by Caroline McCoy

Staff Writer

The Catalyst recommends the following for those of you who don’t like scary movies, but want to get in the Halloween spirit.

Feeling nostalgic?  Watch “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” (1966)

This Peanuts’ cartoon has always been a family-friendly flick. From the iconic “I got a rock” quote from Charlie Brown to Linus’s belief in the Great Pumpkin, this movie is truly a classic anyone can watch while carving pumpkins or sitting by the fire on a chilly October evening. 

Feeling creepy?  Watch “Beetlejuice” (1988) / PG

This comedy-horror film directed by Tim Burton is certainly an iconic creepy movie.. After a recently deceased couple is trapped inside their home, they are forced to coexist with the new family who lives there. Betelgeuse makes his appearance as a manipulative poltergeist. This film portrays Burton’s creativity without being terrifying.

Feeling a little bit funny? Watch “Hocus Pocus” (1993) / PG

This hilarious movie focuses on a trio of evil and comedic witches who are resurrected in Salem, Massachusetts centuries after being executed for practicing witchcraft. Their chaotic energy runs rampant on Halloween night which only a group of young teenagers and an immortal cat can manage to stop. For a night-in with friends, watch this movie to be filled with laughs.

Feeling silly? Watch “Casper the Friendly Ghost” (1995) / G

This cute movie is filled with animated ghosts and a wholesome father-daughter relationship that transcends time. It follows an isolated ghost who befriends a girl who moves into a ghost-infested house. It is a heartwarming movie that demonstrates good can prevail over evil. It has comedic flair and is definitely a favorite to watch with your siblings or while you babysit.