Midterms got you down? You’re not alone! When classes get serious, it can be difficult to find the time to study, see friends, take care of yourself, and enjoy your hobbies all at once. I know I’m not the best at balancing everything equally either. Something I frequently miss out on is having time each week to escape in a show, movie, or book!
Since there are around ten weeks left in 2026, I created a schedule of 10 movies to watch before the end of the year to solve that very issue! Each film is chosen to fit the transition from fall to winter and the associated holidays.
- October 25th–31st: Practical Magic
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Practical Magic (1998) is a film about two magical sisters, Sally Owens (Sandra Bullock) and Gillian Owens (Nicole Kidman), who must grapple with the implications of their family background and a curse that dooms any man they fall in love with. Sally and Gillian have their differences, but they set them aside in the name of sisterhood.
Practical Magic is a classic for a reason. It’s the epitome of fall vibes — perfect for watching with a cup of tea while planning out last-minute Halloween costumes.
- November 1st–7th: Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl
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Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl (2003) might be a surprising pick for the week following Halloween. However, Pirates of the Caribbean is the perfect balance between swashbuckling adventure and lighthearted comedy.
One of the most well-known pirate adventure films, Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl follows rebellious Elizabeth Swann (Keira Knightley), Will Turner (Orlando Bloom), and the infamous Captain Jack Sparrow (Johnny Depp) as they band together to win back Jack’s beloved ship, the Black Pearl. Getting lost in the adventure is the best escape from studying!
- November 8th–14th: It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown
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It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (1966) follows all the classic Peanuts characters on their Halloween adventures, from attending a party and trick-or-treating to waiting for the Great Pumpkin. The humorous scenarios, upbeat soundtrack, and colorful animation will get you out of any slump and renew your excitement for the holidays.
Although it’s set on Halloween, the animated special has a perfect fall ambiance that transcends the holiday.
- November 15th–21st: When Harry Met Sally
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When Harry Met Sally (1989) surrounds two opposites, Harry Burns (Billy Crystal) and Sally Albright (Meg Ryan), who meet by chance on a drive back to New York City from the University of Chicago. Little do they know that one meeting will turn into 10 years of chance encounters and tension.
The film culminates with a New Year’s Eve party that makes or breaks the pair!
- November 22nd–28th: Spider-Man
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Spiderman (2002) is the ideal combination of 2000s nostalgia and action-packed excitement. Peter Parker (Tobey Maguire) is just a regular high school student until he gets bit by a genetically-modified spider while on a school field trip. Almost instantly, he feels responsible to take care of crime in New York City.
A key scene in the film takes place during an awkward Thanksgiving dinner. The film offers a thrilling escape from studying while also featuring a holiday-themed moment!
- November 29th–December 5th: Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
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The first film of the series, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, (2001) never gets old. This installment follows Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe), Hermione Granger (Emma Watson), and Ron Weasley (Rupert Grint), as they explore strange occurrences in Hogwarts during their first year as students.
The magical setting and stunning cinematography make this movie a unique opportunity to experience a different world while still feeling at home.
- December 6th–12th: Legally Blonde
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Need a break during finals week? Legally Blonde (2001) is your answer! This renowned film follows Elle Woods (Reese Witherspoon) as she attempts to win back her ex-boyfriend by proving she can be taken seriously. She gets into Harvard Law School, proving everyone wrong, but her scheme to get him back doesn’t exactly go as planned.
At its core, the film is a story of perseverance and success against all odds.
- December 13th–19th: The Holiday
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The Holiday (2006) follows Iris (Kate Winslet) and Amanda (Cameron Diaz), who both feel a little lost during the holiday season. So, what better way to change your perspective than to swap houses with a stranger? Through a series of coincidences, both women find love and personal growth through a single agreement.
A heartwarming story full of rich character dynamics, The Holiday is a cozy film perfect for watching alone with a cup of hot chocolate or during a holiday party with friends.
- December 20th–26th: Little Women
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Little Women (2019) is a flawless adaptation of Louisa May Alcott’s novel that is wonderful for either fall or winter. Above all, it is a coming-of-age story surrounding themes of family, loss, and growth.
The film follows the four women of the March family, Jo (Saoirse Ronan), Meg (Emma Watson), Mary Beth (Eliza Scanlen), and Amy (Florence Pugh). In a series of alternating past and present perspectives, we see the March sisters make life-changing decisions and grow together.
- December 27th–January 2nd: Die Hard
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It’s been said that Die Hard (1988) is a Christmas movie. In my opinion, it’s best watched right before New Year’s. Leading up to Christmas, I prefer cozy, uplifting movies. After the holidays, however, is the perfect time to watch Die Hard for a New Year’s adrenaline rush.
Die Hard is a thriller in which New York City police officer John McClane (Bruce Willis) visits his wife’s office Christmas party, only for the building to unexpectedly be taken over by terrorists. As the sole escapee in the building, McClane has to make quick decisions to save everyone.
The film has amazing dialogue and action sequences that make it impossible to look away.