PureWow: Entertainment, Beauty, Food, Fashion, Family & Home

Grab your bestie (or nemesis soon-to-be-turned bestie) and run away to this beautifully quaint timber cottage in Muskoka Lakes, which has 15-foot vaulted ceilings to its tiny credit. You've got lake and forest views galore, and a screened room and bonfire pit around which you can sit and exchange your deepest secrets.

Renting the cabin includes a Provincial Park Day-Use Vehicle Permit, which will allow you access to the local parks, including Arrowhead Provincial Park, Bigwind Lake Provincial Park and Algonquin Provincial Park. The home is also just a ten-minute drive from the Bracebridge Resource Management Centre, where visitors will find miles of trails for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, hiking and mountain biking near the Muskoka River. And if the outdoors aren't quite your thing, you're a quick drive from the local town of Bracebridge, where there are plenty of local shops and restaurants.

2. Barclochan Lookout (Torrance, Canada)

Set me up in this glorious two-story cottage and I probably won't leave. This property is all about the views: Huge windows, a loft and sprawling lookout from the dining and living rooms. The fact that the home is perched on a hill only adds to the tranquility as you bask in the lake that sprawls before you.

Barclochan Lookout is also the definition of seclusion with 200 feet of waterfront and a 900-square-foot dock where, in good weather, most of the socializing tends to happen. The interior was designed to host a crowd, with a friendly kitchen island, open floor plan and large harvest table in the dining room.

3. Soulwater Villa (Muskoka Lakes, Canada)

Soulwater Villa has everything you could imagine for a serene nature getaway. Nearly every room has sparkling views of Muskoka Lake, and two lucky guests also get walk-out private balconies. That's the perfect place to take a steaming cup of coffee, if you ask me. Push off in one of the home's kayaks or the paddle boat from the private dock, which doubles as parking if you're bringing along your own boat.

After you've spent a day on the lake, you can come back home to lay on the beach or sip a glass of wine on the patio while the fire pit crackles. After dinner, head to the entertainment area, which offers billiards and table tennis, among other amusements. With the trees surrounding the house and the water lapping the shore, Soulwater Villa provides an escape from the hustle of big cities and the concrete maze of suburbia.

4. Muskoka Waterfront Cottage (Torrance, Canada)

This new property, constructed in 2024, was built with families in mind. There are both kid and adult kayaks and paddle boards available, plus a pedal boat. The kitchen is fully-equipped, including kids' utensils, and the house has a pile of boardgames to keep everyone entertained. But that's if you manage to drag everyone inside. From lounging on the dock to gathering around the fire pit and grilling on the barbecue, there are plenty of ways to spend time outdoors. But where the adults are concerned, this waterfront cottage's greatest credit might just be the sauna. Think of it as a little getaway after you've reined in the chaos of the day, where you can sneak in for a little r&r.

5. Hennessy Lake House (Port Carling, Canada)

Though the property that starred in Sterling Point was located in Muskoka Lakes, don't discount the Hennessey Lake House on Brandy Lake. Both are in close proximity to the town of Port Carling, where you'll find plenty of boutiques and restaurants.

The lake house has an additional bunkie, or detached cottage, with two extra queen beds available in temperate weather. (The hosts say this is April through October, due to lack of electricity.) The property has two fire pits, including one on the deck, and provides complimentary paddle boards and kayaks for those wanting to dip their toes into the lake. With a well-equipped deck that has a picnic table and lounge seating, don't be surprised if you end up eating all your meals outside.

Let’s Unpack the Jones Road/Molly Sims Beauty Drama

Deena Campbell — 2026-09-24T15:14:08-04:00

I’ve been a beauty editor for more than a decade, which means I’ve seen a lot of new things come and go. I’ve watched everyone become obsessed with the same ingredient. I’ve received five versions of essentially the same product in one week. And I’ve sat through more presentations about glow than I could possibly count. So when I saw Molly Sims’s emotional Instagram video calling out another beauty brand for allegedly copying her, I understood why she was upset. But I also made me think, is anything in beauty actually original anymore?

Earlier this month, Jones Road Beauty, the makeup brand founded by Bobbi Brown, launched a new brightening concealer and neutralizer called Wide Awake. There was just one problem: Sims’s skincare brand, YISE Beauty, already sells a popular product called Wide Awake Brightening & Depuffing Eye Cream. It launched more than two years ago and has become one of the brand’s best sellers.

Sims posted an emotional video addressing the similarities. According to Sims, the issue wasn’t simply two brands landing on the same two words. She said the marketing copy and campaign also felt “too close to home.” YISE had previously used a hotline concept in a campaign; Jones Road’s Wide Awake rollout similarly included a hotline where shoppers could call for shade and undertone advice.

Brown responded quickly. She apologized, said Jones Road had not realized YISE had a product with the same name and announced that the company would rename its new launch. Brown also said Jones Road had conducted a trademark search before launching and found no ownership of Wide Awake. She later said the company plans to strengthen its vetting process with more competitive research and potentially longer launch timelines.

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Case closed, right? Well, not exactly. YISE wasn’t actually the first beauty brand to put the words “Wide Awake” on an under-eye product and scores of other brands got in on the who copied who debate. Within days of the Sims/Brown debate, Fenty Skin, Glow Recipe and Huda Beauty all started teasing hydrogel eye patches packaged in nearly identical cylindrical dispensers. Twist the top and the mechanism slices off a fresh eye patch. It’s incredibly satisfying to watch—and apparently several brands thought so. Korean beauty brand Wonder Bath had already released its own version of the technology in July.

That doesn’t mean Sims didn’t have a reason to feel frustrated. Product development is expensive! And, building consumer recognition around a product takes years.

However, everyone is chasing the same trends, ingredients, aesthetics and language. Peptides are everywhere, and then exosomes are everywhere until the next buzzy ingredient comes along. One brand launches a lip oil and six months later I have 14 sitting on my desk. Someone makes brown mascara cool again and now every brand has one.

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Consumers see identical packages and understandably think, Who copied whom? But that isn’t necessarily how beauty products get made. Brands can work with the same (or, really, competing) manufacturers, labs and packaging suppliers. They attend the same trade shows and see presentations about the same emerging technologies. They also see the same trend forecasts. And they’re all trying to predict what you and I will want to buy 12, 18 or 24 months from now.

But I also think we’re reaching a point where we need to separate copying from convergence. There are only so many ways to tell consumers an eye product will make them look less tired. There are only so many buzzy ingredients available at any given moment. And when every brand is simultaneously watching the same trends, working within the same manufacturing ecosystem and trying to appeal to the same Sephora shopper, overlap is inevitable.

I’ve covered this industry long enough to know that when one idea hits, 15 more versions are right behind it. The question, then, may no longer be who did it first? But, rather, who did it best?

Netflix’s #6 Show Is the Thrilling Serial-Killer Binge Everyone’s Watching

Danielle Long — 2026-09-24T12:04:58-04:00

When it comes to the shows and movies viewers can’t seem to stop watching, there are definitely some recurring themes. Sure, a good rom-com like The Summer I Turned Pretty or Crew Girl can pull us in, and psychological thrillers such as The Girlfriend and The Better Sister are always good for a binge. But there’s another genre that seems to have a permanent spot on Netflix’s Top 10: true crime.

Case in point? I Survived a Serial Killer, which is currently sitting at number six on Netflix’s Top 10 shows list. The series arrived on the streamer September 15, but this isn’t a brand-new show. It originally aired on A&E in 2021 and features 16 episodes, each running for less than 30 minutes.

Kyle Mazza/TheNEWS2 via ZUMA / SplashNews.com

As the title suggests, the series focuses on people who survived encounters with serial killers, putting their firsthand accounts front and center. Their stories are brought to life through expert commentary, scene recreations and the survivors’ own memories of what happened.

The crimes featured in I Survived a Serial Killer span decades and take place across the country, from California to New York and Michigan to Florida.

The series also covers several notorious killers, including Richard Beasley, aka The Craigslist Killer; Ángel Reséndiz, known as The Railroad Killer; David Parker Ray, The Toy Box Killer; Lonnie Franklin Jr., The Grim Sleeper; Rodney Alcala, The Dating Game Killer; and Gary Heidnik, The House of Horrors Killer.

Many of the survivors featured in the series have stories with some unsettling similarities. Some were young when they encountered a stranger who asked for help, offered them a ride or followed them home. In several cases, their testimonies became important evidence in helping authorities bring their attackers to justice.

If true crime is your go-to genre, you may want to add this one to your watchlist.

I Survived a Serial Killer is streaming now on Netflix.

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Taylor Swift Just Teased the 'Patient Zero' Music Video and I Think It Confirms This Theory

Marissa Wu — 2026-09-24T11:30:26-04:00

Real question: Does Taylor Swift even sleep? I've pondered this endlessly since her back-to-back release of folklore and evermore in 2020, and my puzzlement has continued as Swift embarked on a record-breaking tour, released three more albums—not counting her re-releases—got engaged, then married in Madison Square Garden and somehow still had it in her to do an encore for The Life of a Showgirl. I'm sweating thinking about it. Because in addition to the addendum, Swift is also debuting a music video at the VMAs this weekend, co-starring Dakota Johnson and Colin Farrell. The teaser clip posted to the "All Too Well" singer's Instagram account this morning only confirms the trail of Easter Eggs she's been leaving since the Emmys. But I also think that it's doubling down on a theory I've been chasing for a while.

