Finding a horror movie that's also a great love story is a challenge. Horror often thrives on tearing people apart, literally and figuratively. The Shining, for instance, is terrifying, but hardly a cozy date night flick. However, that doesn't mean romance and horror are mutually exclusive; they just manifest in unexpected ways. Tales of ghosts and demons falling for mortals offer a tragic, yet sincere, kind of romance. Even the most horrifying monsters often possess a hidden heart, if you know where to look (and aren't wielding a stake). Many films offer a unique Valentine's Day experience. Prepare for love at first fright!

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Horror Movies That Are Also Love Stories

The Conjuring 2

Ed and Lorraine Warren are arguably the most iconic horror couple of the past decade. Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga portray these demon-fighting spouses with unwavering devotion. Even their London-based investigation in The Conjuring 2 doesn't diminish their loving connection. Wilson masterfully portrays Ed's panicked faith when Lorraine pushes her abilities to the limit, mirroring Lorraine's willingness to sacrifice for him. Their romance is a modern classic for the haunted house crowd, unfazed by crooked men or upside-down crucifixes. For those new to the Conjuring universe, check out our guide to watching the films in order.

**Where to Stream:** Max

Spontaneous

Can a movie about spontaneously combusting teenagers be romantic? Brian Duffield's Spontaneous manages to tug at the heartstrings amidst the carnage. Katherine Langford and Charlie Plummer play doomed lovers navigating a world where classmates explode randomly. Their connection showcases love's resilience even in the face of utter chaos. It's a heartfelt adaptation of Aaron Starmer's young adult novel, confronting life's unpredictability with sweetness and sincerity.

**Where to Stream:** Prime Video

Spring

The idea of love as a monster isn't new, but Aaron Moorhead and Justin Benson masterfully portray a unique romance between a Lovecraftian entity and a lonely traveler in Spring. Lou Taylor Pucci's character falls for Nadia Hilker's, who reveals herself to be a 2,000-year-old shape-shifting mutant. Their unlikely romance culminates in a profound choice: will Hilker's character forgo immortality for a mortal life with Pucci's? This makes Spring a perfect date night movie for horror fans.

**Where to Stream:** Tubi

After Midnight

After Midnight is anything but typical. What starts as a Floridian recluse fending off a monstrous creature evolves into a heartfelt relationship study. Jeremy Gardner co-directs and stars alongside Brea Grant as a couple facing a crisis. The creature effects are integral to the midnight attacks, but the film primarily focuses on their relationship, from initial romance to their current crossroads. The screenplay explores fears of abandonment and the boundless nature of romantic gestures, offering a warm embrace with a touch of bite.

**Where to Stream:** Tubi or Hulu

The Mummy (1932)

This horror classic features Boris Karloff as an ancient mummy seeking his reincarnated lover (Zita Johann). To be together eternally, he must mummify and resurrect her. This tragic tale of immortal love showcases a rare romantic performance from Karloff, and like many Universal Monster movies, it remains impressively timeless.

**Where to Stream:** Prime Video

Beetlejuice (1988)

Tim Burton's quirky horror-comedy might not seem overtly romantic at first. The protagonists die early, but their afterlife offers a gift: an eternity together. Unlike many unhappy ghosts, the Maitlands (Geena Davis and Alec Baldwin) achieve a romantic ideal of domestic bliss. Their story is the ultimate happily ever after, even in death.

**Where to Stream:** Max

The Addams Family (1991)

While not strictly horror, the Addams Family inhabit a world where torture, grave robbing, and murder are commonplace. Gomez and Morticia Addams are a testament to enduring passion, their love unwavering.

**Where to Stream:** Prime Video

The Mummy (1999)

Stephen Sommers' remake retains the romance of the original, adding witty banter and adventure. Arnold Vosloo plays a charismatic monster seeking to resurrect his love, leading to a burgeoning romance between Rachel Weisz and Brendan Fraser. The lighter tone and strong chemistry between Weisz and Fraser make it a delightful watch.

**Where to Stream:** Hulu

Shaun of the Dead (2004)

Edgar Wright's zombie satire is packed with humor, but it's also a heartfelt story about growth and improving relationships. Shaun (Simon Pegg) must earn his girlfriend Liz's (Kate Ashfield) respect, a process expedited by a zombie apocalypse.

**Where to Stream:** Prime Video

Cloverfield (2008)

Beyond its found-footage kaiju concept, Cloverfield is a compelling story about rediscovering priorities during a crisis. Rob (Michael Stahl-David) risks everything to save his ex-girlfriend Beth (Odette Yustman) amidst a monster attack on New York City.

**Where to Stream:** PlutoTV

Only Lovers Left Alive (2013)

Jim Jarmusch's unique vampire film features Tom Hiddleston and Tilda Swinton as immortal lovers who have been together for centuries, still finding common ground and sparking conversation. Their enduring relationship is a testament to lasting love.

**Where to Stream:** Prime Video

Warm Bodies (2013)

A zombie falls for a human in Jonathan Levine's inventive horror-comedy. Nicholas Hoult and Teresa Palmer offer charming performances in a story that subverts both rom-com and zombie genre tropes, suggesting hope and the power of love even in a post-apocalyptic world.

**Where to Stream:** Prime Video

Pride & Prejudice & Zombies (2016)

Jane Austen's classic gets a zombie twist in Burr Steers' film. Lily James and Sam Riley's chemistry shines amidst the undead mayhem. While the zombie elements are fun, the strong cast makes the romance the true highlight.

**Where to Stream:** Prime Video

Happy Death Day (2017)

This Groundhog Day-meets-slasher film features a compelling love story. Jessica Rothe's charismatic performance and her chemistry with Israel Broussard make it a perfect date-night movie.

**Where to Stream:** Prime Video

The Shape of Water (2017)

Guillermo del Toro's Oscar-nominated film gives the Creature from the Black Lagoon a romantic subplot. Sally Hawkins and Doug Jones deliver a poignant tale of love that blends fairy tale and horror elements.

**Where to Stream:** Prime Video

Bride of Chucky

Don Mancini's homage to Bride of Frankenstein introduces Jennifer Tilly as Tiffany Valentine, Chucky's murderous partner. Their chaotic relationship, despite their villainous nature, showcases a twisted kind of love.

**Where to Stream:** Prime Video

Nina Forever

Nina Forever explores the complexities of love and grief. The film's unique premise and stunning cinematography create a memorable, albeit unconventional, romance.

**Where to Stream:** Tubi

Extra Ordinary

This Irish romantic comedy blends paranormal activity and heartwarming romance. The film's charm and genuine chemistry between the leads make it a delightful watch.

**Where to Stream:** Hulu

**Note**: *This list was updated February 13, 2025 to include additional links.*