In the world of horror movies, horrifying creatures, deadly weapons, and terrified victims dominate the screen, leaving little room for heartfelt romances to captivate audiences. However, amidst the bloodshed and chaos of horror cinema, there have been surprisingly tender love stories that have emerged, featuring everything from unlikely unions between monsters to blossoming relationships amidst life-threatening situations. These unforgettable couples have solidified their place as some of the greatest horror movie duos of all time, whether it's the protagonists in dark romantic comedies like Little Shop of Horrors or iconic slashers like Chucky. Prepare to have your heart swept away by these 10 couples.
Updated on October 28, 2023, by Ryan Heffernan:
While the spooky season is synonymous with blood, guts, and horror-induced scares, it also serves as a platform for unconventional celebrations of love. These frightfully cute couples defy the odds by cultivating affection amidst grim circumstances. Whether they are evading a homicidal clown or battling a ravenous carnivorous plant, they demonstrate that love can flourish in even the most terrifying situations.
Beverly Marsh & Ben Hanscom
'It' (2017)
Image by Warner Bros. Pictures
Presenting a blend of coming-of-age tale and spine-chilling supernatural horror, the 2017 film It showcases a group of remarkable youngsters immersed in the eerie magic of childhood love. While Bill (Jaeden Martell) explores an alluring connection with Beverley Marsh (Sophia Lillis) throughout much of the movie, the narrative equally delves into Ben's (Jeremy Ray Taylor) emotions towards her, particularly as she becomes an integral part of their tight-knit faction known as the Loser's Club.
Two individuals, Ben and Bev, connect through poetry as they seek refuge from the hardships they endure daily. Their profound connection proves to be a lifeline when Ben's kiss awakens Beverley from her catatonic state, inflicted by Pennywise's assault. Although their romantic relationship doesn't materialize immediately, they ultimately unite after 27 years in It: Chapter Two. Catch the compelling story on Max.
Gale Weathers & Dewey Riley
The 'Scream' Franchise (1996-2022)
Image via Dimension Films
The most captivating couples in any genre often possess a charming oddness that creates an irresistible allure. This dynamic was certainly present in the acclaimed Scream movies' iconic pair. Gale Weathers (Courteney Cox), a tenacious investigative journalist with a streak of ruthlessness and a dubious moral compass, stood in sharp contrast to Dewey Riley (David Arquette), a playful police officer whose intentions were always pure.
What began as harmless teasing between the two individuals rapidly grew into a deeply intense connection, as their love story unfolded amidst the turmoil caused by the Ghostface murders. Although this couple's journey may ultimately end in tragedy, Gale and Dewey are undeniably meant to be together in the grand scheme of the franchise.
Chucky & Tiffany
'Bride Of Chucky' (1998)
Image via Universal Pictures
Slasher villains typically lack any hint of a soft, romantic side. However, the Chucky movies took a unique direction with 1998's Bride of Chucky, introducing a terrifying killer doll's wife, the equally disturbed Tiffany (Jennifer Tilly). From the start, their twisted romance is delightfully wicked, as Tiffany bribes a murderous cop to obtain Chucky's shredded remains and resurrect him through a voodoo ritual.
Their relationship is far from smooth sailing, often resulting in violent arguments - Tiffany has even decapitated Chucky with a knife. Yet, within the darkly comedic tone of the series, Chucky and Tiffany's romance manages to cynically entertain.
Watch on DirecTV
Seymour Krelborn & Audrey
'Little Shop of Horrors' (1986)
Image via Warner Bros.
Little Shop of Horrors, released in 1986, is a remarkable horror rom-com musical that has unfortunately been overlooked by modern audiences. It is a genre-defining masterpiece that is based on a 1982 off-Broadway musical. The story revolves around a nerdy florist who works in a struggling store and stumbles upon an opportunity for success in the form of a carnivorous, man-eating plant that demands to be fed.
The protagonist, Seymour (played by Rick Moranis), not only has to deal with the challenge of controlling the rapidly growing plant but also finds himself preoccupied with his feelings for his kind and introverted colleague, Audrey (portrayed by Ellen Greene). The film concludes with Seymour and Audrey emerging victorious, defeating Audrey II, and ultimately getting married. This adorable and unusual couple proves that romance and horror can coexist harmoniously. In fact, a well-crafted romantic storyline can enhance the thematic elements of a story while still maintaining its eerie elements.
Louis de Pointe du Lac & Lestat de Lioncourt
'Interview With the Vampire' (1994)
Image via Warner Bros.
