50 Best Fall Movies to Cozy Up With This Autumn
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It’s the season for wrapping yourself in your coziest blankets, sipping hot apple cider and fully embracing cozy nights in. What better way to complement these autumn evenings at home than with a movie that perfectly captures the spirit of the season? From back-to-school flicks and witty rom-coms to Halloween classics and feel-good faves, there's a fall movie out there for everyone. Discover my curated list of the 40 best fall movies that are perfect for cozying up with this autumn!
In this Article…
Romantic Fall Flicks
1. When Harry Met Sally (1989). This nostalgic rom-com follows the title characters from the time they meet in Chicago before sharing a cross-country drive, through twelve years of unexpected encounters in New York City. You’ll fall for the film’s romantic moments and the gorgeous autumn scenery.
2. Autumn in New York (2000). This romantic drama stars Richard Gere as a 40-something playboy who falls for a terminally ill, young woman, played by Winona Ryder, visiting New York City for the autumn season. The film beautifully captures the changing colors of Central Park and the city's vibrant fall atmosphere.
3. Sweet November (2001). Snuggle up with a mug of hot cocoa and this charming tearjerker. Charlize Theron plays Sarah, a whimsical free spirit who convinces a cynical businessman (Keanu Reeves) to experience a month of spontaneous adventures. Their fall foliage-filled romps will have you yearning for a change of pace and maybe even a whirlwind love story of your own.
4. Love Story (1970). Fall for this timeless classic. Oliver and Jenny are star-crossed lovers from different social backgrounds who meet at Harvard. Their passionate romance set against a backdrop of crisp autumn leaves will make you believe in forever (and have you reaching for a box of tissues).
5. You've Got Mail (1998). This charming romantic comedy starring Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan is practically synonymous with fall. Set against the backdrop of a bustling New York City adorned in autumn foliage, the movie follows two anonymous email pen pals who fall in love without realizing they are business rivals in real life.
6. The Princess Bride (1987). This cult classic follows the adventures of a beautiful young woman and her one true love including their battles against the evils of the mythical kingdom of Florin. The abundant autumn foliage and heart-warming fairy tale escapes in The Princess Bride make this an essential film for fall.
7. Far From Heaven (2002). This sophisticated drama with a touch of romance is perfect for a fall movie night. Set in the 1950s, Julianne Moore delivers a powerful performance as a housewife whose perfect world begins to unravel. The film explores themes of race, gender roles, and class, all amidst the warm hues of a New England autumn.
Feel-Good Fall Films
8. October Sky (1999). Cozy up with your favorite blanket for this heartwarming true story about Homer Hickam (Jake Gyllenhaal), a young boy in rural West Virginia who dreams of building rockets. His unwavering passion and journey of self-discovery, set against the backdrop of a small town and a fiery fall sky, will leave you cheering him on.
9. Practical Magic (1998). Two witch sisters, played by Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman, move in with their eccentric aunts after the death of their parents and discover their hereditary gift for practical magic. The New England backdrop and magical characters make this witchy comedy quintessentially autumn.
10. Planes, Trains & Automobiles (1987). This hilarious comedy stars Steve Martin as an uptight businessman desperately trying to get home for Thanksgiving. Along the way, he encounters the eccentric Del Griffith, played by John Candy, leading to a series of mishaps and comedic adventures. A must-watch for your Turkey Day festivities.
11. It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (1966). You’ve probably already seen this classic on cable at your parents’ house. Continue in the tradition wherever you are this autumn season by rewatching this heartwarming animated special. The adorable Peanuts characters will leave you feeling warm and nostalgic.
12. Matilda (1996). Honestly, this movie absolutely frightened me as a child, but now it’s pure nostalgia. Matilda Wormwood is a brilliant little girl with magical powers who uses them to stand up to her cruel parents and a tyrannical principal. This delightful comedy is perfect for a cozy night in with a mug of something warm.
