Well, here we are again. It’s November. We encroach upon the end of the year, which will surely be filled with fascinating Christmas tales and cheesy—but somehow still charming—Hallmark movies, but before then, November is the perfect time to watch a cozy Fall flick or one of the year’s new award-worthy films.
If you’re looking for some new or old movies to watch while waiting for the holidays, I’ve got some suggestions for you!
Spencer (2021)
Spencer is the definition of melodramatic. Chronicling a crucial weekend in the life of Princess Diana, the film is replete with fall vibes, melancholy moments, and drama. You should watch this for at least two reasons: Kristen Stewart’s incredible performance, and the array of outfits she dons as the Princess. Seriously, hats off (haha) to the costume designers.
Radiohead’s own Jonny Greenwood composed the accompanying score, a piano-driven and compelling addition to the film’s overall tones. Spencer deserves to be watched over hot soup, with a candle lit on a cold, dark night in November.
Where to watch: Hulu
Napoleon (2023)
Ridley. Freaking. Scott. At age 85, the director of Gladiator, Alien, House of Gucci, and 20+ other films shows no sign of slowing down. (Even now, before Napoleon’s release, he’s started working on other film projects.) The historical epic is sure to excite with massive battle scenes and a frightening look at Napoleon’s psyche in war and marriage.
Joaquin Phoenix teams up with Ridley Scott for the first time since Gladiator, and the result is sure to impress. Even considering Scott’s textbook belligerence—he responded to a historian’s calling-out of inaccuracies with “get a life.”—the film is sure to be a massive box-office run and has the potential to impress during awards season.
Where to watch: theatrical release Nov. 22, 2023.
Double Indemnity (1944)
Noir is the perfect film genre to watch during a cold and dreary season, and Double Indemnity is often hailed as one of the greatest noir films. Plus, it’s surprisingly deep. I wrote about it right here at Mere Musings.
The classic film has an impeccable opening monologue and delves into a twisty plot of love, murder, and betrayal. Stellar acting and the classic femme fatale trope give this a haunting but somehow still cozy watch, perfect for a “throwback Thursday” in November.
Where to watch: for rent on Amazon Prime Video
Knives Out (2019)
This is one of my favorite movies of all time. Knives Out is Rian Johnson’s argument for the enduring wonder and beauty of the classic whodunnit film. It’s self-aware—not leaning too heavily into tropes—but incredibly well-written and well-shot. Rian Johnson broke down a scene, here, and the work he put into this is wonderful.
With incredible performances and well-placed humor, Knives Out is the perfect balance of lighthearted storytelling and deep, enticing mystery. Watch this with a blanket wrapped around, and your favorite mug in hand.
Where to watch: for rent on Amazon Prime Video
A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (1973)
I mean, come on. This is an all-timer. I wish I was half the chef Snoopy was; dog was whipping it up. A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving is the perfect nostalgic watch as the holiday season transitions from fall to Christmas. It’s wholesome, with humorous and emotional moments. Not to mention, it’s a short watch!
Where to watch: Apple TV+
Fantastic Mr. Fox (2009)
Wes Anderson really encapsulated the season of Fall in a children’s story-turned-movie. Don’t be afraid of the stop-motion here; it only bolsters the coziness of the movie! Everything about this movie feels like a nice warm hug.
If you want a truly and unironically funny movie with incredible directing and animation, look no further than Fantastic Mr. Fox. It’s got it all.
Where to watch: Max (formerly HBO Max)
Honorable mentions
Nightmare Alley (2021)
Phantom Thread (2017)
Good Will Hunting (1997)
Sleepless in Seattle (1993)
When Harry Met Sally… (1989)