Unbelievably enough, we have almost made our way through the year. While some mark this time of year with pumpkin carving, long walks, hot chocolate and other hallmarks of Autumn, others prefer to spend this season tucked-up binge-watching films. Below, find 5 of our favourite autumn movies to get you through to dare we say it… Christmas!
5. Fantastic Mr. Fox, 2009
Here, Roald Dahl’s classic 1970 children’s book becomes a truly delightful stop motion adventure, featuring director Wes Anderson’s signature autumnal colour palette of reds, golds and burnt oranges. Quirky performances from acting greats like George Clooney, Bill Murray and Meryl Streep make this film an instant classic for the whole family.
Anderson, W (2009). Fantastic Mr. Fox [Film]. Indian Paintbrush. Where to watch: Disney+ & Prime Video
Image available here.
4. Hocus Pocus, 1993
This cult-classic comedy stars Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy as three Salem witches resurrected from the 17th century just in time for Halloween. Perfect for a spooky night in.
Ortega, K (1993). Hocus Pocus [Film]. Walt Disney Pictures. Where to watch: Disney+
Image available here.
3. When Harry Met Sally, 1989
The most memorable moment of this 80s classic may be when the titular characters, played by Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan, meet in Central Park on an autumn day. The film phases through various seasons, but feels lighter and most alive in the autumn, making it the perfect film to get you through a gloomy November afternoon.
Reiner, R (1989). When Harry Met Sally... Castle Rock Entertainment. Where to watch: Netflix
Image available here.
2. E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial, 1982
At number two of course it has to be ET. In this Steven Spielberg directed film, a kind alien finds himself stranded on Earth, where he befriends Elliott, a young boy. With the help of his siblings, Elliott tries to keep his new friend safe from the authorities (and the autumn weather!). A touching classic the whole family can enjoy.
Spielberg, S (1982). E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial. Amblin Entertainment. Where to watch: Apple TV & Prime Video
Image available here.
1. Planes, Trains and Automobiles, 1987
At number one we have Planes, Trains and Automobiles! When Neal Page (Played by Steve Martin) can’t catch a flight home to Chicago for Thanksgiving, he finds himself on a three-day unwanted adventure with loudmouth shower curtain ring salesman (John Candy). This film has become a regular Thanksgiving tradition for many families, making it perfect for autumn.
Hughes, J (1987). Planes, Trains and Automobiles. Hughes Entertainment. Where to watch: Prime Video
Image available here.
Ellen Sanders