13. Mystic Pizza (1988). Pour yourself a glass of wine and gather your girlfriends for this coming-of-age classic. Set in a charming Connecticut seaside town, the film follows a group of teenage waitresses at Mystic Pizza navigating love, life, and big dreams. It's a nostalgic trip filled with laughter, friendship, and that feeling of endless possibility that often comes alive in the fall.
14. Kiki’s Delivery Service (1989). This enchanting anime feature from Studio Ghibli is the perfect pick-me-up on a fall afternoon. Kiki is a young witch who leaves home for a year to hone her magical abilities. Her adventures in a bustling seaside town with her broomstick and talking black cat, Jiji, will leave you feeling warm and fuzzy.
Modern Fall Movies
15. Knives Out (2019). Gather your besties for a murder mystery with a side of fall foliage. This modern whodunit boasts a star-studded cast (think Daniel Craig, Chris Evans, and Ana de Armas) and a plot that unfolds with the satisfying unraveling of colorful autumn leaves. Expect witty dialogue, unexpected twists, and a dash of dark humor.
16. Little Women (2019). This modern adaptation of Louisa May Alcott's classic novel captures the essence of fall, with scenes of cozy homecomings, crisp autumn walks, and warm fireside gatherings. Whether you're a longtime fan of the book or new to the story, Greta Gerwig's fresh take will leave you feeling empowered and ready to embrace your own independent spirit.
17. Silver Linings Playbook (2012). After a stint in a mental institution, former teacher Pat Solitano moves back in with his parents and tries to reconcile with his ex-wife. Things get more challenging when Pat meets Tiffany, who offers to help him reconnect with his wife. Set during football season in Philadelphia, this film is the perfect fall flick.
18. Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009). Wes Anderson's whimsical stop-motion animation is a delightful fall treat. This story follows a cunning fox, voiced by George Clooney, who hatches a daring heist to steal food from three of the meanest farmers around. The film's stop-motion animation creates a visually stunning world full of fall color, while the witty dialogue and quirky characters will have you laughing out loud.
19. What We Do in the Shadows (2014). This hilarious mockumentary follows a group of vampires living together in modern-day Wellington, New Zealand. Their struggles with roommates, internet dating, and keeping their centuries-old secrets hidden in the modern world are sure to tickle your funny bone. Just don't expect any sparkly vampires here – these undead flatmates are more into takeout and passive-aggressive bickering than brooding romance.
20. The Twilight Saga (2008–2012). Follow the supernatural love story of Bella Swan and Edward Cullen. The dreary setting and epic tale of forbidden love, vampires, and werewolves will have you hooked for a fall movie marathon. Whether you're Team Edward or Team Jacob, this love-it or hate-it saga is perfect for a rainy fall night.
21. The Love Witch (2016). A tribute to 1960s horror and Technicolor films, The Love Witch follows Elaine, a beautiful young witch who is determined to find a man to love her. In her gothic Victorian apartment, she makes spells and potions, then picks up men and seduces them. A visually mesmerizing movie that will bring out the inner witch in you.
Not-So-Scary Halloween Movies
22. Hocus Pocus (1993). This cult classic, starring Bette Midler and Sarah Jessica Parker, tells the tale of three witches who resurrect after 300 years to exact revenge and begin a reign of terror. Despite its spooky premise, you'll find yourself more enchanted by this nostalgic 90s film that simply oozes October.
23. Death Becomes Her (1992). Goldie Hawn and Meryl Streep play two frenemies vying for the same man. After drinking a miracle potion that promises eternal youth, they soon discover that they have turned immortal. Magical potions, colossal mansions, and talking corpses make this dark comedic flick the perfect pick for October 31st.
24. Beetlejuice (1988). When deceased couple Adam and Barbara are unsuccessful in scaring away a family that has moved into their old home, they hire the malicious spirit, Beetlejuice to help drive them out. With its outlandish visuals and haunted setting, this Tim Burton comedy classic is delightfully ghostly.
