12 Cozy Movies That You Have to Watch This Fall

A film about two kids who accidentally release demons from a hole in their backyard doesn’t sound very cozy up front. But its low-stakes horror elements combined with some humor and wholesome themes like the power of family make it a comfy watch on a chilly night. If you have kids who want to dip their toe into horror or you’re that kid at heart yourself, this is a great watch full of ‘80s nostalgia.

Where to Watch: Tubi

Halloweentown (1998) 

This is a classic cozy fall film that ‘90s kids love so much. (It’s me, I’m a ‘90s kid.) The magical place of Halloweentown full of wacky characters that embody the spirit of Halloween in a not-scary way combines with a coming-of-age story that pairs perfectly with some apple cider.

Where to Watch: Disney+

Practical Magic (1998) 

Who doesn’t love the Owens family full of witchy women? Practical Magic is a bit of a crime drama, a little supernatural fantasy, and a lot of fun. From those lovely spinster aunts to a dash of romance, this film is a concoction of good things with some pretty iconic performances. 

Where to Watch: Tubi and HBO Max

Hocus Pocus (1993)

It doesn’t get much more cozy fall film than Hocus Pocus. And, while it was fun to see the Sanderson sister rise again in the sequel, the original film will always be the best. The images of kids riding their bikes through Salem while leaves shuffle around them and trick or treating makes you feel warm and fuzzy inside. Add that to the film’s inherent campiness and happy ending and you’ve got a winning combination.

Where to Watch: Disney+

Good Will Hunting (1997)

If you’re looking for a cozy watch that’s far removed from Halloween and horror, but still gives you plenty of fall vibes and feels, then this is the one. The story of Will Hunting, a math genius working as a janitor, and his friendship with an MIT professor is a certified classic. Matt Damon and Robin Williams are pure magic together. 

Where to Watch: Pluto and Paramount+

The Blackening (2022)

The Blackening leans much more into comedy than it does horror with a funny premise. A group of Black college friends head to a cabin on Juneteenth weekend for fun… until a killer in blackface makes them play a deadly game. Yes, the film doesn’t take place during colder months but the many references to the horror genre and pop culture as a whole still make it feel cozy. We’d totally stay in that cabin if it weren’t a killing ground. 

Where to Watch: Netflix 

Deadly Blessing (1981) 

This film is far from one of Wes Craven’s most beloved and well-known efforts, but it is still worth watching. Religious sects, ancient evil, and murder sounds like a lot but it is surprisingly atmospheric and chill. 

Where to Watch: Tubi and Pluto 

Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark (2019) 

This is all about the nostalgia, baby. Many of us grew up reading those chilling tales and getting to see them come to life is a delight. The film itself takes place on Halloween night and amps up the creep factor without diving into a full-on bloody horror show. If you like just a bit of horror and want something spooky to watch with the kiddos, turn this movie on. 

Where to Watch: Tubi 

Knives Out (2019)

Chris Evans in a cozy sweater in a whodunnit movie by Rian Johnson that also stars Daniel Craig as a detective with a ridiculous accent. That’s it. That’s all you need to know. 

Where to Watch: Prime Video

An American Werewolf in London (1981)

Horror comedies are where it’s at for cozy fall movie viewing. And there’s nothing like this darling and damned funny flick. Two American students go on a trek in England only for a werewolf to attack and turn one of them into a beast under the next full moon. There’s comedy and shocking moments abound with just enough horror to satisfy your tastes, if that’s your thing.

Where to Watch: Tubi 

It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (1966)

This will always be a classic for generations of kids to come. Charlie Brown and friends celebrate Halloween in style as Linus hopes to see the Great Pumpkin one day. 

Where to Watch: Apple TV 

Love Jones (1997)

Romance drama, cozy poetry in a nightclub, steamy love scenes, and foggy runs through a park? Yes, please. Love Jones stars Larenz Tate and Nia Long as Darius Lovehall, a gifted writer, and Nina Moseley, a gorgeous photographer, who fall in love fast. Tensions between them arise with competing career goals and faces from the past coming into play. 

Where to Watch: Rent or Buy on Prime Video