Photo by Warner Bros.
Halloween may be on the 31 of Oct., but the time to celebrate starts now. Here are several books, movies, and TV shows to get you in the spooky autumn mood. First up, the oldest piece of media on the list is the timeless thriller novel “Dracula” (1897) by Bram Stoker. “Dracula” describes protagonist Jonathan Harker’s trip to Count Dracula’s castle and his ultimate battle with the count. Diary entries, letters, and journal excerpts give details of how Dracula tries to spread the curse of the undead to England. This gothic classic is perfect for the Halloween season, with its themes of supernatural entities, fear, and the battle between good and evil. “Dracula” was inspired by J. Sheridan Le Fanu’s “Carmilla” (1872). The book tells the story of a young woman named Laura who becomes friends with the mysterious Carmilla. As their friendship evolves, Laura discovers Carmilla’s identity as a vampire. Their relationship is full of forbidden desires and supernatural horror.
In more modern times, Leigh Bardugo, author of the book series “Shadow and Bone,” released a book that is thrilling and relevant to us as the main character is also a college student. “Ninth House” (2019) follows Alex Stern, a first-year student at Yale University, who can see ghosts. Abducted into a secret society that investigates supernatural mysteries, Stern discovers dark secrets.
From pages to the big screen, the ultimate way to engulf yourself in the October spirit is either reading or watching the “Harry Potter” series. “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” (2005) is a great read if you enjoy mysteries and magic. The movies “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” (2001) and “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets” (2002) are full of autumn vibes and Halloween scenes. They are perfect for viewing because they catch the essence of magic and mystery while also creating a cozy atmosphere. Watch or read any of the seven installments in the series to experience the nostalgia of Halloween.
For a scarier series, you may want to watch the original “Scream” franchise. The movies are a combination of suspense, dark humor and the classic slasher storyline. They are also an iconic source of cultural references and costumes, such as the Ghostface mask.
One of the most popular traditional Halloween movies is “Hocus Pocus” (1993). While the Sanderson sisters are wreaking havoc on Halloween night, a group of teenagers must stop them from becoming immortal. An absolute classic for Halloween, it is charming, with spooky fun, whimsical humor, magical elements and themes of friendship.
If you are looking for more in-depth storylines, watching a TV series might be for you. From the beloved writer and director Ryan Murphy, we have a show full of horror, mean girls, and dark humor: “Scream Queens” (2015). The first season follows the murders of the Red Devil on the fictional college campus of Wallace University. Between the drama of the sorority girls, the “baby in the bathtub” incident and those seeking revenge for it, “Scream Queens” is the best show for a thrilling yet humorous watch.
Looking for a more supernatural show? “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” (1997) is the perfect show for you! While you may not want to watch all seven seasons, casually watching offers a strong female lead and a variety of supernatural creatures. It truly slays for the Halloween season. Perhaps you are just looking for a show with a fall aesthetic, and if so, “Gilmore Girls” (2000) will give you just that. The fictional town of Stars Hollow might remind you of downtown West Chester, and Rory’s academic striving just might be your motivation to do your homework — all the while appreciating Lorelai’s witty humor and the highlighting of an independent woman’s journey.
Since autumn is the best season and Halloween is one of the best holidays, you have so many great sources of media to enjoy! Happy Spooky Season!
Calissa Blynn is a first year Business Management major.