Fall has a way of capturing a cozy time. The air becomes crisp, leaves turn golden, and romantic comedies are the perfect escape. Something is comforting about a fall romance, capturing autumn’s warmth.
For many, When Harry Met Sally (1989) is a standard fall rom-com. Directed by Rob Reiner and written by Nora Ephron, this film explores whether men and women can truly be “just friends,” with iconic scenes like Harry and Sally’s car ride through the changing fall scenery. The strong chemistry between Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal is visible through their witty banter. But not only is the story in When Harry Met Sally so captivating, it is the atmosphere. Set in the beloved New York City, in the fall it creates a perfect setting for two characters to slowly realize that they have been in love with each other all along. “When Harry Met Sally, the best romantic comedy of the past 30 years. Meg Ryan’s pulling off that fantastic hat, and the jacket-sweater combo is working for Billy Crystal, too,” said Nate Jones.
If this movie piques your interest a great book would be People We Meet on Vacation written by Emily Henry which covers two best friends who go on ten summer trips, giving one last chance to fall in love. Poppy and Alex are two completely different types of people, Poppy is the outgoing, free spirit, and Alex is the book-loving homebody. Still, despite their differences, they have a strong friendship.
Another notable romantic comedy for the fall season is A Rainy Day in New York (2019) starring the actors Timothée Chalamet, Elle Fanning, and Selena Gomez. Directed and written by Woody Allen. This movie closely follows the story of Gatsby Welles, a wealthy college student at Yardley College, and his girlfriend Ashleigh Enright, a journalism major from Tucson, who has to travel to Manhattan to interview a film director for her student journalism class. Gatsby tags along trying to plan a romantic weekend in the city, but it takes a turn.
If A Rainy Day in New York sounds appealing to you, try the book Beautiful World Where Are You written by Sally Rooney. This novel follows Alice, Felix, Eileen, and Simon as they navigate love and friendship. Similar to a rainy day in New York it deals with complex relationships, coming of age, and characters who are figuring out who they are.
“I love the fall season because I can hang out with my friends and watch cozy rom-coms,” said Madison Sobel (‘26).
Lastly, The Classic You Got Mail directed by Nora Ephron starring Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks. This movie tells the story of small bookstore owners Kathleen Kelly and Joe Fox whose family runs a major chain of bookstores. The two exchange messages anonymously with the screen names of “Shopgirl” and “NY152.” Conflict arises because both of them are involved in the same business industry.
If you find You’ve Got Mail appealing, read How to Find Love in a Bookshop by Veronica Henry. Following a similar storyline centering around Emilia Nightingale who inherits her father’s bookshop. As she struggles to keep the business afloat she finds herself connected with her community. This book captures the same comfort and warmth as You’ve Got Mail.
Whether it’s watching When Harry Met Sally or diving into a book like People We Meet on Vacation. This fall immerse yourself in the timeless appeal of romantic comedies and thoughtful literature.
