Autumn has finally rolled around again meaning it’s time for us winter lovers to thrive. Fresh pyjamas, hot chocolate and curling up on the sofa with your flatmates – nothing beats it. Had a stressful day of uni? Missing home more than you thought you would? These films are the cure to any winter blues.
What’s more, each of these films captures the essence and magic of York in their own unique way. So whilst you take a stroll through town or stop off at your fave cafe, you’ll be romanticising the lives of these classics.
1. Dead Poets Society
via YouTube
Dead Poets Society is a well loved classic. It is the perfect film for autumn in York. It’s set in an old boarding school that feels just like walking through the university’s historic buildings; capturing the essence of what it feels like to be a student in York during Autumn. The famous line in the film “Carpe Diem” — seize the day — is a good reminder for students to make the most of their time here, whether that means joining a society, starting a project, or just enjoying the small things. University is about enjoying those quiet moments. Like a quiet movie night in with your flat.
The film captures the coziness of the season. Bringing together that feeling of independence and new beginnings throughout the story line. Dead Poets Society is the ultimate English literature student film; but whether you’re an Alcuin book worm or a Derwent party-goer, I guarantee you’ll love this movie.
2. Fantastic Mr. Fox
via YouTube
Fantastic Mr. Fox is a stop-motion classic. Its unique animation and signature Wes Anderson style have made it a favourite among film lovers. The heartwarming story about family and community feels relatable for anyone living away from home for the first time. Its vibrant autumn colours bring warmth to the gloomy York weather we all know too well.
This film celebrates the importance of family and shared moments. For students living in busy flats, it’s a reminder that a sense of community can form anywhere. Fantastic Mr. Fox shows that strong bonds and happy memories can grow even in chaos. It’s a fun, heartfelt film about confidence, change, and belonging. If you love animation, autumn, or anything Wes Anderson, this one’s for you.
3. Little Women
via YouTube
Little Women is the ultimate comfort film. The film follows four sisters as they grow up and discover who they are. It is deeply relatable and emotional for any first year student learning to become independent and live alone for the first time. The film’s message about sisterhood and family hits home to many students: Living with your friends you now consider family as you navigate adulthood.
The soft autumn colour palette and New England houses mirror York’s quaint streets and homely cafes. Watching it feels like walking through the Museum Gardens on a crisp afternoon as autumn slowly rolls into winter. Jo March’s independence and creative nature are the perfect inspiration for any uni student tackling first semester assignments. Little Women blends nostalgia with motivation – the perfect movie to watch curled up in a blanket when you need a reminder to slow down and enjoy life.
4. Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone
via YouTube
It wouldn’t be a York Tab article about films without mentioning Harry Potter. As a student in York, no matter which university you go to, you know how much this city influenced the look of the franchise. Every film is a masterpiece, but you have to start with the first and most iconic — Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. It’s heartfelt, nostalgic, and perfect for a rainy movie night with your flat.
The Shambles are believed to have inspired Diagon Alley, and York’s own streets are filled with wizard-themed shops like The Shop That Must Not Be Named and The Potions Cauldron. Even muggles can live out their Hogwarts dreams. Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone is perfect for every student, bringing the magic of York even closer than it already is.
5. Crimson Peak
via YouTube
York is often called the most haunted city in Europe, and Crimson Peak captures that perfectly. Filmed in grand Gothic mansions, it oozes the same Victorian atmosphere you feel wandering York’s gloomy streets. The film tells the story of Edith Cushing, an aspiring author who marries the mysterious Sir Thomas Sharpe and moves to his crumbling estate.
It’s the perfect mix of haunting horror and dark romance. If you love Halloween or anything spooky, this one’s for you. Its Gothic setting and ghostly characters mirror York’s medieval charm. The city’s cobbled lanes and echoing bells could fit straight into Guillermo del Toro’s world. Watching Crimson Peak in a York student flat on a rainy night — fog rolling in and the Minster bells ringing — feels less like fiction and more like York coming alive on screen.
6. Knives Out
via YouTube
Knives Out is one of those films that feels like autumn even though it’s not directly about the season. The entire film is set in a luxurious old mansion full of secrets and warm lighting. It’s that classic “curl up and solve a mystery” atmosphere that suits dark autumn nights and lazy student evenings. The film is a love letter to the autumn season with its characters draped in cosy knits and fall colours.
It is celebrated for its cleverly witty plot and fabulous-looking cast; its comedic elements bring a smile to even the most stressed-out students. The films mix of family tension, humour and mystery make it that perfect film to watch with your flatmates – or by yourself – when you want something smart and intriguing whilst still being fun.
