LOS ALAMITOS, Calif. — The Halloween season is well known for its cozy atmosphere and festive activities. While there are many fun outdoor events like corn mazes, pumpkin patches and trick or treating, sometimes you just want to have a comfortable night in. Here are 10 classic films to watch on a chilly fall night.
1. “The Princess Bride” (1987) — PG
“The Princess Bride” is a timeless love story directed by Rob Reiner and based on the novel by William Goldman. The plot follows Buttercup (Robin Wright) and Westley (Cary Elwes) as they overcome their separation by battling the difficulties of the magical forces of the Kingdom of Florin. This story is full of revenge, monsters, deceit, unbroken promises, evil kings, action and true love.
2. “Remember Me” (2010) — PG-13
“Remember Me” is a tear-jerking romance drama that follows the story of Tyler (Robert Pattinson) as he struggles to recover from a family tragedy. His world changes when he meets Ally (Emilie de Ravin). As they fall in love, they find that broken hearts can become whole again. This warm film in New York perfectly encapsulates the fall emotion and has an eye-opening ending that is beautifully done.
3. “Hocus Pocus” (1993) — PG
“Hocus Pocus”: the iconic tale of the Sanderson sisters! This Halloween film is set in Salem, Massachusetts when a pair of young siblings accidentally unleashes a coven of sister witches (Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Najimy) who desire to become immortal. The kids must stop the witches from fulfilling their plan and happen to do so in a chaotic, hilarious and brave manner.
4. “The Twilight Saga” (2008-2012) — PG-13
The “Twilight” film series is an exciting book adaptation starring Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson and Taylor Lautner as Bella Swan, Edward Cullen and Jacob Black. This series takes place in Washington and sets a marvelous autumn tone that is perfect for a rainy day. The story consists of a classic love triangle trope but is amplified with enemy families of hidden vampires and werewolves.
5. “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” (2016) — PG-13
The story of Fantastic Beasts acts as a prequel to the “Harry Potter” series and is set in 1920s New York. Newt Scamander (Eddie Redmayne) is a mythical creature fanatic who travels the world collecting all sorts of creatures that are stored in his bottomless suitcase as he studies and cares for them. However, the case is opened and multiple of his creatures escape. Now, with the help of Tina (Katherine Waterson) and Jacob (Dan Fogler), they must race to return the creatures safely, while still battling the evil magic forces around them. The atmosphere of this movie is cozy and nostalgic, with hidden references to the timeless “Harry Potter” series and the exhilarating world of magic, making it perfect for fall.
6. “Little Women” (2019) — PG
This classic book adaptation follows the life of the March family (Saoirse Ronan, Florence Pugh, Emma Watson, Eliza Scanlen and Meryl Streep). The story focuses on the four March sisters, who are maturing and trying to find a place in their society. Themes of love, growth and family are present throughout the movie. This movie embodies the word “fall” through the setting and characters.
7. “Harry Potter” series (2001-2011) — PG-13
Everyone knows the story of Harry Potter (Daniel Radcliffe), or “The Boy Who Lived.” This eight-movie series follows Harry, Ron Weasley (Rupert Grint) and Hermione Granger (Emma Watson) through their seven-year journey at Hogwarts, a school for witches and wizards. Throughout the series, the trio faces multiple trials that all tie back to Voldemort, an evil wizard who sets out to destroy the school and Harry. These films are perfect for the fall and winter time, with elements of magic, mythical creatures, friendship and home. The first three films, before the trio grows up and still have their youthful glow, are especially suited for the autumn season.
8. “The Mummy” (1999) — PG-13
“The Mummy” is an action-packed adventure film featuring Brendan Fraser as treasure-hunter Rick O’Connell and Rachel Weisz as iconic librarian Evelyn O’Connell. The plot involves treasure-hunters, ancient legends, tombs, mummies and even has a Universal Studios Hollywood rollercoaster based on it. This movie is perfect for Halloween time, and not a boring moment will pass while watching.
9. “Edward Scissorhands” (1990) — PG-13
“Edward Scissorhands” is a film that follows Edward (Johnny Depp), the result of a failed science experiment that gave him blades for hands. When he is noticed by a sweet saleswoman and is brought into her home, he finds himself struggling to fit into town and manage his feelings toward her daughter, Kim (Winona Ryder). This movie is an excellent, creepy and heart-wrenching story that lovers of other Tim Burton stories will certainly enjoy.
10. “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” (1966) — G
This cute, classic Charlie Brown film is perfect for Halloween. The nostalgic feel and iconic characters make this such a fun watch. Linus is determined to wait for the Great Pumpkin to appear, even though many of his friends don’t believe it will. He faces his fears and waits for the Great Pumpkin overnight with strong faith.
Brooklynn De Shazer • Sep 30, 2024 at 12:39 pm
These are great movies. Great job on your article!
Jaya Eapen • Sep 25, 2024 at 12:36 pm
Alizabeth, this article was such a fun read! I definitely needed some movies to watch this fall! Great job!
Katie Arnoult • Sep 24, 2024 at 8:44 pm
Love this article! These are great movie suggestions!