Disney Plus isn’t just about family-friendly fairy tales and superhero sagas. For those who relish a touch of terror, the streaming service offers a surprisingly robust collection of films that delve into the eerie, the supernatural, and the downright scary. In this article, we’ll guide you through the 10 best Disney Plus scary movies, providing a detailed overview of each film to help you plan your next spooky movie night. Whether you’re in the mood for ghosts, monsters, or psychological thrills, Disney Plus has something to send shivers down your spine.
10. Watcher in the Woods (1980)
This underrated Disney film combines elements of supernatural and psychological horror as a family encounters strange occurrences in an English country house. It’s known for its chilling atmosphere and intense storytelling.

Run Time | Director | Release Date | Actors |
---|---|---|---|
84 min | John Hough | April 17, 1980 | Bette Davis, Lynn-Holly Johnson, Kyle Richards |
9. Maleficent (2014)
“Maleficent” offers a new perspective on the story of Sleeping Beauty, with a focus on the backstory of its iconic villain. Angelina Jolie brings Maleficent magnificently to life, creating a character whose heartbreak leads her to curse the infant princess, only to develop a complex relationship with her later.

Run Time | Director | Release Date | Actors |
---|---|---|---|
97 min | Robert Stromberg | May 30, 2014 | Angelina Jolie, Elle Fanning, Sharlto Copley |
8. Something Wicked This Way Comes (1983)
Adapted from Ray Bradbury’s novel, this film narrates the tale of a sinister carnival that manipulates the deepest desires of the residents of a small town. It’s a compelling psychological thriller that delves into the themes of temptation and fear.

Run Time | Director | Release Date | Actors |
---|---|---|---|
95 min | Jack Clayton | April 29, 1983 | Jason Robards, Jonathan Pryce, Diane Ladd |
7. Return to Oz (1985)
Far darker than its predecessor, “Return to Oz” is a surreal adventure that’s not for the faint-hearted. Dorothy returns to a devastated Oz and faces eerie new villains. It’s a cult film that stands out for its ambitious vision and unsettling atmosphere.

Run Time | Director | Release Date | Actors |
---|---|---|---|
113 min | Walter Murch | June 21, 1985 | Fairuza Balk, Nicol Williamson, Jean Marsh |
6. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Another Tim Burton classic, this film explores the misadventures of Jack Skellington from Halloween Town who stumbles into Christmas Town. It’s a fantastical journey with memorable music and imaginative characters, blending Christmas cheer with Halloween horror.

Run Time | Director | Release Date | Actors |
---|---|---|---|
76 min | Henry Selick | October 13, 1993 | Chris Sarandon, Danny Elfman, Catherine O’Hara |
5. Frankenweenie (2012)
Tim Burton’s unique style is on full display in this heartwarming tale about a boy who brings his dog back to life. Combining classic horror elements with a touching story of love and loss, “Frankenweenie” is a beautifully crafted homage to 1930s monster films.
Run Time | Director | Release Date | Actors |
---|---|---|---|
87 min | Tim Burton | October 5, 2012 | Charlie Tahan, Winona Ryder, Martin Short |
4. The Haunted Mansion (2003)
Based on the famous Disneyland ride, this film mixes humor with horror as it follows the Evers family encountering a multitude of spirits in a creepy old mansion. With Eddie Murphy at the helm, expect a lot of laughs amidst the spooky happenings.

Run Time | Director | Release Date | Actors |
---|---|---|---|
88 min | Rob Minkoff | November 26, 2003 | Eddie Murphy, Marsha Thomason, Jennifer Tilly |
3. Coraline (2009)
This visually stunning stop-motion animation explores darker themes of parallel worlds and sinister doubles. When Coraline discovers an alternate version of her life, what first appears to be a dream come true soon turns into a nightmarish reality. It’s a psychological adventure that resonates with both adults and children.

Run Time | Director | Release Date | Actors |
---|---|---|---|
100 min | Henry Selick | February 6, 2009 | Dakota Fanning, Teri Hatcher, Jennifer Saunders |
2. Hocus Pocus (1993)
A delightful blend of comedy and spooky elements, “Hocus Pocus” has become a cult classic. It tells the story of three witch sisters resurrected in Salem, Massachusetts, and the hilarious chaos that ensues as they adapt to the 20th century. Perfect for those who prefer their scares with a side of laughs.

Run Time | Director | Release Date | Actors |
---|---|---|---|
96 min | Kenny Ortega | July 16, 1993 | Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, Kathy Najimy |
1. The Others (2001)
Nicole Kidman stars in this atmospheric chiller that plays with light and shadow to create a haunting experience. Set in a remote country house post-World War II, the film follows a mother who must protect her photosensitive children from mysterious entities. The suspense is meticulously crafted, leading to a twist that has become one of the genre’s best.

Run Time | Director | Release Date | Actors |
---|---|---|---|
104 min | Alejandro Amenábar | August 2, 2001 | Nicole Kidman, Fionnula Flanagan, Christopher Eccleston |
As we conclude this exploration of the 10 best Disney Plus scary movies, it’s clear that Disney’s streaming service offers a diverse array of films that cater to fans of the horror genre. Whether you’re looking for a light-hearted scare or a deep, dark thriller, Disney Plus has something to keep you entertained. Remember, the next time you’re browsing Disney Plus for something to watch, don’t overlook these gems that can add a bit of spook to your streaming experience.