What is it about Fall and a good movie? Often considered the most homely and cozy season, think warm sweaters, hot drinks, scented candles, and baked goods. When October rolls around and the air turns crisp, there’s a certain undeniable comfort that compels us to snuggle up with a film. It’s not just any film, however. There’s a common consensus that certain movies just give off that fall vibe that cannot be matched by just any film— like there’s an implicit rule that certain media is reserved to be consumed this season. From the annual Gilmore Girls rewatch to cozying up to Wes Anderson’s Fantastic Mr. Fox, the reflecting spirit of fall is evoked best when it resonates with the soul, and allows us to appreciate the beauty of the seasons. I love Autumn, and here are some movies that I consider the perfect Fall watches, and why. 

When Harry Met Sally (1989)

Widely considered to be one of the greatest romantic comedies of all time, When Harry Met Sally is the ultimate comfort film for many. A near perfect script filled with humor, relatability, melancholy, and a classic jazzy soundtrack by Harry Connick Jr. The film follows Harry and Sally’s relationship over the course of 12 years and 3 months. The two start off as strangers, not particularly fond of each other. But sparks fly and they become friends, vowing to not romantically pursue each other. As the years go by and the seasons change, we watch the two grow as people, both separately and together. It’s a heartwarming slow burn beautifully shot by cinematographer Barry Sonenfield and director Rob Reiner. Also, Billy Crystal wears an unbelievably comfortable-looking sweater in it. 

Little Women (2019)

Arguably Greta Gerwig’s best work, this 2019 rendition of Little Women has all the works of a future fall classic. Propelled by beautiful performances from an impressive cast — Saoirse Ronan is at her best here as the rebellious and ambitious Jo March, and I can’t imagine anyone better portraying the March family’s mother ‘Marmee’ than Laura Dern — and appealing scenery, the movie follows the lives of the March sisters. It’s a movie about coming of age and growth, which you’ll find is a staple for a good fall movie, and has a perfect reflective and contemplative feel to it. Some may consider this to be a Christmas movie, but to me, the beautiful New England flora makes it a perfect accompaniment to a crisp fall night.

Dead Poets Society (1989)

Set at a boarding school during the fall, Dead Poets Society is absolutely a favorite for the season. Its beautiful autumn scenery combined with the academic setting really evokes the reflective and cozy atmosphere of fall. It’s a thought-provoking classic that continues the trend of exploring themes of growth and coming of age. With amazing performances from Robin Williams and Robert Sean Leonard, this perfectly-paced, well-crafted narrative is a must watch this autumn.

Knives Out (2019)

Rian Johnson’s whodunit mystery set in that big, slightly eerie mansion is perfect for a chilly fall night. With stylish cinematography, a warm color palette, and a star studded cast dressed in great fall attire, this secretive family drama is incredibly engaging and easy on the eyes. It’s a fun watch for a fall movie night that the whole family can enjoy. Johnson does a great job adapting a phenomenal script for the big screen, and Daniel Craig, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Chris Evans deliver some of their best work. 

Coraline (2009)

Although it did traumatize my 9 year-old self, Coraline is a cult-classic with an incredible stop-motion animation style. Its rich and dark color palette fits with the fall aesthetic, and its ghostly atmosphere is perfect for Halloween season. This thing is one of my favorite pieces of animation ever. It’s incredibly rewatchable, and has an up to interpretation plot with fans theorizing over it for years. It’s a captivating watch for a fall night. 

I asked some students here at Apex High for their personal fall recommendations, and here is what they came up with. 

Stella Adamo, a sophomore, said her favorite fall movie was Coraline. “I love the movie so much that I try to limit myself to only watching it seasonally. Another part of it is the color scheme and design of the movie,” she explained, “you can feel that chill in the air throughout the movie… (it’s) quintessentially fall.”

When I asked senior Rose Gaddy, a good friend of mine, for her favorite fall movie, the first thing that came to her mind was the 2000s classic TV show Gilmore Girls– a show she is constantly rewatching, but claims she especially watches in the fall. She jokingly declares it her “life and inspiration,” describing how it gets her through the busy time of fall by being a perfect comfort watch.

I think that may be the most important aspect of a good fall movie or TV show. It’s a time of change— fall can be great while also being stressful or busy, and comforting, reflective, feel good watches can be the perfect way to relax during this time.