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Is Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark on Netflix? Your Streaming Guide

The short answer is: No, as of today’s date, Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark (2019) is not available on Netflix in the United States. This supernatural horror film, based on the iconic book series by Alvin Schwartz, isn’t currently part of Netflix’s streaming library, leaving many horror fans searching for alternative ways to experience its chilling tales.

Where Can You Watch Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark?

While Netflix might be off the table for now, fear not! There are several platforms where you can still get your spooky fix. Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark is typically available for rent or purchase on services like:

Amazon Prime Video: Check if it’s available to rent, buy, or if it’s part of a premium channel subscription.
Vudu: Another reliable platform for renting and purchasing digital movies.
Google Play Movies & TV: Purchase and watch directly through Google’s ecosystem.
Apple TV: Find it on the Apple TV app for purchase or rental.
YouTube Movies: Often offers movies for rent or purchase.

Physical media is always an option if you’re a collector. You can find the film on Blu-ray and DVD at major retailers like Amazon, Best Buy, and Target.

Diving Deep into the Horror: What Makes Scary Stories So Appealing?

Beyond the simple availability, the appeal of Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark lies in its ability to tap into primal fears. The original books, with their unsettling illustrations by Stephen Gammell, are a cultural touchstone for a generation. The movie adaptation attempts to capture that same sense of dread, weaving together several of the most memorable stories into a cohesive narrative.

The film’s success hinges on:

Nostalgia: For those who grew up reading the books, the movie offers a chance to revisit beloved (and terrifying) childhood memories.
Creature Design: The monsters are genuinely frightening, brought to life with impressive practical effects and CGI.
Atmosphere: The film is set in 1968, and the production design creates a palpable sense of unease and dread.
Guillermo del Toro’s Involvement: As a producer and co-writer, del Toro’s influence is evident in the film’s monster designs and overall aesthetic. He is known for his mastery of dark fantasy and horror elements, which significantly elevated the movie’s quality and appeal.

The Future of Scary Stories on Streaming

The streaming landscape is constantly evolving, and there’s always a chance that Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark could eventually find its way onto Netflix. Licensing agreements come and go, so keep an eye on your favorite streaming services for updates. Set up alerts using apps like “Reelgood” or “JustWatch” to stay informed about availability changes.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark

Here are some commonly asked questions to satisfy your curiosity and provide even more details about the movie:

1. Will Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark ever be on Netflix?

While there’s no guarantee, it’s certainly possible. Streaming availability changes frequently. Keep checking Netflix and other streaming platforms for updates. Licensing agreements determine which movies are available on which services, and these agreements often expire and are renegotiated.

2. Is Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark 2 happening?

Yes, a sequel has been announced, but its development has been impacted by various factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the writers’ strike. Updates have been sporadic. André Øvredal is expected to return to direct, but there is currently no release date.

3. Who directed Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark?

André Øvredal directed the 2019 film. He is also known for his work on Trollhunter and The Autopsy of Jane Doe.

4. Who wrote the original Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark books?

Alvin Schwartz wrote the original series of books, and Stephen Gammell illustrated them. Gammell’s artwork is an integral part of the books’ enduring appeal and notoriety.

5. What are some of the stories featured in the movie?

The film incorporates several of the most famous stories from the books, including:

“Harold”: A scarecrow that comes to life.
“The Big Toe”: A gruesome tale of a toe found in a garden.
“The Red Spot”: A story about a girl with a mysterious spot on her cheek.
“Jangly Man”: A terrifying figure composed of various body parts.
“Me Tie Dough-ty Walker!”: A recurring riddle that leads to a horrifying conclusion.

6. What is the age rating for Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark?

The movie is rated PG-13 for terror/violence, disturbing images, thematic elements, some language including suggestive references, and brief drug references.

7. Is the movie as scary as the books?

This is subjective. Many who grew up with the books find the movie less frightening, perhaps due to familiarity or desensitization. However, the film does feature some genuinely creepy moments and impressive creature designs that can be unsettling for viewers of all ages.

8. What is the plot of Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark (2019)?

Set in 1968, the film follows a group of teenagers who discover a book of scary stories written by a young girl named Sarah Bellows, who lived in the town’s infamous haunted house. As they read the stories, they realize the tales are coming to life, and they must find a way to stop the curse before they become the stories’ next victims.

9. Where was Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark filmed?

The movie was filmed in various locations in Ontario, Canada, including Cambridge, Hamilton, and St. Thomas.

10. Who are the main actors in Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark?

The main cast includes:

Zoe Colletti as Stella Nicholls
Michael Garza as Ramón Morales
Gabriel Rush as Auggie Hilderbrandt
Austin Zajur as Chuck Steinberg
Natalie Ganzhorn as Ruth Steinberg

11. Are the monsters in the movie based directly on Stephen Gammell’s illustrations?

While the filmmakers took inspiration from Stephen Gammell’s artwork, they also put their own spin on the creature designs. The goal was to capture the essence of Gammell’s style while making the monsters visually compelling for a modern audience.

12. What are some similar horror movies to watch if I enjoyed Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark?

If you enjoyed Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark, you might also like:

Goosebumps (2015): Another adaptation of a popular children’s horror series.
The Babadook (2014): A psychological horror film with a strong emphasis on atmosphere and suspense.
IT (2017 & 2019): Based on Stephen King’s iconic novel, featuring a group of kids facing a terrifying clown.
Pan’s Labyrinth (2006): Another Guillermo del Toro film, blending fantasy and horror elements.
A Dark Song (2016): A more independent horror film that focuses on ritualistic magic.
The Black Phone (2021): A chilling story about a kidnapped boy who receives calls from the past victims of his captor.

Hopefully, this comprehensive guide answers all your burning questions about Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark and provides you with options for watching this spooky movie. Remember to check your preferred streaming platforms regularly for availability updates, and keep an eye out for the upcoming sequel! Happy watching!