Happy Halloween, spectral spectators!
With many folks spending this Halloween indoors, comfort and simplicity are key. With that in mind, we’ve assembled a list of 7 GKIDS hidden gems to set the spooky mood, each paired with a closet cosplay idea that’s easy enough to make at home, but creative enough to impress your film-loving friends. Now grab your popcorn (or candy corn) and enjoy the show!
Nocturna (2007)
Not Rated, for ages 7+
Filled with strange creatures, beautiful nighttime imagery, and fearsome foes, this is a movie that captures the magic of Halloween. When little Tim befriends a kindly night spirit known as The Cat Shepherd, the pair embark on a journey to save the stars and conquer Tim’s fear of the dark.
Costume Idea:
The Cat Shepherd is the perfect costume: comfortable and weather-appropriate. Channel his gentle nature, curl up, and relax this Halloween with your family. Carry around a toy cat for extra authenticity!
Sources: Fur Hat World (Hat), Spirit Halloween (Gloves), Billabong (Sweater), Banana Republic (Pants)
Tales of the Night (2012)
Not Rated, for ages 7+
Prefer stories to tell in the dark? Tales of the Night recreates nocturnal fables from all around the world, adapted to the screen through Michel Ocelot’s unique animation style inspired by shadow puppets. Travel to distant lands and forgotten eras all from your couch!
Costume Idea:
Wear all black! Effortless, versatile, and very chic. Character ideas are boundless, but make sure to throw in clothing with strong silhouettes! A cape and a wolf mask would be great to pull off the Prince/Werewolf’s look! For extra fun, make some shadow puppets of your own, inspired by the movie! All you need is black paper, a stick or straw, and a light source.
Sources: Walmart (Cape), IVYpaperart (Mask), Bonjour Petit (Puppets)
Pom Poko (1994)
Rated PG
Join a cohort of magical Tanuki (raccoon dogs) fighting to defend their land from real estate developers. Especially relevant now, this film is not only a charming, supernatural spectacle but also a deep reflection of our relationship with nature.
Costume Idea:
Get down with Shoukichi and Okiya! For Okiya, find an orange wraparound top, and for Shoukichi, get a gift for your significant other, like flowers! To become more raccoon-like, find a mask, ears, and gray loungewear.
Sources: Madewell (Top), Native Poppy (Flowers), Craft Spring (Mask), Alternative Apparel (Set), Alternative Apparel (Set)
Mary and The Witch’s Flower (2018)
Rated PG
While staying with her aunt, Mary is whisked away to a school for witches by a magical broomstick. Mary is welcomed by Endor College with open arms but soon uncovers a sinister plot happening within its walls. Mary’s enchanting adventure, packed with action and wonder, will bring a spark of magic to your Halloween.
Costume Idea:
Rock Mary’s look with a red jacket or cardigan, black skirt, and brown boots. Tie your hair in pigtails with black ribbons, and don’t forget a broom!
Sources: Asos (Skirt), Gap Factory (Jacket), Nordstrom Rack (Boots)
A Letter to Momo (2012)
Rated PG
A coming-of-age story featuring a wily trio of Yokai– mythical Japanese spirits– this movie is sure to make your season supernatural. Funny and poetic, they help Momo navigate her grief and growth through beautifully animated sequences.
Costume Idea:
Throw on a yellow rain jacket (or a loincloth for the brave souls) and go as the impish Mame, and get ready to go ham on the tricks this Halloween! Encircle your eyes in black eyeliner, and stick out your tongue for the full effect.
Source: Jacket
Extraordinary Tales (2015)
Not rated, for ages 13+
This artistic narration of Edgar Allen Poe’s greatest hits is creepy, crawly, and clever. You turn off your lights to go to sleep, but kind of want them on. Your imagination runs wild about what lurks outside the window, or in the shadows of your room. Shh… what’s that? Do you hear a beating heart?
Costume Idea:
The figure from The Masque of the Red Death is striking and has the potential to be an extremely comfortable costume. Grab a red cape (or blanket), a skull mask, and maybe even some sharp stiletto nail press-ons.
Source: Specimenz via Etsy (Mask), Ghoulish Productions (Mask), Target (Cape), Victorian Trading Co (Blanket), Ballerina Nail via Etsy (Nails)
Birdboy: The Forgotten Children (2018)
Not rated, for ages 17+
This is the type of movie that may not seem scary at first glance, but there’s plenty of brooding darkness here to satisfy your inner goth. Birdboy: The Forgotten Children is a thought-provoking, haunting dreamscape of a film, filled with post-apocalyptic action, suspense, and heart.
Costume Idea:
Luckily, Birdboy keeps his attire clean and classic. All you need is a suit, tie, and shoes, and wings, which are easily DIY-able. Go the extra mile with some undereye circles and a black triangle for your beak. In the Halloweens Yet to Come, dress up with pals as all of the characters, and bring an inflatable duck float!
Source: Alain Dupetit (Suit), Trend Times (Wings)
Halloween 2020 GKIDS Closet Cosplay
Thursday, October 22 – Wednesday, October 28
Missing dressing up in the Perfect Costume for all of your ghoulish gatherings? GKIDS invites you to participate in this year’s virtual Halloween contest! Closet cosplays are meant to be accessible, fun, and we’re eager to witness everyone’s creativity!
Rules:
- Follow @GKIDSFilms on Instagram and/or Twitter
- Post your look on Instagram and/or Twitter, tag @GKIDSFilms and add the hashtag #GKIDSHalloween between Thursday, October 22, and Wednesday, October 28.
- Make sure to mention the character’s name and the film in your caption.
- Have fun!
Prize:
Three lucky winners will receive a Blu-ray/DVD bundle featuring:
- Spirited Away
- Mary and the Witch’s Flower
- Pom Poko
- Birdboy: The Forgotten Children
Winners will be contacted via Twitter/Instagram DM and their posts will be shared to the @GKIDSFilms Twitter page and Instagram Stories!