10 Netflix Romances That Feel Like Fall

As the sun hangs lower in the sky and a distinct, crisp chill perfumes the air, a collective sigh of relief and anticipation sweeps across the land. The sweltering, relentless energy of summer gives way to the gentle, introspective embrace of autumn. This is the season of transition, a time for shedding the old and welcoming the new, much like the trees that blaze in fiery hues before letting their leaves fall. It's the season of pumpkin spice lattes, chunky knit sweaters, and the undeniable urge to get cozy.

According to the unwritten rules of seasonal living, as dictated by the aesthetic-driven worlds of Pinterest and TikTok, fall isn't just a time of year; it's a feeling. It's a mood board come to life, filled with images of rain-streaked windowpanes, steaming mugs held by hands in fingerless gloves, stacks of classic novels, and the warm glow of a fireplace. This "cozy season" trend has taken over social media, creating a powerful sense of shared nostalgia for a feeling we all crave: comfort. And what is more comforting than curling up on the couch, wrapped in a plush blanket, and losing yourself in a story that warms your heart?

This is where Netflix, our modern-day cinematic hearth, comes into play. The platform is a treasure trove of romances that perfectly capture the autumnal spirit. These aren't just any love stories. They are the cinematic equivalent of a warm hug—films that feel like sipping hot apple cider on a brisk afternoon or taking a long walk through a park carpeted with golden leaves. They possess a certain mood, a specific color palette, and a thematic weight that resonates with the soul of autumn. They are about new beginnings, second chances, deep connections, and the quiet beauty of finding warmth as the world outside grows colder.

In this curated list, we delve into ten Netflix romances that perfectly encapsulate the fall aesthetic. We'll explore not just their plots, but their very essence—the cinematography, the settings, the character dynamics, and the thematic undercurrents that make them the ideal companions for a cozy autumn night. So, dim the lights, grab your favorite seasonal snack, and prepare to fall in love with these cinematic gems that feel just like fall.

1. When Harry Met Sally... (1989)

• Director: Rob Reiner

• Main Cast: Billy Crystal, Meg Ryan, Carrie Fisher, Bruno Kirby

It is impossible to discuss fall movies without paying homage to the undisputed champion of the genre. When Harry Met Sally... is not just a romance; it is a cinematic love letter to autumn in New York City. The film poses the age-old question, "Can men and women ever just be friends?" It follows the titular characters over twelve years of chance encounters, deep conversations, and a slow-burn friendship that evolves into something much more profound.

The Autumnal Connection: From a purely visual standpoint, this film is fall incarnate. Director Rob Reiner and cinematographer Barry Sonnenfeld masterfully use the season as a third main character. The iconic scenes of Harry and Sally walking through a Central Park ablaze with shades of ochre, crimson, and gold are seared into our collective memory. Sally’s wardrobe is a masterclass in late-80s fall fashion, featuring chunky cable-knit sweaters, tweed blazers, and impeccably tailored wool coats that have inspired countless Pinterest boards. An external resource for those wanting to experience this magic firsthand is the Central Park Conservancy's guide to fall foliage, which can help you plan your own picturesque walk.

But the connection runs deeper than aesthetics. Autumn is a season of transition, and the entire narrative of When Harry Met Sally... is about the transition of a relationship. It mirrors the slow, gradual change of the seasons, moving from the argumentative spark of their first meeting to the comfortable warmth of their established friendship, and finally, to the passionate declaration of love on New Year's Eve. The witty, intellectual banter between Harry and Sally feels like the crisp, stimulating air of an October day. Their journey is one of maturation and self-realization, themes that align perfectly with the introspective nature of fall. For those navigating the complex journey from friendship to something more, the insights on That Love Podcast about setting healthy boundaries can be incredibly valuable.

2. To All the Boys I've Loved Before (2018)

• Director: Susan Johnson

• Main Cast: Lana Condor, Noah Centineo, Janel Parrish, Anna Cathcart

This film launched a global phenomenon and turned its leads into overnight stars, all while wrapping audiences in a warm, pastel-hued hug. Based on the novel by Jenny Han, the story follows Lara Jean Covey, a shy high school junior whose life is turned upside down when the secret love letters she wrote to her five crushes are mysteriously mailed out. To avoid confronting her sister's ex-boyfriend, Josh, she enters into a fake relationship with another letter recipient, the charming and popular Peter Kavinsky.

