Finding great horror movies that are also compelling love stories can be a challenge, as these genres often seem to be at odds. Classic horror films like The Shining are more about tearing loved ones apart than bringing them together, making them less than ideal for a cozy date night. However, horror and romance can intertwine in unexpected and beautiful ways. Stories of ghostly or demonic love often carry a tragic tone but are deeply sincere. Even the most terrifying monsters can have a heart, if you look closely enough.
For those seeking an unconventional Valentine's Day experience, these films blend horror and romance seamlessly, proving that love can indeed survive the scariest of circumstances. So, sit back and prepare to fall in love at first fright!
The Conjuring 2
Name a more iconic horror couple than Ed and Lorraine Warren, portrayed by Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga. In The Conjuring 2, the Warrens travel to London's Enfield borough to tackle unholy evils, yet their love remains unshaken. Wilson brilliantly captures Ed's faith and panic when Lorraine's abilities are pushed to the limit, while Lorraine's willingness to sacrifice for Ed showcases their deep bond. Theirs is a modern romance for horror enthusiasts, untouched by crooked men or inverted crucifixes. If you're new to the "Conjuring-verse," check out our guide to watching The Conjuring movies in order.
Where to Stream: Max
Spontaneous
Can a film about teenagers spontaneously combusting be romantic? Brian Duffield's Spontaneous proves it can. Katherine Langford and Charlie Plummer star as doomed lovers finding solace amidst their classmates' random explosions. Their chemistry is palpable, making us believe that love can endure even the most dire situations. This adaptation of Aaron Starmer's novel confronts life's unpredictability with a sweet sincerity, thanks to the heartfelt performances of Langford and Plummer.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Spring
The idea that love can be monstrous isn't new, but Aaron Moorhead and Justin Benson's Spring elevates it into a compelling romance. Lou Taylor Pucci plays an American in Italy who falls for Nadia Hilker's 2,000-year-old shape-shifting mutant. Their love story is woven with rich backstory, culminating in a pivotal choice: will Hilker's immortal character give up her eternal life for Pucci's mortal one? This makes Spring the perfect date night movie for horror aficionados.
Where to Stream: Tubi
After Midnight
After Midnight is far from your typical creature feature. It begins with a Floridian recluse defending his home from a mysterious beast, but evolves into a touching exploration of a relationship at a crossroads. Jeremy Gardner and Brea Grant star as partners reflecting on their journey from early romance to current uncertainties. The film blends creature effects with heartfelt moments, from karaoke to confronting fears of abandonment, making it a warm yet thrilling watch.
Where to Stream: Tubi or Hulu
The Mummy (1932)
This horror classic features Boris Karloff as an ancient mummy seeking to reunite with his reincarnated lover, played by Zita Johann. To be together forever, he must mummify and resurrect her. This tragic tale of immortal love showcases Karloff's rare romantic side and remains a timeless piece of cinema.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Beetlejuice (1988)
Tim Burton's quirky horror comedy Beetlejuice may not seem romantic at first, but it offers a unique take on eternal love. After their untimely death, the Maitlands (Geena Davis and Alec Baldwin) are granted the gift of spending eternity together in wedded bliss. Unlike many ghosts, they find happiness in their afterlife, embodying the ultimate happily ever after.
Where to Stream: Max
The Addams Family (1991)
While not strictly horror, the Addams Family's world is filled with macabre elements, making them horror-adjacent. Gomez and Morticia Addams (Raul Julia and Anjelica Huston) are the epitome of a passionate couple, their love unwavering amidst their dark and quirky lifestyle.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
The Mummy (1999)
Stephen Sommers' remake of The Mummy adds a lighter, more adventurous tone to the original's romanticism. Arnold Vosloo's alluring monster seeks to resurrect his love by sacrificing a librarian (Rachel Weisz), who is falling for Brendan Fraser's charming rogue. The chemistry between Weisz and Fraser is electric, making this a thrilling and romantic watch.
See our guide to the best Brendan Fraser movies.
Where to Stream: Hulu
Shaun of the Dead (2004)
Edgar Wright's Shaun of the Dead is a brilliant blend of zombie satire and heartfelt romance. Shaun (Simon Pegg) must prove himself to his girlfriend Liz (Kate Ashfield) amidst a zombie apocalypse. His journey to becoming a better partner unfolds in a single, hilariously horrifying day.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Cloverfield (2008)
Cloverfield is often praised for its found-footage style, but it's also a poignant horror story about discovering what truly matters. As a giant monster attacks New York, Rob (Michael Stahl-David) risks everything to save his ex-girlfriend Beth (Odette Yustman). This harrowing, clever, and bittersweetly romantic film is a must-watch.
Where to Stream: PlutoTV
Only Lovers Left Alive (2013)
Jim Jarmusch's Only Lovers Left Alive is a unique vampire romance. Tom Hiddleston and Tilda Swinton play immortal lovers who, after centuries together, still find joy in each other's company. Their conversations range from celebrity encounters to the intricacies of fungi, showcasing a love that endures through time.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Warm Bodies (2013)
Warm Bodies is a delightful twist on the zombie and rom-com genres. A zombie (Nicholas Hoult) falls for a human (Teresa Palmer), offering a fresh take on love and hope in a post-apocalyptic world. This film is both funny and touching, proving that even the weirdest love can save us.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Pride & Prejudice & Zombies (2016)
Burr Steers' Pride & Prejudice & Zombies adds a thrilling twist to Jane Austen's classic. Elizabeth Bennett (Lily James) and Mr. Darcy (Sam Riley) navigate romance and zombie warfare. While the undead action is entertaining, the strong performances make you wish for more focus on their love story.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Happy Death Day (2017)
Happy Death Day combines the slasher genre with a Groundhog Day-style loop, complete with a love story. Jessica Rothe plays a college student reliving her murder until she gets it right, with Israel Broussard as her potential savior. Their chemistry makes this horror comedy perfect for date night.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
The Shape of Water (2017)
Guillermo del Toro's The Shape of Water is a beautiful blend of fairy tale and horror. A mute cleaning lady (Sally Hawkins) falls in love with a mysterious fish monster (Doug Jones), offering a romantic subplot worthy of the Creature from the Black Lagoon. Del Toro masterfully balances sweetness and darkness in this enchanting film.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Bride of Chucky
Bride of Chucky introduces Jennifer Tilly's Tiffany Valentine, Chucky's perfect match in bloodlust and psychopathy. Despite their anatomical differences, Chucky resurrects Tiffany after killing her, and the two embark on a murderous rampage. Their relationship, complete with spats and intimate moments, proves that even slasher villains deserve love.
See our guide to The Chucky movies in order.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Nina Forever
Nina Forever explores the complexities of love and grief. When Rob's new girlfriend Holly is haunted by his deceased ex, Nina, during intimate moments, the trio must navigate their tangled emotions. The film's striking cinematography and blend of horror and comedy make it a unique take on undying love.
Where to Stream: Tubi
Extra Ordinary
Extra Ordinary is a charming Irish rom-com with a supernatural twist. Ghost whisperer Rose teams up with her crush Martin to save his possessed daughter and help their town with ghostly problems. Their flirtatious journey, set against a backdrop of paranormal antics, makes this film a delightful watch for horror fans.
Where to Stream: Hulu
Note: This list was updated February 13, 2025 to include additional links.
