By Layney Keesee
With September comes the promise of crisp air, falling leaves and pumpkin spice lattes. Twilight fans everywhere curl up in their living rooms for their yearly re-watch, and Scream and Halloween fans can’t wait to dust off their scary costumes in anticipation of their favorite holiday. And let’s not ignore the dozens of other films cinema blogs bring up around this time of year: Little Women (2019), Pride and Prejudice (2004), Dead Poets Society (1989), Knives Out (2019), Edward Scissorhands (1990) and several others that are listed year after year in preparation for cultivating exactly the kind of vibe that the Gilmore Girls would die for.
Of course there’s a reason why these movies are mentioned annually. After all, who doesn’t enjoy Robin William’s brilliant acting and Matthew MacFayden’s dreamy eyes? But what about the recommendations for those who have been there, seen that? Where’s the justice for film buffs everywhere: the good, the bad and the pretentious? That’s exactly why we have compiled a list of movies that have earned their rightful places next to the likes of Good Will Hunting (1997) and Sleepy Hollow (1999). That’s not to say that some of these films aren’t already popular; we simply believe that they should be acknowledged among the fall classics.
This list consists of full feature-length films as well as a few short films so you can flex your obscure film knowledge without having to subject yourself to a full-length silent feature. They are also listed in no particular order, so you can find just the right genre for you.
The Young Victoria (2009)
What would an autumnal movie recommendation be without a period piece? Although The Young Victoria is seasonally versatile, as it takes place over a few years, there’s just such a cozy quality about a romantic costume drama that is impossible to resist during fall weather. Starring Emily Blunt and Rupert Friend, The Young Victoria chronicles, as one would expect, the early years of Queen Victoria’s extensive reign over Britain, including her rise to the throne, dubious advisors and her budding romance with Prince Albert. Currently, The Young Victoria is available on Netflix.
A Quiet Place (2018)
Part cozy and part horrifying, A Quiet Place is already vastly well-known and well-liked, but is entirely worth mentioning once more, especially from a fall perspective. Thrilling enough for horror fans, but interspersed with gentle familial bonds for those too jumpy for true horror, John Krasinki’s directorial debut has the perfect color palette for a crisp autumn movie night with friends or family. A Quiet Place also has a sequel available with an Amazon Prime subscription, which makes it optimal for turning a movie night into a movie marathon. Just be sure to have a box of tissues handy!
True Grit (2010)
If you’re one who often finds themselves wishing for a western year-round and doesn’t mind a bit of fake blood, then the Coen brothers’ action-packed and heartfelt tale of a young girl setting out to avenge her father should be right up your alley. True Grit’s atmosphere literally holds a frosty quality that other westerns lack, making it the essential film for Clint Eastwood fans who want to get in on the fall vibes, too.
The Prestige (2006)
Would it really be a movie recommendation list without a film by Christopher Nolan? While perhaps not as explosive of a blockbuster as Inception (2010) or Oppenheimer (2023), The Prestige has something the other two lack: dark and brooding mystery ideal for October nights. Hugh Jackman and Christian Bale bring to life a story of two magicians invested in a battle of wits that is fraught with danger, mystique and vengeance. Perfect for fans of action-packed historical films, The Prestige will keep you guessing until the very end.
Wildlife (2018)
Wildlife is perhaps one of the most overlooked films in recent years. This film is perfect for those who are searching for something more obscure. The beautiful color palette fleshes out the intense emotions throughout the film, and its simplistic editing allows the viewer to focus on the story at hand. Jake Gylenhaal and Carey Mulligan play the parents of a 14 year-old boy who finds himself being forced to choose between them when his mother and father betray each other. Heart-wrenching and impactful, Wildlife is another one to have tissues on standby for.
Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure (1989)
For fans of nostalgia-filled ‘80s movies and comedy films alike, Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure follows two hilarious teen-age boys who find a unique way to study for their upcoming history exam. While it may seem better suited for spring or summer, Bill and Ted’s is exactly the medication necessary to overcome both seasonal depression and the dreaded first exam season. After all, what student hasn’t found themselves fearing that they will fail their classes most egregiously?
The Wonder Ring (1955) and The Pumpkin Race (1907)
While these short films are completely different in narrative, both The Wonder Ring and The Pumpkin Race both offer the chance for film buffs to broaden their short film knowledge via old, silent and, at times, odd stories. These two shorts are, additionally, perhaps the most accessible out of any of the films on this list, as they are both old enough to be in the public domain, and therefore easily found for free on YouTube. Where they differ, however, is their mood. The Wonder Ring documents New York’s Third Avenue train station shortly before its demolition, and provides a beautiful and impactful, yet subtle, commentary on what happens to art when it is deemed useless by society. The Pumpkin Race, on the other hand, provides exactly what it promises: a quirky little story about runaway pumpkins. It’s definitely worth a watch if you’re still a fan of Charlie Chaplin in 2023, or if you’re just the morbidly-curious type.