The Autumnal Connection: While the film is not explicitly set only in the fall, it powerfully evokes the "back-to-school" energy that is a cornerstone of the season. The narrative kicks off with the start of a new school year, a time of fresh starts, new possibilities, and nervous excitement. The cozy, meticulously decorated aesthetic of Lara Jean's bedroom is pure autumn comfort. It's a sanctuary filled with books, soft lighting, and a sense of warmth that viewers instantly want to replicate.

The romance itself has a distinctly cozy feel. The fake-dating trope, a beloved classic, allows for a low-stakes, gradual development of feelings that feels both sweet and comforting. Memorable scenes, like the hot tub confession and the quiet conversation in the diner, are intimate and heartfelt, providing the emotional warmth we seek during the colder months. The film's color palette, rich with teals, pinks, and warm yellows, feels like a softer, more whimsical take on traditional autumn colors. It captures the hopeful, dreamy side of fall. The dynamics of fake dating are a popular topic, and for those who enjoy this trope in literature, That Love Podcast offers a fantastic review of a book with a similar theme in "Only Between Us" by Ellie K. Wilde.

3. Holidate (2020)

• Director: John Whitesell

• Main Cast: Emma Roberts, Luke Bracey, Kristin Chenoweth

  
  

As the title suggests, this film is a romp through an entire year of holidays, but its heart and soul truly align with the fall and winter seasons. Sloane (Emma Roberts) and Jackson (Luke Bracey) are two strangers who are fed up with being single during the holidays. After a disastrous Christmas, they make a pact to be each other's platonic "holidate" for every festive occasion over the next year, from New Year's Eve to Thanksgiving. Naturally, their no-strings-attached arrangement becomes complicated as real feelings begin to develop.

The Autumnal Connection: The movie hits its stride during the autumn holidays. The Halloween sequence is a fun, chaotic look at modern parties, but it's the Thanksgiving scene that truly cements its place on this list. Set in a cozy, decorated home, the scene is filled with the warm, golden light and familial chaos that defines the holiday. It perfectly captures the pressure and the comfort of being home for the holidays.

The romance between Sloane and Jackson is cynical and witty, which feels like the biting wind of a late autumn day, but it’s underpinned by a growing, undeniable warmth. Their relationship is a slow burn, a gradual warming up to the idea of love, much like we slowly acclimate to the colder weather by adding more layers. The film's humor provides a comforting escape, making it a perfect, low-effort watch for a lazy Sunday afternoon when you just want to be entertained. For a deeper dive into the film's reception and details, its page on IMDb offers a comprehensive overview.

4. The Half of It (2020)

• Director: Alice Wu

• Main Cast: Leah Lewis, Daniel Diemer, Alexxis Lemire

  
  

For those who prefer their autumn romances to be more moody, intellectual, and poignant, The Half of It is a perfect choice. This modern-day Cyrano de Bergerac story is set in the sleepy, perpetually overcast town of Squahamish. Ellie Chu (Leah Lewis) is a smart, introverted student who makes extra money by writing papers for her classmates. Her life takes an unexpected turn when the sweet but inarticulate jock, Paul Munsky (Daniel Diemer), hires her to write love letters to the beautiful and popular Aster Flores (Alexxis Lemire). The complication? Ellie is also falling for Aster.

The Autumnal Connection: Director Alice Wu crafts a world that is steeped in autumnal atmosphere. The color palette is muted, filled with the grays, blues, and damp greens of a Pacific Northwest autumn. The constant rain and fog create a cozy, introspective mood that encourages deep thought and quiet contemplation. The setting of a small, sleepy town where everyone knows each other adds to the feeling of intimacy and insulation from the outside world.

The film's themes are profoundly autumnal. It's a story about longing, identity, and the painful but beautiful process of self-discovery. It explores the different kinds of love—romantic, platonic, and familial—with a maturity and nuance rarely seen in teen films. The intellectual connection between Ellie and Aster, forged through letters filled with philosophy and art references, feels like the perfect activity for a long, dark evening. It's a film that asks you to think and feel deeply, making it a perfect companion for the most introspective season of the year. The journey of self-discovery is central to this film, a theme explored in depth on That Love Podcast through the lens of Mel Robbins' "The Let Them Theory", which focuses on personal growth within relationships.

