10 Underrated Queer Horror Films To Spice Up Your Halloween

Halloween is the perfect time to stray from the usual scary movie marathon and find something new. While many classic films are popular for a reason, the history of horror is packed with hidden treasures that feature queer themes, characters, and directors. If you want to expand your horizons beyond the standard slashers, this list is a great place to start.

First, The Old Dark House from 1932 is a fascinating look at what filmmakers could accomplish before the Hays Code. Directed by James Whale, it features a campy, mysterious atmosphere that feels distinctly queer even by modern standards. For those who love vampire lore, The Vampire Lovers from 1970 is a must watch. Based on the novel Carmilla, this film stands out for being bold with its sapphic themes at a time when such representation was incredibly rare in cinema.

If you prefer slashers, check out 1981's Butcher, Baker, Nightmare Maker. It defies the negative tropes of its era by portraying a gay gym teacher as a genuine, supportive hero for the protagonist. On the more chaotic side, Bride of Re Animator from 1990 takes the intense connection between its two leads and turns it into a bizarre, domestic nightmare about two men trying to create life together. It is a cult classic that truly leans into its queer coding.

Finally, Knife + Heart brings a stylish, modern touch to the genre. Set in late seventies Paris, this film follows a director of gay adult cinema dealing with a masked killer. It is an honest, complex exploration of the underground queer scene that feels both stylish and personal. These films offer a variety of tones for your spooky movie nights, so grab your favorite snacks and get ready for a queer horror marathon.