With the recent buzz about a Thirteen Ghosts TV adaptation, paranormal themes are making a comeback among horror fans. However, not everyone enjoys spine-tingling scares. Fortunately, there are plenty of paranormal movies that offer a lighter take on the supernatural, from whimsical comedies to heartwarming animations.
Beetlejuice (1988)
Genre: Fantasy Comedy
Beetlejuice tells the story of a deceased couple who haunts their home to scare away the new living occupants. This dark comedy, directed by Tim Burton, is packed with fantastical elements but is far from the terrifying horror genre. It’s a beloved classic that some fans believe deserves a modern reboot.
ParaNorman (2012)
Genre: Animated Family Adventure
In ParaNorman, a young boy named Norman can communicate with the dead. When his town faces a threat from an ancient witch, he uses his unique abilities to fight against an army of zombies. While it touches on horror tropes, this animated film is family-friendly and focuses on fun rather than fear.
Field of Dreams (1989)
Genre: Drama with Fantasy Elements
Field of Dreams tells the heartwarming tale of a farmer who builds a baseball field at the urging of a mysterious voice. The spirits of legendary baseball players appear to play. This paranormal movie beautifully explores themes of love, family, and the magic of the game.
Monster House (2006)
Genre: Animated Adventure
Monster House follows three kids as they try to convince others that a house on their street is a living monster. This animated film, while spooky at times, is more about adventure and mystery than sheer terror, making it suitable for a family-friendly Halloween watch.
Haunted Mansion (2023)
Genre: Fantasy Comedy
In this modern remake of the 2003 film, Haunted Mansion, a single mother and her son move into a mansion haunted by ghosts. The ghosts in this movie are more mischievous than terrifying, adding to the comedic quality of the film. It’s an entertaining paranormal watch for the whole family.
Ghost (1990)
Genre: Fantasy Romance
Ghost is a romantic fantasy starring Demi Moore and Patrick Swayze. It tells the story of Sam, who, after being murdered, works with a psychic to protect his love interest from a similar fate. This ’90s hit is intensely moving and romantic, far from traditional paranormal scares.
Coco (2017)
Genre: Animated Family Drama
Coco is a lighthearted animated film that explores themes of family, culture, and passion for music. While it takes place in the Land of the Dead and features deceased characters, it emphasizes family legacy and the connection between ancestors and the living.
Ghostbusters (1984)
Genre: Supernatural Comedy
Ghostbusters, a comedic classic, follows a group of scientists who start a business to combat ghosts in New York City. While the premise is spooky, the film’s style and performances take a unique approach to the paranormal, focusing more on humor than horror.
Spirited Away (2001)
Genre: Animated Fantasy
Spirited Away, an anime from Studio Ghibli, tells the story of Chihiro, a young girl who ends up in a supernatural dimension. Although it has some intense moments, the paranormal beings in the film are fascinating rather than terrifying, emphasizing the magical and strange aspects of the world.
Soul (2020)
Genre: Animated Philosophical Drama
Soul, a Disney-Pixar masterpiece, explores the afterlife as Joe, a music teacher, embarks on a journey to return to his body. It delves deep into the meaning of life, emphasizing living life to the fullest. This film is more about philosophical introspection than paranormal scares.
For those intrigued by the paranormal movies but not keen on horror, these ten movies offer a delightful and often heartwarming exploration of the supernatural. From the whimsy of Beetlejuice to the philosophical depth of Soul, there’s something here for everyone interested in the mysteries of the afterlife without the fear factor.