Fall Movies and TV Shows Perfect for Cozy Autumn Nights
As the air gets crisper and the leaves start to turn, there’s nothing better than curling up with a cozy blanket, a warm beverage, and a great movie or TV show to welcome the autumn and Halloween season. Fall brings its own kind of magic—golden sunsets, pumpkin-flavoured everything, and a sense of nostalgia and warmth that pairs perfectly with the right entertainment. Whether you’re looking for mystery, magic, or just a heartwarming story to fit the mood, this list will give you all the cozy autumn vibes you need.
Please note that this page may contain affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commissions on any purchases you make through my links, this is at no extra cost to you 🙂
Here are the top 10 perfect fall movies and TV shows to watch this season:
1. Hocus Pocus (1993)
Genre: Fantasy/Comedy
No fall movie list is complete without Hocus Pocus, a Halloween classic full of fun, nostalgia, and a little bit of spooky magic. The Sanderson sisters, played by Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, and Kathy Najimy, are hilariously wicked witches brought back to life in modern-day Salem. It’s filled with whimsical humor and Halloween fun, making it the perfect watch for October.
Why it’s perfect for fall: It captures the essence of a playful, spooky fall night and is an ideal pick for Halloween season.
You can stream Hocus Pocus on Disney+!
2. Gilmore Girls (2000-2007)
Genre: Drama/Comedy
Gilmore Girls feels like autumn wrapped in a TV show. Set in the quaint, picturesque town of Stars Hollow, this series features mother-daughter duo Lorelai and Rory Gilmore navigating life, love, and family with rapid-fire dialogue and loads of coffee. The small-town aesthetic, combined with the ever-present fall foliage and annual harvest festivals, makes this a must-watch for the season.
Why it’s perfect for fall: The series captures the beauty of New England in the fall and will make you want to cozy up in a small town with a cup of coffee.
You can watch Gilmore Girls on Netflix!
3. When Harry Met Sally (1989)
Genre: Romantic Comedy
This classic rom-com beautifully captures the charm of fall in New York City. With its famous scenes of Central Park draped in autumn leaves, When Harry Met Sally is a perfect watch for those cozy nights. It’s a lighthearted story about friendship, love, and timing—all wrapped in warm sweaters and the comfort of coffee-shop conversations. Plus, Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal’s witty banter will warm your heart.
Why it’s perfect for fall: The movie radiates cozy energy with its charming autumnal setting and feel-good vibes.
You can watch When Harry Met Sally on Apple TV and Amazon Prime (try their free trial here)!
4. Dead Poets Society (1989)
Genre: Drama (may induce many tears)
Fun fact: ‘Oh Captain, my Captain!‘ was my yearbook quote the year I graduated. This emotional and inspiring film starring Robin Williams centers on an elite boarding school in the fall of 1959, where students find a passion for literature and life through their charismatic teacher. The rich autumnal setting and the film’s themes of self-discovery, youth, and the fleeting nature of time make it a powerful watch during the reflective fall months. This movie gives me the same vibes as The Secret History.
Why it’s perfect for fall: The film’s contemplative tone, beautiful fall setting, and intellectual spirit align perfectly with autumn’s reflective mood.
You can stream Dead Poets Society on Disney+!
5. Over the Garden Wall (2014)
Genre: Animation/Fantasy
This is a personal favourite of mine. This short animated series is the ultimate fall viewing experience. Over the Garden Wall follows two brothers as they wander through a mysterious forest, encountering strange and magical characters along the way. With its nostalgic animation style, spooky atmosphere, and heartfelt storytelling, this series captures the eerie yet comforting essence of fall. Its themes of friendship, fear, and finding your way home resonate deeply, and it’s a perfect watch as the days grow shorter.
Why it’s perfect for fall: The show’s mix of whimsical adventure and dark, cozy mysteries is tailor-made for the season, blending autumn magic with a hint of spookiness.
