October Frights Await in Memphis: Your Guide to Halloween Movie Magic

October Frights Await in Memphis: Your Guide to Halloween Movie Magic

Ah, Memphis! As October rolls in, it feels like our beloved city is gearing up for the haunted festivities as Halloween approaches. With pumpkins adorning porches and witches decked out on doorways, this month is all about the thrills and chills. But if your October is anything like mine, it’s not just about the candy—it’s also the spook-tacular movies lighting up the big screens. And let me tell you, there’s plenty to choose from!

Revisiting Classics and New Screams

This year, local multiplexes, including Malco cinemas, are drawing in horror fans with both new releases and reissued classics. How about indulging in some great flicks like “Alien: Romulus,” “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice,” or the whimsical “Monster House”? There’s even the chance to check out the latest terrifying chapter in the “Joker” saga with “Joker: Folie à Deux.”

Speaking of beloved classics, fans of Tim Burton are in for a treat. His delightful film, “Beetlejuice”, will join the spooky lineup alongside a re-release of his animated gem, “The Nightmare Before Christmas,” starting on October 11. It’s the battle of the eerie icons with Art the Clown from the “Terrifier” series lurking in the shadows! If you’re ready for a gory time, the franchise offers some of the most over-the-top horror effects around. Can you handle it? Opens also on October 11.

Upcoming Scares

The horror doesn’t stop there! Mark your calendars for a mix of scary and fun films:

• “Smile” → A sequel to the viral hit featuring a demonic curse, hitting theaters on October 18.
• “Hocus Pocus” → The beloved classic featuring the charming trio of witches makes a comeback on October 18.
• “Terrifier 3” → More chilling antics await fans on October 20.
• “The Exorcist” (20 years later!) → Get ready for jarring flashbacks when this horror progenitor returns in an “Unrated” cut on October 23.

A Touched-up Halloween Experience

Not to be overlooked, “Hocus Pocus” will dominate the airwaves, and spooky film buffs can also catch films like “Kiki’s Delivery Service”, a magical animated classic, from Studio Ghibli on October 28. Then, hold on to your broomsticks because “Frankenweenie,” another Burton wonder featuring a resurrected dog, also makes an appearance at the Museum of Science & History on October 12. Don’t forget an original score accompaniment when “Haxan” screens on October 30!

Outdoor Movie Nights

If you’ve been wishing to enjoy the crisp fall air while watching films, you’re in luck! The Midtown entertainment district is setting up a cozy outdoor cinema in “Chimes Square.” What’s on the lineup? Expect a mix of family-friendly and classic spooky movies every Thursday night throughout October. The theme is all things spooky, so pack your picnic blankets and dust off those folding chairs!

Final Frights

A special mention goes to “Fright-tober”, a festival with free Saturday screenings featuring both kid-friendly matinees and adult thrillers. It’s a great way to introduce the kids to Halloween fun while giving the adults their fix of scares.

Conclusion: Embrace October’s Spooky Spirit

Whether you prefer the delightful scares of animated classics or the gut-wrenching terror of modern thrillers, Memphis is overflowing with Halloween excitement. So gather your friends, grab your popcorn, and get ready to enjoy the monster mash on the big screen. Happy haunting, Memphis!