After months of summer that wouldn’t end, it’s finally feeling like fall. With the weather getting colder and school getting harder, some movie recommendations are essential. Whether you want to be horrified or comforted, these five films are a must-watch.
Tucker and Dale vs. Evil
Most classic horror movies find college students in the woods being picked off one by one by a crazy killer. “Tucker and Dale vs. Evil” is not that. Instead, the film takes the perspective of the crazy killers, except the killers are actually just rednecks trying to have a peaceful weekend at their cabin.
Tucker McGee and Dale Dobson encounter a group of college students out to have a good time, but unfortunately, they soon mistake them for murderers. The film hilariously subverts the horror tropes of college students going into the woods and getting murdered. This is a perfect movie to watch if you love horror comedies that are equal parts funny and gory.
Sorority Row
Greek life is a big part of the University of Missouri, and it’s certainly the same with “Sorority Row.” This 2009 slasher follows a group of friends who fall victim to a killer after they agree to cover up a prank gone wrong that kills their friend. The film may not reinvent the wheel, but it is certainly one of my favorites. This campy 2000s slasher is the perfect movie for a girls’ night or if you need an effective gory horror film.
American Psycho 2: All-American Girl
If you’re looking for an excellent thriller that lives up to the hype of its predecessor, then this is not the movie for you. “American Psycho 2” follows Rachael Newman, played by Mila Kunis, as she murders her classmates to enhance her chances of getting a TA position at her college.
“American Psycho 2” has a horrible reputation, and it’s certainly earned it. No compliment can be given to this film, which is why I highly recommend it. There is nothing I love more than a bad movie, and this has it all. It’s laughable how no part of this movie lands. Fans of the original probably will be fuming at this tacky sequel, but that makes it all the more worthwhile. It’s frustrating in the best way possible.
Dead Poets Society
Though not set in college, “Dead Poets Society” is a must-watch for fall. If you are one of the few people who don’t know about this film, it follows John Keating, an inspiring English teacher who motivates his classroom to break from their conventional ways and embrace the beauty of life. It asks the audience to question authority and our role in society.
This movie hits home for those of us who want to pursue a creative career, but often choose other careers that are more financially or socially prosperous. However, this film merits things like poetry and acting as essential to life, making it a true feast for your soul.
Love Story (1970)
This quaint romance is perfect for the fall season. The film follows Jenny Cavilleri and Oliver Barrett as they fall in love. This film’s Romeo and Juliet come from completely different backgrounds. Oliver is a pre-law Harvard student who was born into a wealthy family, whereas Jenny comes from a working-class Italian family.
For the fall season, you always need a melancholy film to cozy up to. “Love Story” reminds you to be grateful for what you have. The love you feel for someone, whether that be romantic, platonic or familial, is something you should cherish. Fall is a hard time for college students. We are homesick, stressed from finals, and trying to do the best with what we have. If you want a wistful film for these colder months, this is the film for you
So many movies are set around college or college students, but these films hold a special place in my heart. Even though they may not all be the height of prestige, I can’t help but go back to them each autumn and enjoy their many charms.