5. Love, Rosie (2014)

• Director: Christian Ditter

• Main Cast: Lily Collins, Sam Claflin, Suki Waterhouse

Spanning over a decade, Love, Rosie is a story of missed opportunities, terrible timing, and an enduring friendship that refuses to give up on the idea of love. Based on Cecelia Ahern's novel "Where Rainbows End," the film follows Rosie Dunne and Alex Stewart, best friends since childhood who seem destined for each other, if only they could get on the same page at the same time.

The Autumnal Connection: Much of the film is set in England, and it beautifully captures the cozy, often drizzly aesthetic of a British autumn. The visuals are filled with rain-slicked city streets, charmingly cluttered interiors, and characters bundled up in stylish coats and scarves. The passage of time in the film feels like the turning of seasons, with each new chapter in Rosie and Alex's lives marked by change and growth.

The romance is a classic "will-they-won't-they" that provides a comforting sense of yearning and hope. It’s a story about looking back and looking forward, a sentiment that is deeply tied to the fall season. Autumn often prompts reflection on the year that has passed and contemplation of the future, and Rosie and Alex’s journey is a long, winding road of reflection. The film’s blend of humor, heartbreak, and unwavering hope makes it an emotional rollercoaster, but one that ultimately leaves you feeling warm and satisfied. For those who appreciate cinematic love stories, That Love Podcast offers a heartfelt review of another time-bending romance in their "About Time" movie review.

6. Set It Up (2018)

• Director: Claire Scanlon

• Main Cast: Zoey Deutch, Glen Powell, Lucy Liu, Taye Diggs

This delightful rom-com revitalized the genre with its sharp writing and electric chemistry between the leads. Harper (Zoey Deutch) and Charlie (Glen Powell) are two overworked and under-appreciated assistants to high-powered, demanding bosses in New York City. In a desperate bid to get some free time, they conspire to set their bosses up with each other. As they orchestrate the romance, they find themselves spending more and more time together, discovering an unexpected connection.

The Autumnal Connection: The film is set in the bustling, corporate world of NYC, which has a distinct "back to business" feel that aligns with September and October. The late nights in the office, fueled by takeout and shared frustrations, create a unique kind of cozy intimacy. The city itself, with its towering skyscrapers and glowing lights, provides a romantic backdrop.

The core of the film's autumnal feel lies in its comfort-food plot. The Cyrano-esque setup is a familiar trope, and the enemies-to-friends-to-lovers arc is one of the most satisfying in the romance genre. Watching Harper and Charlie’s relationship blossom is like enjoying a warm, delicious meal—it's predictable in the best way possible. The witty banter and undeniable spark between Deutch and Powell make the film incredibly rewatchable, a key quality for a comfort movie. It's a story about finding love in an unexpected place while navigating the pressures of adult life, a theme that resonates with the sense of renewed focus that autumn brings. For more on navigating modern dating and relationships, check out the general relationship advice section on That Love Podcast.

7. Our Souls at Night (2017)

• Director: Ritesh Batra

• Main Cast: Robert Redford, Jane Fonda

For a romance that is gentle, mature, and deeply comforting, Our Souls at Night is an unparalleled choice. In the small town of Holt, Colorado, widow Addie Moore (Jane Fonda) pays an unexpected visit to her neighbor, widower Louis Waters (Robert Redford). Tired of the lonely nights, she makes a simple proposition: would he be willing to come over and sleep with her, platonically, just to have someone to talk to in the dark?

The Autumnal Connection: This film embodies the quiet, contemplative side of autumn. The season is often referred to as the "autumn of life," and this story beautifully explores finding connection and companionship in later years. The pacing is slow and deliberate, like a leisurely stroll on a cool day. The setting of a quiet, small town adds to the intimate and insulated atmosphere.

The romance is not about fiery passion but about the profound warmth of human connection. It's about finding solace from loneliness and the comfort of shared experience. Watching Addie and Louis's relationship grow from a practical arrangement into a deep, tender love is incredibly moving. The film's muted color palette and focus on quiet, domestic moments create a powerful sense of peace and tranquility. It is the perfect film to watch on a quiet evening, wrapped in a blanket with a warm drink, as it reminds us that it's never too late to find warmth and light. The film’s critical reception can be further explored on its Rotten Tomatoes page, where critics praised its gentle power.

