30+ Dark and Enchanting Films Like Coraline Your Little Creeper Will Adore

Creepy kids’ movies? Yes, you read that right!

By Ava Sinclair
Updated: May 3, 2022
Originally Published: Aug. 24, 2021

Coraline is a seemingly ordinary girl with a touch of spookiness. Sporting her yellow raincoat, dark hair, and piercing eyes, she navigates a world filled with busy parents who mean well but can’t always keep an eye on her. But Coraline’s biggest challenge may lie in her imagination—or is it? If you’re a fan of this gothic stop-motion gem, you likely believe it rightfully holds its place as a cult classic. Yet, you may encounter friends who just don’t understand your fascination with this eerie animated film, or why you allow your child to watch it. That’s the beauty of cinema: it’s subjective. What terrifies one person can delight another. If you fit the latter category, you’re in need of more films like Coraline to fill your movie night.

Let’s quickly recap the plot. Upon moving into a peculiar old house, Coraline discovers a little boy named Wyborne, whose grandmother owns her new home and gives her a doll that resembles her. While exploring, Coraline stumbles upon a tiny door that leads to the “Other World.” Initially, this alternate reality seems perfect, where the Other Mother showers her with attention and prepares her favorite meals. However, it quickly becomes a nightmarish realm, revealing its sinister nature, forcing Coraline to escape back to reality. Was the Other World a mere figment of her imagination, or something more haunting? Fans can debate this endlessly.

Coraline is dark yet remains a children’s film, based on Neil Gaiman’s captivating book. If your young one enjoys a sprinkle of spookiness, you’ll want to read this to them! Many kids love pairing a book with its movie adaptation, while others are simply drawn to the darker aspects of storytelling. Once you’ve seen Coraline for the umpteenth time, check out these films that share its eerie charm.

Dark Kids’ Films Similar to Coraline

The Boxtrolls (2014)
This film follows an orphan raised by underground-dwelling creatures called Boxtrolls. When a villain threatens them, the orphan, Eggs, must venture above ground to seek help, teaming up with another child to save his friends. It’s a dark tale but one your little spookster will enjoy.
The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
A timeless classic that never grows old. With a singing skeleton at its helm, it’s a delightful mix of Halloween and Christmas that should resonate well if your kid enjoyed Coraline.
Frankenweenie (2012)
In this quirky film, a boy named Victor brings his dog back to life, blending dark humor with a heartfelt story about the bond between a boy and his pet.
Alice in Wonderland (2010)
We’re referring to Tim Burton’s darker adaptation, which many argue shares thematic elements with Coraline, such as the descent into a bizarre alternate world.
Where The Wild Things Are (2009)
This adaptation captures a child’s imaginative escape to a wild world, echoing the themes of Coraline, though it might be a bit slower-paced.
Matilda (1996)
If you haven’t shared this Roald Dahl classic with your children, you’re missing out! It’s a delightful story of a gifted girl who believes in magic.
Monster House (2006)
Three friends embark on a spooky adventure as they investigate a haunted house, bringing a mix of excitement and chills.

More Movies Like Coraline for Your Little Creeper:

ParaNorman (2012)
Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)
Edward Scissorhands (1990)
Jack and the Cuckoo-Clock Heart (2013)
James and the Giant Peach (1996)
The BFG (2016)
Over the Garden Wall (2014)
Spirited Away (2001)
Lemony Snicket’s A Series of Unfortunate Events (2004)
Hugo (2011)
Arthur and the Invisibles (2006)
My Neighbor Totoro (1988)
Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children (2016)
Howl’s Moving Castle (2004)
Rise of the Guardians (2012)
The Secret of Kells (2009)
Yona Yona Penguin (2009)
Igor (2008)
Scooby-Doo and the Loch Ness Monster (2004)
Kubo and the Two Strings (2016)
Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit (2005)
9 (2009)
Ma vie de Courgette/My Life as a Zucchini (2016)
Corpse Bride (2005)
Hotel Transylvania (2012)

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In summary, Coraline opens the door to a world of dark yet enchanting films that can captivate your child’s imagination while providing just the right dose of spookiness. From the quirky characters to the imaginative storytelling, these movies will surely become favorites in your household.