As the leaves fall off the trees and turn brown, and the nights draw in closer, that can only mean one thing… It’s time to pull out the fluffy blankets for cosy film nights.

Nothing feels better on a cold, dark Friday evening than having the usual film night with my babies (OK, so they are now 16 & 17!!). Pizza, popcorn, and a random film choice (to avoid arguments we take it in turns to be the selector) whilst we all snuggle under our favourite blankets.

We are a family of film addicts, so choosing my Top 5 for autumn was a challenge. I will go with what I like to watch repeatedly since the Halloween season always brings new scary films to the table (but I don’t tend to watch them on repeat).

So here goes, my top 5 favourite films for autumn

(*film descriptions from IMDb)

5. Jumanji (2017) – Four teenagers are sucked into a magical video game, and the only way they can escape is to work together to finish the game. Starring Kevin Hart, Dwayne Johnson, and Jack Black

I love both versions of this film but I’ve gone with the recent remake as I liked how they brought it into the 21st century without spoiling the first version. It is a good family watch and it never gets boring. I especially enjoy the humour Kevin Hart brings to the film, I find him hilarious! Between Kevin, The Rock, and Jack this film will have you in tears of laughter.

4. P.S I love you (2007) – A young widow discovers that her late husband has left her 10 messages intended to help ease her pain and start a new life. Starring Hillary Swank, Lisa Kudrow, and Gerard Butler

Autumn nights always require a chick flick or two. This is one of my favourites. I rarely cry in films, but this has me in tears every single time! The story is told so well, and the actors really get the audience emotionally involved. It always makes me think, has he helped her or just prolonged her pain?!

3. Silver Linings Playbook (2012) – After a stint in a mental institution, former teacher Pat Solitano moves back in with his parents and tries to reconcile with his ex-wife. Things get more challenging when Pat meets Tiffany, a mysterious girl with problems of her own. Starring Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence, and Robert De Niro

This is my go to for a Bradley fix. I love the message of mental illness throughout this film. It’s so heart-warming, as well as frustrating and pitiful. Unlike a lot of romcoms, this doesn’t get to the obvious point early on in the film. There is always a doubt that it may not work out for the best.

2. Death Proof (2007) – Two separate sets of voluptuous women are stalked at different times by a scarred stuntman who uses his “death proof” cars to execute his murderous plans. Starring Kurt Russell, Tracey Thoms, and Zoe Bell

Tarantino is one of my favourite writers/directors. This is one of my favourites from his catalogue due to the twists and turns. I love the fact it has a very vintage feel to the cinematography and then the use of iPhones and technology, messes with your mind but in a good way. Every time I watch it I see something new, or pick up another clue. I also like the girl power twist when the hunted becomes the hunters.

1. The Holiday (2006) – Two women troubled with guy-problems swap homes in each other’s countries, where they each meet a local guy and fall in love. Starring Kate Winslet, Jude Law, Cameron Diaz, and Jack Black

This is my favourite film, especially at this time of year. The love, the drama, the kindness, the snow, Jude Law! I never get tired of watching this film, and coming up to Christmas it is my must-see film for the season. It makes me want to decorate my house, buy some sequined clothes, and throw a party (social distancing in force this year, obvs!).

What are you favourite picks for the autumn evenings? Let me know your thoughts ❤