By Colleen Rowe

In early to mid-October, kids start getting into the Halloween spirit, and since it is cooler outside, they are more likely to want to stay inside. If you are spending time with your niece or nephew, keep in mind that age appropriate Halloween themed movies will keep them entertained, and if you choose the right ones, you’ll enjoy them, too! Here are five Halloween movies you can watch with your nieces and nephews.

1. Hocus Pocus (1993). An adventurous movie with a slight comedic tone, Hocus Pocus ranks high for Halloween themed kids movies. It follows the lives of a brother and sister, and their friends, in a battle against a group of cursed witches, played by Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy. The witch foes are resurrected on Halloween night and they use a Frankenstein-like monster to do their bidding. With the setting in Salem, Massachusetts, this movie provides a historical background, while presenting an original tale. Aunts can appreciate this comical female cast, while nieces and nephews will enjoy the eventful storyline.

2.Double, Double, Toil and Trouble (1993). With their Aunt Agatha staring down upon them from her Gothic windows, the Farmer twins, played by Mary Kate and Ashley Olsen, set forth on a journey that truly defines Halloween: adventure, costumes, and grim locations. The Farmer sisters must help their other aunt, the “good” Aunt Sofia, who was always there for them, without upsetting their Aunt Agatha, who has driven her sister out of their lives in the first place. On their way, the twins meet new friends, take part in Halloween activities, and…well, you’ll have to watch it to see what happens.

3. Halloweentown (1998). The kids/teenagers must fight against an evil force, after they discover that something is brewing in Halloweentown. Here’s another Halloween themed movie where kids need to save the day in order to protect their family and neighborhood. Behind its adventurous and comedic aspects, there’s a good message being presented with this movie. If your nieces and nephews can apply it to their own lives, you can help them to understand that, although Halloween is a festive holiday, there are strangers who they should be wary of. This film instills a lot of family values, as well.

4. Coraline (2009). A clever animated film, with a twisting plot, “Coraline” follows the story of a young girl with a thirst for excitement. It’s fantastical, mysterious elements make the film a piece of art that aunts can appreciate, while their nieces and nephews become involved in the story itself. “A strangely idealized version of her frustrating home,” Coraline discovers a secret place that isn’t so perfect. This film makes you feel like you’re in a dreamlike state, as an escape from a dark house that provides very little fun. This film allows kids to expand their imagination, and just enjoy the time they have.

5. Monster House (2006). This is an animated film with a lot of character. With a house that comes alive, three teenagers must decide what to do about this neighborhood foe. The house breathes like a monster, and its dark liveliness keeps the kids on edge. This haunted house becomes an antagonist to the group, making their lives more difficult. The animation is really impressive, drawing kids’ eyes to the screen, and making it difficult, even for aunties, to look away.

Photo: imagerymajestic

Published: October 15, 2014