A meticulously curated collection of the must-watch fall films as we head into the coziest season of the year.
Easing into it: Early Fall – The septembers
Moonrise Kingdom (2012):
One can never go wrong when watching a Wes Anderson on a cozy fall evening, but this particular gem is perfect for those buffer weeks when the weather stays persistently warm, but the excitement of autumn is in the air.
This is a heartwarming tale of young love and individuality with all the charm of a New England summer in the 1960’s. Follow a young eagle scout and his misunderstood companion as they figure out what life’s really all about in perhaps the quaintest setting one could possibly imagine.
Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974):
Some might say this movie is much too intense to end up in the “easing into it” category. While they might make a fair point, this is simply a September essential.
It follows a group of 1970’s youths who embark on a road trip across the summer countryside and encounter great strangeness and danger on what was supposed to be a lighthearted getaway.
Between the warm 1970’s glow, the long and picturesque exposition, and then eventually the horror of it all, this is the perfect September pick to get in the spooky fall mood.
The Talented Mr. Ripley (1999):
A mysterious crime thriller set in 1990’s euro summer with none other than Matt Damon, Jude Law, and Gwyneth Paltrow in a tantalizing love triangle. Nothing could be more perfect for a seamless entrance into fall than this beautiful, eerie classic.
tHE cLASSICS
Hocus Pocus (1993):
Salem, witches, 1990s, Massachusetts… need I say more? This joyful, spooky, grungy classic is the very essence of childhood Halloween. With the perfect mix of first love and trick-or-treat nostalgia, this film is an absolute “must add” to the fall rotation, if it isn’t at the top of the list already.
When Harry Met Sally (1989):
Despite being technically classified as a RomCom, this movie arguably says just as much about friendship as it does about romantic love. With the most charming of characters finding their way through life and love in New York in the chunkiest 90’s sweaters there ever were, this film is perfect for a cozy autumn movie night with any and all loved ones.
Halloweentown (1998):
A true Disney Channel classic packed with spooky Halloween characters and cozy childhood nostalgia, this sweet movie is an adventure too good to miss and too wacky “old Disney” not to have in the fall movie loop.
fOR THE GIRLS
Twitches (2005):
Another Disney channel gem, this can be classified both as silly and whimsical, perfect for a fall girls night. Follow two young and magically gifted sisters as they find their way to each other and find the truth of their witchy past.
Practical Magic (1998):
Aside from their thick, luscious hair, grungy-chic outfits, and captivating face-cards, Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman bring newer, cooler meaning to the idea of a witch. This movie is a wild ride packed with magical visuals, thrilling drama, romance, and childhood dreams. This is a delectable girls night watch and midnight margaritas are an essential.
Princess Bride (1987):
Now let’s get one thing straight: this movie certainly isn’t only for the girls- everyone should be watching this film annually. That being said, a fantastically funny story of adventure and the truest of love is that much sweeter when enjoyed in the company of women.
THE masterpieces
Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009):
With the most charming stop motion and voice acting anyone ever saw, this film draws one in from the first minute. Wes Anderson’s woodland creatures deliver an exquisite commentary on life, community, and love.
Watch as Mr. Fox finds his way, balancing his great ambition to his craft (stealing from corrupt farmers) and great but perhaps sometimes wavering devotion to his wife (Meryl Streep). You’ll never see foxes the same, and you’ll find yourself craving maple syrup and a star-covered apple.
Little Women (2019):
Not to write off the 1994 Little Women, which is also a must-watch, but Greta Gerwig truly created a work of art in this film. The cast is unbelievable, each of them so deeply devoted and skilled in their portrayals of Louisa May Alcott’s beloved characters.
There is a depth and charm to Gerwig’s flawless writing as she brings Alcott’s written dialogue to life, in a New England period piece that truly looks as if every shot could be the inspiration for an impressionist painting.
Dead Poets Society (1989):
Robin Williams offers unforgettable words of wisdom to a group of young impressionable boys at a New England boarding school in this heroic and heartbreaking film. This is truly a piece that never gets old and remains striking and captivating with every watch.
With all the adolescent, angsty, boarding school charm, the characters in this movie will stay with you and leave you wanting more, almost already ready for a rewatch as soon as the credits roll.
harry Potter
Yes, this gets a whole category of its own. No, you cannot skip this. Watch all the Harry Potter movies this fall, in order. You will not be sorry:)