Film list 101 : Autumn
Post-it notes Vol.3 - 10 essential (comforting) movies to get in the mood for fall
“It’s like going back to school. You know, autumn! Time for ‘Harry Potter’.”- Robbie Coltrane
Feeling cozy?
I’ve begun my “to-watch” list for this fall with much enthusiasm, as I don’t think that there is something quite like the charm of autumn. In fact, I just finished my yearly Harry Potter marathon and I am always intrigued to notice the yearly changes in my perception of the films, ever since I’ve begun over a decade ago. I feel that I’ve really grown with the series and the characters over the years. I remember feeling thrilled at the idea of being the same age as the characters on screen (and on paper) and imagining myself as another student at Hogwarts. This series has grown to be a very reassuring and safe space for me and it encapsulates the feeling that both films and autumn give me. Comfort.
As to honor this serene and joyful feeling, I’ve decided to compile a list of 10 (comforting) autumn films that can best contribute to one’s serene enjoyment of such a lovely season. As you read this, I recommend sipping your cup of hot tea, or perhaps nibbling your favorite pumpkin loaf, while you wrap yourself up in the warmness of your sofa. Cozy enough ? Without further due, here are 10 essential (comforting) movies to get in the mood for autumn.
1. The Nightmare Before Christmas, directed by Henry Selick (story by Tim Burton), 1993
Beginning this list with a classic halloween-themed movie is a no-brainer for me. I love the manner in which Tim burton creates a macabre, yet very human and endearing feel that makes the universe of this film so beautiful and enjoyable. The originality of the dark, whimsical setting, themes and characters, as well as the exceptional quality of the stop-motion contribute to its memorable aspects. Tim Burton’s characters (like Jack and Sally) are often outcasts or misfits, and audiences follow them through their learning arches that ponder ‘darker’ themes of loneliness, death, or difference. Yet, what makes this film so comforting is the delicate manner in which these characters contrast the dark with the light, by portraying the value of love, innocence, friendship or belonging. Let us also not forget the wonderful soundtrack by Danny Elfman! The totality of these aspects make this an essential staple in my fall film library. Another notable addition by Henry Selick would be his film Coraline (2009), which also tackles complex narrative and themes, as well as beautiful stop-motion work.
2. Les Choristes (The Chorus), directed by Christophe Barratier, 2004
I initially wanted to limit this list to English-language films, but I couldn’t resist adding a classic French title from my childhood, Les Choristes. This infamous film relates the story of an employed music teacher, Clément Mathieu, as he chooses to take up a position as a supervisor in a juvenile rehabilitation boarding school, a few years after the end of the Second World War, in 1948. Distraught by the headmaster’s suppressive and abusive pedagogical approach, Monsieur Mathieu decides to initiate the struggling students to music and chorus singing, which profoundly changes these students’ lives. Pierre Morhange is one of the students, and 50 years later, he tells the story. I consider this film to be a very sensible, heartwarming and emotional piece that shows the power of music as a way to escape and keep our inner-child free; it’s a fuel for dreams. This passion and kindness is reflected in Bruno Coulais’ beautiful score and creates a hopeful and warm ambience that is perfect for fall.
3. Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban, directed by Alfonso Cuarón, 2004 (or any Potter film)
I bet you saw this one coming! Of course Harry Potter deserves a spot on this list, as it is perhaps my ultimate fall comfort series. Although I could have easily included the entirety of the series, I chose to limit this to the third film, Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban. This third episode, distinguished by the first change in directing for the films, notably marks a more mature turn in the saga. While the characters are faced with more consequential themes and events, the film retains the essential magical element of wonder that makes this universe so thrilling. I also like this film for its pace and structure, as well for its introduction of key characters in exciting plot-twists. But as I’ve already praised this series enough in the introduction, I will stop there!
4. Kate and Leopold, directed by James Mangold, 2001
The fall season film library would be outrageously incomplete without a few great rom-coms. Although I could have chosen one of Matthew McConaughey’s classic rom-com films (which I love), I thought it preferable to choose a (in my humble opinion) criminally underrated and unpretentious film of the genre: Kate and Leopold. Kate, a successful and hyper-independent businesswoman in 1990s New York, meets a charming time-traveling New-Yorker duke from the 19th century. You can easily guess the plot, I’m sure, but the time-traveling element and all its ensuing intrigue creates a lovely twist that makes this film especially lovely. The scene where Leopold goes bouquet shopping for his date and meticulously puts together a poetic composition according to each flower’s meaning, as a wide-eyed and clueless modern New-Yorker looks on, is especially sweet and funny. Overall, Hugh Jackman in his role as the gallant, intelligent and sensible duke is very memorable, and so is Meg Ryan, whom excels in the genre. Plus, it’s in NYC, and who doesn’t love New York in the fall, especially when you’re falling in love ?
5. You’ve Got Mail, directed by Nora Ephron, 1998
Talking about Meg Ryan and New York… yes, you know where this leads, You’ve Got Mail! I couldn’t leave this foundational fall classic out of the list, it is simply too iconic. This enchanting modern love story at the dawn of the internet age never fails to make me laugh, smile and daydream. Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks’ chemistry conveys the evidence that their characters are meant for each other, and their story is not only sweet but relatable and enjoyable. Both characters go through a learning arch, not only about the other but themselves, which forms the recipe for a great romantic story. The set design, notably the comparison between the locally owned bookshop and the corporation-style bookstore adds value to the credibility of the story. Overall, it checks off the “comforting” and “enjoyable” boxes and deserves its spot on the list.
