Fall is a wonderful time to embrace cozy movie nights without necessarily having to watch Halloween-themed films. It’s a season filled with opportunities to enjoy heartwarming stories and beautiful autumn visuals. Be it romance, drama, or simply enjoying the fall ambiance, there are movies for everyone to watch during this season. While some of these largely represent the season, there are others that have themes associated with it. Here’s a list of the top movies that bring in the fall vibe.
1. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, a 1982 release
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial is a classic film that goes beyond genres and seasons. Often associated with summer blockbusters, its heartwarming and emotional storyline, including the iconic Halloween scene, makes it a fantastic watch. The film’s themes of friendship, family, and adventure, combined with its atmosphere, make it a timeless movie that can be enjoyed year-round.
2. Dead Poets Society, a 1989 release
Dead Poets Society is a film that casts Robin Williams as English teacher John Keating, who transforms the lives of students in a strict all-boys prep school. The film showcases unique teaching methods, inspiring them to live up to their passion. It also deals with the challenges of living up to expectations of the future, all set against a backdrop of beautiful fall scenery.
3. Fried Green Tomatoes, a 1991 release
Fried Green Tomatoes tells the story of a cynical housewife who befriends an elderly woman in a retirement home. Through flashbacks, it explores the phenomenal friendship between two women in the 1920s, emphasizing love, support, and personal growth. While the movie is set in the summer, its life-changing themes and cozy narrative make it a suitable choice for the fall season.
4. Fly Away Home, a 1996 release
The plot of Fly Away Home revolves around a girl who moves to Canada after her mother’s death, to live with her estranged father. Here she raises abandoned goose eggs, finding peace and bonding with her family through this heartwarming story. Its beautiful scenery and family moments make it a perfect movie for a cozy fall experience.
5. Good Will Hunting, a 1997 release
Good Will Hunting is a 90s classic story that centers around a janitor at MIT, Will Hunting, whose life changes when his genius-level IQ is brought to the attention of a professor. With the help of his professor and a therapist, Will overcomes hesitation and undergoes significant growth. The film features iconic performances, including Matt Damon‘s role and Robin Williams’s versatile acting. It nurtures classic fall vibes through the character’s transformation.
6. Practical Magic, a 1998 release
Practical Magic is a legendary witch-themed movie that is not only for a Halloween watch. It features two sisters dealing with the repercussions of their actions, including an evil spirit’s return, as they hold on to their magic for protection. The film offers an enchanted atmosphere, set in a small town that captures the essence of fall. It’s a great choice for autumn viewing as the holiday season forthcomes.
7. Stepmom, a 1998 release
The film Stepmom revolves around Isabel featuring Julia Roberts who tries to connect with her boyfriend’s children, who remain loyal to their original mother, Jackie aka Susan Sarandon. As Isabel explores her new role as a stepmother and balances her independent life, Jackie’s health issues force her to rethink her priorities. The film’s warm outfits and evolving story reflect the changing seasons, making it an exhilarating choice for the fall season, with both characters standing out as unforgettable movie moms.
8. Sleepy Hollow, a 1999 release
Tim Burton’s Sleepy Hollow is a gothic adaptation of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow, following Johnny Depp starring as Ichabod Crane. His investigation into a series of crucifixions in the town. With its dark setting, the film provides a cozy yet eerie viewing experience, making it a brilliant choice to start the spooky season without relating it to Halloween.
9. Remember the Titans, a 2000 release
Remember the Titans is set in small-town Virginia in 1971, where football is celebrated as a part of the social culture. The movie talks of clashes with racial integration when the school’s team combines with an All-Black school. Above being a football movie, it tussles themes of change and acceptance, making it an impacting choice for the season.
10. The Edge of Seventeen, a 2016 release
The Edge of Seventeen is a coming-of-age tale featuring Hailee Steinfeld as Nadine, who struggles with fitting in as her best friend starts dating her reputed brother. The film’s homey fall scenery, and colorful leaves, mirror the themes of constant change and growing up, making it the best choice for those seeking for young adults and fall movie marathons.