There is one thing that most queer people love above all else and that’s a good old-fashioned horror flick. Whether it’s genuinely scary or not, queer people have long since gravitated towards this genre. There are countless reasons why, including its exploration of what it means to be an outcast or misunderstood. Out of all the movie genres, horror possibly brings people together the most and creates a sense of community with conventions and film festivals.
With the cool weather finally in the air, pumpkins on porches and flannels coming out of the closet, it’s time to really get in the spirit. Nothing to me sounds more like fall than turning on spooky lighting, making some popcorn and watching a scary movie. From films that will leave you genuinely terrified to those that make you laugh at campy dialogue or yell “Don’t go in there” at the screen, the horror genre has something for everyone.
Leviticus (2026)
Set in a conservative Australian town, Leviticus follows two teenage boys, Naim and Ryan. As the two begin to explore their feelings for one another, their relationship catches the attention of their religious community. A ritual meant to “cure” boys of their homosexuality unleashes a supernatural spirit that hunts them in the form of the person they desire most.
Where to watch: Rent or buy on Prime Video, Apple TV and Fandango at Home.
Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma (2026)
In this film starring Hannah Einbinder (Hacks) and Gillian Anderson (The X-Files, Sex Education), a young filmmaker gets the opportunity of a lifetime to revive Camp Miasma, a slasher franchise that has had years of failed sequels. Hoping to finally crack the code and create a successful sequel, she seeks out the star of the original film, a former final girl who has long since stepped away from the spotlight. As the two begin working together, their partnership takes a dark and twisted turn.
Where to watch: Streaming on MUBI.
The Rocky Horror Picture Show (1975)
After a flat tire strands newly engaged couple Brad and Janet, they seek shelter in a nearby castle belonging to the eccentric Dr. Frank-N-Furter. The two experience an unforgettable night filled with strange guests, sexual awakenings and incredible musical numbers. While this cult classic may not seem like a horror, the 1975 film blends gender-bending expression and unapologetic individuality, and celebrates sexual freedom. Starring the late, great Tim Curry, The Rocky Horror Picture Show still brings fans together for midnight screenings.
Bonus! Last year, Linus O’Brien, son of Rocky Horror writer Richard O’Brien, released Strange Journey: The Story of Rocky Horror, a documentary about the film’s lasting legacy.
Where to watch: Streaming on BroadwayHD, free with ads on Fandango at Home, or rent or buy.
Jennifer’s Body (2009)
After a tragic event in a small Minnesota town, best friends Jennifer and Needy find their relationship takes a turn when an indie rock band leaves Jennifer changed. As her behavior becomes more disturbing with each passing day, and a string of deaths rocks this small community, Needy begins to unravel the truth behind what is happening to her best friend. Featuring a canonically bisexual main character with plenty of sapphic undertones, this cult classic is a must-watch, honestly, whether it’s spooky season or not.
Where to watch: Streaming on Hulu, Starz and the Criterion Channel.
A Nightmare on Elm Street 2: Freddy’s Revenge (1985)
Five years after the events of the first movie, teenager Jesse Walsh finds himself at the center of a new nightmare after his family moves into the house where Nancy lived in the original film. He soon finds out that the house is the source of disturbing nightmares and unexplainable events that begin to take over his life. Jesse fears that something or someone is using him as a conduit to return to the land of the living.
Bonus! The 2019 documentary Scream, Queen! My Nightmare on Elm Street showcases the film’s complicated legacy and how it affected lead actor Mark Patton’s personal life and his experience making it.
Where to watch: Streaming on HBO Max and AMC+.
Streaming availability as of October 2026.