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The brief snippet seems to confirm two clues Swift left viewers during her Emmys sketch alongside Mariska Hargitay, when the pop star cryptically addressed the camera with the words "Saccharide, Aries, from the vineyard, north or south."

Johnson's appearance is allegedly confirmed by "north or south," seeing as the only state with cardinal directions in the name are the Dakotas. As for Farrell, his appearance was alluded to in "saccharide," as he plays John Sugar in the Apple TV+ drama, Sugar. He was also, notably, a friend of Elizabeth Taylor in the last years of the Hollywood legend's life, and we know that Swift has a mild obsession with the Cleopatra actress.

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Emmys Easter eggs aside, I'm still convinced that "Patient Zero" is pointing us to the re-release of Reputation, given how coded it is to Swift's sixth album. I mean, the gravestone is a blatant callback to "Look What You Made Me Do."

Then there are the triple zeros; 000 is the angel number for fresh starts. One fan pointed out on X that both Reputation and Swift's eponymous debut were new beginnings for her. One of the more enthusiastic predictions is that The Life of a Showgirl: The Encore is the beginning of a triple release, in which Reputation (Taylor's Version) and Taylor Swift (Taylor's Version) could follow.

Plus, there's the fact that 0:00 is midnight in military time. There's further speculation that she'll make an announcement at midnight tonight, or that she's referencing the announcement of her album, Midnights, at the 2022 VMAs. Who's to say she wouldn't repeat the spectacle with a mega-announcement this Sunday? But as with everything Swift, there's only one thing we can do: Wait for the mastermind to reveal all.

Ryan Murphy’s ‘Glee’ Reboot Just Hit a Major Milestone

Danielle Long — 2026-09-24T11:09:16-04:00

It’s definitely not unusual these days for a beloved show or movie to return. Just this month, Practical Magic 2 hit theaters, while A Different World premiered on Netflix, both around 30 years after their original runs. Now, another fan-favorite series could be getting the same treatment: Glee.

Ryan Murphy, one of the creators of the musical comedy-drama, appeared on Entertainment Tonight Wednesday, September 23, where he revealed that the potential reboot just reached a pretty major milestone.

“Well, funny you ask, cause I just finished the script an hour ago,” the Emmy Award winner said. “So, we have a script.”

"Brad [Falchuk], Ian [Brennan] and I, who wrote all the first two seasons, have written something," he added.

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And it sounds like some of the original cast could be on board, too.

"I’ve been in touch with around 10 of the original cast members. It’s very sweet, and they all had a lot of questions, but they all were very enthusiastic about the idea,” he said. “Nobody’s read it, so I don’t know, we’ll see. I vowed to myself that I wanted to write a couple of them to see what people think, particularly the cast, cause we were very close when we were making it.”

The original Glee ran for six seasons from 2009 to 2015, earning 40 Emmy nominations and six wins along the way.

The series starred Lea Michele, Cory Monteith, Amber Riley, Chris Colfer, Dianna Agron, Naya Rivera, Heather Morris, Kevin McHale, Jenna Ushkowitz, Darren Criss, Harry Shum Jr. and Mark Salling as members of the New Directions glee club. Later seasons introduced Chord Overstreet, Melissa Benoist, Alex Newell, Becca Tobin and more.

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Of course, no Glee recap would be complete without mentioning Matthew Morrison’s Will Schuester and Jane Lynch’s scene-stealing Sue Sylvester.

There’s no timeline for a potential reboot just yet, but in the meantime, fans can revisit all six seasons on Hulu or Disney+.

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Stitch Fix Celebrates Back-to-School with a Stylish Drop Off Club for Moms

Rachel Bowie — 2026-09-24T10:48:33-04:00

The rain stopped and the sun came out just as New York City moms were finally given a moment to exhale. In part, it was the fact that they had finally dropped their kids off at school. But it was also because they were invited to the Stitch Fix Drop Off Club, a Soho-based retreat where they could leave the chaos and rush of the back-to-school morning routine behind and, at long last, get a moment to themselves.

Fancy coffee was served; so were plenty of delicious pastries. But most important of all, the Stitch Fix Drop Off Club offered a chance to meet with Favorite Daughter co-founder Sara Foster and celebrate her brand-new collaboration with Stitch Fix, all centered around the topic of the day: school drop-off.

Moms know: It’s a special (and relatable) club to be a part of. That moment when you stroll up to school and pass your kiddos off to the teacher. But it’s also a moment that’s full of opportunities for new connections and self-expression. With help from the stylists at Stitch Fix, the drop-off routine can be centered around confidence. What we wear plays a huge part.

This is where Foster’s collab is totally apropos. From Favorite Daughter’s Drop Off Club Half Zip to the Drop Off Club Tee, it’s easy for moms managing the morning to dress to impress. (Other stylish options from Stitch Fix were also on display at the event, from Z Supply’s Europa Polka Dot Slip Skirt to their Prep Rally Polo Sweatshirt.)

Getting dressed is easy and confidence is inevitable when Stitch Fix has your back. Scroll on for an inside look at more behind-the-scenes moments from the event.

Rachel Bowie

Aside from the elegant sips and delectable pastries, the “confidence mirror” welcomed attendees into the event.

Rachel Bowie

The vibe was intimate; the crowd conversational. But best of all, there were QR codes to shop all the “Drop Off Club” styles amongst other selects from Z Supply, Alex Mill and more.

Rachel Bowie

The Drop Off Club T-shirt was on display throughout the event. It was also worn by plenty of attendees, a versatile option that was also the perfect look to mark the occasion.

Rachel Bowie

It’s hard to match the confidence and self-expression that results from the start of a new school year for moms. The Stitch Fix Drop Off Club offered the ultimate escape to celebrate that moment.

I Tried the Viral Neko Health Full-Body Scan, Here’s What I Learned About My Health

Deena Campbell — 2026-09-24T09:20:03-04:00

I’m exactly the kind of person a full-body health scan is designed to entice. Tell me that in about an hour you can collect millions of data points about my heart, blood, skin and metabolic health—and give me the results before I leave—and you have my full attention. So when I had the opportunity to try the Neko Health Scan during a trip to London, I was intrigued. Could one appointment really tell me something meaningful about my health? And, perhaps more importantly, would knowing more actually make me feel better?

After going through the experience and speaking with an independent physician about what these kinds of screenings can and can’t tell us, I realized the answer is a little more complicated than a simple yes or no.

What Is a Neko Health Body Scan?

Original Photo by Deena Campbell

Neko Health is a health technology company founded by Spotify co-founder Daniel Ek and Hjalmar Nilsonne. It opened its first clinic in Stockholm in 2023 and is essentially a preventive health assessment designed to collect a large amount of information about your body in one visit. The appointment takes around 60 minutes and combines millions of data points related to cardiovascular health, blood markers, skin, circulation and metabolic health.

Unlike some full-body scans that rely on CT scans or other imaging technology, the Neko experience is non-invasive and radiation-free. And, you don’t have to wait days (or spend hours spiraling while refreshing a patient portal) to get your results. They’re available during the same visit, and afterward, you sit down with a clinician who walks you through what was found, explains what it means and discusses any potential next steps.

My Experience Getting the Neko Health Scan in London

The first thing that struck me was how enjoyable my experience felt. This wasn’t an hour filled with fluorescent lights, stiff paper gowns and sitting in a waiting room wondering when someone would call my name. My experience was streamlined, modern and, frankly, a little futuristic.

Original Photo by Deena Campbell

The scan itself was surprisingly easy. My heart and arterial health were assessed using an ECG, pulse measurements taken at multiple locations and microcirculation checks. A quick on-site blood draw tested cholesterol (including LDL and HDL), blood sugar markers, inflammation and basic liver and kidney function. High-resolution photography mapped my entire body, tracking moles and other skin markings to look for irregularities.

It’s also important to understand what Neko isn’t looking at. Despite being called a full-body scan this isn’t an MRI, CT scan or ultrasound, and it isn’t designed to look deep inside your internal organs. It also doesn’t include extensive hormone panels, genetic testing or a deep dive into vitamins and minerals. In other words, there’s a lot of information being collected, but there are also plenty of things the scan simply doesn’t assess. But my favorite part wasn’t the technology. It was what came afterward.

Rather than sending me home with a portal full of numbers I would inevitably Google at midnight, I sat down with a clinician who walked me through my results. We could discuss what looked good, what deserved attention and what (if anything) I should do next.

The Results

The results didn’t just tell me where my health stands right now; they also offered projections of where it could be headed. For instance, based on my current health data, Neko was able to project where my blood sugar could be in the next 30 years. It’s a little surreal to see a graph attempting to map out your health decades into the future, but it also made some of the numbers feel more actionable. Rather than simply being told, “This is your blood sugar today,” I could see what staying on my current trajectory might mean down the road.

Then there was my skin. The scan identified 1,740 skin markings, which sounds objectively alarming. Apparently, I’m basically a walking mole. But despite that very large number, none of the markings were flagged as something I needed to monitor or have evaluated further. It was a good example of how the sheer quantity of information the scan provides can sound much scarier than what the results actually mean.

