Changing leaves, Meckley’s trips, pumpkin muffins and wool sweaters — this is Hillsdale in the fall. Naturally, weekend movie nights must follow suit.
When I arrived on campus freshman year, I had hardly seen any of the fall classics, so my friends set out to remedy it. The remedy came in the form of baked goods, piles of blankets, a makeshift sheet and projector setup, and too many friends crammed into a 9×13 room in Olds Residence, ready to conquer the ever-expanding list of fall movies. We’ve kept this tradition and list with us every fall, returning to our favorites, and constantly adding new movies that capture the season on film.
Some movies on the list are autumnal simply because they are set in autumn, but others fit the category because of their color scheme, academic aura, spookyness, fashion, and overall warmth. And of course bonus points if they star Meg Ryan or Robin Williams.
Our tried and true favorite is “The Dead Poets Society.” This is perhaps the most quintessential fall movie with its dark portrayal of academia, fall colors, and a haunting, yet inspiring, story. A Hillsdale College student is honorable in conduct, honest in word and deed and has probably compared Hillsdale in the fall to the aesthetics of this movie at least once during their time here.
“Good Will Hunting”is another classic that stars Robin Williams in the role of a mentor. The story follows the self-discovery of Massachusetts Institute of Technology janitor and genius, Will Hunting (Matt Damon), under the guidance of therapist Sean Maguire (Williams). While this movie is a must watch at any time of year, the cold Boston streets, wood-paneled studies, and bittersweet story add to its appeal for any fall movie night.
But not all fall movies must embrace the academia and gloom of fall. “When Harry Met Sally” combines classic ’90s rom-com elements with the fall foliage of New York City. The main characters, Harry (Billy Crystal) and Sally (Meg Ryan), navigate the question of whether men and women can be friends, often while wandering through the leaf-covered streets. Crystal’s comedic timing makes this the perfect lighthearted choice while the wool blazars, corduroy pants, and knit sweaters add a warm, cozy atmosphere.
If you’re looking for cozy bookstores, coffee shops, red scarves, and a little bit of comedic mystery, “You’ve Got Mail” is another perfect fall rom-com. Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks star in this modern rendition of the timeless Christmas movie “The Shop Around the Corner.” However this ’90s remake strays from the black and white, leaning into browns, oranges and the warmth of fall, making it a great choice to watch with friends on a chilly evening.
The 2019 version of “Little Women” is a fall family favorite. The story follows the adventures of the March girls — Meg (Emma Watson), Jo (Saoirse Ronan), Beth (Eliza Scanlen) and Amy (Florence Pugh) — through all seasons, but the fall is especially aesthetic. The New England landscape and homey scenes around crackling fires makes it a great choice for when you want a cheery comfort movie — unless, of course, you think the romantic pairings at the end place it closer to a tragedy.
Another fall essential that is best watched with baking and blankets is “The Princess Bride.” In this classic adventure, Billy Crystal makes a return as the comedic character of Miracle Max but trades his wool sweaters for the garb of a medieval peasant. Perhaps even more autumnal than New York City are the adventures of Princess Buttercup (Robin Wright) and Westley (Cary Elwes) across chilly seas, rolling hills, and colorful landscapes. This story of true love and comedic gold is the perfect blend of whimsy and warmth, making a great movie for any cozy movie night.
In the spirit of football season, “Remember the Titans” is another must-watch. The inspiring story, which was based on the true story of integration in a football team in the South, is an incredible choice for sports lovers and non-sports lovers alike. Watching the team’s intense early morning practices will give any Hillsdale freshman the motivation to conquer the fall semester orientation cadence run.
If you’re looking for a fall movie with a bit of mystery and intrigue, “Knives Out” is an excellent choice. As someone who gets jumpscares from Pixar movies, this classic whodunit movie is the closest thing to a horror movie on this list. Perhaps it is the spooky mystery in an old mansion, or the dark leather and wood, but this movie pairs excellently with the smell of cinnamon or pumpkin baked goods.
If you’re looking for a study break this fall, “It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” is the essence of fall delivered in the form of a 25-minute childhood classic. If you’re the type of person to celebrate Christmas before Halloween, consider taking a lesson from Linus and asking for presents from the Great Pumpkin instead of Santa.
No list of fall essentials would be complete without mentioning “Gilmore Girls.” The show combines preppy academia with rustic coffee shops and a sweet mother-daughter relationship. If you’re craving another cozy study break this fall, the hour-long episodes are perfect instead of committing to a movie. Also, if you’re wondering where most of the guys on campus get inspiration for their outfits, Luke’s signature backwards hat and flannel may be the source.
This weekend, whether you’re returning to a favorite or watching a classic for the first time, embrace the season, light a candle, bake some pumpkin muffins, and settle down with a blanket, friends, and some of these classic fall movies.
