As crisp and breezy weather rolls in, autumn begins in full swing. Students study for midterms, and fall decorations cover campus. For those who find free time to get cozy, The Daily Texan selected four films that embody the fall season and recreate the warm feeling of sweaters, pumpkin spice and fuzzy socks.
“It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown”
Released in 1966, “It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown” shows the impact of pumpkins on Halloween and getting into the fall spirit. Created by Charles M. Schulz, Charlie Brown made his debut in 1950 in the first “Peanuts” comic strip. Gaining popularity, Charlie Brown and friends started appearing in different movies, including holiday films like “It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown.” In this version of Charlie Brown, the short film follows him and Snoopy as they get ready for a Halloween party.
“When Harry Met Sally…”
“When Harry Met Sally…” is an iconic romantic comedy that goes through the many encounters of Harry Burns, played by Billy Crystal, and Sally Albright, played by Meg Ryan. Starting as enemies after Sally gives Billy a ride from Chicago to New York, the two debate platonic relationships of men and women. The film follows Harry and Sally through ten years apart and how their relationship suddenly changes. Set in autumn, the film embodies what it means to be in love in the fall.
“Practical Magic”
Starring Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman as sisters, Sally and Gillian Owens, this film follows the two as they go through the ups and downs of being in love. After Gillian’s boyfriend, Jimmy, dies from unforeseen circumstances, the sisters work together to cover up the crime. As police become suspicious, the sisters’ bond grows unsteady as they accidentally release Jimmy’s spirit into the world. The film displays the tight-knit friendship between sisters as well as navigating intense love. Despite the relatable themes of the film, the witchy aspect, paired with warm-toned camera work, classifies the film as a pleasant fall movie.
“Dead Poets Society”
“O Captain, my captain,” is just one of the famous lines uttered in this pop culture film. Considered one of Robin Williams’ best films, with an Oscar and Golden Globe nomination, “Dead Poets Society” follows John Keating, played by Williams, a prep school teacher, and his lessons that go outside of the school’s high standards and rules. Several students, including Neil Perry (Robert Sean Leonard) and Todd Anderson (Ethan Hawke), take to Keating’s lessons and begin to break out of their shells, despite academic pressure from their parents. An inspiring story about the power of a good teacher, the film’s grainy quality and images of colored leaves make this movie a cry for fall.