After my scan, I spoke with Dr. Gina Zarella, a board-certified family medicine physician in Pembroke, MA, who is not affiliated with Neko Health, to better understand how much weight people should actually give results like these. According to Zarella, a scan like Neko’s can provide useful information about cardiovascular and metabolic risk, circulation and certain skin findings. But she cautions against treating a reassuring result as proof that everything in your body is fine.

An all clear, she explained, only applies to the conditions and risk factors that were actually assessed. It isn’t a substitute for established preventive screenings like mammograms, Pap smears or colonoscopies. In other words, you can absolutely receive normal results from a Neko scan and still have an underlying health issue. The sheer volume of information makes the scan feel incredibly comprehensive, but comprehensive isn’t the same thing as exhaustive.

There’s another potential downside to collecting so much information: Sometimes you find things that don’t actually matter.

“The more things we measure in a person, the greater the chance that we’ll find something outside the normal range,” Zarella explains. In medicine, these are often called incidental findings. An unusual result doesn’t necessarily mean disease, but it can trigger additional appointments, tests and procedures—not to mention anxiety—only to eventually turn out to be benign.

That’s why, in her view, the clinician interpreting all of this data may be just as important as the technology collecting it. The challenge isn’t simply finding abnormalities; it’s knowing which ones deserve further investigation, and which can safely be left alone.

Are Body Scans the Future of Healthcare?

Most of us experience healthcare in pieces. You go to one doctor for an annual physical, another for a mammogram, another for a skin check and maybe another when something starts hurting. Test results trickle in, sometimes without much explanation, and it’s often up to the patient to connect the dots. Neko offers a very different vision: Gather a huge amount of health information efficiently, put it in one place and immediately have a clinician help you understand it.

But I don’t think the takeaway should be that one futuristic scan can replace traditional medicine. If anything, my experience made me think the most interesting future lies somewhere in between. Technology may make preventive health screening faster, easier and more comprehensive. But we still need physicians to interpret that information in the context of our symptoms, family history, age and individual risk factors. And we still need the screenings that decades of evidence tell us save lives.

And Americans are about to get the opportunity to try it for themselves. Neko Health will open its first U.S. clinic on September 24 at 300 Lafayette Street in New York City’s SoHo neighborhood, where its signature scan will cost $499. According to the company, more than 25,000 New Yorkers have already joined the waitlist. Globally, more than 350,000 people have joined the waitlist or registered for a Neko Health Scan, and more than 100,000 people in the U.K. and Sweden have already experienced one. Neko also says 75 percent of members book and prepay for their next scan at the end of their first appointment.

Original Photo by Deena Campbell

Those numbers suggest I’m far from the only person intrigued by the idea of getting this much health information in a single visit. Whether services like Neko eventually become a routine part of preventive healthcare remains to be seen—but after experiencing it, I understand why so many people want to find out.

The Bottom Line

Would I do the Neko Health Scan again? Yes. I liked having so much information gathered in one place, and I especially appreciated receiving my results immediately and discussing them with a clinician rather than being left alone to decipher them.

But I walked away with a slightly different perspective than I expected. The value of the scan isn’t that it can tell you everything about your health. It can’t. And a reassuring result isn’t permission to skip your mammogram, Pap smear, colonoscopy, annual physical or other recommended screenings. Instead, I see Neko as another tool in the preventive-health toolbox—a technologically impressive way to gather a lot of information quickly and potentially identify areas worth discussing with your doctor.

And for anyone feeling a little scanxiety,approximately 81 percent of Neko members are generally cleared as being in good health, with no further medical follow-up needed based on their scan results. That’s reassuring, but it’s also worth remembering the scan can only speak to the health markers and conditions it actually assesses.

I also left feeling like the data was something I could actually use, largely because of the clinician who walked me through it. She took the time to thoroughly explain what my numbers meant and help me understand what was considered normal; and, just as importantly, what I should keep an eye on. I brought that information back home to the U.S. feeling much more informed about my baseline health and the markers I want to continue monitoring with my doctors. My goal is to return to Neko annually, so I can compare my results year over year and see how my health is changing over time.

For me, the future of healthcare is not headed toward one magical test that tells us everything, but more about giving us better information earlier and, crucially, having a qualified medical professional there to help us understand what that information actually means.

The 70 Best Fall Movies to Watch on Repeat

Greta Heggeness — 2026-09-24T07:00:00-04:00

Fall is one of the most exciting times of the year—and not just because of the Starbucks Fall menu and group Halloween costumes. While I can't resist a good fall activity, be it apple picking or pumpkin carving, nothing beats curling up with a blanket and binge-watching fall movies (Practical Magic 2, anyone?).

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For instance, there's the stunning autumn backdrop in When Harry Met Sally and the cozy nostalgia of Matilda. Or, if you're eager to usher in spooky season, you can take a virtual trip to Salem, Massachusetts, and revisit the Sanderson sisters in Hocus Pocus. *Cue Bette Midler singing “I Put A Spell On You.”* And let's not forget about all the back-to-school viewing, whether you want something funny like Election or retro like Grease.

Fortunately, streaming services like Netflix, Hulu and Prime Video offer a plethora of options to remind us of the season, from Halloween-themed mysteries to quirky Thanksgiving comedies. Keep reading for 70 of the best fall movies to add to your queue, including Harry Potter, Dead Poets Society and more.

Maddie Rizzo/PureWow

While the list is vast, I've created this quick cheat sheet (above) of the best of the best fall movies at a glance. Practical Magic hits all the right notes, being spooky, nostalgic and cozy at the same time. You've Got Mail delivers ultimate "fall in New York" vibes, while you can't beat The Nightmare Before Christmas or E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial for some classic haunted (but still kid-friendly) fun.

1. Practical Magic (1998)

Cast: Sandra Bullock, Nicole Kidman, Stockard Channing, Dianne Wiest, Goran Visnjic
Director: Griffin Dunne
Run Time: 1 hour 44 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 31% | IMDb 6.4/10
Genre: supernatural fantasy
Rating: PG-13

Gear up for Halloween with Sally and Gillian, two sisters who have avoided magic their entire lives. However, when Gillian’s boyfriend (spoiler alert!) dies unexpectedly, they’re forced to channel their family’s dark powers for the very first time.

“Practical Magic is my ultimate fall comfort food,” says PureWow Senior Director of Special Projects and Royals Rachel Bowie. “It definitely has some spookier plot twists partway through, but the vibes are full-on fall and the soundtrack is also one that I listen to on repeat as soon as September hits. (Stevie Nicks, FTW.) I especially love the sisterly bond between Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock and the rom-com flair set against a backdrop of autumnal hues and cozy fall ensembles.”

From its honest depiction of grief to that epic final scene, it's no wonder the movie gained a cult following (and a sequel).

2. Practical Magic 2 (2026)

Cast: Sandra Bullock, Nicole Kidman, Maisie Williams, Joey King, Lee Pace
Director: Susanne Bier
Run Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 36% | IMDb 6.3/10
Genre: supernatural fantasy
Rating: PG-13

Kidman's Gillian once again plays the freewheeling foil to Bullock's tightly wound Sally, and their dynamic is even more delightful this time around, as they travel to England to fight a force that's threatening Sally's daughter Kylie (played by Joey King). As scary as the reason for this adventure is, sisterly antics ensue.

According to PureWow's Senior Commerce Editor Stephanie Maida, "What I didn't prepare for were the many, many tears I ended up shedding throughout the movie. Wary as I was going into it, the sequel ultimately won me over not by appealing to my nostalgia—or even my love of whimsical fashion and interiors, of which there is both in droves—but by capturing the emotions that come with the changing phases of one's life, family and sense of self, as well as the bonds that stay strong through it all. Although there are a couple of romantic storylines woven into the plot, I was also touched by how they seemed to play second fiddle to what felt like the real love story of the film: sisterhood."

Watch in theaters

3. The Craft (1996)

Cast: Robin Tunney, Fairuza Balk, Neve Campbell
Director: Andrew Fleming
Run Time: 1 hour 41 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 57% | IMDb 6.4/10
Genre: supernatural fantasy
Rating: R

In the midst of fall, Sarah transfers to a new school and befriends a coven of witches. The only problem? They’re all keen on taking advantage of her telekinetic powers. If you're a fan of Heathers, add this feminist teen horror to your Halloween playlist.

Per PureWow's Senior Commerce Editor Stephanie Maida, "Although it certainly stands as a cautionary tale against getting involved in dark magic, I have to admit this movie was my witchy awakening. (Me and my friends played 'Light as a Feather, Stiff as a Board' at slumber parties forever after.) There are some seriously scary scenes that creep me out no matter how many times I've seen them, but between its incredible '90s fashion and wickedly campy performances (especially by Fairuza Balk, my queen), it's an endlessly rewatchable classic. And I'll always quote that iconic line: 'We are the weirdos, mister.'"

