What’s better than spooky movie nights in the fall? Nothing beats putting on your coziest outfit, wrapping yourself in blankets, and enjoying a warm, autumnal beverage. But are you having trouble deciding what to watch? Well, look no further! Here are our top picks for fall movies to enjoy this spooky season.
Hocus Pocus (1993)
Starting with a classic Halloween flick, Hocus Pocus is one of those quintessential fall films you cannot help but love! Set in Salem, the film follows the Sanderson Sisters on Halloween night through a night of mischief, mayhem, and magic. With its perfect balance of playful and spooky, this is the ideal film for a family movie night this fall. Audiences have loved this film for decades for its cozy, feel-good atmosphere, which captures the joy that the holiday season brings. Plus, if you are looking to continue the story, you can always watch the sequel, released in 2022. You can catch this classic movie on Disney+.
Good Will Hunting (1997)
Next, nothing meets the reflective atmosphere of the fall like this iconic film. The film’s Boston setting suits the fall feeling. With its academic feeling and shots of changing leaves, it makes it the perfect backdrop for a story of change and personal growth. At its core, it is a story about love, healing, and realizing your potential. So, in a season that is all about transformation and transition, now is the perfect time to revisit this classic and heartfelt film. You can watch Good Will Hunting now on Netflix.
Coraline (2009)
On the spookier side, this iconic stop-motion film is an excellent choice for those looking for something that captures the cozy-but-creepy feeling that makes autumn so magical. This story follows 11-year-old Coraline Jones as she traverses the parallel world connected to her home through a mysterious door. However, she learns that not everything is as it seems, and her journey of bravery and identity reminds us all to never take anything for granted in our lives. You can watch Coraline now on Crave.
The Craft (1996)
Another witchy addition to our list of must-watch fall movies this season is The Craft. Its moody 90s aesthetic, tied with plaid skirts, candlelight rituals, and teenage cynicism, melds perfectly with the feeling of the season. This film, at its core, is about friendship, self-discovery, and the consequences of power, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking during this particularly pensive time of year. Plus, it definitely meets the spooky criteria for an iconic fall film. You can watch The Craft now on Crave.
Tick, Tick…Boom! (2021)
Next, while less well-known, this is an excellent film to watch in the latter half of the fall. Following the struggling musical writer Jonathan Larson, this heartfelt biopic tells the story of Larson as he finds meaning in the face of uncertainty and reflects on the time we are all given and how to spend it best. Its heartfelt performances paired with a fantastic score make for an inspiring and comforting fall movie. You can watch Tick, Tick…Boom!, now on Netflix.
Werewolf By Night (2022)
Next is another overlooked fall film, but one that all classic monster lovers should watch. Shot in a vintage black-and-white style, it captures the perfect ominous and creepy feeling you are looking for in a creature feature. With its foggy labyrinth, large gothic castle, and supernatural aspects, it is ideal to watch as the nights get longer. While rooted in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, it stands out as a unique, self-contained story. The themes of identity, survival, and misunderstood creatures fit perfectly into the season that celebrates the strange and uncanny. You can watch Werewolf by Night now on Disney+.
Little Women (1994/2019)
Whether you prefer the nostalgic charm of the 1994 adaptation or the thought-provoking retelling from 2019, Little Women certainly holds its place in pop culture as the quintessential cozy film. Both versions capture the comfort of New England autumns, full of candlelight, falling leaves, and the feeling of being close to family. This story’s focus on love, loss, family, and personal growth perfectly mirrors this season of change. So, if you are looking for something that radiates the love and warmth of the season, look no further than this timeless story. You can rent either of these adaptations now on Amazon Prime.
Beetlejuice (1988)
If you are looking for something more chaotic and fun, this Tim Burton classic is just what you are looking for. From demons in striped suits to sand worms to Harry Belafonte, this film is the perfect balance of creepy and fun. However, beneath all the wacky chaos lies a family story. A story of finding a sense of belonging and embracing the strange and unusual in life (and the afterlife). Plus, if you are looking to continue the story from the classic, the newly released sequel, Beetlejuice, is a fun option. You can watch both of these now on Amazon Prime.
Practical Magic (1998)
Finally, the last addition to our fall movies list is another classic witchy flick. With its seaside New England setting, this film is practically dripping with all the cozy feelings of fall. Rather than staying in the realm of scares, Practical Magic takes a much softer and more whimsical approach to the spooky season. This film tells a story about love, resilience, and sisterhood, making it as comforting as a warm drink on an autumn evening. Balancing spells, romance, and midnight margaritas, this film is one of the most iconic witch films of all time. Plus, with the sequel in production, now is the perfect time to get into this classic film. You can watch Practical Magic now on Crave.
Whether you are in the mood for spooky fun, heartfelt self-reflection, or just a touch of magic, these films bring the right mix of comfort and charm. If you are looking for a more long-term watch, check out our article on our picks for fall shows to watch this season!
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