We love running around Montreal (come rain, shine or snow), but as the nights get longer and the rain soaks our shoes and socks, we feel like staying warm.
When autumn arrives, we just want to curl up on the couch and watch a good movie. A little romance, a little comedy, nothing too complicated. Oh yes, and a healthy dose of nostalgia, please.
The streets of Montreal, the cocktails, the exhibitions and the parties will still be there when we emerge, ready to fall in love while picking up a pumpkin at the market…
1When Harry Met Sally (1989)
Nora Ephron’s masterpiece and a must-see of the season, this Hollywood classic is among our favorite films, period.
This romantic comedy follows the love affairs of two friends over a period of almost 20 years, set in New York, one of the world’s most romantic cities during the autumn.
The corduroy jackets, turtlenecks, tailored Levi’s, Rolodexes (those who know, know), basically all the film’s fashion is absolutely perfect. Not to mention the iconic scene of Harry (Billy Crystal) and Sally (Meg Ryan) walking through Central Park in the fall, discussing their relationship and life. And okay, yes, the one in the diner.
2Good Will Hunting (1997)
The film that introduced us to Ben Affleck and Matt Damon is obviously on our list.
A drama set in Cambridge, Massachusetts, this acclaimed film explores the life of a mathematical genius, his psychologist played by Robin Williams, his friends, his new girlfriend, and all the sincerity of their relationship.
It’s sad, it’s beautiful, it’s well-written, it’s directed by Gus Van Sant and it takes place in autumn. 90s absorbent cotton abounds, and we couldn’t be more excited.
3.Autumn in New York (2000)
It’s all in the title. If you want to see Richard Gere fall in love with Winona Ryder without being able to save her, this is the film for you.
We don’t want to forgive Richard Gere for all his dirty deeds, but he’s Richard Gere, so we can’t help ourselves. Redemption obliges. Plus it’s like, really sad and we suggest you watch this if you’re feeling down.
Like, it’s the perfect movie for someone who’s just been dumped, who’s lamenting lost love a bit, and who wants to bawl his life out with chocolate.
4.Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (2001)
In fact, we could put all the films in the series, becausethe lined scarves, woollen tuques, gloves and even Ron’s sweaters knitted by Mrs. Weasley really do look autumnal.
But the first Harry Potter movie is more about going back to school, autumn sports (hello Quidditch), and all the anxiety that comes with starting high school.
It’s also a great preamble to the holiday season, which features in all the films, and we love being early…
5.Knives Out (2019)
A gem of a mystery, this is the perfect film to watch on an evening when the air is crisp and you’re in the mood for a little titillation. Daniel Craig is absolutely magnificent as Benoît Blanc, an inscrutable private detective who notices everything. Apart from the secret windows, the grandfather’s mysterious death, the question of inheritance and the maid who seems far too innocent, it’s really entertaining to watch this cast of actors and actresses at their best in this funny, original and very surprising film.
6Hocus Pocus (1993)
Set during the Halloween-flavored autumn, this is a cult film that’s a must-see every year. It follows a 17-year-old who inadvertently resurrects three Salem witches. Part comedy, part horror, part fantasy, it’s also a very entertaining film. If you want to see Sarah Jessica Parker, Bette Midler and Kathy Najimy play witches, this is the film for you. It’s also a great source of Halloween costume ideas. Plus, you’ll be ready for the release of Hocus Pocus 2, on September 30, on Disney+.
7The Craft (1996)
Marginal teenagers turned witches, the girls in The Craft are truly badass. They walk around in black skirts with suspenders, chokers and leather coats, while the leaves fall from the trees and the Mean Girl in charge becomes simply evil.
It’s the American high school teen movie with a horror twist, perfect for fall and Halloween. Who hasn’t had a sleepover with a horrifying but very exciting use of a Ouija board? Light as a feather, stiff as a board, light as a feather, stiff as a board, light as a feather, stiff as a board…
8Practical Magic (1998)
On the theme of witches, albeit a rather different one, Practical Magic deserves a place on our list.
When two sisters raised by their eccentric aunts learn magic in their youth, little do they know that witchcraft will have far-reaching consequences on their lives.
Aside from the fact that it’s sublime to watch Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock play together, the film is touching, funny, captivating, and makes us want to call our sisters.
And what’s more, part 2 of this cult classic is shooting this autumn…
9.Stepmom (1998)
Another film that will make you bawl your eyes out, Stepmom explores divorce, blended families, Julia Roberts wearing the best ’90s looks, Ed Harris with incredible charisma and Susan Sarandon being just Susan Sarandon.
Of course, it takes place in the fall in New York, in the loft of your dreams and in a suburban house that really makes you wonder what the father’s job is to be able to afford a house like this when the mother is a housewife.
10.Remember The Titans (1971)
Last on the list, but by no means last in our hearts. Remember The Titans is Denzel Washington at his best, family man, coach, man of faith and pride. Set in Virginia in the ’70s during the integration of a black high school with a white one.
Opposition and racism reign, and the head coach who comes to town is Denzel. The players are violent, but the coach doesn’t give up. They end up becoming friends, against all odds, and we learn a valuable life lesson. Set in autumn, it brings a tear to your eye.
Great movie!