4. Beetlejuice (1988)

Cast: Michael Keaton, Alec Baldwin, Geena Davis
Director: Tim Burton
Run Time: 1 hour 32 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 83% | IMDb 7.5/10
Genre: dark comedy
Rating: PG

A family buys a new house only to learn it’s haunted by the previous owners, who were killed in a car accident. While trying to get rid of the ghosts, they accidentally summon a spirit named Beetlejuice. (Psst, after you revisit this Halloween fan-favorite, you might want to go see the remake, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, which, according to Associate Commerce Strategist Jael Rucker, is "a dive into teenage angst and a mysterious afterlife portal.")

PureWow's own Editor-in-Chief Jillian Quint said, "Wow, this movie is unhinged (in the best way). Michael Keaton flexes his comedic skills and lets his freak flag fly, and the Tim Burton aesthetic is on full display. We watch every year with our tweens and they love it and it's totally appropriate (despite one very notable F-bomb!)"

5. Good Will Hunting (1997)

Cast: Robin Williams, Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, Minnie Driver and Stellan Skarsgård
Director: Gus Van Sant
Run Time: 2 hours 6 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 97% | IMDb 8.3/10
Genre: romance/drama
Rating: R

The Oscar-winning film follows Will Hunting, a young genius who spends his days cleaning as a janitor at MIT. However, when he solves a graduate-level math problem at the beginning of the school year, Professor Gerald Lambeau takes notice and realizes his potential. Thanks to the educational themes and lessons, it's ideal viewing for back-to-school season. (Also, did you know this story is based on a real-life incident involving Damon's brother, Kyle?)

According to PureWow's Associate Social Strategist Rachel Schleider, "I recently watched Good Will Hunting for the first time and have to admit that I really was missing out. It's such a human story that is so much more than just a movie about 'being a genius.' Needless to say, have a box (or two) of tissues on hand if you're planning to watch."

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6. Dead Poets Society (1989)

Cast: Robin Williams, Robert Sean Leonard, Ethan Hawke
Director: Peter Weir
Run Time: 2 hours 8 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 85% | IMDb 8.1/10
Genre: coming of age
Rating: PG

Two words: Robin Williams. He is simply phenomenal as the free-spirited Mr. Keating, a new teacher who gets hired at an all-boys preparatory school. Although the facility is known for structure and tradition, he implements an unorthodox method of teaching, and it has a life-changing impact on one particular student: Neil.

Per PureWow Editor Rachel Bowie, "Ethan Hawke, Josh Charles, Robin Williams—the cast of this film is full of all-stars, many of whom are at the start of what we now know to be lengthy film careers. When I first watched it, I was unprepared for the penultimate scene and how moving it is. 'O Captain, My Captain!'"

7. E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial (1982)

Cast: Henry Thomas, Drew Barrymore, Peter Coyote, Robert Macnaughton, K.C. Martel
Director: Steven Spielberg
Run Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 99% | IMDb 7.9/10
Genre: sci-fi
Rating: PG

“E.T. is one of those movies that will forever and always hold up,” says PureWow Editor-in-Chief Jillian Quint. “I love it as a fall watch, with the back-to-school vibes (dissection gone wrong, anyone?) and an epic Halloween debacle.”

For those out of the know, this classic gem tells the tale of a young boy, Elliot, who befriends a lost alien, dubbed “E.T.” With the help of his siblings, he tries to keep his new companion safe from his parents (and the fall weather). I could go on about how much I enjoy revisiting this timeless classic, from young Barrymore's memorable performance to the universal themes of friendship and loyalty. The plot is also fun and simple enough for kids to follow, so it's a great option for family movie night.

8. Casper (1995)

Cast: Bill Pullman, Christina Ricci, Cathy Moriarty, Eric Idle, Ben Stein and the voice of Malachi Pearson
Director: Brad Silberling
Run Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 52% | IMDb 6.2/10
Genre: supernatural fantasy
Rating: PG

Meet Casper, a kind ghost who lives in a haunted mansion in Maine. When a paranormal specialist brings his teenage daughter to the house, his seemingly peaceful life is flipped upside down.

“Casper was one of my favorites as a kid. Really cute and will get you into the fall/Halloween spirit,” shares PureWow Vice President of News and Entertainment, Philip Mutz. “It definitely showed a much different side of Christina Ricci than her portrayal of Wednesday Addams.”

Ideal for families who are looking for an upbeat fall movie, Casper thoughtfully explores loss and grief as the friendly ghost discovers the foibles of falling in love while accosted by his trouble-making uncles. Not to mention, Ricci's performance is award-worthy.

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9. When Harry Met Sally (1989)

Cast: Billy Crystal, Meg Ryan, Carrie Fisher
Director: Rob Reiner
Run Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 89% | IMDb 7.7/10
Genre: romantic comedy
Rating: R

From the Pictionary scene to the iconic "I'll have what she's having" joke, it's no surprise When Harry Met Sally is considered one of Rob Reiner's best. In the film, Harry and Sally, a pair of quirky New Yorkers, debate over whether men and women can really be friends. The film features plenty of fall fashion and scenes of Harry and Sally walking through the park in the autumn, but the sizzling chemistry between Crystal and Ryan is what makes this rom-com truly shine.

“When Harry Met Sally has been my favorite movie since early college,” says PureWow Assistant Editor of Branded Content Madeline Merinuk. “It harkens me back to a time when I imagined living in New York was as Nora Ephron-coded as this movie pans it out to be: Friends-to-lovers tropes abound, always being able to wear amazing wool blazers, strolling through parks when the leaves are at their most colorful in late fall. The soundtrack is one of the best, ever, with big band and cozy jazz sung primarily by Harry Connick Jr. I also just love Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal in general—but together, they're totally dynamite. And I still cry at the end every time.”

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10. Election (1999)

Cast: Matthew Broderick, Reese Witherspoon, Chris Klein, Jessica Campbell and Phil Reeves
Director: Alexander Payne
Run Time: 1 hour 42 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 92% | IMDb 7.2/10
Genre: dark comedy
Rating: R

This is a comical tale about a group of students who are running for student body president, but trust me, there's more to it than meets the eye. For one, their less-than-ethical tactics will transport you right back to high school. But the writing is also fantastic, and the film has plenty to say about morality, entitlement and political systems.

“Election is so funny, but definitely for those who have a dark sense of humor,” Mutz says. “Reese Witherspoon at her best as the unstoppable Tracy Flick.”

11. To All The Boys I've Loved Before (2018)

Cast: Lana Condor, Noah Centineo, Janel Parrish, Anna Cathcart, Andrew Bachelor and Trezzo Mahoro
Director: Susan Johnson
Run Time: 1 hour 39 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 96% | IMDb 7/10
Genre: romantic comedy
Rating: TV-14

“September always puts me in a back-to-school, autumn mood,” says PureWow Editor, SEO and Audience Development, Marissa Wu. “To All the Boys is right on the mark, starting with a new school year and the foibles of a high school love triangle. It’s one of my favorite rom-coms, simply because it’s incredibly sweet and wholesome. Lara Jean reminds me of myself when I was 16. I’ve probably watched the movie a few times now—and I totally recommend watching the trilogy. You’ll be a puddle.”

The Netflix adaptation of Jenny Han’s best-selling novel follows Lara Jean Covey (Lana Condor). Lara Jean loves the idea of being in love, but has never actually been in love, instead content to write her feelings down in a series of love letters with no intention of sending them. That is, until her younger sister does the deed for her. Sure, the premise is far-fetched, but I can't tell you how much I adore watching Condor and Noah Centineo together (the latter as her love interest, Peter Kavinksy). The movie reminds me of my nerve-wracking first day of high school, and I especially appreciate the sibling dynamic between Lara and her sister.

Watch on Netflix

12. Hocus Pocus (1993)

Cast: Bette Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker, Kathy Najimy, Omri Katz, Thora Birch and Vinessa Shaw
Director: Kenny Ortega
Run Time: 1 hour 36 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 40% | IMDb 6.9/10
Genre: dark fantasy
Rating: PG

“Who doesn’t love Hocus Pocus? Bette, Kathy and SJP as witches?! Brilliant casting,” Mutz raves. “And ‘I Put a Spell on You’ will go down as one of the best movie musical numbers of all time.”

The iconic film centers on the protagonist, Max, who moves to Salem, Massachusetts, from L.A. with his family. Despite Salem’s reputation, Max is unbothered by the town’s haunted past, exploring the abandoned Sanderson cottage with his friends. As a result, he accidentally frees a coven of witches who are determined to become immortal. I'll confess, I always have a bone to pick with Max's character, but this quirky, feel-good classic never fails to lift my spirits. (And who could get tired of the Sanderson Sisters?)

13. The Spectacular Now (2013)

Cast: Miles Teller, Shailene Woodley, Kyle Chandler and Brie Larson
Director: James Ponsoldt
Run Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 91% | IMDb 7/10
Genre: coming of age
Rating: R

In The Spectacular Now, which is based on Tim Tharp's novel of the same name, Aimee’s future plans are put on hold when she meets Sutter, a popular party animal who becomes an unexpected love interest. But how will the school year affect their relationship? Both Teller and Woodley portray their characters in such an authentic way that I can't help but root for them. And if you're drawn to cozy, coming-of-age tales that aren't cheesy and predictable, this will do the trick.

“This movie shimmers with the promise of young love, possibility and the terror of growing up,” says PureWow Senior Editor Dana Dickey. “Miles Teller and Shailene Woodley are achingly convincing as the opposites-attract central couple, and you'll not soon forget Teller's vulnerability behind his party boy facade. Is it a happy ending? Everyone has their own idea.”