6. Pride and Prejudice, directed by Joe Wright, 2005
Our quest for comfort in the form of love continues with the best adaptation of Jane Austen’s acclaimed novel, Pride and Prejudice. The casting of this film is sensational, and while the director made conscious choices to momentarily differ from the original novel, it did so in a respectful manner that was aimed at keeping modern audiences afloat. In no way does this film feel ridiculous or untrue to Austen’s piece, and it is this delicate ambience from the novel, reflected in the film, that I love so much. The set, the music, the costumes, the dialogue and the accuracy of the characters immediately transport us back to early 19th upper-class England, along with its corresponding social culture and biases. Rewatching this film during the fall is one of the coziest and most wonderful experiences of mine, and it never fails to make me feel happy.
7. Little Women, directed by Greta Gerwig, 2019 (and Lady Bird, 2017)
Little Women has always help a central role in my life as a little girl and as a young woman; I read the books, watched the 80s animated version as well as all other film adaptations. I related to the characters’ familial situation as well as to their experiences of girlhood and womanhood, which made me feel understood and safe. When Greta Gerwig’s adaptation came out, I instantly felt the excitement and warmness that I felt as a girl. The modern non-linear storytelling with the interrupted timeline, the choice of casting, the richness and skill of the dialogues, and the beauty of the sets and costumes all fused to create a lovely and heartwarming representation of sisterhood and womanhood. Gerwig lingers on each sister’s complexity and character, and paints the ideal picture of the close-knight family unit that Louise May Alcott presents in her novel. It feels like a cup of childhood in the disguise of hot cocoa, and I love it!
8. Fantastic Mr. Fox, directed by Wes Anderson, 2009
I discovered this movie a few days ago and I instantly thought that it rightfully belonged here. I’m a big fan of Wes Anderson’s work, especially The Grand Budapest Hotel and The French Dispatch, so I looked forward to this next (animated) addition. As always, the director’s signature and tasteful use of color, in this case rich and warm autumnal tones, beautifully combined with the overall design and symmetrical framing to create a harmonious whole. The dialogues and characters were complex, witty and charming, and their unique ‘andersonian’ irrational and nonsensical quality made them the more compelling. I noticed many similarities with Burton’s work in the nature of the themes addressed during the film, even though they were handled differently. Wes Anderson is like a sunnier Tim Burton here! Finally, the wry humor, the ‘rough’ stop-motion style and the fun soundtrack combined with the other elements to create this delicious piece of comforting, fall-worthy cinema.
9. Dead Poets Society, directed by Peter Weir, 1989
“We don’t read and write poetry because it’s cute. We read and write poetry because we are members of the human race. And the human race is filled with passion. And medicine, law, business, engineering, these are noble pursuits and necessary to sustain life. But poetry, beauty, romance, love, these are what we stay alive for.” If such a quote cannot convince you of the beauty and importance of this film, then nothing will. Dead Poets Society is an account of the elixir of human nature, one that is inspiring, passionate and true. It does not merely uplift its viewers, it seeks to transmit a powerful message of love and humanity through the purity of art and the potential of the soul. Tainted by the spirit of teenage youth, it addresses the root of purpose and the necessity for compromise. This film is one that should accompany you as you tread the path of time and earn the gifts of understanding that were blind to you before. It’s powerful because one can grow with it, and as I mentioned above, fall is the best time to ponder about your place on that path, as you look back on the steps that have brought you here. Keep it as an old friend when the leaves turn brown.
10. The Devil Wears Prada, directed by David Frankel, 2006
And finally, I would never dare to conclude this list without leaving out the one and only Devil Wears Prada, of course! I am deeply attached to this film not only because it has always been a family favorite, but also because of how memorable and untiringly funny, entertaining and magical it is. I quote it way too often. I am always in awe at how easy it is to feel absorbed by it and practically feel like Andy’s best friend for a few hours. One can relate. The Streep, Blunt and Hathaway trio is also fabulously fantastic and Stanley Tucci adds the perfect touch to the casting. I must further mention how much I adore each outfit worn, and I regularly think about those green and white coats that Andy wore, or Miranda’s white Prada handbag…and the Chanel boots! It’s so very autumn. On a more serious note, I think this movie cleverly presents a side of the fashion industry that is very elitist and snob, but which attracts and fascinates by its prestige and reputational power. Although it heavily romanticizes reality, it doesn’t omit the negative aspects of the high-fashion industry, and even places those themes at the center of the character’s inner dilemma. It’s clever, touching and a always a classic in my book.
“That’s all.” ;)
And…cut!
I thank you kindly if you’ve made it this far and hope that my ranking will inspire you to watch a few fall movies (don’t forget your cup of cocoa!). Stay tuned for an upcoming commentary scheduled for September 30th on the psychology behind fictional-historical crushes (random but entertaining), as well as an article on AI, with regards to consciousness, art and human purpose. I will also likely post another volume of post-its sometime next week on a topic yet to be determined.
With love.