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10 Comfort Films to Watch (or Re-Watch) This Fall!

Written by Mollie Davis. Published: October 14 2023
(Photo: Warner Bros.)

 

Looking for a movie with Fall vibes to turn on after a long day at the pumpkin patch, or while you’re putting the finishing details on your DIY Halloween costume? Look no further than these 10 films perfect for the season!

 

1. Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)

For a stop-motion comedy flick that will have you in stitches, check out Fantastic Mr Fox. This Wes Anderson film follows the adventures of a fox family when some interactions with their human neighbors turn their lives upside down! Stream on Max.

 

 

 

2. Planes, Trains & Automobiles (1987)

If you love '80s movies and are already counting down the days till Thanksgiving, you’ll love this comedy film. Planes, Trains and Automobiles tells the tale of Neal (Steve Martin), a man trying to make it home to spend Thanksgiving with his family, when his plans are derailed by a massive snowstorm. Stream on Paramount+ and Pluto TV.

 

 

 

3. The Goonies (1985)

For a look back at one of the first films of Marvel villain Josh Brolin and/or now-Oscar winner Ke Huy Quan’s first films, turn on The Goonies. This Warner Bros classic made in 1985 takes viewers right alongside a gaggle of adventurous kids who find themselves in an underground cavern after discovering an old treasure map on one the kids' attic. Rent on Prime Video, YouTube, and Apple TV.

 

 

 

4. When Harry Met Sally... (1989)

Even if you’re already seen this classic rom-com, it’s well worth the rewatch when you’re cozying up at the end of a brisk Fall day. This friends-to-lovers flick follows the two main characters (Harry and Sally) through 12 years of chance encounters before they finally get their happy ending. Stream on Tubi.

 

 

 

5. CoCo (2017)

There are a handful of animated Pixar films that pair great with the Fall season, but CoCo might just be the best pick. This fantasy film, inspired by the Mexican holiday Day of The Dead, features a plot that will tug on your heartstrings and music you’ll find yourself humming long after the credits roll. Stream on Disney+.

 

 

 

6. Sweet November (2001)

If you have every single John Wick movie logged in your Letterboxd, then it’s due time you check out Keanu Reeves taking on a different role in this tearjerker romantic drama. Sweet November follows the story of Nelson and Sara (played by Charlize Theron), whose chance meeting at the DMV leads to a once-in-a-lifetime romance. Rent on Prime Video, YouTube, and Apple TV.

 

 

 

7. October Sky (1999)

Self-proclaimed space nerds and Laura Dern fans alike will find something to love about this memoir-to-screen adaptation! In October Sky, West Virginia teenager Homer Hickman’s (Jake Gyllenhaal) budding interest in rocketry puts him at odds with his family as he tries to chase his dreams out of his small coal mining town. Stream on Prime Video.

 

 

 

8. "It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown" (1966)

After a long day getting lost in a corn maze and picking pumpkins, head home and turn on this Charlie Brown classic! This animated special that’s sure to warm your nostalgic heart features all your favorites "Peanuts" characters, from Lucy and Linus to Snoopy, following the gang as they celebrate Halloween. Stream on Apple TV+.

 

 

 

9. Soul Food (1997)

If a comedy-drama centered around family and Sunday dinners sounds like your idea of a perfect movie, then Soul Food is the film for you. The flick features an ensemble cast including stars like Vanessa Williams and tells the story of a family navigating trials and traditions through the eyes of an 11-year-old boy. Rent on Prime Video, YouTube, and Apple TV.

 

 

 

10. Friday Night Lights (2004)

Nothing really ushers in the Fall season quite like football, which means this film belongs at the top of your watchlist. The sports drama centered around a high school football team has a cast full of recognizable faces, from Connie Britton and Billy Bob Thornton to country singer Tim McGraw! Rent on Prime Video, YouTube, and Apple TV.

 

 

 

Happy Fall, y'all!