September 2025 is shaping up to be a terrifyingly exciting month for the genre! As the spooky season kicks off, theaters and streaming platforms are unleashing a wave of fresh horror films that promise to deliver chills, thrills, and sleepless nights. From spine-chilling sequels to bold new visions, this lineup is packed with must-watch titles that will get you in the Halloween spirit early. I’ve curated a list of the top horror movies hitting screens in September 2025, complete with detailed insights into their casts, directors, plots, and why they’re perfect for a creepy night in or out. Whether you’re into psychological dread, supernatural scares, or gory slashers, there’s something here to haunt your nightmares. I’ve also included release dates, expected streaming or rental options, and tips to plan your horror-filled September. Ready to dive into the darkness? Let’s explore these terrifying gems! Note: Release dates and streaming availability may vary by region, so check local platforms closer to release.
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1. The Conjuring: Last Rites (2025)
Overview
The Conjuring franchise, a cornerstone of modern horror, concludes with The Conjuring: Last Rites, hitting theaters on September 5, 2025. Directed by Michael Chaves (The Conjuring: The Devil Made Me Do It), this final chapter brings back Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga as paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren for their most harrowing case yet. The film promises a mix of emotional depth and demonic terror, tying together loose threads from the franchise’s decade-long run. Early buzz from test screenings suggests it’s a chilling farewell, with a focus on high-stakes exorcisms and personal danger for the Warrens.
Plot and Cast
While specific plot details remain under wraps to avoid spoilers, the story follows the Warrens as they confront mysterious entities more powerful than any they’ve faced before. The screenplay, penned by David Leslie Johnson-McGoldrick, reportedly delves into a case that tests their faith and resilience, blending real-life inspired paranormal events with the franchise’s signature dread. The cast includes Ben Hardy (X-Men: Apocalypse) and Mia Tomlinson in supporting roles, with rumors of cameos from fan-favorite Conjuring universe entities like Annabelle or Valak. Farmiga has teased in interviews that the film “ups the fear” to deliver a fitting end to the saga.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
The Conjuring: Last Rites is a Halloween-season essential for its emotional weight and terrifying atmosphere. The franchise has grossed over $2 billion worldwide, making it the highest-grossing horror series ever, and this finale aims to honor that legacy with heart-pounding scares. Its September release makes it the perfect kickoff for spooky season, with demonic possessions and eerie visuals that’ll linger long after the credits. Rated R for intense horror and disturbing content, it’s ideal for fans of supernatural horror who crave a mix of dread and heart.
Where to Watch
- Theatrical Release: September 5, 2025
- Streaming: Expected on Max in late October 2025, following a 45-day theatrical window
- Rental: Likely available on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, or Vudu post-theatrical release
- Rotten Tomatoes Score: Early projections estimate 85% based on franchise trends
2. The Long Walk (2025)
Overview
Based on Stephen King’s dystopian novel, The Long Walk arrives in theaters on September 12, 2025, directed by Francis Lawrence (The Hunger Games). This R-rated adaptation brings King’s brutal tale to life with a star-studded cast, including Cooper Hoffman, Judy Greer, Mark Hamill, and Ben Wang. The film’s psychological and physical horror, combined with its grim exploration of human endurance, makes it a standout for September’s horror slate.
Plot and Cast
Set in a militarized America, The Long Walk follows 100 teenage boys forced to compete in a grueling contest where they must maintain a walking speed above four miles per hour. Falling below earns three warnings; after that, they’re executed. The last boy standing wins. The story centers on Ray Garraty (Cooper Hoffman), a desperate teen navigating the psychological toll of the walk, with Mark Hamill as a menacing overseer. Judy Greer and Ben Wang add emotional depth as supporting characters caught in the dystopian nightmare. The screenplay, adapted by James Vanderbilt, leans into the novel’s R-rated brutality and character-driven tension.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
This film’s relentless pace and visceral horror make it a chilling addition to your September watchlist. Early looks highlight Jo Willems’ stark cinematography and Jeremiah Fraites’ haunting score, creating a pressure-cooker atmosphere perfect for Halloween’s eerie buildup. King fans have long awaited this adaptation, and Lawrence’s track record with high-stakes dramas suggests a faithful yet cinematic take. Its themes of survival and sacrifice will hit hard, especially in a theater setting where the tension feels inescapable.