6. Knives Out (2019)
Genre: Mystery/Thriller
Knives Out is a modern whodunit with a star-studded cast, including Daniel Craig, Chris Evans, and Ana de Armas. Set in a large, sprawling mansion during the chilly months, this film delivers a perfect mix of suspense, humor, and intrigue. The cozy yet eerie New England setting and a twisting, clever plot will keep you glued to the screen. It’s a fantastic movie for those autumn nights when you’re craving a sharp, entertaining mystery.
Why it’s perfect for fall: The film’s classic detective story vibe and sweater-weather setting make it an ideal choice for curling up with a blanket on a cool evening
You can watch Knives Out on Netflix!
7. Coraline (2009)
Genre: Animation/Dark Fantasy
Based on Neil Gaiman’s novella, Coraline is a dark, magical animated film that tells the story of a young girl who discovers an eerie parallel world behind a mysterious door in her new home. While this other world initially seems perfect, it soon reveals its sinister nature. With its spooky, autumnal atmosphere and themes of bravery and family, Coraline is a perfect fall movie for those who love whimsical but creepy stories.
Why it’s perfect for fall: The eerie, otherworldly story and its gloomy, magical setting will give you all the feelings of Halloween and autumn adventure.
You can watch Coraline on Netflix!
8. The Haunting of Hill House (2018)
Genre: Horror/Drama
This is by far one of my favourite actual horror tv shows for Halloween! For those who love a good scare during the fall, The Haunting of Hill House is a masterclass in atmospheric, emotionally complex horror. Based on Shirley Jackson’s novel, the series follows a family who confronts terrifying memories of growing up in a haunted mansion. With its moody autumnal vibe, intricate storytelling, and truly chilling moments, it’s a must-watch for fans of horror.
Why it’s perfect for fall: The show’s eerie atmosphere, combined with themes of family and memory, makes it the perfect spooky binge for cold, dark fall nights.
You can watch The Haunting of Hill House on Netflix!
9. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)
Genre: Animation/Fantasy
This one might be a bit controversial: is it a Halloween movie or is it a Christmas movie? Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas is a stop-motion masterpiece that’s perfect for both Halloween and the run-up to Christmas. Following Jack Skellington, the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town, as he tries to bring Christmas joy to his spooky realm, this film is a whimsical blend of fall and winter holiday magic. The dark, gothic visuals and catchy songs make it an essential fall viewing, especially for fans of both spooky and festive vibes.
Why it’s perfect for fall: Its Halloween-centric setting, autumnal color scheme, and magical storytelling make it a seasonal classic.
You can stream The Nightmare Before Christmas on Disney+!
10. The Addams Family (1991)
Genre: Comedy/Fantasy
For a mix of quirky humor and a dash of spooky charm, The Addams Family is a fun and gothic watch. This iconic movie, featuring the eccentric, macabre Addams family, is filled with dark humor, a haunted mansion, and all the elements of a cozy yet spooky atmosphere. It’s a great pick for a fun, light-hearted Halloween marathon.
Why it’s perfect for fall: The film’s creepy, kooky vibe perfectly matches the spooky spirit of Halloween.
Bonus: Rewatch the classics cozy series and shows from your childhood
Personally, I am a big fan of rewatching some of my classic cozy tv shows and movie series. Harry Potter, Twilight, The Vampire Diaries, Lord of the Rings (and the Hobbit), Percy Jackson, you name it! Anything that will make you feel all cozy and safe, while you’re tucked under your favourite blanket with a hot cup of tea (or hot chocolate, whatever the mood calls for).
Each of these films and shows brings its own unique flavor to the fall season, whether it’s through nostalgic Halloween vibes, picturesque fall landscapes, or heartwarming storytelling. They’re perfect for anyone looking to fully embrace the cozy, introspective, and magical atmosphere of autumn. So grab your favourite blanket, brew some tea, and enjoy!
What are your favourite seasonal tv shows and films to watch? Let me know in the comments below!
Feel free to reach out through comments on my posts or connect with me on social media (DearArty on Pinterest, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube).