Fall Must Read/Watch This Fall

After long days of school, work, sports, or whatever seems to be going on this season, everyone needs some time to wind down and chill. There’s something so comforting about relaxing during the Fall. The weather is cooler, which means it’s appropriate to wear sweatshirts and pants, go to cafes with some pumpkin spice flavored drinks, and the moody atmosphere from the early setting sun. Fall creates the perfect environment for watching movies and reading. 

These are the must-read/watches of the season, books/films that are unskippable and will fulfill your things to do this time of year.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower

1999 book and 2013 film By Stephen Chbosky  

First written as an incredible novel, then adapted as a film by the same author, Stephen Chbosky, it is a beautiful story about a kid, Charlie, who is beginning high school and isn’t quite sure where he fits in just yet. We follow him on his journey of friendship, discovery, and mental health throughout his first year. A book and movie that comforts you and sort of deviates you at the same time, it is a quick read and also a must-watch for everyone this season.

Fantastic Mr. Fox

2009  Film  by  Wes  Anderson

How could you not watch this every season? Directed by Wes Anderson, a broke, tired, and maybe a bit annoyed, Mr. Fox is simply bored with his life. After beginning a series of heists that admittedly went well, it of course goes wrong for Mr. Fox, his family, and his friends are now in danger from the farmers of the land who have had enough. The music, cinematography, colors, aesthetic, comedy, and of course, the beautiful animation- it’s everything that makes up a perfect film, but the Fall vibes that are emitted also make it perfect for this list.

The Pumpkin Spice Café

2023  Book  by  Laurie  Gilmore

If the name itself isn’t pretty much a dead giveaway that this book is straight Fall, then I don’t know what to tell you. A nice comfy, cozy, and chill-out read. The synopsis for this reads: Jeanie’s life takes an unexpected turn when her aunt gifts her the beloved Pumpkin Spice Café, giving her the chance to escape her monotonous desk job. Eager for a fresh start, Jeanie embraces her new role as a café owner and immerses herself in the small-town charm of Dream Harbor. A romantic/mystery for fans of Gilmore Girls- this is a read you can’t skip this season.

When Harry Met Sally

1989  Film  by  Rob  Reiner

Can men and women just be friends? This is the question that this movie tries to answer in the most fun, feel-good way possible with Harry and Sally over the course of 12 years. One of the most popular romantic comedies of all time, it is so remarkably easy to watch and then rewatch again and again. You’ll never feel so calm because of the smooth grainy film, the classical soundtrack, and the beautiful cinematography of New York during the late ‘80s set in the fall time. Watch this if you want to just escape the world for an hour and a half, and maybe even leave with a few lessons about life and love while you’re at it.

The Picture of Dorian Gray

1910  book  by  Oscar  Wilde

Extremely vivid and rich with words and imagery, this classic is difficult to put down once you’ve started reading. The book follows a man named Dorian Gray who puts his soul into a painting of himself to be able to stay young and perfect forever. Over time, he commits sins and other acts; the picture ends up taking all of his sins rather than his soul. It’s such a thought-provoking read that challenges the reader and leaves you with many themes and messages to think and discuss about. Of course, the aesthetic is so dark academia, which is just perfect for Fall.

Dead Poets Society

1989  Film  Peter  Weir

A movie that will change your life for so much better. After you have watched it, it’s something that you’ll cherish forever. In case you haven’t watched this film yet, a teacher, brought to life by Robin Williams, comes to a boys’ prep school to inspire them to rebel against convention and seize the potential of every day. He teaches them to love and laugh, to be free, and to find their own voice. This film should be one to watch every year, maybe even multiple times at that.

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The Secret History

1992  Book  By  Donna  Tartt

There isn’t a fall book list without the mention of this book. Richard Pappen just got to Hampton College and is trying to get in with this exclusive group of students who study ancient Greek. Students who know they are smarter than everyone else on campus and have some dark motives. The characters in this book are interesting, to say the least. This book leads you in so many directions and you will see serious things that are going on. This is a dark academia read that is perfect for this time of year.