8. Someone Great (2019)

• Director: Jennifer Kaytin Robinson

• Main Cast: Gina Rodriguez, Brittany Snow, DeWanda Wise, LaKeith Stanfield

  
  

While technically a breakup movie, Someone Great is ultimately a love story about friendship and self-rediscovery, making it a perfect, unconventional pick for the fall season. After music journalist Jenny (Gina Rodriguez) is blindsided by a breakup with her long-term boyfriend just before she's set to move to San Francisco for her dream job, her two best friends rally for one last epic adventure in New York City.

The Autumnal Connection: Fall is a season of letting go, and this film is a masterclass in processing the end of a significant chapter to make way for a new one. The narrative is punctuated by flashbacks to Jenny's relationship, many of which are bathed in the golden, nostalgic light of autumn in NYC. The city itself is a vibrant, living character, and the film captures the energy of a crisp fall day.

The core of the film's warmth comes from the fierce, unwavering support of female friendship. The bond between Jenny, Blair, and Erin is the true romance of the story. They provide the comfort, humor, and strength needed to navigate heartbreak. The film's killer soundtrack and vibrant energy make it a cathartic and uplifting experience. It's about finding yourself again after loss, a theme that resonates deeply with the transformative spirit of autumn. This journey of healing is a powerful one, and for those looking to cultivate more self-love, That Love Podcast provides practical tips in "Top 10 Daily Self-Care Habits". The film’s writer-director provides more insight into its creation in an interview with Variety.

9. Always Be My Maybe (2019)

• Director: Nahnatchka Khan

• Main Cast: Ali Wong, Randall Park, Keanu Reeves

  
  

This film serves up a delicious blend of humor, heart, and mouth-watering food. Sasha Tran (Ali Wong) and Marcus Kim (Randall Park) were childhood sweethearts who had a falling out and haven't spoken in 15 years. Now, Sasha is a celebrity chef in Los Angeles, while Marcus is a happy-go-lucky musician still living at home in San Francisco. When Sasha returns to her hometown to open a new restaurant, they reconnect, and old sparks fly amidst new complications.

The Autumnal Connection: The central theme of this film is comfort. The romance is a second-chance story, which evokes a sense of nostalgia and the warmth of returning home. The reconnection between Sasha and Marcus feels like putting on a favorite old sweater—it's familiar, comfortable, and fits just right. The numerous scenes featuring delicious food, from home-cooked Korean stews to high-end restaurant dishes, add a layer of sensory comfort that is perfect for the season of feasting.

The film's humor is sharp and witty, but its heart is incredibly warm. It explores themes of family, ambition, and staying true to your roots. The undeniable chemistry between Wong and Park makes their relationship feel authentic and lived-in. It's a feel-good movie in the truest sense, guaranteed to leave you with a smile on your face and a warm feeling in your heart. Exploring complex romantic histories is a recurring theme in storytelling, and for those who enjoy this in book form, That Love Podcast reviews a book with a tangled past in "The Four Engagement Rings of Sybil Ryan". For foodies, Bon Appétit breaks down the amazing food scenes in the movie.

10. Ginny & Georgia (Series, 2021-Present)

• Creator: Sarah Lampert

  
  

• Main Cast: Brianne Howey, Antonia Gentry, Diesel La Torraca, Felix Mallard

While not a movie, this binge-worthy series so perfectly captures the New England fall aesthetic that it would be a crime not to include it. The show follows 30-year-old Georgia Miller, who moves with her teenage daughter Ginny and young son Austin to the picturesque, fictional town of Wellsbury, Massachusetts, for a fresh start. The series is a complex blend of teen drama, romantic comedy, and mystery.

The Autumnal Connection: Wellsbury is the quintessential New England fall town. The visuals are a feast of autumn colors, with charming town squares, cozy cafes (hello, Blue Farm Café), and beautiful homes with porches decorated for Halloween and Thanksgiving. The "back-to-school" setting for Ginny and her friends is a central part of the plot, driving much of the drama and romance.

