Halloween is here, and what better way to de-stress than a night out at the movies? Studies show that going to the theater for a fun, immersive experience can help relieve stress by letting us escape daily pressures and enjoy some good scares. With an incredible lineup of horror films this season and into next year, now’s the perfect time for students and faculty to unwind and catch some thrills on the big screen. 

A night at the movies gives us a chance to escape and let our minds wander. Horror movies, in particular, can help lower stress by providing thrilling experiences that let us momentarily forget daily challenges and immerse ourselves in a different world. Plus, the shared experience of watching with friends or other fans can lift our mood and create a sense of excitement. For GSU students balancing studies, responsibilities, and everything else, a movie night can be a welcome break.

So whether you’re looking for jump scares or creepy laughs, Halloween’s lineup has plenty of options to suit your taste. Embrace the season, grab some popcorn, and enjoy a night of thrills at the theater—you deserve it!

Here are a few from which to choose.

This season’s offerings:

Smile 2
Directed by: Parker FinnIf “Smile” left you spooked with its chilling smile curse, get ready for even more eerie twists in “Smile 2.” Directed once again by Parker Finn, this sequel follows a new character haunted by the same unsettling curse that pushes victims to their limits. A horror movie night with friends is a great way to take a break from studying, and “Smile 2″ delivers a suspenseful story that lets you escape and engage in some good, stress-relieving scares.

Terrifier 3
Directed by: Damien Leone

Back to wreak havoc again, Art the Clown returns in “Terrifier 3,” directed by Damien Leone. This time, Art takes his terrifying antics to a small town on Halloween night, setting the stage for some gory scares. Not only is the film perfect for hardcore horror fans, but it also provides a thrilling break from school routines. Letting out a few gasps or laughs at Art’s madness is a fun way to release tension and clear your mind. Trigger warning this movie is very gruesome!

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice

Directed by: Tim Burton
With Tim Burton bringing Beetlejuice back to life, this film is one for the nostalgic crowd. “Beetlejuice Beetlejuice” stars Michael Keaton as the mischievous bio-exorcist, with Jenna Ortega as Lydia’s daughter, who finds herself in need of Beetlejuice’s…unique help. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the character, this quirky mix of horror and comedy offers lighthearted scares perfect for a stress-free Halloween.

Future Horror Highlights 

Nosferatu
Directed by: Robert Eggers

One of horror’s most iconic figures is back with “Nosferatu,” directed by Robert Eggers (“The Witch,” “The Lighthouse”). Bill Skarsgård stars as the vampire Count Orlok in this 19th-century tale of dark obsession. Eggers’ version is rich in gothic atmosphere and is likely to be a visually immersive experience, perfect for letting your mind escape. Sometimes a good story with dark, moody visuals is exactly what you need to refresh your mind.

Heretic
Directed by: Ari Aster
“Heretic” promises a slow-burning, psychological horror experience from “Midsommar” and “Hereditary” director Ari Aster. This story of a group of travelers ensnared by a mountain cult is ideal for those who appreciate thoughtful, intense horror. Watching Aster’s films offers a rollercoaster of emotions, which can be surprisingly cathartic, making it a great option for those looking to de-stress through suspense and storytelling.

28 Years Later
Directed by: Danny Boyle
Returning two decades after “28 Days Later” and “28 Weeks Later,” “28 Years Later” brings back director Danny Boyle and writer Alex Garland. Set in a world that has learned to live with the Rage virus, the film explores what happens when old tensions resurface. It’s an intense, action-packed story with themes of survival that lets you release your own stress through high-stakes thrills and adrenaline-pumping scenes.

Wolfman
Directed by: Leigh Whannell
Director Leigh Whannell, known for “The Invisible Man,” brings his modern horror style to “Wolfman,” starring Ryan Gosling as a man struggling with his darker, beastly side. This modern take on a classic monster brings psychological tension along with jump scares, which can be a great way to feel a rush of excitement and step out of the everyday grind.

Future Horror Movies in Development

Looking ahead, horror fans at GSU have more to look forward to with new projects in development. Jordan Peele is reportedly working on a psychological horror about urban legends, and there’s a potential sequel in the works for “Megan,” the creepy AI doll that gave everyone chills earlier this year. Plus, with a “Friday the 13th” reboot rumored, horror classics may be getting some fresh scares.