The 1994 film, based on Anne Rice's novel, Interview with the Vampire, may not fully embrace the homosexual romance between Brad Pitt's Louis and Tom Cruise's Lestat. However, the film's high-profile pairing is widely regarded as a significant moment for queer cinema in Hollywood. Set in modern-day San Francisco, the movie follows Louis as he recounts his transformation into a vampire in 1791 and the turbulent life he has led ever since. Interview with the Vampire stands as a noteworthy contribution to queer cinema, exploring the alluring connection between the vampires and introducing a young girl who becomes their "daughter." While AMC's recent television adaptation delves deeper into the romantic and sexual relationship between Lestat and Louis, it is the film version that introduced two iconic queer characters to the horror genre.
Watch on Hulu
Edward Scissorhands & Kim Boggs
'Edward Scissorhands' (1990)
Image via 20th Century Fox
Edward Scissorhands could be classified as more of a fantasy tale rather than a horror film, although Tim Burton's signature eerie, gothic aesthetic and focus on troubled, anguished characters give the well-known movie a horror-esque touch. It also results in an unconventional yet stunning love story, as Edward (portrayed by Johnny Depp) is taken in by a compassionate saleswoman and falls in love with her teenage daughter, Kim (played by Winona Ryder).
Initially apprehensive of Edward's appearance, Kim gradually grows to appreciate him. While the couple's story doesn't culminate in a happily ever after, their connection is exceptionally genuine and distinct, imparting a subtle layer of romance to this enchanting and macabre fairy tale, setting it apart from other Gothic works.
Brad Majors & Janet Weiss
'Rocky Horror Picture Show' (1975)
Image via 20th Century Fox
The Rocky Horror Picture Show is a lively and innovative Rock n' Roll horror musical that draws inspiration from B-movie horror and 1950s sci-fi films. While Dr. Frank-N-Furter's (Tim Curry) magnetic personality is undeniably captivating, the innocent allure of engaged couple Brad (Barry Bostwick) and Janet (Susan Sarandon) is equally captivating.
Brad and Janet, despite their lack of experience and occasional foolishness, are endearing characters. They find themselves stranded with a flat tire on a tumultuous night and stumble upon Frankenstein's Place. Although they encounter numerous mishaps along the way, including Brad's unintentional involvement with Frank-N-Furter and the transformation of everyone into statues, the couple manages to escape relatively unharmed.
Watch on Hulu
The Bride & Frankenstein's Monster
'The Bride' (1985)
Image via Colombia Pictures
Frankenstein's Monster has long been portrayed as one of cinema's most tormented characters since his earliest appearance on screen. Inspired by Mary Shelley's renowned gothic horror novel, the Monster is brought to life by a scientist consumed by the desire to create life. His unfortunate circumstances persist in The Bride of Frankenstein, considered one of the finest films of the 1930s, as his intended partner is repulsed by his existence.
Fortunately, the tides turn in his favor in The Bride of Frankenstein from 1985. In this adaptation, Frankenstein's monster (played by Clancy Brown) escapes into the countryside as his creator breathes life into Eva (portrayed by Jennifer Beals), a woman designed to be his mate. Although their connection is not immediate, the Monster and Eva eventually run away together, providing a slight respite for the tortured creature who has endured decades of suffering.
Watch on Peacock
Jack Skellington & Sally
'The Nightmare Before Christmas' (1993)
Image via Buena Vista Pictures Distribution
The Nightmare Before Christmas is an animated film that combines dark fantasy, horror, and stop-motion animation. The story revolves around Jack Skellington, the king of Halloween Town, who becomes curious about Christmas and becomes fixated on it, causing chaos in the process.
Sally, a ragdoll who harbors feelings for Jack, also plays a vital role in the story. The iconic scene of Jack and Sally standing on a hill, singing a romantic song to conclude the movie, showcases their profound romance without it being the main focus. This solidifies their place as one of the most memorable couples in Halloween movies.
Watch on Disney+
Morticia & Gomez Addams
'The Addams Family' (1991)
Image via Paramount Pictures
Morticia and Gomez Addams reign supreme when it comes to being an adorably eerie couple. Despite their peculiar and sometimes unsettling behavior, as well as their gothic style, their love and unwavering support for one another is utterly genuine.
For decades, Morticia and Gomez have captivated audiences with their iconic status. They wholeheartedly embrace each other's unique personalities and share an intense passion for their peculiar and macabre interests. Their unwavering dedication to one another has solidified their status as timeless icons, whether it be through the original 1960s series The Addams Family or more recent shows like Wednesday.
Watch on Paramount+
Editor's P/S
1. As a horror movie fan, I find it intriguing how these couples manage to find love and connection in the midst of terrifying and often gruesome circumstances. It's a testament to the power of love and the human spirit that even in the darkest of times, there is still room for light and hope.
2. My favorite couple from the list is Ben and Bev from "It." Their relationship is sweet and innocent, and it provides a much-needed source of light in the midst of the film's darkness. I love how they connect through poetry and how their love for each other helps them to overcome their fears and defeat Pennywise.