As the days feel like they are getting shorter and darker by 5 p.m,, it can get easy to feel lonely. November can be the busiest month of the year, with harsher deadlines and having to stay warm while trying to find a cheap plane ticket to go back home for the holidays. But, to help cope with that creeping feeling, here is a cozy November watchlist full of films to keep you company when you need to take a break from academic stress and melancholic worries.
“When Harry Met Sally…” — Columbia Pictures
This timeless, classic romance warms your heart after a long day of being out in the cold. From the comfy knit sweaters to the leaves falling in Central Park, the film radiates autumn aesthetics. Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal’s chemistry makes it feel like watching two old friends fall in love, making you want to join in on their conversations. It’s a humorous and earnest look at the complexities of love and relationships, and finding beauty in connection, which most of us heavily rely on during this time of year. You will laugh, cry and book a flight to New York by the time the film is over.
“Fantastic Mr. Fox” — 20th Century Fox
This whimsical film is peak Wes Anderson aesthetic. The quirky stop-motion characters and warm, autumnal color palette throughout the film create a comforting atmosphere that resembles that of a family gathering on Thanksgiving. It’s a perfect family story that revolves around the theme of gratitude, reflecting this time of year of inevitable change and realizing what’s important in the grand scheme of things. It’s the best film to watch after a big family Thanksgiving feast.
“Coraline” — Universal Pictures
If you need a break from thinking about finals and need to escape to a different world full of whimsy and imagination, this is the film for you. This spooky, fantastical tale gets better and better after every rewatch because you notice new little details every single time. It’s fun to watch with your friends on a rainy Friday night after studying all week and come up with different theories about the film. The chilling yet childlike wonder of the film makes you feel like a kid again, having a sleepover with your friends over winter break. When you feel the need to escape your reality, follow Coraline and sink back into your childhood self as you navigate this strange, visionary world together.
“Dead Poets Society” — Buena Vista Pictures Distribution
A stunning masterpiece that incorporates the power of art into its subtext, this beautiful, deep film revolves around friendship and the power of finding community. November is thought to be a transitional yet fleeting season, and it can be easy to lose your sense of self and interest in your passions. But this film shows the power of passion during the darkest times in your life. Following Mr. Keating and the schoolboys in this film will restore that light inside you and bond with your community to overcome the hardships for the sake of self-improvement. Just make sure to bring out the tissues for this one.
“Little Women” — Sony Pictures
Specifically, Greta Gerwig’s adaptation. Although a period piece, this coming-of-age tale explores universal themes of love, family and friendship that make it feel timeless. The fall scenes are so vibrant and capture the feeling of nostalgia so well in the atmosphere alone. The winter scenes also make you excited for the holidays and spending time with your loved ones — away from any stress you currently feel. Curl up on the couch and celebrate the joy of family with your family by watching this film.
“Practical Magic” — Warner Bros.
If a cinnamon-scented candle were a film. Upon first entering the Owens sisters’ house, the warm, mystical setting feels inviting and gothically eccentric. This space lures you in with its bewitching abilities, leaving you comforted and secured from the outside world. A relatively easy watch, this film is great to watch as a casual gathering for a relaxing Friendsgiving. Celebrate friendship and gratitude with this film that is pure bliss!
“A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving” — CBS
Finally, and arguably the most essential viewing for November, join Charlie Brown and his friends as they gather for a Thanksgiving feast! This 30-minute film is perfect for when you have time in between studying for finals but need to feel autumnal and get in the mood for the holiday season.
Grab a hot drink, a warm pastry and light a candle to fully immerse yourself in the autumnal spirit with these pre-holiday films.
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Featured Image Courtesy of Columbia Pictures