14. St. Elmo's Fire (1985)

Cast: Demi Moore, Rob Lowe, Andrew McCarthy, Emilio Estevez, Judd Nelson and Ally Sheedy
Director: Joel Schumacher
Run Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 42% | IMDb 6.4/10
Genre: coming of age
Rating: R

“St. Elmo’s Fire is peak fall energy: Post-college melancholy, oversized blazers, cigarette smoke curling through Georgetown brownstones. It captures that messy, in-between stage of your twenties where friendships feel like lifelines and heartbreak feels like the end of the world,” says PureWow Associate Editor Sydney Meister. “And watching it in the fall just hits different—the dark wood bars, rain-slicked streets and book-lined apartments make every scene feel like it was designed for sweater weather.”

That being said, if you've got family members who are entering college this fall, make sure you stream this movie together when they're back for Thanksgiving break. In the Joel Schumacher film, a group of recent college graduates navigate adulthood for the very first time. I truly enjoyed following their journey as they attempted to find themselves as individuals, all while leaning on each other for support. And thanks to its coming-of-age themes, it'll remind you of the high schoolers from The Breakfast Club.

15. Parasite (2019)

Cast: Kang-ho Song, Sun-kyun Lee, Yeo-jeong Jo, Woo-sik Choi, So-dam Park and Jeong-eun Lee
Director: Bong Joon Ho
Run Time: 2 hours 12 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 99% | IMDb 8.5/10
Genre: psychological thriller
Rating: R

“Parasite seems like the most unlikely premise for a movie—a family sneaks into some other family's house and lives there?—but this wild ride of a story turns out to be half fable, half relatable commentary on today's world,” Dickey says. “By turns funny, suspenseful, touching and sad, this foreign-language film is a reason to put down the phone and really pay attention to the subtitles.”

The dazzling film follows two families. The Parks are unknowingly infiltrated by the Kim clan, who become employed by the wealthy family without revealing they’re related. Their chilling story will leave you with goosebumps that are totally unrelated to the fall weather, but perfect for Halloween. Fun fact: This is the first South Korean film to get nominated for an Academy Award—and it scored a golden trophy for Best Picture.

16. Halloweentown (1998)

Cast: Debbie Reynolds, Kimberly J. Brown, Judith Hoag, Joey Zimmerman, Phillip Van Dyke and Emily Roeske
Director: Duwayne Dunham
Run Time: 1 hour 24 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 83% | IMDb 6.5/10
Genre: comedy fantasy
Rating: TV-PG

Confession: I've seen this so many times that I've lost count. And yes, I've fantasized about getting my own Winsweeepter 5000—complete with a microchip directional system.

In this childhood favorite, Marnie discovers that she’s a witch on her 13th birthday. Join her as she follows her grandma to Halloweentown, a magical city where warlocks, trolls and zombies reside year-round. And I’m not the only PureWow staffer who loves it. Meister watches this flick with her sister every year, saying: “It never loses its magic. The giant glowing jack-o’-lantern in the town square, Debbie Reynolds sweeping in with her velvet cloaks and Marnie’s relentless determination to claim her witchy side. It’s like stepping into a childhood daydream, the kind of movie that makes October feel like October.”

17. Silver Linings Playbook (2013)

Cast: Bradley Cooper, Jennifer Lawrence, Robert De Niro
Director: David O. Russell
Run Time: 2 hours. 2minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 92% | IMDb 7.7/10
Genre: romantic comedy
Rating: R

After spending spending eight months in a mental institution, a former teacher moves back in with his mother and tries to reconcile with his ex-wife. He quickly makes a new, and also damaged friend. I can't promise pumpkins and foliage, but most of the film takes place and revolves around the fall football season.

According to PureWow's Social Content Manager Kate Kesselman, this is "an iconic movie that I can watch again and again. Jennifer Lawrence is incredible alongside Bradley Cooper, with the perfect mix of drama and romance. You’ll be smiling through the tears."

18. Lee Cronin's The Mummy (2026)

Cast: Jack Reynor, May Calamawy, Laia Costa, Natalie Grace, Billie Roy
Director: Lee Cronin
Run Time: 2 hours 14 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 45% | IMDb 6.1/10
Genre: horror
Rating: R

This isn't your momma's The Mummy (assuming your momma loved the Brendan Fraser version as much as I did). But it is a very scary take on a classic horror trope, one that you'll want to watch with the lights on while half covering your eyes.

A young girl goes missing in the desert, only to reappear eight years later. And though it should be a happy reunion, something sinister has taken control of her (naturally, it's an ancient Egyptian demon).

19. Booksmart (2019)

Cast: Kaitlyn Dever, Beanie Feldstein, Jessica Williams, Jason Sudeikis and Lisa Kudrow
Director: Olivia Wilde
Run Time: 1 hour 42 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 96% | IMDb 7.1/10
Genre: coming of age comedy
Rating: R

Fall is practically synonymous with back-to-school, and if you ask me, some of the best school stories revolve around senior year. Case in point? Olivia Wilde's Booksmart, which follows two best friends who attempt to make the most of their final year. Even if that means throwing their academics aside to focus on their social lives. Although the movie leads up to graduation day, it’s the perfect film to get you geared up for fall.

According to PureWow Social Creator Brianna Diaz, "I first saw this film on a flight where I didn't have too much interest, but I thought it would help kill some time. To my surprise, I found myself laughing a lot and really enjoying this movie! It was silly, chaotic, unpredictable and included just the right amount of drama to add contrast in this comedy. Beanie Feldstein was hilarious, and she and Kaitlyn Dever made a perfect duo. If you're like me and you prefer rewatching your same comfort list of films, crave an early 2000s coming-of-age/teen drama style and just enjoy something that's an easy watch, Booksmart fits your criteria!"

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20. Remember The Titans (2000)

Cast: Denzel Washington, Will Patton, Wood Harris, Ryan Hurst, Donald Faison and Craig Kirkwood
Director: Boaz Yakin
Run Time: 1 hour 53 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 71% | IMDb 7.8/10
Genre: docudrama
Rating: PG

Inspired by the life of Herman Boone, this sports drama follows a new head coach who attempts to integrate a high school football team in a small Virginia town. PureWow Vice President of Editorial Candace Davison calls this “one of the best football movies of all time.” She says, “It's peak Denzel Washington, with inspiring speeches and a powerful storyline. Plus, I guarantee you'll be singing 'We are the titans, the mighty, mighty titans,' for days afterward.”

Given the time period, Boone’s task is naturally a challenging one. As the story unfolds, the question remains. Will this attempt at integration interfere with the school’s renowned football legacy? Whether you're a football fan or you're celebrating back-to-school season, you'll appreciate the sharp social commentary and, of course, Washington's stellar performance.

21. It's The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown (1966)

Cast: Peter Robbins, Christopher Shea, Sally Dryer, Kathy Steinberg
Director: Bill Melendez
Run Time: 25 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 95% | IMDb 8.1/10
Genre: comedy
Rating: TV-G

“It’s The Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown is a classic,” Meister says. “Rustling leaves, pumpkin patch anticipation and a hand-drawn coziness that instantly takes me back. I still laugh at Lucy bossing everyone around, which hits close to home since my parents’ favorite phrase is ‘OK, Lucy van Pelt’ when I get sassy. Maybe that’s why I dole out dating advice for a living now.”

This family-friendly fall classic follows the Peanuts gang, all of whom are excited to celebrate Halloween. Meanwhile, Charlie gets invited to his first party and Linus eagerly awaits the arrival of The Great Pumpkin. It’s a charming classic that’s bound to bring out your inner child.

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22. Matilda (1996)

Cast: Danny DeVito, Rhea Perlman, Mara Wilson, Embeth Davidtz and Pam Ferris
Director: Danny DeVito
Run Time: 1 hour 38 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 92% | IMDb 7/10
Genre: comedy
Rating: PG

If the kids are nervous about starting school, you can assure them that it won't be as bad as Matilda's first day. Based on Roald Dahl's 1988 novel of the same name, this movie revolves around a young girl with a brilliant mind, and it goes unnoticed by her parents. However, everything changes when she enrolls in a new school and uses her telekinesis powers against the evil principal, Miss Trunchbull. Fair warning: You won't look at chocolate fudge cake the same way.

And while the movie is about a six-year old, the themes have surprising depth, making it a great fall watch for adults, too. Davison, who loved the book as a child, writes in a review: “As an elementary schooler, that’s what I loved about Matilda—it didn’t shy away from the dark stuff. It acknowledged that abuse and meanness existed in the world, and it didn’t talk down to kids. The pranks and telekinesis offered a buffer of humor, a levity that’d buoy you, as you rooted for the underdog. And, along the way, key lessons emerged, like the power of kindness (shown by Matilda’s teacher, Miss Honey) and the need to stand up for yourself and others, no matter how powerful your foe. Like the books Matilda reads, this story, too, teaches kids everywhere that they are not alone, in whatever they’re going through.”