Where to Watch
- Theatrical Release: September 12, 2025
- Streaming: Expected on Hulu or Lionsgate+ within 6–8 weeks post-theatrical
- Rental: Likely on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, or Vudu
- Rotten Tomatoes Score: Projected at 80% based on early festival buzz
3. Him (2025)
Overview
From Jordan Peele’s Monkeypaw Productions, Him is a psychological sports horror film releasing on September 19, 2025. Directed by Justin Tipping (Kicks), this unsettling thriller stars Marlon Wayans, Tyriq Withers, Julia Fox, and Tim Heidecker. Previously titled GOAT, the film blends social commentary with supernatural menace, making it a unique addition to the September horror lineup.
Plot and Cast
Him follows a young football prodigy (Tyriq Withers) invited to train at an isolated compound under a legendary but aging quarterback (Marlon Wayans). As the training intensifies, the quarterback’s charisma curdles into something sinister, revealing a dark secret tied to fame and power. Julia Fox and Tim Heidecker add layers of intrigue as enigmatic figures in the compound. The script, co-written by Tipping and Zack Akers, promises a “blood-chilling journey” with surreal, nightmarish visuals. Early festival buzz praises Wayans’ shift from comedy to a menacing, grounded performance.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
Peele’s involvement ensures a smart, socially aware horror experience, and Him’s blend of sports drama and supernatural dread offers a fresh twist for the genre. Its isolated setting and escalating tension make it a perfect fit for September’s spooky vibe, with visuals that’ll haunt you as the nights grow longer. Rated R for violence and disturbing themes, it’s a sleeper hit in the making, ideal for fans of Get Out or Us looking for a new kind of scare.
Where to Watch
- Theatrical Release: September 19, 2025
- Streaming: Expected on Peacock or Hulu in late October or early November 2025
- Rental: Likely on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, or Vudu
- Rotten Tomatoes Score: Early estimates suggest 88% based on festival reactions
4. The Strangers: Chapter 2 (2025)
Overview
The second installment of Renny Harlin’s Strangers trilogy, The Strangers: Chapter 2, slashes into theaters on September 26, 2025. Following the 2024 reboot, this R-rated sequel continues the home-invasion horror with Madelaine Petsch reprising her role as Maya. Harlin promises a faster pace and gorier kills, making it a blood-soaked treat for slasher fans gearing up for Halloween.
Plot and Cast
Picking up after The Strangers: Chapter 1, the film follows Maya as she faces the iconic masked trio—Scarecrow, Dollface, and Pin-Up Girl—in a new wave of relentless terror. The story ramps up the claustrophobic settings and psychological dread, with a cliffhanger ending to set up Chapter 3 in 2026. Gabriel Basso and Ema Horvath join Petsch, adding fresh victims to the mix. The screenplay, by Alan R. Cohen and Alan Freedland, pushes the R rating with creative, gruesome kills, as teased in early trailers.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
The Strangers: Chapter 2 delivers the visceral, no-holds-barred horror that slasher fans crave, with its masked killers embodying the random, chilling violence perfect for the Halloween season. Its September release aligns with the growing anticipation for spooky nights, and the trilogy’s momentum ensures a packed theater experience. If you loved the raw terror of the 2008 original, this sequel’s intensified stakes will keep you on edge.
