It’s that time of year again. Leaves litter the ground with sunset hues, and an icy chill cuts through the air. Meanwhile, you’re curled up in fuzzy blankets by the fire. The smell of pumpkin spice and apple cinnamon wafting through the house. All that’s left to do is choose the perfect movie.

          I asked 20 Westfield students what their favorite fall movie was and why. Here’s what they said:

          It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown and The Nightmare Before Christmas were the most popular. 

          Several students based their pick on “fall vibes”. The “vibe” of a movie often refers to the overall aesthetic of the film, with factors such as color palette, wardrobe, setting, and art style. 

          “I like Fantastic Mr. Fox for the animation. It’s such a pretty and cozy movie,” explained Sarah Choudhary, 12. 

          “Other” reasons included humor, plot, and cast.

          “The voice actor for Jack Skellington in The Nightmare Before Christmas is super good,” praised Lillianna McNerney, 11.

          However, a majority of students selected their favorite movie for nostalgic reasons.

          When asked about her favorite movie, It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown, Willa Cox, 10, reminisced, “I used to watch it every Thanksgiving with my grandfather. We would pop a bunch of popcorn and watch.”

          With the holidays right around the corner, many have fond memories with family and friends during this time. Watching movies from your childhood can transport one back to simpler times. No SAT, no AP exams, no homework, just hot cocoa and over an hour of lighthearted entertainment.

          So next time you’re feeling stressed about your future, just curl up with a good movie, and reminisce about carefree days baking cookies and jumping through piles of leaves.