25. Ghostbusters (1984). Who you gonna call? How about a squad of girlfriends for a night of spooky laughs? This classic comedy follows a team of eccentric scientists who become New York City's go-to ghostbusters. Bill Murray, Harold Ramis, and Dan Aykroyd deliver hilarious performances, and the film's special effects (groundbreaking for its time!) will have you cheering on the Ghostbusters as they wrangle ghosts, ghouls, and the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man.
26. Casper (1995). This heartwarming film is the perfect antidote to spooky chills. Christina Ricci stars as a young girl who befriends Casper, a friendly ghost yearning for a true connection. The film's surprisingly sweet message makes it a delightful choice for a Halloween movie night with your besties.
27. The Addams Family (1991). For a kooky and fun Halloween comedy, you can’t go wrong with The Addams Family. Morticia and Gomez Addams are a quirky couple whose idea of a perfect date night involves a graveyard picnic. Their eccentric family dynamics, dark humor, and unexpected tenderness will have you laughing out loud—all while reminding you that sometimes, being different is the most fun.
28. Young Frankenstein (1974). The Monty Python of Halloween films, Young Frankenstein is a parody of the classic horror film genre, in particular film adaptions of Mary Shelley’s novel Frankenstein. Mel Brook’s brilliant piece has also consistently been ranked as one of the best comedy movies of all time.
Classic Fall Movies
29. Psycho (1960). One of the most famous films in history, Alfred Hitchcock’s psychological thriller is a must-watch movie for spooky season. It focuses on the encounter between Marion, an embezzler on the run, and Norman Bates, the shy proprietor of an old motel.
30. Night of the Living Dead (1968). This black-and-white horror film by George A. Romero pioneered the modern zombie genre. Its social commentary on race and consumerism alongside the relentless portrayal of the undead make it a thought-provoking and scary watch for the fall season.
31. Arsenic and Old Lace (1944). Cary Grant fans will adore this comedy about Mortimer Brewster, a drama critic who discovers that his two seemingly wholesome aunts have a habit of poisoning their male house guests. If you’re looking for more laughs than frights, this light-hearted film is a classic autumn treat.
32. Double Indemnity (1944). In this classic film noir, Fred MacMurray stars as a gullible insurance salesman who gets tangled in a web of deceit with Barbara Stanwyck, a seductive housewife with a murderous plan. The film's dark atmosphere and suspenseful plot are sure to keep you guessing until the very end.
33. All That Heaven Allows (1955). Set in suburban New England, the fall foliage alone makes this melodrama perfect for a cozy autumn movie night. Jane Wyman stars as Cary, a recently widowed socialite yearning for connection. When a passionate romance blossoms with a younger man, she grapples with societal disapproval and her own reawakened desires.
34. The Trouble With Harry (1955). Gather your girlfriends for a night of witty dialogue and small-town charm. This Alfred Hitchcock film is a comedic murder mystery set in a picturesque Vermont town. Get ready for quirky characters, suspicious townspeople, and dry humor that will have you piecing together the puzzle alongside the film's unlikely investigative team.
35. The Stranger (1946). Channel your inner detective for a night of intrigue. Edward G. Robinson stars as a federal agent who infiltrates a small New England town to investigate a suspected Nazi war criminal. Full of small-town secrets and gripping suspense, this Cold War thriller is absolutely chilling.
Dark Academia Aesthetic
36. Dead Poets Society (1989). John Keating, an unconventional English teacher played by Robin Williams, tries to inspire his students through his teaching of poetry. Set against the backdrop of an autumn in Vermont, this coming-of-age drama is visually captivating amongst its inspiring plot and talented cast.
37. Good Will Hunting (1997). Matt Damon delivers a breakout performance as Will Hunting, a janitor at MIT with a hidden genius for mathematics. Robin Williams shines as his therapist who challenges Will to face his demons and realize his potential. This film perfectly captures the dark academia aesthetic with numerous intellectual conversations and Will's journey through academic challenges, romance, and healing from past traumas.
