Autumn means the comeback of crisp mornings and changing leaves. The comeback of the Pumpkin Spice Latte. The comeback of statement knitwear. Regrettably, it is also the comeback of mid-term deadlines. If you fear you may be on the brink of delirium/insanity this Reading Week, this is your salvation. Abandon all responsibilities for the weekend and cosy up on the sofa with these films and a tub (or 3) of Ben and Jerry’s (half price in Sainsbury’s at the moment – you’re welcome), before hopelessly frolicking through foliage on the way to campus on Monday.
1. Juno (2007)
Why it gives us the Autumn Feels: The film progresses through all of the seasons, but starts in Autumn. There is something about Paulie Bleeker’s running outfit with ‘especially gold’ shorts that is so fitting with the season. Why does it seem so plausible that Michael Cera could casually pop out from behind a tree on Streatham Drive wearing that ensemble ? Most Autumnal moment : Michael Cera and Ellen Page singing Anyone Else But You outside his house.
Best quote(s): “That ain’t no Etch-A-Sketch. This is one doodle that can’t be un-did, homeskillet.”
2. When Harry Met Sally (1989)
Why it gives us the Autumn Feels: New York in Autumn is the archetypal setting for a rom-com with such a classic, bittersweet feel. Meg Ryan’s hats and outfits are goals.
Most Autumnal moment: When the couple wander through Central Park together under the trees.
Best quote(s): “All I’m saying is that somewhere out there is the man you are supposed to marry. And if you don’t get him first, somebody else will, and you’ll have to spend the rest of your life knowing that somebody else is married to your husband.”
“It’s amazing. You look like a normal person, but actually you are the Angel of Death.”
3. Good Will Hunting (1997)
Why it gives us the Autumn Feels: That back-to-school feel set alongside the spectacular scenery of Boston in fall. Robin Williams is the father of autumnal movies.
Most Autumnal moment: The iconic park bench scene with Robin Williams and Matt Damon surrounded by rich and warm scenery.
Best quote(s): “You’ll have bad times, but that’ll always wake you up to the good stuff you weren’t paying attention to.” “Most days I wish I never met you, because then I could sleep at night, and I wouldn’t have to walk around with the knowledge there was someone like you out there.” Let’s face it, the script for this film is just amazing.
4. Donnie Darko (2001)
Why it gives us the Autumn Feels: Whimsical soundtrack. Autumn suburbia.
Most Autumnal moment: “I’m reading. Get out of my room.” This is all of us right now.
Best quote(s): “Life is one long insane trip. Some people just have better directions.”
5. Fantastic Mr Fox (2009)
Why it gives us the Autumn Feels: If there’s any director that can perfect a certain aesthetic it’s Wes Anderson, and this animated adaptation of Roald Dahl’s children’s classic is set within a kingdom of perpetual warm tones of blood orange and earthy brown.
Most Autumnal moment: Hard to pinpoint, as the film’s backdrop seems to be this never-ending Autumn. There is a lot of orange.
Best quote(s): “I understand what you’re saying, and your comments are valuable, but I’m gonna ignore your advice.”
6. So I Married an Axe Murderer (1993)
Why it gives us the Autumn Feels: The giant cappuccino at the start. Mike Myers’ plaid shirts and chunky turtlenecks. San Francisco in Autumn.
Most Autumnal moment: Leaves falling over Alamo Square and lights twinkling on the Golden Gate Bridge.
Best quote(s): “I’m smitten. I’m in deep smit.”
7. The Blind Side (2009)
Why it gives us the Autumn Feels: Sandra Bullock reading to her kids in bed. Lots of American football. I don’t know what it is, but this film just makes me want to wrap myself in another blanket to absorb all the tears. It just inspires you to be a better person. 10/10 for that indefinable ‘fuzzy feeling’.
Most Autumnal moment: The Thanksgiving dinner scene
Best quote(s): “If you die trying for something important, then you have both honour and courage, and that’s pretty good.” “I said you could thank me later. It’s later, Bert.”
So there you have it- the only comprehensive list of autumnal films you’ll need to get you through these chilly nights. No need to thank us, we know, we’re the best! Happy watching!