It is the time of year for cozy fall nights with your favorite seasonal movies. Whether it’s a lighthearted Halloween classic or a horror film, Cortland students shared their picks to celebrate the cozy and spooky vibes of autumn. From around campus to some of my classmates, here’s a look at some of Cortland students’ must-watch fall films for this season.
“Hocus Pocus” – An Eternal Classic
First on the list is Hocus Pocus, a timeless favorite that’s become a seasonal tradition. Rebecca, a junior majoring in Education, shared, “There’s just something about the Sanderson sisters that screams fall. I grew up watching it and I’ll never get tired of their funny and spooky antics. Plus, it’s perfect for a cozy night with friends.”
Released in 1993, Hocus Pocus brings the right mix of nostalgia, laughs, and light-hearted spookiness. Many students agreed that it’s a “must-watch” during October, especially for those who prefer a fun, family-friendly flick over intense scares.
“When Harry Met Sally” – The Rom-Com with a Fall Aesthetic
Though it’s not exactly a Halloween movie, When Harry Met Sally is a hit among students looking for that cozy autumn feel. “New York in the fall, the sweaters, and the romance… it’s the perfect fall rom-com,” says Daniella, a senior in Education. “I watch it every October, and it makes me want to walk through Central Park with a coffee.”
This 1989 classic captures fall in a beautiful way, making it ideal for those cool Cortland evenings when you’re in the mood for a feel-good love story.
“The Nightmare Before Christmas” – For Halloween and Beyond
Many students also pointed to The Nightmare Before Christmas as a go-to fall movie. “The best part about it is that you can watch it for Halloween and it carries through to Christmas. It’s like a two-in-one seasonal movie,” explained Rae, a Senior in Education. The film’s unique blend of Halloween spookiness and Christmas cheer is a favorite among students who appreciate Tim Burton’s one-of-a-kind storytelling.
Whether you’re in it for the eerie characters or the catchy songs, The Nightmare Before Christmasis an all-season winner that transitions perfectly from October to December.
“Coraline” – A Perfectly Creepy Animated Favorite
Many students also recommended Coraline for a spooky-yet-fun fall film. “It’s a really unique kind of creepy,” shared Kelly, a sophomore studying Inclusive Education. “The animation style and the story make it so eerie and cozy at the same time. It’s definitely my go-to every October.”
With its dark, surreal storytelling and rich visuals, Coraline offers something different, making it a popular choice among Cortland’s artsier students.
“It” – A Chilling Classic for Horror Fans
Of course, no fall movie list would be complete without a true horror movie. For Cortland students looking to add a bit of thrill to their October, Stephen King’s It—either the 1990 original or the 2017 remake. Over 5 students I asked said this movie, with its terrifying atmosphere, It is a solid choice for those Cortland students who can handle the scares and want to dive into something a little darker.
It’s clear that SUNY Cortland students have a diverse taste when it comes to fall movies. From Hocus Pocus for lighthearted laughs to It for intense thrills, there’s something for every kind of movie lover. So, grab your favorite pumpkin-flavored treat, gather your friends, and pick out a fall classic from this Cortland-approved list. Happy watching!