23. Harry Potter And The Sorcerer's Stone (2001)

Cast: Daniel Radcliffe, Rupert Grint, Emma Watson, Richard Harris, Maggie Smith and Robbie Coltrane
Director: Chris Columbus
Run Time: 2 hours 32 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 81% | IMDb 7.6/10
Genre: fantasy
Rating: PG

Grab your wands and chocolate frogs. The fall movie follows Harry as he receives a letter from Hogwarts on his 11th birthday. He’s summoned to the magical boarding school, where he learns the truth about his parents’ deaths and begins to master his skills as a young wizard.

“I enjoyed reading the Harry Potter books and then watching the films—it’s kid-friendly dark academia and very autumnal, with every book and movie opening with the start of school. From the Great Hall to the Forbidden Forrest, things are just a tad spooky and appropriate for Halloween,” Wu says. (P.S., the follow-up films are equally fantastic, so I highly encourage you to turn this into a Harry Potter marathon.)

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24. Sweet Home Alabama (2002)

Cast: Reese Witherspoon, Patrick Dempsey, Josh Lucas
Director: Andy Tennant
Run Time: 1 hour 48 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 38% | IMDb 6.2/10
Genre: romantic comedy
Rating: PG-13

“Sweet Home Alabama is a peak Reese Witherspoon early aughts rom-com,” Davison says. “She really leans into the accent, and you can see how its NYC-power-player-returns-to-her-hometown backstory inspired pretty much every Hallmark holiday movie in the two decades since its debut. It's cheesy, yes, but charming—great ambient TV as you unwind after a long day.”

Witherspoon stars as New York-based fashion designer Melanie, who thinks she has it all now that she's engaged. However, before she can say “I do,” she must return to her charming hometown to get divorced from her childhood best friend—who refuses to sign the paperwork. This light-hearted fantasy is ideal if you're up for romance that'll help you relax on a chilly fall day.

25. The Addams Family (1991)

Cast: Christopher Lloyd, Anjelica Huston, Raul Julia, Christina Ricci and Dan Hedaya
Director: Barry Sonnenfeld
Run Time: 1 hour 39 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 67% | IMDb 6.9/10
Genre: dark comedy
Rating: PG-13

“I’m not one for the macabre or morbid, but The Addams Family (and the fabulous Angelica Huston) is one franchise I can get behind without feeling too squeamish. It’s a good balance of humor and horror, with unforgettable costuming and set design. As someone who’s weak for a good aesthetic, they nail it on all fronts,” Wu says.

In this 1991 hit, the Addams family is delighted to be reacquainted with Gomez’s long-lost brother, Fester. But this changes when they begin to suspect the man is a fraud. Think of it as a must-watch this fall. Why? It's spooky, super quotable ("Don't torture yourself, Gomez, that's my job") and it features an unforgettable feminist icon: Morticia Addams.

26. Grease (1978)

Cast: John Travolta, Olivia Newton-John, Stockard Channing, Didi Conn and Jeff Conaway
Director: Randal Kleiser
Run Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 66% | IMDb 7.2/10
Genre: musical
Rating: PG

Catchy tunes, awesome choreography, a solid cast and a dose of nostalgia? Sign me up. In Grease, Sandy and Danny fall in love and have an unforgettable summer. It's short-lived and they part ways—only to reunite that fall, when Sandy unknowingly enrolls in Danny’s school. *Cue “Summer Lovin’”*

“I recently watched Grease and it was so fun to see the inspiration behind High School Musical—another movie I love,” Wu says. “The ‘50s vibes, song and dance numbers and back-to-school setting had me ready for September to arrive in full force.”

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27. Addams Family Values (1993)

Cast: Anjelica Huston, Raul Julia, Christopher Lloyd, Christina Ricci
Director: Barry Sonnenfeld
Run Time: 1 hour 34 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 75% | IMDb 6.8/10
Genre: dark comedy
Rating: PG-13

In this Addams Family sequel, an evil nanny plots to murder Uncle Fester and take his inheritance while Wednesday and Pugsley are sent off to summer camp. From Wednesday’s brilliant Thanksgiving speech to the film’s macabre sense of humor, prepare to fall in love with the classic all over again. (And maybe follow up with Netflix's binge-worthy spin-off, Wednesday.) “The thing I love most about The Addams Family is how absurd everything is. From their obsession with the macabre to the wild, unrealistic plots, it’s so crazy, it’s funny instead of scary—something my scaredy-cat self can get behind,” Wu says. “The way this movie ends is just hilarious.”

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28. Coco (2017)

Cast: Anthony Gonzalez, Gael García Bernal, Benjamin Bratt
Director: Lee Unkrich, Adrian Molina
Run Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 97% | IMDb 8.4/10
Genre: supernatural fantasy
Rating: PG

Miguel, a 12-year-old aspiring musician, embarks on a magical adventure after he accidentally travels to the Land of the Dead. But along the way, he unearths a major family secret that could change one important person’s destiny. The Academy Award-winner features gorgeous visuals and doubles as a celebration of Latinx culture—particularly the Day of the Dead, which is celebrated on November 1.

“I seriously teared up while watching this movie,” Wu says. “It’s so heartwarming (despite all the skeletons, literally and figuratively), and the musical number, ‘Remember Me,’ had me in a total puddle.”

29. Little Women (2019)

Cast: Saoirse Ronan, Emma Watson, Florence Pugh, Eliza Scanlen, Laura Dern
Director: Greta Gerwig
Run Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 95% | IMDb 7.8/10
Genre: coming of age
Rating: PG

Arguably one of the best adaptations of the classic novel, Greta Gerwig offers a modern take on the story of four determined sisters who take charge of their own lives in 19th-century Massachusetts. This heartwarming period drama tackles identity, gender stereotypes and family dynamics, just to name a few. It also scored six Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture, and won for Best Costume Design.

“Though it opens with a Christmas scene, Little Women is the perfect segue from late fall to early winter,” Wu says. “There’s plenty of cozy vibes, big wool skirts and bulky scarves. It also follows the March sisters through the seasons—including autumn. I saw it when it premiered on a cold winter day in Paris and still remember feeling so touched and inspired at the girls’ determination to become little women. One of my favorite books and movies by far.”

30. Knives Out (2019)

Cast: Chris Evans, Daniel Craig, Jamie Lee Curtis
Director: Rian Johnson
Run Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 97% | IMDb 7.9/10
Genre: mystery whodunnit
Rated: PG-13

When Harlan Thrombey, a wealthy crime novelist, is found dead at his own party, everyone in his dysfunctional family becomes a suspect. I mainly included this murder mystery for Chris Evans’s famous sweater—and Dellner agrees. “It's the perfect chunky knit... even just thinking about it now is getting me excited for sweater weather,” she says. “Overall, it’s such a fun and entertaining whodunnit boasting an incredible cast (I could listen to Daniel Craig's southern drawl all day) and clever plot twists that will keep you guessing until the very end. The characters are hilarious and the dialogue is whipsmart!”

The warm hues will make you think of autumn and the family drama gives major Thanksgiving vibes—not to mention, that house?! Craig's performance is stellar, and did I mention that the storyline is seriously captivating?

31. Sweet November (2001)

Cast: Keanu Reeves, Charlize Theron, Jason Isaacs
Director: Pat O'Connor
Run Time: 1 hour 59 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 15% | IMDb 6.7/10
Genre: romantic drama
Rating: PG-13

I can appreciate a thoughtful, redemptive story that explores love and relationships, and Sweet November delivers on both of those fronts. After meeting at the DMV, Nelson and Sara establish an unconventional fall relationship, which is determined by a one-month trial. It's refreshing, it's captivating, and Theron delivers a brilliant performance as Sara.

32. About Time (2013)

Cast: Domhnall Gleeson, Rachel McAdams, Bill Nighy, Lydia Wilson and Lindsay Duncan
Director: Richard Curtis
Run Time: 2 hours 3 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 71% | IMDb 7.8/10
Genre: romantic comedy
Rating: R

When Tim turns 21, he’s surprised to learn he can travel in time. Although he can’t change the past, he uses his special ability to live every day to its fullest, especially ahead of the holidays. This feel-good flick was made for cozying up with your besties under a blanket and sampling some pumpkin-flavored treats. According to Dickey, the movie is "way more about the heart of a romantic underdog than it is any sci-fi trappings. Although, yes there's time travel. There's also Bill Nighy as the most charming dad, ever."

33. The Roommate (2011)

Cast: Minka Kelly, Leighton Meester, Cam Gigandet, Aly Michalka, Danneel Ackles and Frances Fisher
Director: Christian E. Christiansen
Run Time: 1 hour 31 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 3% | IMDb 4.8/10
Genre: horror
Rating: PG-13

It may not necessarily be fall-themed, but it's a thriller that's fitting for spooky season, season. If you're looking to ring in Halloween early, you can start with The Roommate, which will make you think twice about bunking with a random stranger. In the film, college freshman Sara Matthews is assigned to live with a fellow student, but it turns out to be a dangerous living arrangement.

34. The Blind Side (2009)

Cast: Quinton Aaron, Sandra Bullock, Tim McGraw, Jae Head, Lily Collins and Ray McKinnon
Director: John Lee Hancock
Run Time: 2 hours 9 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 66% | IMDb 7.6/10
Genre: docurama
Rating: PG-13

This emotional adaptation of Michael Lewis's book chronicles the life of NFL player Michael Oher, who manages to escape his life of poverty and find success with the help of his very type-A adopted mother. The inspirational fan-favorite tackles themes like privilege, prejudice and the power of resilience. And of course, it'll help fill the void of Friday night football.

