The weather is cooling down, the leaves are changing colors, and the wonderful season of fall is finally here. After an exciting day picking pumpkins, drinking apple cider, and going on a hay ride, a fall movie is the best way to wrap up the adventure. Whether you’re looking for a spooky thriller that’ll make you shriek, a cozy movie to cuddle up with a blanket to, or a familiar classic to get you into the autumn spirit, here are some must-watch movies to add to your fall watchlist.
Personally, when I hear “fall”, I am immediately reminded of Halloween. Halloween is an extremely thrilling time that deserves movies as chilling as the animatronics at Spirit Halloween. If you’re looking for true horror, the 2018 horror film Hereditary delivers. Hereditary takes a deep dive into family trauma, family roles, and the supernatural in a way that leaves you unsettled long after the credits roll. Hereditary is not only unsettling but thought-provoking, and a perfect film for a chilly October night Halloween movie marathon.
Another movie perfect for a spooky movie night is the 2009 film Coraline. While more tame than Hereditary, don’t let the animation fool you. This stop-motion film follows Coraline Jones, who discovers a mysterious door that takes her into a parallel universe, away from her neglectful parents. Despite Coraline’s magical new life, the reality of the situation quickly comes crashing down on her when she realizes her “Other Mother’s” true intentions. With its eerie visuals and unsettling tone, Coraline is a whimsical and unsettling movie perfect for a spooky October night.
Spooky movies do not have to be filled with horror to be exciting; a murder mystery will do the trick. The 2019 mystery Knives Out unfolds in an old, creaky mansion tucked away in the countryside. Its dimly lit hallways, heavy drapes, and looming portraits that seem to watch your every move add to the already existing suspense each testimony creates. Benoit Blanc must interview each family member of the deceased Harlan Thrombey and sift through a web of lies in order to get to the bottom of his murder. With a multitude of twists and turns, Knives Out balances suspense and wit to create an ideal film for those who prefer a psychological scare.
Fall isn’t all about fear and suspense; after all, Halloween is just one day of the year. With the dropping temperatures, fall brings the opportunity to cuddle up on the couch with a soft blanket, a few pumpkin spice candles lit, dim lighting, and a cozy movie.
The 1998 romance You’ve Got Mail is known as the coziest fall movie of all time, amongst many. Taking place in the Upper West Side of New York City, this movie perfectly encapsulates the spirit of fall. From golden leaves on the streets of Central Park to the cozy glow of bookshop windows, two individuals, Kathleen and Joe, unknowingly fall in love through anonymous online emails. The charming humor and heartwarming storyline make it the perfect movie to watch wrapped up in a blanket on the couch with a slice of pumpkin pie.
Another romance for the flawless fall atmosphere is the 1989 romance, When Harry Met Sally. Similar to You’ve Got Mail, When Harry Met Sally also takes place in Central Park with the beautiful changing leaves. This romantic comedy is worthy of fuzzy socks and warm blankets from start to finish. Viewers witness the complete storyline of Harry and Sally’s relationship, exposing the ups and downs of friendship and love over the years. This warm, witty, and wholesome film is one worth revisiting every fall to remind us that sometimes the best things in life take time.
The 1989 comedy Dead Poets Society is worthy of a spot on the top ten list of the coziest fall movies. Similar to When Harry Met Sally, Dead Poets Society explores the themes of change and growth that fall brings. Its New England Boarding School setting blends seamlessly with the new school year that fall brings. This wholesome movie follows a group of students inspired by their English teacher, played by Robin Williams, to “seize the day.” This inspiring and heartfelt movie is an excellent choice to have on in the background while the smell of apple pie fills the kitchen.
Some movies are so tied to the pumpkin season that they’ve become tradition. These classics bring back childhood trick-or-treat experiences, laughter, and a little spookiness year after year. Due to their familiarity, some may skip out on these movies, but these films are imperative to add to your fall watchlist.
Perhaps the most beloved Halloween movie is the 1993 comedy Hocus Pocus. The story follows the three Sanderson sisters, three witches accidentally resurrected in modern-day Salem. Three kids, Max, his sister Dani, and their friend Allison, work to steal the witches’ book to stop them from becoming immortal. Mischief, magic, and chaos ensue as the witches attempt to regain their power and the kids try to stop them. This funny, whimsical, and endlessly rewatchable movie belongs on every fall watchlist.
If you’re looking for a classic with gothic charm, comedy, and a catchy theme song, the 1991 comedy The Addams Family is what you’re looking for. Its kooky cast of characters and dark humor is just the right balance between creepy and hilarious. The character’s love for all things strange and spooky makes it an outstanding movie to view with friends, family, or even by yourself to take a trip down memory lane.
Last but not least is the nostalgic 1966 film It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown. In this animated classic, Linus waits all night in a pumpkin patch for the mythical Great Pumpkin while the rest of the characters enjoy their Halloween festivities. This short, sweet, and timeless film has been a tradition for generations, bringing comfort and joy every October.
An honorable mention is the 2014 adventure miniseries Over the Garden Wall. Though not a feature film, this series deserves a spot on everyone’s fall watchlist. This series tells the story of two brothers wandering through a mysterious forest. Its hand-painted visuals and eerie yet whimsical tone perfectly encapsulate the blend of spooky and cozy that defines autumn. Personally, this is one of the most whimsical series I have ever seen, with beautiful story lines that will tug on your heartstrings.
There you have it! Whether you’re in the mood for a chilling scare, a cozy autumn evening, or a timeless classic, this fall watchlist has something to make this season unforgettable.