Must-Watch Fall Movies
by Anna Little
CORALINE 2009
The animated 2009 film Coraline captures the spooky feeling that many crave as we head into fall. Eleven-year-old Coraline has just moved from Michigan to a dreary hamlet in Oregon. After discovering an alternate world, Coraline meets her “other mother” and a dream-like version of her life. As Coraline visits the other world more and more, she discovers a dangerous reality and finds there’s something darker behind the intents of her other mother. The clay animation and outstanding visuals create an eerie and enjoyable watch for the upcoming Halloween season!
YOU’VE GOT MAIL 1998
Opening with the uplifting song “Dreams” by The Cranberries, You’ve Got Mail immediately captures the heart of viewers. In this New York City rom-com, Kathleen and Joe share one thing… a hatred for each other. The opening of Joe’s bookstore chain threatens Kathleen’s local shop out of business. While the two argue on the matter, they are simultaneously emailing each other, unknowingly kindling an internet relationship. A lighthearted, seasonal and enchanting watch, You’ve Got Mail is the perfect film for a cozy fall day.
GOOD WILL HUNTING 1997
If the autumn blues necessitate a gut-wrenching cry that changes your perspective on life, try Good Will Hunting. It follows the story of Will Hunting, a troubled, wickedly intelligent 20-year-old who is discovered by MIT professor Gerald Lambeau. When Hunting gets in trouble with the cops, he makes an agreement with Lambeau in order to get out of jail. The film resembles the best parts of fall by creating a warm New York scene. A beautifully written film that touches on struggle and finding life’s meaning, Good Will Hunting will leave you inspired.
HARRY POTTER AND THE PRISONER OF AZKABAN 2004
This familiar favorite is an obvious choice for the fall season. While the third installment of Harry Potter is lighter than the later films, it still holds a mysterious, suspenseful feel. As the beloved wizardly trio searches to uncover recent hearings of Sirius Black who has just escaped from Azkaban, they learn more about Harry’s past and a history of secrets. This magical, thrilling film is a wonderful movie to cozy up to with a fall drink on a gloomy day.
FANTASTIC MR. FOX 2009
Fantastic Mr. Fox is quite frankly a perfect movie. This stop-motion film follows a community of animals whose world is threatened when farmers attack their home. Given Mr. Fox’s actions caused the farmer’s strike, he leads his community in solving the conundrum. The film holds a genuine, heartfelt tone that delicately balances humor and deeper meanings that are intertwined throughout the movie. The film’s aesthetic is a warm color palette that encapsulates the comfort of fall and reflects on the importance of individuality
MONSTER HOUSE 2006
Monster House is a nostalgic movie that narrates the journey of three kids who are convinced that the neighboring home is a lair for supernatural activity. After many failed attempts to get parents involved, the kids decide to take on whatever frightening monster is haunting the house, ultimately discovering even darker happenings than they imagined. The hysterical dialogue and fast-paced adventure provide for an entertaining experience that will you spooked. This thrilling yet comical film is a necessary addition to your Halloween watchlist.
LITTLE WOMEN 2019
Following the tumultuous lives of four sisters, Little Women takes place in an oppressive 1860’s Massachusetts. We watch as Jo, Amy, Meg and Beth grow from childhood to adulthood and carve out their individual paths in the world. As Jo takes on a writing career, she battles between her ambitions and the societal expectations of women. Throughout the film, we are brought fireside chats and outdoor scenery with charming characters and crisp fall colors that exude the beauty of Autumn.
HOCUS POCUS 1993
Three spirited, humorous, and wicked witches have just been resurrected from their 300-year slumber. In efforts to become immortal and restore the evil that once lingered in Salem, Massachusetts, the witches set out to sacrifice the kids that set them free. The film is full of energy, wit, and absurdity that blends together to create a nostalgically spooky feel. The costume designs are phenomenal, and the witch’s clashing characters are far from dull. The iconic cast and quotes have made for a perfect annual campy Halloween movie.
THE CRAFT 1996
This teenage-girl-turned-witch movie (but with a twist) provides an unsettling yet nostalgic watch for those who crave a little horror this season. Beginning with a classic lonely new girl who comes across the eye-liner wearing weirdos soon turns into a thrilling reminder of why you should choose your friends wisely. Starring a handsome young Skeet Ulrich, this teenage scare fits snugly into your Halloween film plans.
