Tubi is getting into the Halloween spirit with the upcoming release of R.L. Stine’s Pumpkinhead, a new original feature film based on the work of the best-selling “master of fear.” The movie will debut exclusively on the free, ad-supported streaming service on October 17, 2025, just in time for spooky season.
A New Halloween Horror Story
Pumpkinhead follows teenager Sam as his family relocates to the town of Redhaven. What should be a fresh start quickly becomes a nightmare when his brother, Finn, mysteriously disappears—and worse, no one else remembers that he ever existed. Joined by his friend Becka and quirky ally Rusty, Sam must unravel a harvest curse before Halloween night ends, or risk losing Finn forever.
Cast and Creative Team
The film stars Bean Reid, Adeline Lo, Kevin McNulty, Bob Frazer, Matty Finochio, and Seth Isaac Johnson. It is directed and written by Jem Garrard (Slay), who also serves as an executive producer. Other executive producers include James Mattagne, Joan Waricha, Harvey Kahn, Yvonne Bernard, Dan Bernard, Allen Lewis, and Rama Diallo.
Stine and Tubi on the Partnership
Tubi’s chief content officer, Adam Lewinson, described the film as “a playful blend of good fun, big scares with an element of adventure that taps into everything audiences love about Halloween and young-adult horror.”
Author R.L. Stine added his own excitement, saying:
“There’s something rotten inside these pumpkins — and it isn’t pumpkin meat! I’m so happy to see one of my most terrifying Halloween stories brought to chilling life in this new movie.”
Building on Stine’s Legacy
Produced by Front Street Pictures, the film builds on Stine’s long tradition of blending humor and horror for younger audiences. Stine is best known for his globally popular Goosebumps and Fear Street book series, which together have sold over 400 million copies. His works have previously inspired television series and feature films, but Pumpkinhead marks his latest collaboration with streaming platforms aiming to bring new audiences into his world of eerie storytelling.
Release Timing
The film’s October 17 release strategically positions it against other Halloween-themed programming, offering fans a fresh option for spooky viewing. With a cast of rising stars, a YA-horror angle, and Stine’s brand recognition, Pumpkinhead is set to be a centerpiece of Tubi’s seasonal slate.
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