Horror film Ouija won over audiences in theaters this weekend. It comes as no surprise with Halloween taking place next week. The movie is based on the popular board game designed to communicate with the spirits. Earning $20 million, it beat out another thriller John Wick, starring Keanu Reeves. It is also impressive considering the low budget of the film. It is directed by Stiles White and stars up and coming actors.

What also stands out is the success of a board game adaption. Previous movies based on them have failed at the box office. Both Clue and Battleship flopped in theatres. Ouija is rated PG-13 and is about a group of friends who use the board to try to contact a deceased friend, and in the process awaken a dark force. The group must confront their biggest fears. It didn’t do well with critics, but the film has good timing. Moviegoers are in the mood for a spooky time and the movie delivers that. Also doing well with audiences is Fury, the World War II film starring Brad Pitt. It earned $13 million the second week. Meanwhile John Wick is a violent R-rated film that received positive reviews from audiences and critics. There is talk about Reeves making a comeback with this film.

Horror films like Annabelle and Ouija do well this time of year. They do especially well with a teen audience, and the movie has a young cast. It is a success and a smart approach for Blumhouse and Platinum Dunes, which produced it. Done on a micro budget of $5 million and rated PG-13 to attract a young audience, it could do even better as Halloween approaches. A scary movie is ideal way for many to celebrate the holiday. Many young people will flock to theatres for thrills and chills.