Should Catholics Watch Horror Movies? (The Drew Mariani Show)

As Halloween approaches, Drew Mariani takes on a question many Catholics wonder about: Is it okay for believers to watch horror movies? In this episode of The Drew Mariani Show, he welcomes Kevin Collins, director of The Merry Beggars at Relevant Radio and a former Hollywood actor and producer who worked with legends like Steven Spielberg and Tina Fey. Together, they explore what draws people to fear and whether that thrill can ever coexist with faith. Kevin Collins notes that horror taps into something ancient: “Aristotle said tragedy helps us release pity and fear – we feel cleansed when we see others survive the darkness.” Drew adds that there’s even science behind it: controlled fear can trigger dopamine and oxytocin, giving us a “rush” and even helping us bond with others. But both agree that not all horror is healthy. Films that mock or glorify the demonic, Drew warns, can desensitize us to real spiritual danger. “Any exorcist will tell you,” he says, “Satan loves to make people think he’s bigger than he is.” Still, they point out that some films – like The Exorcist and The Passion of the Christ – can actually strengthen faith, showing that Christ’s power always triumphs over evil. Kevin recalls how The Passion portrayed the devil as both alluring and hideous, a haunting reminder that sin often wears a mask. “That’s good art,” he says, “because it tells the truth.” Their discussion blends film history, theology, and human psychology – and it’s uplifting. Horror, they conclude, can remind us that darkness is real but never the final word.  The best way to listen to the Best of the Week is on our #1 Free Catholic App. It’s free and always will be! To get and share the Relevant Radio app, check it out here.