35. The Nightmare Before Christmas (1993)

Cast: Danny Elfman, Chris Sarandon, Catherine O'Hara, William Hickey, Glenn Shadix and Paul Reubens
Director: Henry Selick
Run Time: 1 hour 16 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 95% | IMDb 7.9/10
Genre: dark fantasy
Rating: PG

Meet Jack Skellington, a beloved pumpkin king who experiences culture shock when he stumbles into Christmastown. As a result, he tries to take over the holiday, although things don't go according to plan. PureWow Executive Editor Dara Katz says, "I understand that maybe my 3-year-old shouldn't have been shown The Nightmare Before Christmas just yet...but the girl loves scary things and can't get enough of Jack Skellington as well as the music. 'Here comes Halloween!' is chanted regularly throughout our house."

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36. October Sky (1999)

Cast: Jake Gyllenhaal, Chris Cooper, Scott Thomas and Laura Dern
Director: Joe Johnston
Run Time: 1 hour 48 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 91% | IMDb 7.8/10
Genre: coming of age
Rating: PG

A coal miner wants his sons—Jim and Homer—to follow in his footsteps. Unfortunately, when fall approaches, the boys consider pursuing alternate career paths, which puts a wrench in their dad’s plan. BTW, the film's title, October Sky is an anagram of Rocket Boys, which is the name of the 1998 memoir (written by Lewis Colick) that inspired the film.

37. Coraline (2009)

Cast: the voices of Dakota Fanning, Teri Hatcher, Jennifer Saunders, Dawn French, Keith David
Director: Henry Selick
Run Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 91% | IMDb 7.8/10
Genre: dark fantasy
Rating: PG

The movie follows an 11-year-old girl named Coraline Jones, who discovers a secret doorway and stumbles into an alternate world. But little does she know that this mysterious new reality is as dangerous as it is beautiful. Directed by Henry Selick, the Oscar-nominated film has a dark and spooky tone that makes it fitting for Halloween. It also includes stunning visuals and explores so many timely themes, from family dynamics and morality to the importance of bravery.

38. Planes, Trains And Automobiles (1987)

Cast: Steve Martin, John Candy, Laila Robins
Director: John Hughes
Run Time: 1 hour 33 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 92% | IMDb 7.6/10
Genre: comedy
Rating: R

When their flight runs into issues, Del, a curtain ring salesman, and Neal, a marketing executive, embark on a fall road trip, with the latter hoping to make it in time for his family's Thanksgiving dinner. Unfortunately, things go terribly wrong. It’ll definitely put any hellish holiday travel experiences into perspective. Trust me.

39. Doctor Sleep (2019)

Cast: Ewan McGregor, Rebecca Ferguson, Kyliegh Curran
Director: Mike Flanagan
Run Time: 2 hours 32 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 78% | IMDb 7.3/10
Genre: supernatural horror
Rating: R

If you're into Halloween flicks that will keep you up at night, then consider this terrifying adaptation of Stephen King's 2013 novel. In Doctor Sleep, Dan is trying to live in peace, despite his traumatic childhood. When he meets a gifted teenager named Abra, they team up to battle a cult called the True Knot.

40. Autumn (2009)

Cast: Dexter Fletcher, Dickon Tolson, Lana Kamenov
Director: Steven Rumbelow
Run Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 14% | IMDb 3.2/10
Genre: horror
Rating: R

If you’re looking for a zombie horror film to kickstart Halloween, Autumn follows a group of people who survived a virus that killed millions. When the dead bodies begin to rise, the real fun begins. (P.S., this one's not for the faint of heart.)

41. You’ve Got Mail (1998)

Cast: Tom Hanks, Meg Ryan, Parker Posey, Jean Stapleton, Dave Chappelle
Director: Nora Ephron
Run Time: 1 hour 59 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 70% | IMDb 6.7/10
Genre: romantic comedy
Rating: PG

“This is one of my favorite rom-coms by far,” Wu says. “It’s the New York I dream about in the fall. Bookstores, cafés, a beautiful declaration of love on Riverside Drive...and now that I’ve finally watched The Godfather, I finally understand what it means to ‘go to the mattresses.’”

Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan star as two business owners and rivals who have no idea that their anonymous online romance is actually with each other. The feel-good rom-com includes two memorable Thanksgiving scenes and is sure to give you a dose of nostalgia. (Remember when “You’ve got mail” notifications were a thing?)

42. Clue (1985)

Cast: Eileen Brennan, Tim Curry, Madeline Kahn, Christopher Lloyd
Director: Jonathan Lynn
Run Time: 1 hour 34 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 72% | IMDb 7.3/10
Genre: mystery
Rating: PG-13

Clue is what you get when you mix a star-studded cast with slapstick humor, quotable one-liners and the most fascinating murder mystery. Considering the nostalgia factor and how Clue influenced so many Halloween costumes, it would feel irresponsible to not add this cult classic. Mutz says, “It would be a real struggle not to find something to laugh about in each minute of Clue.”

43. The Good Witch (2008)

Cast: Catherine Bell, Chris Potter, Catherine Disher, Peter MacNeill
Director: Craig Pryce
Run Time: 1 hour 29 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 65% | IMDb 7.1/10
Genre: fantasy
Rating: TV-PG

When a mysterious newcomer named Cassie Nightingale moves into an abandoned home in a small town, she opens up a unique shop and uses her abilities to change the lives of her new neighbors. The magical movie not only spawned six sequels, but it also inspired a successful series that ran seven seasons. Also, it became Hallmark Channel's second-highest-rated original movie when it premiered.

44. Autumn in New York(2000)

Cast: Richard Gere, Winona Ryder, Anthony LaPaglia
Director: Joan Chen
Run Time: 1 hour 43 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 20% | IMDb 5.6/10
Genre: romantic drama
Rating: PG-13

Will Keane, a restaurateur and ladies' man, strikes up an unlikely romance with a free-spirited young woman who's very ill. If you're looking for a poignant love story to give you all the feels, this is your best bet. And the stunning fall foliage is a nice bonus.

Watch on Apple TV

45. October Kiss (2015)

Cast: Ashley Williams, Sam Jaeger
Director: Lynne Stopkewich
Run Time: 1 hour 24 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 50% | IMDb 6.5/10
Genre: family comedy
Rated: TV-G

A young woman’s fear of commitment prevents her from pursuing any serious relationships, but when she gets hired as a nanny by an attractive single dad, she falls hard for her charming boss. The chemistry between the leads and the heartwarming storyline will have you grinning like a kid on Christmas morning. And you'll appreciate the pumpkins and autumn scenery.

Watch on hallmark+

46. Soul Food (1997)

Cast: Vanessa Williams, Vivica A. Fox, Nia Long, Michael Beach
Director: George Tillman Jr.
Run Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 82% | IMDb 7/10
Genre: comedy drama
Rating: R

Soul Food centers on the Joseph family, whose lives are turned upside down when the matriarch, who has always held the family together through Sunday dinners, falls ill and passes away. The awkward family dinners and heated arguments will give you all the Thanksgiving vibes, making you laugh one moment and get emotional the next. (Keep a tissue box handy.)

47. Harvest Love (2017)

Cast: Jen Lilley, Ryan Paevey
Director: Christie Will Wolf
Run Time: 1 hour 24 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 30% | IMDb 6.3/10
Genre: romantic comedy
Rated: TV-G

From the extensive library of Hallmark comes this feel-good drama, set against the backdrop of a gorgeous pear orchard. When a single surgeon visits her family’s farm to take a break from her busy life, she meets and falls in love with the farm’s manager. Naturally, a swoon-worthy romance ensues.

48. The Wiz (1978)

Cast: Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Nipsey Russell
Director: Sidney Lumet
Run Time: 2 hours 14 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 46% | IMDb 5.6/10
Genre: musical
Rating: G

Who can resist a modernized version of the Wizard of Oz, featuring the King of Pop? In this remake, Ross stars as a Harlem schoolteacher named Dorothy, who gets swept away to the Land of Oz while trying to save her dog. The film's classic opening sees Dorothy's family gathering for a Thanksgiving dinner, but it's her adventures in Oz that make the movie a must-see. I could never grow tired of watching Ross "ease on down the road" with the iconic MJ.

49. Sweet Autumn (2020)

Cast: Nikki Deloach, Andrew W. Walker, Daina Leitold
Director: Gary Yates
Run Time: 1 hour 24 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 40% | IMDb 6.4/10
Genre: romantic comedy
Rating: TV-G

An entrepreneur named Maggie is surprised to learn that her late aunt has left her maple farm to both her and a maple supplier. When she returns home during the fall to get to the bottom of her aunt's final wishes, she starts bonding with the charming supplier. Is it predictable? Sure, but this cozy romance will have you grinning by the time the credits roll.

