10 Cozy Movies to Help You Cope with Autumn Melancholy

Autumn is not just a season, but a state of the soul. It's the ideal time for cozy evenings with hot tea and heartfelt cinema that creates an atmosphere of romantic melancholy. Together with 7Days.ru critic and editor Marina Yakovleva, we recall movies that fall in love with this special season.

Marina Yakovleva — Film Critic

"When Harry Met Sally" (1989)

Frame from the movie "When Harry Met Sally" (1989)

Romcom by Rob Reiner became iconic not only for its witty dialogues but also for the picturesque autumn cityscapes. The story of how Harry (Billy Crystal) and Sally (Meg Ryan) met, starting with antagonism and gradually transforming into friendship and then love, is soaked in coziness and wraps viewers in warmth like a warm blanket.

"Twilight" Saga (2008-2012)

Frame from the movie "Twilight: New Moon - Part 2" (2012)

Legends surround the mystical romance of "Twilight". Today, the vampire franchise is experiencing a new youth. Although the word "autumn" makes one want to hum the tune "Hoa-hoa-hoa" from the first movie, its action actually takes place in spring. But for fans, that's not important: the entire saga immerses viewers in cozy autumn vibes with cold landscapes, rain, and forest coolness. The story of Bella (Kristen Stewart) and immortal vampire Edward (Robert Pattinson) is wrapped in a mysterious atmosphere and was created for watching in October-November.

"Practical Magic" (1998)

Frame from the movie "Practical Magic" (1998)

A classic of autumn cinema, the film tells the story of two witch sisters played by Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock. The evil rock kills all the men they fall in love with. To finally find happiness, the sisters must find a way to break their family curse. The main feature of the movie is its magical October atmosphere: from flickering candles and magical potions to black cats and yellow leaves. One can't help but want to buy pumpkins, brew hot chocolate, turn on "Practical Magic", and wait for Halloween!

"Autumn in New York" (2000)

Frame from the movie "Autumn in New York" (2000)

Set against the backdrop of Manhattan autumn and golden leaves in Central Park, a dramatic love story unfolds between Richard Gere's protagonist, an aging playboy named Will, and young Charlotte played by Winona Ryder. Their relationship is doomed from the start due to Charlotte's fatal illness, but that only intensifies their passionate love. The melodrama is considered one of the most beautiful autumn films in cinema history.

"October Sky" (1999)

Frame from the movie "October Sky" (1999)

The film tells the story of a young man named Homer Hickam (Jake Gyllenhaal) from a mining town inspired by the USSR's launch of the first satellite into space in 1957. He dreams of building his own rocket. The autumn landscapes of rural America beautifully complement the touching story of growing up and pursuing dreams.

"Dead Poets Society" (1989)

Frame from the movie "Dead Poets Society" (1989)

Cult film with Robin Williams, set in a strict boys' school where a new literature teacher awakens in his students a love for art and independent thinking. The story of growing up and inner freedom unfolds in the classroom and schoolyard, adorned with autumn poetry. Within just a few weeks, the boys who once didn't want to hear about artistic literature become completely immersed in its study, changing their lives forever.

"The Lake House" (2006)

Frame from the movie "The Lake House" (2006)

Love through years and distances unfolds against the backdrop of a quiet lake surrounded by autumn landscapes. Kate (Sandra Bullock) and Alex (Keanu Reeves) correspond through a mailbox that somehow breaks the flow of time. Kate lives in 2006, while Alex is in 2004, but despite the years between them, a deep bond forms between the characters. The film combines fantasy and romance, with cool landscapes adding to its special coziness.

"Last Night in New York" (2010)

Frame from the movie "Last Night in New York" (2010)

The melodrama tells the story of one night in the life of married couple Michael and Joanna. Their relationship is tested when, separated for just a few days, each spouse encounters a romantic temptation. Autumn Manhattan becomes the perfect backdrop for the emotional tension between the characters. The highlight of the film includes duets of Keira Knightley and Guillaume Canet, as well as Eva Mendes and Sam Worthington.

"Sweet November" (2001)

Frame from the movie "Sweet November" (2001)

The love story that begins on cool November days is filled with gentle melancholy. Sarah, the protagonist played by Charlize Theron, teaches Nelson (Keanu Reeves) to enjoy life and cherish every moment, but the couple's happiness is shadowed by illness. Scenes of autumn New York are very atmospheric, and the story itself is infused with warmth and love — all the way to a heart-wrenching ending.

"Emily" (2022)

Frame from the movie "Emily" (2022)

A biopic about the life of Emily Brontë, the most mysterious of the famous writer sisters. Her story, filled with rebellion and passion, unfolds against the backdrop of gloomy and majestic autumn landscapes of Yorkshire. The film shows Emily's development as a prose writer and poet, revealing her inner conflicts and passionate nature. The lead role is played by Emma Mackie, star of "Sex Education".