Unconventional Valentine's Day: Horror Movies with Heart
Finding a great horror movie that's also a compelling love story is a challenge, as the two genres often seem diametrically opposed. Many terrifying horror films focus on the destruction of relationships, both literally and figuratively. However, this doesn't mean romance can't exist within the horror realm; it just takes unexpected forms. Stories of supernatural beings falling for mortals often possess a tragic beauty, and even the most horrifying monsters can reveal surprising depths of emotion.
This Valentine's Day, consider these films that offer a unique blend of thrills 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 through even as they battle demonic forces. Their love story is a testament to enduring commitment, even amidst terrifying circumstances.
Where to Stream: Max
Spontaneous
This film unexpectedly blends teen angst with the macabre. Katherine Langford and Charlie Plummer portray doomed lovers navigating a world where classmates spontaneously combust. Their connection deepens amidst chaos, showcasing the resilience of love in the face of unimaginable adversity.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Spring
This film explores the unconventional notion of love as a monstrous force. Lou Taylor Pucci and Nadia Hilker star as unlikely lovers – a human and a 2,000-year-old shape-shifting being. Their relationship forces a profound choice: immortality or mortal love.
Where to Stream: Tubi
After Midnight
This creature feature transcends typical monster movie tropes. Jeremy Gardner and Brea Grant portray a couple facing relationship challenges and a monstrous threat. The film explores themes of abandonment and the extraordinary lengths people go to for love.
Where to Stream: Tubi or Hulu
The Mummy (1932)
This classic horror film features Boris Karloff as a mummy seeking his reincarnated lover (Zita Johann). Their tragic tale of immortal love endures, making it a surprisingly romantic horror classic.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Beetlejuice (1988)
Tim Burton's quirky comedy follows a married couple (Geena Davis and Alec Baldwin) who die and find themselves in a unique kind of happily ever after. Their afterlife romance is a testament to enduring love beyond the grave.
Where to Stream: Max
The Addams Family (1991)
While not strictly horror, the Addams Family inhabit a world bordering on the macabre. Gomez and Morticia Addams exemplify a passionate and enduring love, even amidst their unconventional lifestyle.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
The Mummy (1999)
This action-packed remake adds witty banter and adventure to the romantic elements of the original. Rachel Weisz and Brendan Fraser display sizzling chemistry amidst the supernatural thrills.
Where to Stream: Hulu
Shaun of the Dead (2004)
This zombie comedy is a hilarious and heartwarming tale of self-improvement and finding love amidst the apocalypse. Simon Pegg and Kate Ashfield's characters navigate both romantic and undead challenges.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Cloverfield (2008)
This found-footage monster movie explores the power of love amidst a catastrophic event. Michael Stahl-David's character risks everything to save his ex-girlfriend (Odette Yustman).
Where to Stream: PlutoTV
Only Lovers Left Alive (2013)
Jim Jarmusch's unique vampire film features Tom Hiddleston and Tilda Swinton as immortal lovers whose enduring relationship transcends centuries.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Warm Bodies (2013)
This zombie rom-com subverts genre expectations. Nicholas Hoult and Teresa Palmer's characters find love amidst post-apocalyptic chaos.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Pride & Prejudice & Zombies (2016)
This adaptation of Jane Austen's classic adds zombies to the mix. Lily James and Sam Riley's characters navigate both romantic entanglements and undead threats.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Happy Death Day (2017)
This slasher-Groundhog Day mashup features a surprisingly sweet romance. Jessica Rothe and Israel Broussard's characters develop a connection amidst a time-looping murder mystery.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
The Shape of Water (2017)
Guillermo del Toro's Oscar-winning film is a fairy tale-like romance between a mute cleaning lady (Sally Hawkins) and an amphibious creature (Doug Jones).
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Bride of Chucky
This slasher film features a surprisingly compelling relationship between Chucky and Tiffany Valentine (Jennifer Tilly). Their twisted love story is both darkly humorous and surprisingly romantic.
Where to Stream: Prime Video
Nina Forever
This horror-comedy explores the complexities of love and loss. The film features a unique love triangle involving a living couple and a deceased ex-girlfriend.
Where to Stream: Tubi
Extra Ordinary
This Irish romantic comedy blends supernatural elements with heartwarming romance. The film follows a ghost whisperer (Maeve Higgins) and her crush (Barry Ward) as they battle paranormal forces.
Where to Stream: Hulu
Note: This list was updated February 13, 2025 to include additional links.