There’s a very specific point in autumn when you stop pretending you’re going outside for “a nice walk” and accept your true calling: blanket burrito, oversized mug, snacks within arm’s reach and a cosy film playing in the background.
And honestly? We’re here for it.
Whether you’re craving crunchy leaves, spooky but not too spooky vibes, small town romance or just an excuse to eat an unreasonable amount of popcorn, these films are basically autumn in movie form.
So, grab the fluffiest blanket you own, put the kettle on and get ready to hide indoors for some seriously cosy screen time.
1. Hocus pocus 1 and 2
No autumn movie list would be complete without the Sanderson sisters. Hocus Pocus delivers witches, black cats, chaotic Halloween energy and enough 90s nostalgia to make you want to light every pumpkin-scented candle in the house. It’s spooky, silly and gloriously nostalgic… exactly what you need when October rolls around.
Bonus, there’s now Hocus Pocus 2 which means even more opportunities to giggle at the Sanderson sisters antics!
2. Practical magic 1 and 2
Two witchy sisters, a gorgeous old house, a little romance and enough autumnal atmosphere to make you seriously consider adding more velvet to your wardrobe. Practical Magic is cosy, magical and just the right amount of spooky. Bonus points for watching it with a warm drink and pretending you have an enchanted kitchen.
3. The Harry Potter Series
When Autumn comes around, there’s only one film collection that can be watched on repeat (no matter how many years they’ve been around) and that’s got to be Harry Potter. Spend your evening indoors getting lost in the world of Hogwarts, from the golden leaves and misty grounds to roaring fireplaces, cosy common rooms and the occasional questionable potion, the Harry Potter films are practically made for a chilly night on the sofa.
There’s something about watching Harry, Ron and Hermione race around Hogwarts that makes you want to grab a mug of hot chocolate, wrap yourself in a blanket and pretend you’ve just received an extremely important letter by owl. And yes, you can absolutely watch the entire series. In fact, we’d argue that stopping after one film is simply not acceptable!
4. Fantastic Mr. Fox
If Autumn had a personality, it might be a slightly eccentric fox in a corduroy suit.
With its warm, earthy colours, woodland setting and wonderfully quirky characters, Fantastic Mr. Fox is Autumn comfort viewing at its best. It’s charming, funny and somehow makes sneaking around stealing cider (the autumn beverage of choice) sound like a perfectly reasonable career choice.
5. The Nightmare Before Christmas
Is it a Halloween film? A Christmas film? Honestly, we refuse to get involved in the debate. The Nightmare Before Christmas is delightfully dark, wonderfully weird and ideal for that strange little period when you’re leading up to Halloween but your brain has already secretly started thinking about Christmas time (yes, we know that’s you!).
6. When Harry Met Sally
New York in autumn? Check. Cosy jumpers? Check. Long walks through crunchy leaves? Check. An iconic diner scene that will have you suddenly craving pie at an unreasonable hour? Absolutely Check. When Harry Met Sally is basically the Autumn aesthetic with a hilarious script attached. Perfect for when you want romance with a side of sarcasm and don’t want anything too serious or dark.
7. Matilda
Based on Roald Dahl’s beloved story, Matilda is packed with clever kids, terrible grown-ups, a little bit of telekinesis and enough childhood nostalgia to make you want to curl up under a blanket with a book. It’s funny, charming and wonderfully bonkers, basically the cinematic equivalent of comfort food!
Ps, we recommend a side of chocolate fudge cake with this one.
8. Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them
For a little Autumn magic without going full Halloween, settle in with Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. With nods to the world of Hogwarts – think New York, magical creatures, warm coats and an enormous suitcase full of chaos. It’s the sort of film that makes you want to wrap yourself in a scarf and wander around town looking for something magical and we can’t promise that you won’t want to keep some of the magical beasts as pets!
cosy Autumn movies: final thoughts
And there you have it: eight films to see you through pumpkin season in the cosiest way possible. Whether you’re in the mood for a little witchy magic, a nostalgic favourite or a rom-com that makes you feel all warm and fuzzy, there’s something here for every kind of autumn evening.
Now all that’s left to do is pop the popcorn, pour yourself something warm and get comfy. Bonus points if you’re in your favourite PJs, snuggled up under a ridiculously soft duvet and have absolutely nowhere else to be.
Because if autumn is good for one thing, it’s reminding us that staying in can be just as lovely as going out. And honestly, we can’t think of a better excuse for an early night.
Happy watching (and cosying)! Until next time, eve Sleep.
Sources
1. 52 autumn movies that are perfect to cosy up with | Glamour UK
