Curl up with these fall movies
movie vault— fall edition. your perfect movie guide for the fall season: movies to match the falling leaves.
movie vault: a cozy corner about film and tv shows, where I’ll share recs, monthly reviews and curated guides to help you to discover your next watch.
September has arrived, and with it, the change of season. Just yesterday, I sat down on the couch listening to the raindrops on the roof while sipping a cup of hot tea. The smell of rain on the ground has always been one of my favorites— fresh and so natural.
There’s something magical about the arrival of autumn. It’s a season that brings with it a sense of calm and introspection, a natural pause that invites us to slow down and savor the little things. I love autumn for its shorter days and longer evenings, the sound of rain tapping against the windows, and the smell of hot coffee filling the air as it gets crisper outside. It's the perfect time to embrace coziness, that feeling of warmth and comfort that only fall can offer.
And what could be better, in this season, than curling up with a soft blanket, a steaming cup of coffee, and a good movie?
Autumn is magic, just as cinema is.
Watching movies during autumn feels like an extension of this coziness. With the outside world painted in shades of gold and brown, and the temperatures dropping, there’s no better way to enhance this feeling than by settling in with a good film
I’ve put together a list of films that perfectly capture the autumn atmosphere: intimate, warm, and enveloping stories that will feel like a hug. Whether it's sudden rain showers or quiet evenings, these films are perfect companions for your autumn days.
So, as we embrace the magic of fall, let’s celebrate with a selection of films that perfectly complement the season’s warmth and charm.
Here’s my movie recommendations for this upcoming fall season
THE FALL MOVIE GUIDE 🍁
For me, one of the best platforms for keeping track of all the movies is Letterboxd. If you’re not familiar with it, Letterboxd is a social networking site for film lovers— like me. It allows users to track, review, and rate films they've watched, create watchlists, and discover new movies based on others' recommendations. You should definitely download it! —here’s my profile, if you wanna join me :)
I create a perfect fall movie guide for the autumn season and I’m so thrilled to share it with you.
Dead Poets Sociey (1989)— a 1989 drama about an inspiring English teacher, played by Robin Williams, who encourages his students to seize the day and think for themselves. Set in a conservative prep school, the film explores themes of individuality, passion, and the power of education
When Harry Met Sally (1989)— a classic romantic comedy that follows the evolving relationship between Harry and Sally, played by Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan, as they navigate friendship, love, and the question of whether men and women can just be friends.
Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)— This stop-motion animated film, directed by Wes Anderson, follows the adventures of Mr. Fox, who devises a plan to outwit three farmers and provide for his family.
Sweet November (2001)— A poignant romance stars Keanu Reeves and Charlize Theron as a terminally ill woman who has a profound impact on a workaholic man. Their brief but intense relationship explores themes of love, self-discovery, and living in the moment, set against a backdrop of emotional depth.
You’ve Got Mail (1998)— Directed by Nora Ephron, this classic romantic comedy features Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks as two people who fall in love through anonymous online emails. Unbeknownst to them, they are business rivals in real life.
Matilda (1996)— Based on Roald Dahl’s beloved children’s book, this film tells the story of Matilda, a young girl with extraordinary telekinetic abilities. Despite her neglectful family and a tyrannical headmistress, Matilda’s intelligence and kindness shine through, offering a whimsical yet empowering tale.
Kill Your Darlings (2013)— This biographical drama stars Daniel Radcliffe and explores the lives of the young Beat Generation writers in the 1940s, focusing on their involvement in a real-life murder. The film delves into the turbulent and passionate world of these influential literary figures.
Stepmom (1998)— This emotional drama stars Julia Roberts and Susan Sarandon as a terminally ill mother and the new stepmother who must navigate their complex relationship while caring for her children.
Normal People (2020)— This is not technically a movie, but it gives me fall vibes as well. It’s a miniseries that explores the intricate relationship between two Irish teenagers as they grow from high school to adulthood.
One Fine Day (1996)— This romantic comedy features Michelle Pfeiffer and George Clooney as two single parents who meet and connect while juggling their busy lives. The film portrays their growing relationship against the backdrop of everyday challenges, blending humor and romance.
Good Will Hunting (1997)— Starring Matt Damon and Robin Williams, this drama tells the story of Will Hunting, a janitor at MIT with a genius-level intellect who struggles with his past and potential. Through therapy, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery and redemption.
Autumn in New York (2000)— A romantic drama that tells the story of a wealthy man who falls in love with a terminally ill woman. Their relationship explores themes of love and loss against a backdrop of autumn.
Scent Woman (1992)— A drama featuring a blind, irascible army veteran (played by Al Pcino) who goes on a transformative journey with a young caretaker.
Little Women (1994/2019)— Adaptations of Louisa May Alcott’s classic novel about the lives and loves of the four March sisters. Both versions celebrate family, ambition, and enduring bonds.
Julie & Julia (2009)— This film intertwines the lives of renowned chef Julia Child and a young woman who blogs about cooking her recipes. Meryl Streep and Amy Adams deliver captivating performances, exploring themes of passion, perseverance, and the joy of cooking.
Amelìe (2001)— This French film, directed by Jean-Pierre Jeunet, follows Amélie Poulain, a shy waitress who decides to make positive changes in the lives of those around her.
