As we leave summer behind and enter the cozy fall season, I always look forward to watching more autumnal media. Fall is a time many of us associate with cozy sweaters, changing leaves, warm and comforting meals, and all things spooky and gothic. From horror to classic romance and coming-of-age films, there are so many films that just feel most suited for the fall season.
This list covers a range of lesser-known films set in autumn from across the globe that are must-watch. Whether you’re looking for something heartbreaking or feel-good, this list covers a wide range. Hopefully, you can find something new to enjoy this fall season!
1. Close Up (1990) Dir. Abbas Kiarostami
Close-Up is one of the most acclaimed and touching films of Iranian filmmaker Abbas Kiarostami. The film re-enacts true events, with each actor performing as themselves in this unique courtroom drama. Kiarostami is able to capture a truly genuine and hopeful look at humanity with his filmmaking. Close Up is a warm, comforting, and impactful film about the power of art and cinema. This film is perfect for any viewer looking for something intimate and life-affirming.
2. Twin Peaks Fire Walk With Me (1992) Dir. David Lynch
Following up David Lynch’s timeless TV series, Fire Walk With Me captures an equally dreamy and haunting Pacific Northwest autumn aesthetic. This film is dreamlike, surreal and impactful in its unique way of grappling with incredibly tragic themes. Sheryl Lee gives a powerful performance as the mysterious and tortured Laura Palmer in her final days. Check it out if you’re a fan of films like Perfect Blue or The Virgin Suicides.
3. Conspirators of Pleasure (1996) Dir. Jan Svankmajer
Jan Svankmajer’s work has a natural, earthy, dark fantasy aesthetic, unlike any other stop-motion animation. His film Conspirators of Pleasure is a peculiar little story following several characters’ pursuits of strange pleasures. The mostly silent film utilizes beautiful fall exteriors and mixes live action and stop motion seamlessly. If you’re a fan of the works of Terry Gilliam or Quay Brothers, they are among the many filmmakers inspired by Svankmajer’s creations.
4. Memories of Murder (2003) Dir. Bong Joon-Ho
This Korean crime thriller based on shocking true events is a must-watch and one of Bong Joon-Ho’s best films. Set against a cold and bleak autumnal backdrop, this thriller follows the investigation of a string of murders, leading to horrifying turmoil and injustice. Bong Joon-Ho is one of Korea’s most successful directors, and his knack for suspense and intrigue is on full display here. Check it out if you’re a fan of films like Cure, Se7en or Sympathy for Mr. Vengeance.
5. Belle De Jour (1967) Dir. Luis Bunuel
This psychological drama from acclaimed director Luis Bunuel is surreal, erotic and beautifully shot. Catherine Deneuve gives an amazing performance as a Parisian housewife drawn to secretly spending her afternoons as a brothel worker. The gorgeous autumn color palette throughout makes this is a must-watch arthouse classic for the season. Check it out if you’re a fan of films like Blue Velvet, Cleo from 5 to 7 or Secretary.
6. Spider Baby (1967) Dir. Jack Hill
The Addams Family meets The Texas Chainsaw Massacre in this schlocky 60s comedy horror flick. The film follows a family with an affliction that makes them slowly physically and mentally regress into cannibalism. From the iconic performance of teenage horror villain Virginia to the imperfectly playful practical effects, this is a fun, not-too-scary horror that’s definitely worth watching this Halloween season.
7. The Double Life of Veronique (1991) Dir. Krzysztof Kieślowski
This slow, dreamy film follows Irène Jacob as two women; Veronique and Weronika, doppelgängers whose lives are strangely intertwined. The film deals with themes of intuition, fate, romance, and grief alongside a gorgeous orchestral score and a jewel-toned autumn color palette throughout. Jacob is magnetic and gives a mysterious and intriguing performance as both women. The cinematography of this film is absolutely captivating and powerfully conveys the emotional weight of each scene. I recommend it to any fans of films like Valerie and Her Week of Wonders, Mulholland Drive, or Amelie.
8. Fantastic Mr. Fox (2007) Dir. Wes Anderson
If you haven’t seen Wes Anderson’s incredible stop motion adaptation of the classic Dahl novel, this is the season to finally do so. From the warm autumn color scheme to the tight and witty script to the charmingly off-kilter stop-motion style, this film is an absolute classic. This is truly the ideal Thanksgiving family film: clever, heartwarming, and timeless. Arguably, Wes Anderson’s best. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for films like Coraline, Wallace, and Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit, or Mary and Max.
Hopefully, you enjoyed this list and have found a few films to add to your watchlist this autumn season or some old favorites to revisit! Now go get cozy and enjoy some great fall films.
