Finding the perfect ghost movie can feel like navigating a haunted maze. You want the supernatural intrigue and emotional depth that comes with otherworldly storytelling, but maybe you’re not in the mood for jump scares, gore, or sleepless nights. Perhaps you’re planning a family movie night, or you simply prefer your spirits served with warmth rather than terror.
Here we have up 25 exceptional non-horror ghost movies that focus on heart. These films span decades of filmmaking, from golden age classics to contemporary gems, each offering something special for viewers who appreciate the gentler side of the supernatural.
25 Non-Horror Ghost Movies
Ghost (1990)
This Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore classic redefined how audiences think about love transcending death. When Sam Wheat is murdered, he remains as a spirit to protect his girlfriend Molly from danger. With Whoopi Goldberg’s unforgettable performance as psychic Oda Mae Brown, Ghost balances romance, comedy, and supernatural elements without relying on fear tactics.
What makes it special: The pottery scene alone became one of cinema’s most romantic moments, proving that ghost stories can be deeply moving rather than frightening.
The Sixth Sense (1999)
While technically a thriller, M. Night Shyamalan’s masterpiece focuses on healing and understanding rather than scaring audiences. Young Cole Sear sees dead people, but the film’s heart lies in his relationship with child psychologist Malcolm Crowe and the touching revelation that ghosts simply need help finding peace.
Why it works for all ages: The “twist” ending reframes the entire story as one of compassion and closure, making multiple viewings even more rewarding.
Casper (1995)
This live-action adaptation of the beloved cartoon proves that the friendliest ghost can carry an entire film. When paranormal therapist Dr. James Harvey and his daughter Kat move into Whipstaff Manor, they encounter Casper and his three mischievous uncles. The film beautifully explores themes of friendship, loss, and acceptance.
Perfect for families: Christina Ricci’s Kat and Casper’s innocent friendship creates genuine emotional moments without any scary content.
Always (1989)
Steven Spielberg’s romantic drama stars Richard Dreyfuss as Pete Sandich, a forest fire pilot who dies in an accident and returns as a spirit to help his replacement and guide his girlfriend toward happiness. This remake of 1943’s A Guy Named Joe showcases Spielberg’s talent for emotional storytelling.
Emotional depth: The film explores letting go of loved ones and finding the strength to move forward, themes that resonate across generations.
Beetlejuice (1988)
Tim Burton’s gothic comedy follows recently deceased couple Barbara and Adam Maitland as they try to haunt the new inhabitants of their home. When their efforts fail, they reluctantly seek help from the chaotic “bio-exorcist” Beetlejuice. The film’s quirky humor and imaginative visuals make death seem less frightening and more like an adventure.
Burton’s magic: The film’s creative afterlife bureaucracy and memorable characters turn the supernatural into something wonderfully absurd rather than terrifying.
The Others (2001)
Nicole Kidman delivers a powerhouse performance in this atmospheric tale about a mother protecting her photosensitive children in a darkened house during World War II. While the film builds suspense, it focuses on mystery and emotional revelation rather than cheap scares.
Masterful storytelling: The film’s carefully constructed narrative leads to one of cinema’s most satisfying and moving conclusions about acceptance and understanding.
Truly, Madly, Deeply (1990)
This British romantic drama stars Juliet Stevenson as Nina, a woman grieving her deceased partner Jamie (Alan Rickman). When Jamie returns as a ghost, the film explores grief, healing, and the difficulty of letting go with remarkable sensitivity and humor.
Emotional authenticity: Alan Rickman’s gentle performance and the film’s realistic approach to grief make this a deeply moving experience rather than a supernatural thriller.
Field of Dreams (1989)
“If you build it, they will come.” Kevin Costner’s Ray Kinsella hears this mysterious voice and builds a baseball diamond in his cornfield, attracting the ghosts of baseball legends. This magical realism classic focuses on dreams, family relationships, and second chances.
Universal themes: The film’s exploration of father-son relationships and pursuing dreams resonates with audiences regardless of their interest in baseball or the supernatural.
The Frighteners (1996)
Before directing The Lord of the Rings, Peter Jackson created this supernatural comedy starring Michael J. Fox as Frank Bannister, a psychic investigator who can actually see and communicate with ghosts. The film balances humor with genuine emotion as Frank uses his abilities to solve supernatural mysteries.
Perfect blend: Jackson’s signature style combines comedy, heart, and spectacular visual effects without relying on horror elements.
Heart and Souls (1993)
Robert Downey Jr. stars as Thomas Reilly, a man who can see four ghosts who have been with him since childhood. These spirits need his help to complete their unfinished business before they can move on. The film’s warm humor and touching moments about human connection make it a hidden gem.
Feel-good factor: Each ghost’s story provides opportunities for both laughter and tears, creating a thoroughly uplifting experience.
Topper (1937)
This classic screwball comedy launched a franchise and established many ghost movie tropes still used today. Cary Grant and Constance Bennett play a fun-loving couple who die in a car accident and return as spirits to help their stuffy friend Cosmo Topper live a little.
Timeless charm: The film’s witty dialogue and Grant’s charismatic performance make this pre-war gem as entertaining today as it was in 1937.
The Ghost and Mrs. Muir (1947)
Gene Tierney stars as Lucy Muir, a widow who rents a seaside cottage haunted by the ghost of a sea captain (Rex Harrison). Their unlikely romance transcends the boundaries between life and death in this beautifully crafted romantic fantasy.
Classic romance: The film’s gorgeous cinematography and Bernard Herrmann’s haunting score create an atmosphere of longing and love rather than fear.
