bride, utilizing stop-motion animation to create a poignant, gothic fairy tale both eerie and endearing. The film is filled with Burton’s trademark dark humor and a visually stunning design contrasting the drab world of the living with the more vibrant and lively world of the dead.

Sleepy Hollow (1999)

Tim Burton finds himself on our list again with this adaptation of the classic Washington Irving folk tale. The film follows Ichabod Crane, an eccentric and forward-thinking constable from New York City, who is sent to the eerie town of Sleepy Hollow to investigate a series of mysterious deaths caused by a seemingly supernatural murderer, the Headless Horseman.

Full of dark, moody visuals when having grey in your movie actually looked vibrant and not washed out and void of color, the film stars Johnny Depp as Crane, who brings a quirky vulnerability to the character, and Christina Ricci, who portrays Katrina Van Tassel, adding a romantic and mysterious charm to the story.

Something about a headless horseman decapitating people tells us what’s vital for this look. And it’s heads. A lot of them. Check out all of our Severed Head Props and continue the tale.

Gerald’s Game (2017)

Gerald’s Game is a psychological horror thriller directed by Mike Flanagan, known for his adept handling of horror in films like Oculus and series such as The Haunting of Hill House. Based on Stephen King’s novel of the same name, the film delves into the story of Jessie Burlingame, who finds herself in a dire predicament after her husband Gerald dies unexpectedly during a risqué game at their remote lake house. Handcuffed to the bed with no hope of rescue, Jessie is forced to confront her deepest fears and painful memories as she struggles to survive.

While not the typical Valentine’s Day fare, Gerald’s Game can at least serve as a cautionary tale for any lovers looking to have some fun. Remember: always keep the keys for the handcuffs in reach.

Holidays (2016)

This horror anthology film puts a macabre twist on various global holidays, presenting them through a collection of uniquely disturbing tales. Each segment is directed by different filmmakers, bringing a diverse range of styles and perspectives to the thematic exploration of these culturally significant days.

The Valentine’s Day segment of Holidays centers around a high school girl who harbors a crush on her coach. The narrative takes a dark turn when the intensity of her unrequited love leads to drastic and horrifying actions.

Great thing about this film is you can watch different shorts for all the different holidays in the year, like Easter, Christmas, St. Patrick’s Day, and of course Halloween.

Not to give anything away with the plot for this one, but maybe give our Fake Heart Props a look. Nothing says “I love you” more than giving your whole heart to someone, even if it’s still beating!

It Follows (2015)

This critically acclaimed horror film centers on Jay, a young woman who, after a seemingly innocent sexual encounter, finds herself haunted by a relentless and mysterious entity. This supernatural presence, visible only to its victims, slowly and inexorably pursues them wherever they go. The only way to rid herself of this curse is to pass it on to another through sexual contact, creating a chilling metaphor for sexually transmitted diseases and the haunting consequences of intimate encounters.

David Robert Mitchell crafts a haunting, dream-like atmosphere in It Follows, using the suburban Detroit landscape to evoke a sense of timeless dread. The film’s innovative premise is bolstered by its synth-heavy score by Disasterpeace, which adds to the overall eerie and nostalgic feel reminiscent of 1980s horror films.

Once again, for all the lonely singles this holiday, this just might ease the V-Day blues and make you realize it could always be worse!

Valentine (2001)

Valentine is a slasher film directed by Jamie Blanks, who also directed the late-90s horror film Urban Legend. The movie revolves around a group of women who, having spurned the same misfit boy during their high school years, find themselves the targets of a masked killer every Valentine’s Day. The killer’s motif revolves around Valentine’s Day symbolism, using Cupid’s image and the themes of love and rejection to craft a narrative of vengeance.

Possession (1981)

Possession is an intense and surreal psychological horror film directed by Andrzej Żuławski. It stars Isabelle Adjani and Sam Neill as a couple going through a tumultuous divorce that spirals into a terrifying ordeal involving psychological breakdowns, supernatural elements, and a mysterious creature. The film is set in Cold War-era Berlin, adding a backdrop of isolation and paranoia that enhances the unsettling atmosphere.

The film is renowned for Isabelle Adjani’s powerful performance, particularly her iconic scene in the subway. The narrative, though complex and layered with metaphorical depth, explores themes of marital breakdown, infidelity, and identity crisis, which are amplified by horrific and grotesque elements.

Maybe this one will just make you feel better about your own relationship. Note to self: No date nights in Berlin.

Picnic at Hanging Rock (1975)

This Australian mystery drama is based on the novel of the same name by Joan Lindsay and revolves around the mysterious disappearance of several schoolgirls and their teacher during a Valentine’s Day picnic at Hanging Rock, a foreboding and ancient volcanic formation in rural Victoria, Australia.

Picnic at Hanging Rock provides an eerie, mesmerizing atmosphere and the romantic yet tragic backdrop of a Valentine’s Day outing make it a compelling choice for viewers looking for something that blends beauty with an underlying sense of dread. Lovely, indeed.

Bride of Frankenstein (1935)

Bride of Frankenstein is a classic of the horror genre and a seminal sequel directed by James Whale, who also helmed the original Frankenstein in 1931. This film continues the story of Dr. Henry Frankenstein and his monstrous creation, delving deeper into themes of creation, loneliness, and humanity. In this sequel, the Monster, played iconically by Boris Karloff, demands a companion from his creator, leading to the creation of the titular Bride.

One of the most celebrated pictures in the Universal Monsters lineup, the film is noted for its innovative use of special effects for the time, particularly in the creation of the Bride, played by Elsa Lanchester, whose tall hair with the white streak has become iconic in the genre.

Main thing you need for a Bride of Frankenstein costume is a long white dress and some sleeve wrappings. Pair that with a Bride of Frankenstein wig, and some white face paint, and you got the makings of an undead wife!

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Best Valentine’s Day Horror Movies to Watch