Full Breakdown
Paramount+ and AMC Networks Unveil Halloween Programming for 2025
9/18/2025, 12:35:44 PM
Paramount+'s Peak Screaming Collection
Paramount+ has launched its annual Peak Screaming Collection, featuring over 450 titles designed to provide a thrilling Halloween experience. The collection includes the premiere of the original film *Vicious*, directed by Bryan Bertino and starring Dakota Fanning. The film follows Polly, who receives a mysterious box that pulls her into a surreal nightmare with terrifying consequences. *Vicious* will stream exclusively on Paramount+ starting October 10, following its world premiere at Fantastic Fest.
The collection encompasses a wide array of horror genres, including classic films, family-friendly options, and psychological thrillers. Notable titles include *American Psycho*, *The Ring* (2002), *Friday the 13th* (parts 1-8), *The Twilight Zone*, and *SpongeBob SquarePants: Kreepaway Kamp*. Additionally, Paramount+ will feature Halloween episodes from series such as *Ghosts* and *Elsbeth* on October 30, along with the series *Tracker* on November 2.
AMC Networks' FearFest Programming
AMC Networks has announced the return of its annual FearFest, hosted by Janelle Monáe, which will feature over 650 hours of horror films and series throughout October. Monáe, known for her passion for the genre, will share her favorite horror films, including classics like *Halloween* (1978), *Psycho*, and *The Birds*. The event will showcase fan-favorite franchises such as *A Nightmare on Elm Street*, *Friday the 13th*, and the Stephen King library.
FearFest will also include new episodes of *The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon* and the premiere of the series *Talamasca: The Secret Order*, which delves into a secret society tracking supernatural beings. The programming will feature themed marathons, including “Fear the ’80s” and “Creature Feature,” highlighting iconic films from those eras.
Broader Implications and Audience Engagement
Both Paramount+ and AMC Networks aim to engage audiences with diverse horror content, catering to various tastes and age groups. Paramount+'s collection emphasizes binge-worthy franchises and family-friendly options, while AMC's FearFest focuses on classic horror and new series, appealing to long-time fans of the genre.
The programming from both networks reflects a growing trend in the entertainment industry to capitalize on seasonal events, particularly Halloween, by offering curated content that resonates with viewers' nostalgia and love for horror.
Official Statements & Responses
Janelle Monáe expressed her excitement about returning as the host of FearFest, stating, “Halloween is a time to investigate fears, transform them, and celebrate the unknown.” Kim Granito, Chief Marketing Officer for AMC Networks, noted, “Janelle’s passion for horror and boundless creativity has fans excitedly awaiting her return for this month-long carnival of frights.”
Verbatim Quotes
- “Says Monae: “Halloween is a time to investigate fears, transform them, and celebrate the unknown.” — Janelle Monáe, Host of FearFest
- “We’re thrilled to welcome back the iconic Janelle Monáe to headline this year’s FearFest,” — Kim Granito, Chief Marketing Officer, AMC Networks
What's Next
As Halloween approaches, both Paramount+ and AMC Networks will continue to promote their respective collections, encouraging viewers to explore their extensive horror offerings throughout October.