Blithe Spirit (1945)
Based on Noël Coward’s play, this British comedy follows novelist Charles Condomine, whose deceased first wife Elvira returns as a ghost during a séance, much to the chagance of his current wife Ruth. The supernatural love triangle provides plenty of sophisticated humor.
Witty sophistication: Coward’s sharp dialogue and the film’s theatrical origins create a comedy of manners with supernatural elements.
A Guy Named Joe (1943)
Spencer Tracy stars as Pete Sandich, a bomber pilot who dies and returns as a guardian angel to help train new pilots and guide his girlfriend toward happiness. This wartime fantasy explores sacrifice, love, and moving forward after loss.
Wartime comfort: The film provided hope and comfort to audiences during World War II, showing that love and guidance continue even after death.
The Canterville Ghost (1944)
Charles Laughton gives a memorable performance as Sir Simon de Canterville, a 300-year-old ghost who haunts his family castle until an American soldier helps him find peace. This adaptation of Oscar Wilde’s story balances comedy with genuine pathos.
Literary adaptation: Wilde’s wit combined with Laughton’s theatrical performance creates an entertaining and moving ghost story.
Miracle in Lane 2 (2000)
This Disney Channel original movie tells the story of Justin Yoder, a young boy with spina bifida who dreams of racing soap box cars. When the ghost of a former racer appears to help him, the film explores determination, friendship, and believing in yourself.
Inspirational message: The supernatural elements support the film’s uplifting message about overcoming obstacles and pursuing dreams.
The Ghost of Greville Lodge (2000)
A British family film about teenagers who discover their new home is haunted by a Victorian-era ghost. Rather than being frightened, they help the spirit solve the mystery of his death and find peace.
Mystery adventure: The film combines supernatural elements with detective work, making it engaging for young audiences without being scary.
Blackbeard’s Ghost (1968)
This Disney comedy stars Peter Ustinov as the ghost of the famous pirate Blackbeard, who returns to help save an inn run by his descendants. Dean Jones plays the track coach who can see and hear the ghostly pirate.
Disney magic: The film’s family-friendly humor and Ustinov’s delightful performance make this a charming supernatural comedy.
The Ghost Goes West (1935)
Robert Donat stars in this British comedy about a Scottish ghost who follows his ancestral castle when it’s moved brick by brick to America. The culture clash between old-world spirits and new-world sensibilities provides plenty of humor.
Cultural comedy: The film’s exploration of tradition versus progress through supernatural means creates both laughs and thoughtful moments.
13 Ghosts (1960)
William Castle’s original version (not the 2001 remake) follows a family who inherits a house with thirteen ghosts. While the premise sounds scary, Castle’s theatrical approach and the film’s focus on family dynamics make it more adventurous than terrifying.
Gimmick cinema: Castle’s “Illusion-O” gimmick and campy approach turn potential scares into entertainment spectacle.
The Time of Their Lives (1946)
Abbott and Costello star in this supernatural comedy about Revolutionary War-era ghosts who haunt a colonial mansion. Unlike their typical slapstick routines, this film allows for more character development and genuine emotion alongside the comedy.
Comedy duo evolution: The film showcases Abbott and Costello’s range beyond their usual formula, creating a more well-rounded supernatural comedy.
Stir of Echoes (1999)
Kevin Bacon stars as Tom Witzky, a man who begins seeing ghosts after being hypnotized. While the film has suspenseful moments, it focuses on solving a mystery and helping a restless spirit find peace rather than creating fear.
Supernatural mystery: The film’s investigation elements and focus on justice make it more of a paranormal detective story than a horror film.
Just Like Heaven (2005)
Reese Witherspoon and Mark Ruffalo star in this romantic comedy about a man who falls in love with the ghost of a woman in a coma. The film explores themes of love, purpose, and second chances with warmth and humor.
Romantic comedy: The supernatural elements serve the love story rather than creating scares, making it perfect for date night viewing.
Over Her Dead Body (2008)
Eva Longoria plays a bride who dies on her wedding day and returns as a ghost to sabotage her fiancé’s new relationship. This romantic comedy uses supernatural elements to explore jealousy, love, and letting go.
Modern romance: The film updates classic ghost story tropes for contemporary audiences with humor and heart.
P.S. I Love You (2007)
While not strictly a ghost movie, Hilary Swank’s character receives posthumous messages from her deceased husband (Gerard Butler) that guide her through grief and toward healing. The supernatural element is subtle but powerful.
Emotional journey: The film’s realistic approach to grief combined with its hopeful message creates a deeply moving experience about love continuing after death.
These films prove that ghost stories don’t need to rely on fear to be compelling. Whether you’re seeking romance, comedy, family-friendly adventure, or emotional depth, there’s a non-horror ghost movie that will speak to your soul. From classic Hollywood productions to contemporary gems, each film on this list offers something special—the magic of storytelling that transcends the boundary between life and death.
Ready to start your supernatural movie marathon? Many of these titles are available on popular streaming platforms, while others can be found through digital rental services. The beauty of these films lies not in their ability to frighten, but in their power to move, inspire, and remind us that the most powerful force in any ghost story is love itself.
What’s your favorite non-horror ghost movie? These heartwarming supernatural tales prove that sometimes the most powerful spirits are those that lift us up rather than scare us away.
Who knows? You might just find yourself believing in ghosts – the friendly kind, of course! 👻
Also See: 31 Old Halloween Movies That Defined Classic Horror Cinema
