LOS ALAMITOS, Calif. — As we start the slow transition into California fall, there are certain hallmarks and feelings that we tend to seek out and since the leaves on the ground are sparse and the sweater-weather days are few and far between. Here are some cozy, witchy and metropolitan movie recommendations to satisfy that early September fall craving.
Cozy
Whether it’s putting on background noise or settling onto the couch with a cup of tea, these recommendations will help ease the loss of summer.
“Fantastic Mr. Fox” (2009)
An animated stop-motion film, Fantastic Mr. Fox, follows a family of foxes as they chronicle the aftermath of Mr. Fox’s robberies of the humans neighboring the animal family and their critter friends. As they must use their wits to survive after being pushed underground, they must also contend with the consequences of their actions.
“Something’s Gotta Give” (2003)
The perfect transitional story, starting in summer and carrying through the seasons, the audience follows the playwright Erica Barry as she gets to know the maturing Harry Sanborn–originally as her younger daughter’s boyfriend, then as something more. This film explores themes of love, self-discovery and second chances.
Witchy
Ready for Halloween? After watching the films listed below, you’ll be itching to carve pumpkins, hang cobwebs and look out at the full moon, all whilst searching for your magnifying glass.
“Practical Magic” (1998)
Two sisters, Sally and Gillian, born into the magical Owens family, must confront the existence of witchcraft and their inextricable connection to it. When the men in their lives threaten to uproot everything they’ve known, they must turn to hexes and spells to defend themselves.
“Knives Out” (2019)
In a “whodunnit” style murder mystery, the audience follows the death and the fight for the inheritance of Harlan Thrombey, a famed novelist known for his crime books. Detective Benoit Blanc must sift through a web of lies, complicated family history and secrets to determine the heir to the proverbial throne, with each suspect’s — or, rather, friend and family member’s– unique motive, alibi, and trail of clues.
“It’s a wholly original, star-and-filmmaker-driven live-action feature aimed toward adults (and smart kids)” said former staff writer of Forbes Scott Mendelson.
Fall in the city
Take a mini fall vacation and be transported into the city for a few hours– lean into the feeling of pumpkin spice, gingham and a stroll through Central Park.
“When Harry Met Sally” (1989)
A classic enemies-to-friends-to-lovers romcom, protagonists Harry and Sally meet in college on a cross-country road trip and when reunited a decade later, test the limits of male-female friendship and love. Set in New York City, the tweed, fall foliage, orange and brown color scheme, along with the vintage appeal, emulate the changes that come with the harvest season and the seasons of life.
“You’ve Got Mail” (1998)
A small independent bookshop owner, wool, tweed and indoor hobbies – what could be more fall? Two strangers, Kathleen and Joe, who start a mutually anonymous online romantic relationship, face a real-life rivalry, unbeknownst to them. As their real and digital lives take opposing paths, they must confront not only their feelings but themselves, their ethics, and their livelihoods.
“Obsessed with Meg for drowning her heartache in Joni Mitchell and cranberry juice,” said Vogue writer Emma Specter.