38. Cruel Intentions (1999). This cult classic takes a darkly comedic spin on "Dangerous Liaisons." Sarah Michelle Gellar and Ryan Phillippe star as Kathryn Merteuil and Sebastian Valmont, two wealthy step-siblings who engage in a twisted game of seduction and manipulation. Get ready for opulent settings, witty banter laced with cruelty, and a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition.
39. Dorian Gray (2009). This modern adaptation of Oscar Wilde's decadent classic is ideal for fans of dark academia. Colin Firth portrays Dorian Gray, a young man who sells his soul for eternal youth. As Dorian pursues a life of hedonism, his portrait bears the marks of his corrupted soul.
40. The Harry Potter Series (2001–2011). Enter the magical world of Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry with a Harry Potter movie marathon. We’ve all seen them dozens of times, but the series brims with friendship, thrill, and wonder—an ideal blend of dark academia and lots of magic that’s just what you need this fall.
Back-to-School Classics
41. Election (1999). Reese Witherspoon throws shade like a pro in this darkly comedic take on high school politics as Tracy Flick, an ambitious student aiming for president at any cost. Expect cutthroat campaigns, hilarious one-liners, and a reminder that high school elections can be just as dramatic as national politics.
42. Rushmore (1998). In this quirky coming-of-age tale, Jason Schwartzman plays Max Fischer, a precocious teen obsessed with odd hobbies and infatuated with his widowed first-grade teacher, Mrs. Rushmore. This humorous Wes Anderson film is perfect for getting you in the back-to-school spirit.
43. Remember the Titans (2000). Get ready for some tears (and cheers) with this heartwarming true story. Denzel Washington delivers a powerful performance as Herman Boone, a tough-as-nails coach leading a newly integrated high school football team to victory. An inspiring film perfect for football season.
44. Friday Night Lights (2004). This high school football drama, set in small-town Texas, follows the Dillon Panthers as they vie for a state championship. With its blend of drama and heartfelt moments, it’s a fall favorite we can’t get enough of.
45. Rudy (1993). This underdog story will inspire you to chase your dreams, no matter the odds. Rudy Ruettiger, a young man with a learning disability, sets his sights on playing college football for Notre Dame. It's a classic tale of perseverance, dedication, and fighting for what you believe in.
46. School of Rock (2003). Jack Black steals the show in this comedic gem about a failed rockstar who poses as a substitute teacher at a prestigious prep school. The laugh-out-loud moments and a heartwarming message make it a top choice for a girls’ night in during back-to-school season.
Disney Fall Throwbacks
47. Halloweentown (1998). Searching for the ultimate Disney Chanel Halloween classic? This enchanting fall flick is a must-watch during spooky season. It follows Piper, a young girl living with her witch grandmother, who discovers she has magical powers and must help save Halloweentown from dark forces.
48. Twitches (2005). This DCOM classic features Tia and Tamera Mowry as twin sisters Alexandra and Apolla, who were separated at birth and are reunited on their 21st birthday, discovering they’re witches. They must face an evil spirit to save their mother and their kingdom from evil. It’s like Sister, Sister with a witchy twist.
49. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993). This iconic animated film tells the story of Jack Skellington, the king of Halloween Town who discovers Christmas Town and becomes obsessed with celebrating Christmas. Tim Burton’s ghoulish fairytale world is both frightening and charming.
50. Bedknobs and Broomsticks (1971). Fans of Mary Poppins will appreciate this whimsical adventure. Angela Lansbury plays a trainee witch who uses a magical bedknob to escape wartime troubles and go on fantastical adventures with a sassy talking cat. This charming family film offers just the right amount of magic for the autumn season.
And there you have it: the 50 best fall movies for the upcoming cozy season. Whether you’re in the mood for heartwarming rom-coms, somewhat spooky thrills, or feel-good faves, this list has everything you need to curate the perfect autumn movie marathon.
While I have my fall movie staples like 'When Harry Met Sally' and 'Hocus Pocus,' I also enjoy discovering films I’ve never seen before. This month, I’ve been watching a different fall film each night to get into the spooky spirit, and this list has been a major source of inspo!
What are your all-time favorite fall movies? Let me know in the comments below.
