Many streaming services have embraced a spooky lineup for horror aficionados, and we’ve pulled together some top picks from platforms like Netflix and Hulu. However, a standout among free, ad-supported platforms is Tubi, primarily because it features films from before the year 2000. While other services do have some older titles, Tubi’s constantly evolving library includes a range of films that span different eras. This gives us the opportunity to explore a unique list of spooky films from Hulu that covers horror across the decades.
This collection highlights at least one film from each decade, starting in 1925, aiming to provide a glimpse into a hundred years of horror cinema. It’s like a little time machine with Tubi – and don’t worry, most movies are under 90 minutes, even with ad interruptions.
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Phantom of the Opera (1925)
rating: TV-PG
director: Rupert Julian
cast: Lon Chaney, Mary Philbin, Norman KellyYou might have heard of Nosferatu, but there are also classics from this period like Phantom of the Opera, another silent film that laid the groundwork for what would later evolve into the Universal Monsters series. Lon Chaney portrays the Phantom and his own makeup artist, creating a character that definitely sticks with you. While the more well-known musical version exists, Chaney’s take remains hauntingly memorable.
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Doctor X (1932)
rating: TV-14
director: Michael Curtiz
cast: Lionel Atwill, Fay Wray, Lee TracyIn the early 1930s, amidst the rise of the Universal Monsters, Warner Bros. produced their own horror tales blending murder, cannibalism, and scientific experiments. This film has a nice mix of creepy vibes for its time, largely because it falls before the production codes limited graphic content. Here, Dr. Xavier is caught up in a murder mystery involving some sort of supernatural creature. At a swift 76 minutes, it’s a good representation of the old-school horror Tubi offers.
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Son of Dracula (1943)
rating: TV-PG
director: Robert Siodmak
cast: Lon Chaney Jr., Louise Allbritton, Robert PageSiodmak is often underrated, with a portfolio that spans various genres, including notable noir films. Son of Dracula, while perhaps not as remarkable as his later works, showcases his versatile style. The film introduces Count Alucard, played by Chaney, who arrives at a peculiar New Orleans plantation. While it might not hit all the marks achieved by classic vampire lore, it’s still an enjoyable watch.
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Frankenstein’s Curse (1957)
rating: TV-PG
director: Terrence Fisher
cast: Peter Cushing, Robert Urquhart, Hazel Court, Christopher LeeDespite its title evoking Frankenstein’s legacy, this movie marks the beginning of Hammer’s adaptation of Mary Shelley’s story, ushering in a new era of horror with vibrant colors and more leeway when it came to violence and themes, distinguishing it from earlier classics.
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Pit and Pendulum (1961)
rating: TV-MA
director: Roger Corman
cast: Vincent Price, John Kerr, Barbara SteeleThis film is a part of Corman’s series inspired by Edgar Allan Poe, expanding upon the original tale of the same name. It follows a man investigating the mysterious death of his sister, with classic Poe-esque torture devices and eerie atmosphere woven throughout, making it quite a standout from the era.
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Black Christmas (1974)
rating: R
director: Bob Clark
cast: Olivia Hussey, Margot Kidder, Keir DulleaNot just a game-changer for the slasher genre but also a film that embodies the eerie essence of its time, Black Christmas features a chilling narrative about a sorority house stalked by an unknown menace, marked by brilliant cinematography and mood.
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Suspiria (1977)
rating: R
director: Dario Argento
cast: Jessica Harper, Stefania Casini, Flavio BucciThis masterpiece stands out for its striking colors and stunning visuals, juxtaposed with a simple yet chilling plot involving a ballet school run by witches. Directed by the acclaimed Argento, it’s a key film that’s still appreciated for its creativity and impact.
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Christine (1983)
rating: R
director: John Carpenter
cast: Keith Gordon, John Stockwell, Alexandra PaulIn the realm of 80s horror, this Stephen King adaptation shines. It tells the tale of a possessed car, blending classic horror elements with a memorable character narrative, making it a fun entry in the genre that stays with you long after the credits roll.
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From Dusk Till Dawn (1996)
rating: R
director: Robert Rodriguez
cast: George Clooney, Harvey Keitel, Juliette Lewis, Quentin TarantinoIt begins as a suspenseful crime drama but shifts abruptly into horror territory, with a cast of familiar faces navigating a bizarre vampire-ridden roadhouse. The seamless blend of genres deserves a thumbs up, showcasing a unique twist on horror storytelling.
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Drag Me to Hell (2009)
rating: PG-13
director: Sam Raimi
cast: Alison Roman, Justin Long, Lorna RaverHere, Raimi showcases his knack for horror again, presenting a story packed with suspense and unexpected chills. It follows a young woman’s moral misstep that leads to dire consequences, providing ample jumps and thrills, proving that PG-13 can still deliver genuine scares.
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Coraline (2009)
rating: PG
director: Henry Selick
cast: Dakota Fanning, Teri Hatcher, Keith DavidA family-friendly horror staple, Coraline presents a quirky narrative that balances fright with fun. It mixes fantasy and horror seamlessly, exploring themes of otherworldly danger that kids can handle, making it a beloved choice.
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The Invitation (2015)
rating: R
director: Karin Kusama
cast: Logan Marshall-Green, Tammy Blanchard, Michael HousemanThis film dives into psychological horror at a dinner party gone wrong, exploring unsettling themes of cult involvement. Despite a slower pace, the gripping direction keeps viewers engaged, leading to a satisfying conclusion that chills.
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Scare Me (2020)
rating: R
director: Josh Reuben
cast: Aya Cash, Josh Reuben, Chris ReddThough Tubi might lack recent horror classics, there are hidden gems like Scare Me that balance humor and cynicism in a story about two storytellers sharing scary tales. It veers into an innovative take on horror comedy, ensuring a fresh viewing experience.





