By Eleanor Bate, Film and TV Deputy Editor
The days are getting shorter, the air a little crisper, and suddenly the idea of curling up with a blanket and a hot drink feels irresistible. Autumn has a way of inviting us indoors, asking for stories that match its golden glow and quiet melancholy. And what better way to lean into the season than with films that feel like a warm hug?
Now that we’ve set the scene, let’s get to the fun part: the movies. Think of this as your guidebook to autumnal movie nights, organised into themes — because whether you’re in the mood for a warm city romance or a touch of whimsical nostalgia, there’s a perfect watch waiting to make your evening extra cosy.
'Falling' in love:
When Harry met Sally (1989)
A timeless American rom-com, When Harry Met Sally stars Billy Crystal as Harry and Meg Ryan as Sally. The pair begin with a beautiful friendship, but (of course) complications arise when Harry starts seeing Sally in a new light. As they inevitably take their relationship a step further, the two must reconcile their feelings and fears while teetering on the line between platonic and romantic. All of this unfolds against the iconic backdrop of a fall-swept New York City, complete with golden leaves and cosy cafés. Can you even call yourself a rom-com fan if you haven’t seen this classic?
The Worst Person in the World (2021)
Joachim Trier’s The Worst Person in the World follows four years in the life of Julie (Renate Reinsve), a young woman stumbling through the whirlwind of her 20s with no clear sense of who she wants to be or where she’s going (truly the biggest “she is so me” I’ve ever “she is so me’d”). This Norwegian feature is a seamless blend of romance, comedy, and drama, tied together in one big, beautiful existential crisis. It’s the kind of film that makes you feel less alone as the cold sets in, uni starts back up, and seasonal melancholy creeps in. At once funny, bittersweet, and painfully relatable, it’s the perfect companion for an autumn night of reflection.
Pride & Prejudice (2005)
Meet the OG yearner, Mr. Darcy (Matthew Macfadyen). This period piece might just be the ultimate enemies-to-lovers story ever put to paper. Based on Jane Austen’s iconic 1813 novel and set in the Georgian era, Elizabeth Bennet (Keira Knightley) struggles with the expectations of marriage and security while navigating her first impressions of the utterly disagreeable, and maddeningly arrogant, Mr. Darcy. It is charming and quintessentially British, perfectly capturing autumn’s spirit of reflection and new beginnings. Featuring a subtle hand-flex that carries more longing than most entire love stories.
Coming-of-age & reflective:
The Perks of Being a Wallflower (2012)
Based on Stephen Chbosky’s novel of the same name, The Perks of Being a Wallflower follows Charlie (Logan Lerman), an anxious, introverted teenager starting high school, who finds friendship and guidance in his English teacher and a group of seniors who take him under their wing. This film defined my early teenage years, and its tender portrayal of growing up and “going through the motions” makes it a perfect watch to revisit (or experience for the first time) at the start of a new school year, filled with anxiety, anticipation, and the quiet sadness of summer’s end and autumn’s beginning.
Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret (2023)
Another novel-to-screen adaptation, Are You There God? It’s Me, Margaret is a relatable story of young Margaret (Abby Ryder Fortson), who turns to prayer as a way to cope with the upheaval and emotional chaos of growing up and approaching puberty. Double-A bras, first periods, awkward crushes, Margaret and her newfound friends navigate these milestones together in an honest and heartfelt depiction of girlhood. Comforting, funny, and full of warmth, it’s the perfect film for a cosy autumn evening.
Dead Poets Society (1989)
O Captain! My Captain! Peter Weir (The Truman Show) directs this devastatingly moving masterpiece, which follows newcomer Mr. Keating (Robin Williams), as he inspires a class of boarding school boys to seize the day through the power of poetry, leaving a lasting imprint on their lives. A heartfelt story of male companionship, the importance of soul-stirring passion, and a true love letter to the arts, it pairs a golden-hued colour palette and picturesque New England setting with a sentimental, thought-provoking atmosphere — perfectly echoing the melancholic beauty of autumn.
Little Women (2019)
Greta Gerwig understands the makings of a coming-of-age film arguably better than anyone. I could just as easily have chosen Lady Bird (2017) or Frances Ha (2012), but Little Women, with its warm colour palette, idyllic scenery, period costumes, and sentimental story, offers a viewing experience as cosy as they come. If you haven’t seen it yet, take this as your sign: whether you’re drawn to its timeless themes of sisterhood, nostalgia, and personal growth, or simply want to watch Timothée Chalamet at his most down bad. Both are perfectly valid.
Wholesome nostalgia:
Coraline (2009)
The inspiration behind my Halloween costume this year, Coraline is a stop-motion masterpiece and a staple of so many childhoods. It follows an 11-year-old girl who discovers a door to an alternate version of her life hidden in her new home, unfolding into a story that’s as dark and eerie as it is nostalgic. Grey skies, unsettlingly beautiful animation, and guided by a sharp-tonged black cat who slips between worlds — what better way to immerse yourself in the seasonal spirit?
Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)
And for our last pick, the ultimate autumn watch is, of course, Wes Anderson’s Fantastic Mr. Fox. Quite possibly the most orange movie ever made, its warm colour palette could make you feel autumnal all year round. Bursting with whimsy, it’s a heart-warming story of togetherness and gratitude, told with just the right amount of silliness. Anderson’s signature charm makes it as delightful for adults as it is for kids. Grab the snacks and blankets, gather your loved ones (or fly solo), and dive headfirst into fall-like nostalgia with this true work of art.
And that’s our list of the cosiest autumn watches — let the movie marathon begin! The only question is, which one are you pressing play on first?
Featured Image: Walt Disney Studios / Courtesy
