Ernest Scared Stupid poster

Ernest Scared Stupid

"A comedy so funny it's scary!"

Movie PG 1991 1h 31m 5.2 /10
Directed by John Cherry

On the doorstep of Halloween in a small, friendly town, Ernest P. Worrell once again stumbles into danger with a grin and a plan that ends in slapstick disaster. By sheer accident he releases an evil demon from a tomb that should have stayed sealed. The creature flexes its dark powers, turning... Read more

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Streaming availability last verified: February 01, 2026

About Ernest Scared Stupid

On the doorstep of Halloween in a small, friendly town, Ernest P. Worrell once again stumbles into danger with a grin and a plan that ends in slapstick disaster. By sheer accident he releases an evil demon from a tomb that should have stayed sealed. The creature flexes its dark powers, turning the streets into a danger zone as chaos spreads and neighbors huddle in fear. Ernest, frightened and determined at the same time, refuses to back down. He teams up with a few wary townsfolk to stall the rampage while the curse binding the monster tightens its grip. The results are a string of goofy, high spirited misadventures that keep the mood light even as the threat grows today.

Directed by John Cherry, Ernest Scared Stupid brings back Jim Varney as Ernest, the bumbling hero. The film is built from concepts created by Coke Sams and Charles Gale, with a family friendly October vibe for kids and fans.

Box office information for the film is modest and not widely publicized, but it remains a part of the Ernest series that kept releasing family friendly adventures through the early 1990s, helping the studio sustain a pace of quirky comedy.

Over time the character of Ernest became a fixture of late 80s and early 90s pop culture, known for physical comedy and a string of goofy quips. This installment adds a spooky spin to that persona and fans remember its practical effects and the goofy monster design for generations ahead.

Critics offered mixed notes blending humor with light thrills, while audiences often embraced Ernest's earnest optimism. The film taps themes of courage and teamwork in the face of fear, anchored by Varney's energy that keeps things buoyant and invites families to laugh together warmly. It remains fondly remembered by fans.

Details

Release Date
October 11, 1991
Runtime
1h 31m
Rating
PG
User Ratings
205 votes
Type
Movie
Genres
Comedy, Family, Horror
Country
United States
Collection
Ernest Collection
Studio
Touchwood Pacific Partners 1 +2 more
External Links
View on IMDB

Official Trailer

Cast

Jim Varney

Jim Varney

Ernest

Bill Byrge

Bill Byrge

Bobby Tulip

J

John Cadenhead

Tom Tulip

A

Austin Nagler

Kenny

Shay Astar

Shay Astar

Elizabeth

J

Jonas Moscartolo

Trantor

Daniel Butler

Daniel Butler

Cliff

L

Larry Black

Mayor Murdock

A

Alec Klapper

Joey

R

Richard Woolf

Matt

Director: John Cherry

Written by: Coke Sams, Charles Gale

Frequently Asked Questions

Ernest Scared Stupid is not currently available on streaming subscription services, but you can rent or buy it on Apple iTunes, Google Play, Vudu, and Amazon Video.

Yes, you can rent on Apple iTunes, Google Play, Vudu, and Amazon Video or buy on Apple iTunes, Google Play, Vudu, and Amazon Video.

With a rating of 5.2/10 from 205 viewers, Ernest Scared Stupid is a mixed bag - check out reviews to see if it's right for you.

On the doorstep of Halloween in a small, friendly town, Ernest P. Worrell once again stumbles into danger with a grin and a plan that ends in slapstick disaster. By sheer accident he releases an evil demon from a tomb that should have stayed sealed. The creature flexes its dark powers, turning th...

Ernest Scared Stupid stars Jim Varney, Bill Byrge, John Cadenhead, Austin Nagler, and Shay Astar.

Ernest Scared Stupid was directed by John Cherry.

Ernest Scared Stupid was released on October 11, 1991.

Ernest Scared Stupid is a Comedy, Family, and Horror film.

Jim Varney plays Ernest P. Worrell, the well-meaning, bumbling hero at the center of the story. He drives the film's comedy and heart with his signature character.

Bill Byrge portrays Bobby Tulip. Bobby is one of the Tulip family members involved in the town's adventures during the demon crisis.

Ernest P. Worrell ultimately helps stop the evil demon and saves the town from mass destruction. The film wraps up with the threat contained and the town spared.

Yes, it is rated PG and aimed at family audiences. It includes some mild scary moments but plays as a light horror comedy.