The 10 Best (Barely) Scary Movies to Watch If You Can’t Handle Horror Films

These are complicated times, with divisive topics reliably receiving the lion’s share of our attention. Regrettably, it turns out that scary movies are one of those polarizing prospects! (Really!) We’ve scanned the Vogue offices, and found that you’re either the type of person who seeks out a film that is sure to terrify you, or you tend to stick to happier fare (or at least you have since The Blair Witch Project gave you nightmares). But what’s a media enthusiast to do when this time of year rolls around, and it seems like spooky is all thats on the menu? If you’re a hesitant horror-goer, this list is for you: 10 films that might give you a good-hearted jump, or brief shock, but will do nothing to impair your sleep or quality of life this Halloween season. (Several are even kid-friendly!) So grab some popcorn and cuddle up—without further ado:

Practical Magic (1998) You’ll want to become a witch after watching this ’90s cinematic staple. Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman star as witchy sisters navigating love, death, and magic. Bonus: You’ll get great outfit ideas. We’re talking mom jeans galore!

Hocus Pocus (1993) People have surprisingly strong opinions about this movie, considering it was initially considered to be children’s fare. Starring Bette Midler and a young Sarah Jessica Parker among its crew of witty evil witches, our verdict says it’s not for easily spooked kids, but it’s delightful to view as an adult. (Be warned: You’ll have “I Put a Spell on You” stuck in your head for days.)

The Gift (2015) A thriller that won’t completely creep you out. Jason Bateman runs into an old acquaintance (Joel Edgerton) after moving back to his hometown with his wife. A series of unexpected and unwanted visits and gifts result in a shake-up in the couple’s otherwise perfect-seeming life.

Fatal Attraction (1987) An ’80s classic: Michael Douglas and Glenn Close battle it out as an errant (married) businessman and the fling who won’t go away quietly. Watch and learn the genesis of the term bunny boiler! (Not for kids.)

The Hand That Rocks the Cradle (1992) Your next movie night will be complete with this ’90s psychological thriller starring a vengeful nanny attempting to destroy a former boss’s life. A lot happens in the beginning of this film, so pay attention!

Get Out (2017) Still haven’t seen last year’s most talked-about film? The Academy Award–winning thriller is one that you won’t want to miss. Sure, you might jump at a few scenes, but even the faint of heart will be able to handle a screening. Daniel Kaluuya and Allison Williams give memorable performances—and will make you think twice about meeting the parents.

Double, Double, Toil and Trouble (1993) Before they were designers, Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen were adorable child stars. This Halloween-centric movie is the perfect film for any young family members to join in and enjoy.

Unfaithful (2002) Fatal Attraction’s director delivered another suspenseful work with this (rather steamy) movie starring Richard Gere and Diane Lane in a story involving an affair, and the lengths that people will go when seeking revenge. (Adults only.)

The Craft (1996) Follow Sarah Bailey, the new girl with a troubled past, as she moves to Los Angeles and becomes friends with three students who aren’t exactly popular, but who contain far more than they seem. (For those with young viewers, there are some scary scenes; let’s call this one for tweens and up.)

What We Do in the Shadows (2014) A film mocking horror films? Sign us up! What We Do in the Shadows is about a group of vampire roommates who are hundreds of years old and trying to adapt to life in the 21st century (i.e. not being burned alive by sunrise and watching it on YouTube instead). While there is vampire- and werewolf-related drama throughout the film, you definitely will not need to worry about nightmares.