Where to Watch
- Theatrical Release: September 26, 2025
- Streaming: Expected on Hulu or Lionsgate+ within 2 months post-theatrical
- Rental: Likely on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, or Vudu
- Rotten Tomatoes Score: Projected at 75% based on the trilogy’s reception
5. 28 Years Later (2025)
Overview
Although released earlier on June 20, 2025, 28 Years Later remains a must-watch for September’s spooky season, available on DVD/Blu-ray starting September 23, 2025. Directed by Danny Boyle and written by Alex Garland, this sequel to 28 Days Later brings back the Rage Virus with a stellar cast, including Jodie Comer, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, and Ralph Fiennes. Its visceral horror and social commentary make it a perfect fit for a Halloween lead-up.
Plot and Cast
Set 28 years after the original outbreak, the film follows a family venturing from an isolated island into a zombie-ravaged Britain. Jodie Comer plays a mother desperate to save her son (Alfie Williams), while Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Ralph Fiennes portray survivors uncovering horrifying truths. Shot with innovative iPhone rigs by cinematographer Anthony Dod Mantle, the film’s stylish visuals and gory action amplify its post-apocalyptic dread. Cillian Murphy is absent, but the story retains the franchise’s raw intensity.
Why It’s a Must-Watch
28 Years Later redefines zombie horror with its relentless pacing and poignant themes, making it a chilling rewatch for September’s spooky nights. Its blend of heart-pounding pursuits and social critique, paired with Boyle’s cinematic flair, ensures a gripping experience. Rated R for graphic violence, its necrotic, death-soaked visuals are tailor-made for horror fans craving intensity before Halloween.
Where to Watch
- Home Media Release: September 23, 2025 (DVD/Blu-ray)
- Streaming: Available on Hulu or Amazon Prime Video
- Rental: Available on Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, or Vudu
- Rotten Tomatoes Score: 92% based on critical reviews
Why These Films Are Perfect for September 2025
September 2025 marks the gateway to Halloween, and these horror films set the perfect tone with their diverse scares. The Conjuring: Last Rites delivers demonic dread, The Long Walk explores dystopian terror, Him blends psychological and supernatural chills, The Strangers: Chapter 2 offers slasher mayhem, and 28 Years Later brings zombie chaos. Each film taps into the eerie anticipation of the spooky season, with release dates aligning to build excitement for October’s peak. Whether you’re watching in a packed theater or curled up at home, these movies will immerse you in haunting atmospheres, from occult rituals to brutal survival contests, making September a thrilling prelude to Halloween.
Where to Find These Films
Here’s where you can expect to watch these chilling horrors (check your region closer to release):
- The Conjuring: Last Rites (September 5, 2025): In theaters; expected on Max, Amazon Prime Video (rent) in late October
- The Long Walk (September 12, 2025): In theaters; expected on Hulu, Amazon Prime Video (rent) in late October or November
- Him (September 19, 2025): In theaters; expected on Peacock, Apple TV (rent) in late October or November
- The Strangers: Chapter 2 (September 26, 2025): In theaters; expected on Hulu, Amazon Prime Video (rent) in November
- 28 Years Later (September 23, 2025, home media): Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV (rent or buy)
Check availability on platforms like Hulu, Max, Peacock, Amazon Prime Video, or Apple TV. Theatrical releases typically hit streaming 45–60 days later, and some platforms may require subscriptions or add-ons.
Final Thoughts
September 2025 is a horror lover’s dream, with The Conjuring: Last Rites, The Long Walk, Him, The Strangers: Chapter 2, and 28 Years Later delivering a diverse slate of scares to kick off the spooky season. From demonic exorcisms to dystopian nightmares, these films offer fresh casts, visionary directors, and heart-pounding thrills that’ll set the perfect creepy vibe for Halloween’s approach. Whether you’re braving the theater or streaming at home, these must-watch titles will leave you haunted and eager for more. So, grab your popcorn (and maybe a flashlight), and get ready for a terrifying September!
Which of these films are you most excited to watch? Share your thoughts in the comments, and let me know how you’re prepping for the spooky season. Happy haunting!
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