The show offers multiple romances to get invested in, from Ginny's love triangle with the boy-next-door Hunter and the brooding bad-boy Marcus, to Georgia's own complicated relationships with the charming Mayor Paul Randolph and the rugged café owner Joe. The series is the ultimate cozy binge-watch for the season, a long-form story you can sink into over several chilly weekends. It has all the elements: small-town charm, multiple love stories, and a backdrop that is pure autumnal bliss. For another take on seasonal viewing, That Love Podcast offers a great list of 13 Back-to-School Movies to Stream in Fall, which shares a similar cozy vibe. For fans who want to dive deeper into the show's world, the official Netflix companion site, Tudum, has exclusive content.

Conclusion

In a world that often feels chaotic and cold, the search for comfort is a universal one. As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, we are instinctively drawn to things that provide warmth, both literal and emotional. The ten Netflix romances explored here are more than just films or television shows; they are seasonal sanctuaries. They are cinematic comfort food, offering a reliable source of warmth, nostalgia, and heartfelt emotion that perfectly complements the spirit of autumn.

From the iconic foliage of Central Park in When Harry Met Sally... to the cozy small-town charm of Ginny & Georgia, these stories tap into the core aesthetics and themes of the season. They remind us of the beauty of change, the comfort of connection, and the hope of new beginnings. They are stories that wrap around you like your favorite cardigan, inviting you to slow down, get comfortable, and simply feel.

So, as you lean into the cozy season, let this list be your guide. Allow these romances to be the soundtrack to your autumn, the warm glow on your screen as the rain falls outside. Pour yourself a hot cup of something delicious, press play, and let yourself fall into a world where every frame feels like coming home.

FAQs

1. What makes a romance movie "feel like fall"? A "fall" romance often features a specific aesthetic (warm colors, cozy fashion, rain), themes of transition or new beginnings (like back-to-school), and a comforting, often nostalgic tone. It's more about the mood and feeling than a specific plot point.

2. Are all these movies explicitly set in the autumn? Not all of them. While some, like When Harry Met Sally..., are famously set in the fall, others like To All the Boys I've Loved Before or Set It Up evoke the feeling of autumn through their back-to-school themes, cozy interiors, or "back-to-business" energy.

3. Are these movies family-friendly? It varies. To All the Boys I've Loved Before and Love, Rosie are generally teen-friendly (PG-13 range). Others like Holidate and Someone Great are R-rated and contain adult language and themes. It's always best to check the rating before viewing.

   
   

4. Why do we find "cozy" movies so comforting? Cozy movies often feature predictable plots, low stakes, and guaranteed happy endings. This predictability can be psychologically comforting, reducing anxiety and providing a reliable emotional payoff, much like re-reading a favorite book. A Psychology Today article explores this phenomenon.

5. I love reading romances too. Any suggestions? Absolutely! The romance genre in literature is booming with stories that have a similar cozy feel. That Love Podcast has a great list of 6 Must-Read Romance Books that can get you started.

6. Are there any international romances on this list? Love, Rosie is a British/German co-production set largely in the UK, offering a charming international feel. Many of Netflix's other offerings include a wide array of international romances that also capture a cozy, autumnal vibe.

   
   

7. What if my favorite fall romance isn't on this list? This list is a starting point! The beauty of a "fall movie" is that it's a personal feeling. Any movie that gives you that warm, cozy, nostalgic feeling can be your perfect autumn watch.

8. Besides romance, what other genres feel like fall? Dark academia thrillers (Dead Poets Society), cozy mysteries (Knives Out), and fantasy films with academic or moody settings (Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban) are also popular genres that perfectly capture the spirit of autumn.

9. Where can I check if these titles are still on Netflix? Streaming availability changes frequently. You can check the current Netflix library directly on their app or website. External sites like JustWatch are also excellent resources for finding where any movie or show is streaming.

10. What's a key takeaway from these movies about love? A common thread is that love often comes from connection, friendship, and shared vulnerability. Whether it's through witty banter, heartfelt letters, or simply being there for someone, these films celebrate love as a source of ultimate comfort and warmth. For more lessons on love, That Love Podcast explores growth in "Lessons from Hannah Brown's Book".

Meta Description

Craving the perfect cozy movie night? Discover 10 heartwarming Netflix romances that feel like fall, from classic rom-coms to modern gems. Your ultimate autumn watchlist is here.