Animations are generally aimed at children and teenagers and, therefore, tend to deal with lighter themes, such as adventure and comedy. However, it is not uncommon to find animated titles that explore the horror genre, featuring scary scenes and situations.
In this article we explore 10 animations that delve into the dark side of the imagination, perfect for those looking for a chilling experience.
Scary animations to watch online
Produced by Steven Spielberg, this animated film uses the motion capture technique. Three friends suspect that their neighbor’s house is cursed and, in fact, a living, menacing creature.
They try to warn the residents of the street, but no one believes them. On the eve of Halloween, they plan to destroy it before it causes more victims.
This animated horror anthology is made up of three distinct stories, all set in the same mysterious house at different times.
The first story is set in the 1800s and follows a poor family dealing with the consequences of a dangerous wish. The second is set in the present day and follows a mouse who renovates his house to sell it. In the third, set in the near future, a young woman tries to restore her home in a desolate landscape.
Stop motion animation directed by Henry Selick and created by Tim Burton (known for Edward Scissorhands and Beetlejuice). The story follows Jack Skellington, the king of Halloween Town, who decides to bring Christmas to his town.
To do this, he tries to discover the Christmas spirit and ends up kidnapping Santa Claus. The gothic aesthetic and soundtrack make this one of the most iconic and dark animations of its time.
Another stop motion animation directed by Henry Selick, this time adapted from the book by Neil Gaiman (Sandman and American Gods).
Coraline discovers a secret door in her new home, leading her to an alternate, seemingly perfect version of her life. However, he soon realizes the dark side of this other reality, making the film a psychological horror experience for all ages.
Directed by Tim Burton, the film tells the story of Victor, who, while rehearsing his wedding vows, accidentally promises to marry a bride from beyond the grave.
With a gothic aesthetic, a hallmark of Burton’s works, and a melancholic tone, the plot creates a fascinating, frightening and romantic narrative. This is another stop motion animation, similar to the style of *The Nightmare Before Christmas*.
Another Tim Burton film, inspired by the classic Frankenstein. The story follows Victor, a boy who tries to resurrect his dog. The experiment works, but triggers frightening consequences.
The film is based on a short film by Burton and is also made with the stop motion technique. The black and white animation and light horror theme make this story chilling and heartwarming.
This classic Disney animation is one of the studio’s darkest. Despite not being successful at the box office upon its release, the film has acquired cult status over time.
Adapted from the first two books of “The Chronicles of Prydain,” by Lloyd Alexander, the adventure follows a young man who embarks on a quest to wield a magical sword and stop a tyrannical king from using a magical cauldron to take over the world.
The dark scenes and scary villain make the film impactful.
Another animation directed by Henry Selick, but this time with a script by Jordan Peele (from Get Out and Us).
The story follows two demon brothers, Wendell and Wild, who convince a young girl to help them enter the world of the living. In exchange, the girl makes a request that defies the laws of life and death.
The animation uses the stop motion technique, mixing humor, adventure and horror.
Directed by Guillermo del Toro (of Pan’s Labyrinth and The Shape of Water), the film brings a dark and artistic take on the classic Pinocchio story.
Set in 1950s fascist Italy, it follows the wooden doll Pinocchio who, when he comes to life, becomes involved in trouble and faces mysterious creatures.
The animation won the 2023 Oscar in the category and explores profound themes of mortality and existence, creating an intense and dark viewing experience.
A lighter, child-friendly option on the list. Based on the Brazilian animated series, the film follows young Pepe on an adventure full of supernatural creatures and dark settings.
With lots of humor and a good dose of scares, it’s a fun option for kids who love supernatural stories.
The 10 Scary Animated Movies to Stream appeared first on Olhar Digital.
Source: Olhar Digital
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
