For some of us, fall is the best season hands down — cute boots, warm sweaters, hot drinks, changing leaves, festive get-togethers, and lots of cuddle time with family or a special someone. There's nothing like cuddling on a comfy couch and settling into a movie that gives you all the feels. It could be an inspirational movie, a heartfelt romance, a nail-biting thriller, or a lighthearted comedy. Fall is a great time to take in all sorts of films and waste a bit of time as we spend more hours indoors.
Fortunately, there is no shortage of movies to choose from. Sometimes, it may seem like too much scrolling through the ever-growing list of great streaming services. Have no fear, here are 20 great movies to put on the watchlist this fall. Grab all the pillows in the house, load up on snacks, turn off the lights, and find the best bets for autumn movie viewing right here.
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'Pitch Perfect'
Rated: PG-13
Anna Kendrick's acting chops, and Rebel Wilson's impeccable comedic timing make Pitch Perfect a hilarious look into the world of a capella singing groups. The choreography alone almost makes us want to get up off our couch and start grooving along.
'A Cinderella Story'
Rated: PG
A modern take on the classic tale, this movie stars Hilary Duff, whose character is stuck with an evil stepmom after the death of her dad. It received mixed reviews but tells a universal story about trying to escape the things in life that may be holding you back.
'Across the Universe'
Rated: PG-13
Like the Beatles? If so, give Across the Universe a try. The 1960s setting and Beatles soundtrack takes the viewer back in time to the era of hippies, bohemian life, and Vietnam. Stories about teenagers finding themselves are timeless, so no matter someone's age or feelings about the Beatles, this film will delight all folks.
'Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone'
Rated: PG
Go back to the innocence of the first chapter of Harry Potter's world. While the series gets much darker as we learn more about He Who Must Not Be Named, the first Harry Potter movie introduces us to the Dursleys, Platform 9 3/4, Diagon Alley, and the lovable Hagrid and Dumbledore.
'The Nightmare Before Christmas'
Rated: PG
Love Halloween? Can't wait until Christmas? This movie will satisfy both cravings and bring a dose of Tim Burton's weird into, let's face it, an already weird time. For those who've had enough of the world we're in, The Nightmare Before Christmas is a short romp into a fantastical, and funny realm.
'Practical Magic'
Rated: PG-13
Can't decide between a scary movie and a good ol' rom-com? Try Practical Magic. In the film, a bunch of witches try not to fall in love, and you can already see where this one is headed. Sandra Bullock is always a charmer, so this film will be a light but happy — and fun — watch.
'Election'
Rated: R
Follow the ambitions of know-it-all Tracy Flick (Reese Witherspoon) as she manipulates everyone around her in her attempt to become head of the student government in her high school.
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'The Fault in Our Stars'
No rating
Whether you read the book or not, The Fault in Our Stars is sure to be a tear-jerker to some as it pulls at our heartstrings. The story of two teenage cancer patients who fall in love is the perfect movie to give us feels when we need them.
'Knives Out'
Rated: PG-13
A critically acclaimed film that will entertain mystery buffs is Knives Out. It's a classic whodunit, starring Daniel Craig as the detective, and it features a great cast — including Jamie Lee Curtis, Don Johnson, Chris Evans, and Lakeith Stanfield.
'The Devil Wears Prada'
Rated: PG-13
Watch Meryl Streep tear up her scenes and Anne Hathaway play a sweet, Midwestern girl who's new to the Big Apple in a classic movie about making it to the big time. The Devil Wears Prada is an over-the-top (maybe?) depiction of the editorial fashion world, and a traditional rom-com wrapped in one.
'Twilight'
Rated: PG-13
Edward Cullen and Bella Swan may be one of the most famous movie couples of the 2000s, so Twilight is something of a classic, no? A teen romance, with one of the most notorious vampires in modern history, and an emotional masochist, sounds like a great way to spend a fall evening to us.
'Coraline'
Rated: PG
Maybe one of the weirdest and spookiest "kid" movies, Coraline is based on Neil Gaiman's graphic novel — so fans of the sci-fi author will love this movie. It's stop-motion animation and an offbeat story about manipulative parents should appeal to anyone who likes a taste of the unusual.
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'School of Rock'
Rated: PG-13
This is a great movie for families with older children (it's rated PG-13 after all). Kids will love the youth-centered story about a group of budding musicians and adults will appreciate Jack Black's commitment to the craft and to being a bawdy, comedic artist. There's a reason this movie has stood the test of time.
'The Lovely Bones'
Rated: PG-13
The murder of a teenage girl — who then watches over her family from an afterlife — filled with other teenage girls is … kind of a lot. But there is a reason this book was so popular, and the movie was pretty popular as well. Definitely worth checking out.
'To All the Boys I've Loved Before'
Rated: TV-14
Do kids write love letters anymore? (What do they look like? Are they handwritten? Do they get mailed?) Even though the author of the book this movie is based on her never sent love letters, the movie adaptation does the opposite — and sweet, romantic drama ensues. To All The Boys I've Loved Before is perfect for teenagers or the teenagers in all of us.
'Silver Linings Playbook'
Rated: R
Bradley Cooper and Jennifer Lawrence give virtuoso performances in this film about a man returning from a mental institution. We're also treated to a bit of the master Robert De Niro. It's moving, it's dramatic, and its drama is relatable to a lot of people. Definitely one of the best movies of this decade, if you ask us.
'Cheaper by the Dozen'
Rated: PG
Two parents trying to balance careers with a household full of children — it's almost like this movie was made today! But it's been 17 years since Steve Martin and Bonnie Hunt blessed us with their comedy genius in Cheaper by the Dozen as they try to climb the career ladder with 12 (!) children in tow.
'Stuck in Love'
Rated: R
Trying to mix families when you fall in love with someone new is never easy. Stuck in Love explores the complexities: the highs of meeting a new soul mate, with the roller coaster of bringing that person into our pre-existing life.
'Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse'
Rated: PG
Into the Spider-Verse is a Marvel movie, but it's different from the Marvel movies we're used to. With more playful animation, characters, and a bit more wit and pathos than adventure and explosive action, this movie can win over family members who aren't usually into the comic book genre.
'Fighting With My Family'
Rated: PG-13
A feel-good true story that wrestling fans are sure to love is Fighting With My Family. But even those who aren't wrestling fans will find something to enjoy in this movie that showcases the hard work it takes to become wrestling stars. It's an exploration in how to build a personal brand, along with a healthy dose of self-esteem.
