Halloween 2024: Top Movies & Shows on Netflix, Disney+, Max & Peacock

As Halloween week arrives, streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+, Max, and Peacock have lined up a special mix of movies and shows to set the mood for spooky season. From eagerly anticipated series revivals to chilling horror films and family-friendly animations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s a breakdown of some of the highlights.

 

1. "Wizards Beyond Waverly Place" (Disney+ and Disney Channel)
Just in time for Halloween, Disney Channel will debut the first two episodes of the long-awaited “Wizards of Waverly Place” sequel on Tuesday, with eight episodes streaming on Disney+ beginning Wednesday. The series, titled “Wizards Beyond Waverly Place,” follows Justin Russo (David Henrie) as he tries to lead a life without magic—until his sister Alex (played by Selena Gomez in a guest role) shows up with a young wizard in need of training. This revival picks up on the beloved magic-infused series that launched Gomez’s career.

Wizards Beyond Waverly Place

 

2. "The Diplomat" Season 2 (Netflix)
For those looking for drama rather than scares, Netflix’s political thriller The Diplomat returns with its second season on Thursday. Starring Keri Russell as Kate, a newly appointed U.S. diplomat in the U.K., and Rupert Sewell as her husband, Hal, the series picks up right where it left off. Kate’s growing distrust in everyone but her husband adds new tension to this season, with Allison Janney joining the cast as the Vice President.

"The Diplomat" Season 2

 

3. "Finding Mr. Christmas" (Hallmark+)
Hallmark+ is bringing a unique holiday-themed reality competition to streaming on Thursday with Finding Mr. Christmas. Hosted by Jonathan Bennett (Mean Girls) and judged by Bennett and Melissa Peterman, the series follows ten men vying for the lead role in a Hallmark holiday movie. The contestants face challenges like sleigh-pulling and ugly Christmas sweater competitions, all leading to a final role opposite Jessica Lowndes in Happy Howlidays, premiering on Hallmark Channel in December.

Finding Mr. Christmas

 

4. "Like Water for Chocolate" (Max)

This upcoming Spanish-language series for HBO Max, based on the beloved novel Like Water for Chocolate, premieres on Sunday, November 3. Executive produced by Salma Hayek Pinault, it unfolds the forbidden love story of Tita de la Garza (Azul Guaita) and Pedro Múzquiz (Andrés Baida), set against the backdrop of the Mexican Revolution. Family traditions prevent the couple from being together, but their passion persists in this beautifully crafted adaptation.

Like Water for Chocolate

 

5. "The Substance" (MUBI)
On Halloween, MUBI will stream The Substance, Coralie Fargeat’s body horror film starring Demi Moore. Moore plays Elisabeth Sparkle, a former Hollywood star fired from her aerobics TV show on her 50th birthday. In a desperate bid to regain her youth, she turns to an illicit injectable called “The Substance,” transforming her life in unimaginable ways. Margaret Qualley co-stars in this darkly thrilling narrative.

The Substance

6. "Martha" and "Music by John Williams" Documentaries
Two captivating documentaries are set to release soon, featuring iconic American figures. Netflix will premiere Martha on Wednesday, October 30. Directed by R.J. Cutler, this documentary offers a fresh look at the life of Martha Stewart, tracing her journey from teenage model to lifestyle guru. Then, on Friday, November 1, Disney+ will release Music by John Williams, a tribute to the legendary composer behind Hollywood classics. Featuring interviews with industry giants like Steven Spielberg and George Lucas, it honors Williams’ contribution to film at the age of 92.

 

7. "Janet Planet" (Max)
Playwright Annie Baker makes her film debut with Janet Planet, streaming on Max starting Friday, November 1. Set in 1991 rural Massachusetts, the film quietly explores the bond between a mother (Julianne Nicholson) and her 11-year-old daughter (Zoe Ziegler) over a languid summer. Baker’s direction immerses audiences in the nostalgic beauty of pre-digital life.

Janet Planet

 

8. "Despicable Me 4" (Peacock)
Perfect for a family movie night, Despicable Me 4 brings back the lovable Minions and will be streaming on Peacock beginning October 31. Gru and his team are ready to charm younger audiences with more laugh-out-loud antics and adorable chaos.

 

Despicable Me 4

 

With a variety of shows and movies from Halloween thrills to heartwarming stories, this week’s streaming lineup has something for everyone. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and enjoy a Halloween week of endless entertainment.