With half-term fast approaching and free time becoming a reality once again, here is my ultimate list of films and TV shows perfect for the Autumn season. So, if you’re looking for a way to fill the gaps that lessons, clubs and homework previously occupied, here are my top five recommendations to pass the time in October.
(Apologies to any horror movie enthusiasts in advance as I am not a fan of the genre, so the scariest film on this list is Hocus Pocus).
- Little Women (2019)
This is my all-time favourite film, and after having watched three adaptations I believe I can safely say that Greta Gerwig’s Little Women is the best version out there.
Why I love it: While any film set in New England is reason enough for me to watch it, Little Women is the perfect option if you’re looking for autumnal scenery due to the warm-hued flashback scenes. Not only is it award winning, full of a stacked cast and an amazing soundtrack (which I highly recommend as a study playlist), but it is also full of gorgeous cinematography and scenes of Massachusetts that are perfect for getting into the autumn mood.
Favourite quote/scene: The Hill Scene – The visuals are stunning and the chemistry between Saoirse Ronan and Timothée Chalamet is unmatched. I’ve rewatched this scene an embarrassing number of times, and in my (highly biased) opinion it is Oscar worthy. Of course, I have to give an honourable mention to the quote: “It’s like the tide going out. It goes slowly, but it can’t be stopped” which as I’m sure all those who have watched it would agree, is a tearjerker that gets me every time.
Watch if you’re looking for: an emotional rollercoaster, nostalgic feelings or a period drama.
2. You’ve Got Mail (1998)
If you’re a fan of 90s rom-coms and are looking for your new go to comfort film, You’ve Got Mail might be just what you need.
Why I love it: This is a go to comfort film for me because of walks through New York City in Autumn as well as the cosy bookshop “The Shop Around The Corner” (which I wish wasn’t fictional). I also have to give a shout out to the music in this film as any soundtrack featuring the Cranberries or Stevie Wonder is an immediate yes from me.
Favourite quote/scene: “Sometimes I wonder about my life. I lead a small life – well, valuable, but small – and sometimes I wonder, do I do it because I like it or because I haven’t been brave? So much of what I see reminds me of something I read in a book, when shouldn’t it be the other way around? I don’t really want an answer. I just want to send this cosmic question out into the void. So good night, dear void”. Who knew a rom com could be so profound?
Watch if you’re looking for: A feel-good option, a happy ending or cosy vibes.
3. Knives Out (2019)
If you’re into thrillers but also want to maintain the autumn aesthetic, look no further because Knives Out is the perfect film for you. With the third Knives Out film coming out in December, now is the perfect time to start watching the film series (although, I have to say the sequel wasn’t as good as the original).
Why I love it: This film marked the beginning of my obsession with thrillers, whether that be films, tv shows or books, making this a great starting point to get into the genre. The film also takes place in a beautiful red brick mansion, giving the film bonus points in my book for visuals alone.
Favourite quote/scene: The Confession Scene – without spoiling too much, this scene was pure chaos featuring suspense, tension while being unexpectedly comedic.
Watch if you’re looking for: twists, turns and surprises.
4. Gilmore Girls (2000-2007)
If you haven’t already, now is the perfect time to start watching the ultimate comfort tv show Gilmore Girls. With the pilot episode featuring The La’s ‘There She Goes’ and the show being set in New England, Gilmore Girls contains all the ingredients for a perfect autumn watch.
Why I love it: As leaves start to brown and temperatures start to dip, my annual re-watch of Gilmore Girls also starts. Unfortunately, despite my best efforts, I usually get up to season 2 before forgetting about it until the next year. The slow pace and easy-going episodes make it the perfect show to decompress with, all while admiring Lorelai’s jacket collection.
Favourite quote/scene: “coffee, coffee, coffee” – With UCAS and NEA deadlines I finally get Lorelai’s obsession.
Watch if you’re looking for: a new series to get addicted to, teenage love triangles or a show where you hear different variations of ‘la, la, la la, laaaaa’ thousands of times.
5. Hocus Pocus (1993)
This list wouldn’t be complete without at least one recommendation for the spooky season, and Hocus Pocus is the ultimate choice for Halloween.
Why I love it: When I was younger I was terrified of the witches and so refused to watch this film, but after I got over my fear it became a familiar favourite. However, I refuse to watch the sequel which came out in 2022 (as nothing can beat the original).
Favourite quote/scene: The ridiculousness of this film is summed up by any scene featuring the CGI black cat. (If you’ve seen it you know).
Watch if you’re looking for: a guilty pleasure, a comedy or a Halloween themed choice.
So, if this October half-term you find yourself with some spare time and are looking for your next cosy autumn watch, I would highly recommend any of the above and getting lost in scenes of orange trees with a hot drink in hand.
Have a great half term!