About Time (2013)— Directed by Richard Curtis, this romantic drama stars Domhnall Gleeson as a man who discovers he can time travel. He uses his ability to improve his life and relationships, offering a touching story about love, family, and the value of time.
Harry Potter saga— I guess you know this saga so well, but if you don’t, this iconic series follows the adventures of Harry Potter, a young wizard, and his friends as they attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry and face dark forces.
Practical Magic (1998)— Starring Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman, this romantic comedy follows two witch sisters dealing with a family curse and their search for love.
The Craft (1996)— supernatural drama about a group of teenage girls who practice witchcraft and face the consequences of their newfound powers
Knives Out (2019)— A modern whodunit about a detective investigating the death of a wealthy patriarch surrounded by a dysfunctional family. It’s a clever, entertaining mystery with a plot twist.
Coraline (2009)— An enchanting animated fantasy about a young girl who discovers a parallel world that initially appears more perfect than her own. However, this seemingly ideal world hides dark and sinister secrets that put her and her loved ones in grave danger.
Mona Lisa Smile (2003)— A thought-provoking drama about a progressive art professor, played by Julia Roberts, who challenges the restrictive traditional roles of women at a conservative 1950s college. Her unconventional teaching methods inspire her students to reconsider their futures.
One Day (2011)— A romantic drama about two people who meet on the same day each year, exploring their evolving relationship over time. It’s a poignant look at love and life’s twists.
Dorian Gray (2009)— A dark and atmospheric adaptation of Oscar Wilde’s classic novel about a man who remains eternally youthful while his portrait ages and reflects his moral corruption. Ben Barnes stars as the enigmatic Dorian Gray, offering a compelling portrayal of vanity and decay—(ben barned is this movie 👀)
The imitation Game (2014)— A historical drama starring Benedict Cumberbatch as Alan Turing, who plays a pivotal role in breaking Nazi codes during World War II. The film also delves into Turing’s personal struggles and the challenges he faced due to his sexuality.
The Guernsey Literary & Potato Peel Pie Society (2018)— A charming and heartwarming film about a writer who forms a connection with a book club in post-war Guernsey. The story highlights the power of literature and friendship as the writer uncovers the islanders’ touching and inspirational experiences.
Swing Kinds (1993)— Set in Nazi Germany during the 1930s, this powerful drama follows a group of teenagers who embrace swing music as an act of defiance against the oppressive regime. The film explores the clash between their vibrant, rebellious subculture and the stringent, authoritarian pressures imposed by the Nazis. As the characters become increasingly involved in the underground swing scene, they face personal and political challenges that test their loyalty, friendships, and ideals.
The Theory of Everything (2014)— This biographical drama tells the extraordinary story of Stephen Hawking, a brilliant theoretical physicist diagnosed with ALS at a young age. Starring Eddie Redmayne, the film explores Hawking’s groundbreaking work in cosmology and his relationship with his first wife, Jane, played by Felicity Jones.
The Goonies (1985)— Directed by Richard Donner, this adventure film follows a group of kids from a small town who discover a treasure map that leads them on a thrilling quest to find a hidden pirate’s hoard. As they embark on their adventure, they encounter various obstacles, including a family of criminals and booby traps.
October Sky (1999)— Based on the true story of Homer Hickam, this inspirational drama stars Jake Gyllenhaal as a young man growing up in a coal-mining town in the 1950s. With dreams of becoming a rocket scientist, Hickam defies the expectations of his community and his father, played by Chris Cooper, to pursue his passion.
Ghostbusters saga— This iconic series of supernatural comedies, beginning with the original Ghostbusters in 1984, centers on a team of eccentric scientists who establish a ghost-catching business in New York City. Led by Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, and Harold Ramis, the team uses inventive technology and their wit to tackle various paranormal disturbances
As the leaves turn and the days grow shorter, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a good film to embrace the cozy essence of autumn. I hope this list has inspired you to discover—or rediscover—some cinematic gems that perfectly capture the spirit of the season.
Whether you’re in the mood for whimsical adventures, heartfelt dramas, or charming romances, these films offer something special to accompany your fall moments.
So grab your favorite blanket, make yourself a warm cup of coffee or tea, and let these films transport you to magical worlds and nostalgic times.
I’d love to hear your thoughts on these recommendations or any autumnal favorites of your own. Feel free to share your comments and suggestions!!
I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to each of you. I’m deeply grateful for your support and enthusiasm. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for being here, for your encouragement, and for making ‘The Coffee Table’ a special place. I look forward to continuing this journey with you, filled with warmth, meaningful stories, and the cozy embrace of autumn.
I cannot wait to hear from your your favourite fall movie or anything you want to share with me XX.
With Love,
—Michela.
This newsletter is currently free, but if you’d like, you can buy me a coffee to support my work in this little adventure 🫶🏻 There's no pressure! I value all kinds of support, and even a simple subscription means a lot to me.
i'm not a big tv/movie person so when i try to find one to fit the season, i go blank. this is the perfect list to refer to for when i want to get cozy and watch something this fall! thanks!
Some amazing recommendations! Harry Potter is my absolute favourite series to watch this time of year and it's almost time for my annual rewatch. All the snug vibes 🫶