50. Falling For Vermont (2017)

Cast: Julie Gonzalo, Benjamin Ayres
Director: David Winning
Run Time: 1 hour 24 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 52% | IMDb 6.9/10
Genre: romantic drama
Rating: TV-G

When Angela, a famous writer, gets into a car accident and loses her memory, she is put under the care of Jeff, a kind doctor in Vermont. She immediately hits it off with Jeff and takes a liking to his charming small town, prompting her to reevaluate her life and priorities. Expect the most adorable meet cute, autumn sights and a fun fall festival.

watch on prime video

51. Under The Autumn Moon (2018)

Cast: Lindy Booth, Wes Brown
Director: Gary Yates
Run Time: 1 hour 23 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 36% | IMDb 6.5/10
Genre: romantic comedy
Rating: TV-G

A hard-working executive is determined to convince her boss to purchase a ranch for company retreats. But when she visits the ranch, she learns the owner is refusing to sell—unless she can preserve the place’s history. To make matters even more complicated, her boss drops by with some ideas of his own. Can she find a way to appease her boss without letting down the owner?

Buy on Apple TV

52. Pumpkin Pie Wars (2016)

Cast: Julie Gonzalo, Eric Aragon
Director: Steven R. Monroe
Run Time: 1 hour 24 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 50% | IMDb /6.610
Genre: romantic comedy
Rating: TV-G

Over a decade ago, star bakers Faye and Lydia became rivals after participating in a Pumpkin Pie contest. And now, their children, Casey and Sam, are set to go head-to-head in the same contest. Except in this case, they start to fall for each other. Best enjoyed with a slice of everyone's favorite Thanksgiving dessert: Pumpkin pie.

53. Hubie Halloween (2020)

Cast: Adam Sandler, Kevin James, Julie Bowen, Ray Liotta
Director: Steven Brill
Run Time: 1 hour 43 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 52% | IMDb 5.3/10
Genre: comedy horror
Rating: PG-13

Hubie Dubois has one goal: to keep everyone in his hometown of Salem safe during the Halloween season. But this year will prove to be quite different from the rest…because there’s a real criminal on the loose, and he’s targeting residents. Sandler fans are in for a treat with this one.

54. The Lake House (2006)

Cast: Keanu Reeves, Sandra Bullock, Dylan Walsh, Shohreh Aghdashloo
Director: Alejandro Agresti
Run Time: 1 hour 39 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 35% | IMDb 6.8/10
Genre: romantic drama
Rating: PG

Bullock and Reeves star as two strangers from different time periods who start to communicate through letters left in the mailbox of a lake house. Over the course of two years, they continue to correspond and fall head over heels for each other. Does this mean they will they meet face-to-face? I don't know if it's the cozy vibes or the stunning orange sunset, but this romance feels perfect for autumn viewing.

watch on PRIME VIDEO

55. Friendsgiving (2020)

Cast: Malin Åkerman, Kat Dennings, Aisha Tyler, Chelsea Peretti, Jane Seymour, Wanda Sykes
Director: Nicol Paone
Run Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 19% | IMDb 4.4/10
Genre: comedy drama
Rating: R

If you've ever had to deal with surprise guests at your dinner table, then it's likely this comedy will resonate. In Friendsgiving, what starts as a quiet Thanksgiving dinner between two BFFs turns into utter chaos when a horde of uninvited guests crash their event. It's silly, raunchy and sure to make you laugh.

watch on PRIME VIDEO

56. Destination Wedding (2018)

Cast: Winona Ryder, Keanu Reeves
Director: Victor Levin
Run Time: 1 hour 27 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 51% | IMDb 6/10
Genre: romantic comedy
Rating: R

In this charming rom-com, Frank and Lindsay meet for the first time while traveling to a destination wedding. Unfortunately, during the journey, the two can't stop bickering. But as they spend more time together, they come to realize that they’re falling for one another. From sprawling vineyards to a stunning outdoor wedding, this feel-good film is the equivalent of a comfy blanket.

watch on PRIME VIDEO

57. Bedknobs and Broomsticks (1971)

Cast: Angela Lansbury, David Tomlinson, John Ericson
Director: Robert Stevenson, Ward Kimball
Run Time: 1 hour 57 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 67% | IMDb 7.1/10
Genre: adventure comedy
Rating: G

Need a family-friendly Halloween flick? Try Bedknobs and Broomsticks. Set during the Blitz in 1940, Miss Eglantine Price, a young woman who learns witchcraft, enlists the help of three children as she sets out to defeat the Nazis with her newfound powers. Fans of Mary Poppins will definitely enjoy this musical. Oh, and did I mention that it combines live-action and animation?

WATCH ON DISNEY+

58. A Perfect Pairing (2022)

Cast: Victoria Justice, Adam Demos, Luca Asta Sardelis
Director: Stuart McDonald
Run Time: 1 hour 41 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 53% | IMDb 6.1/10
Genre: romantic comedy
Rating: TV-14

Lola Alvarez, a wine-company executive, walks away from her job to follow her dream of starting her own wine business. But to make this a reality, she travels to a small town in Australia to win over a major client—and it turns out to be way more than she signed up for. The romance, picturesque vineyards and cozy campfires will give you all the fall vibes.

Watch on Netflix

59. School Ties (1992)

Cast: Brendan Fraser, Matt Damon, Chris O'Donnell, Randall Batinkoff, Ben Affleck
Director: Robert Mandel
Run Time: 1 hour 46 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 60% | IMDb 6.9/10
Genre: drama
Rating: PG-13

Fraser is David Greene, a Jewish high school student who gets a full athletic scholarship to an elite prep school. When he learns that his new friends hold antisemitic views, he decides to hide his religion in an attempt to fit in. The movie wasn't a box office success, but the cast is top-notch, and it deals with relevant issues like prejudice and freedom of religion. If you ask me, is a solid entry for kids who, like David, are starting at a new school in the fall.

Watch on Paramount+

60. Rudy (1993)

Cast: Sean Astin, Ned Beatty, Jason Miller, Robert Prosky, Charles S. Dutton
Director: David Anspaugh
Run Time: 1 hour 54 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 78% | IMDb 7.5/10
Genre: coming of age
Rating: PG-13

Inspired by the real-life story of Daniel "Rudy" Ruettiger, the film follows a boy who has big dreams of playing football at the University of Notre Dame, despite his lack of skills and facing multiple rejections. Directed by David Anspaugh, Rudy is considered one of the most inspiring films of all time. Add this to your list if you're a stickler for heartwarming family dramas.

61. Falling for You (2018)

Cast: Peter DeLuise, Taylor Cole, Tyler Hynes
Director: Peter DeLuise
Run Time: 1 hour 24 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes (N/A)% | IMDb 6.6/10
Genre: romantic comedy
Rating: TV-G

Orange hues, apple orchards and fall-themed treats are just a few things you'll spot in this Hallmark gem. In Falling for You, Lacey is determined to save her radio station, so she enlists the help of a handsome bachelor and plans a fundraising bakeoff. However, when he drops the ball, she's forced to turn to a visiting businessman who lives on his computer.

62. Autumn Dreams (2015)

Cast: Jill Wagner, Colin Egglesfield
Director: Neill Fearnley
Run Time: 1 hour 24 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 30% | IMDb 6.4/10
Genre: romantic comedy
Rating: TV-G

After spontaneously rushing to the altar to say, “I do,” a young couple decides to get their marriage annulled. Fifteen years later, after getting engaged to different people, they realize that their annulment was never finalized. Naturally, they reunite to legitimize the divorce, but there’s just one problem: their undeniable chemistry.

Watch on apple tv

63. The Edge of Seventeen (2016)

Cast: Hailee Steinfeld, Woody Harrelson, Kyra Sedgwick
Director: Kelly Fremon Craig
Run Time: 1 hour 44 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 94% | IMDb 7.3/10
Genre: coming of age
Rating: R

If you enjoy coming-of-age films that dive into themes like mental health and family dynamics, try The Edge of Seventeen. The movie follows 17-year-old Nadine, who struggles to navigate the ups and downs of high school when her best friend starts dating her older brother. FYI, this marked Kelly Fremon Craig's directorial debut.

64. Love at First Sight (2023)

Cast: Haley Lu Richardson, Ben Hardy, Dexter Fletcher, Rob Delaney, Sally Phillips, Jameela Jamil
Director: Vanessa Vaswill
Run Time: 1 hour 31 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 75% | IMDb 6.8/10
Genre: romantic drama
Rating: PG-13

I don't know about you, but charming rom-coms that prominently feature warm hues and orange sunsets immediately take me to autumn. And as someone who devoured Jennifer E. Smith's book of the same title in just a few days, I had a feeling I'd love this film. It follows Hadley and Oliver, two teenagers who fall in love on their flight to London, but suddenly lose each other at customs. As they get caught up in the whirlwind of their own lives, the odds of them finding each other again are slim to none. ...Or are they?

Watch on Netflix

65. What's Cooking? (2000)

Cast: Joan Chen, Julianna Margulies, Mercedes Ruehl, Victor Rivers, Douglas Spain
Director: Gurinder Chadha
Run Time: 1 hour 49 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 52% | IMDb 6.8/10
Genre: comedy drama
Rating: PG-13

Counting down the days to Thanksgiving? Perhaps this quirky dramedy will fill the void. What's Cooking? revolves around four different families as they are celebrate the holiday and prepare dinner. Each come from vastly different backgrounds but interstingly enough, they all share similar challenges, from awkward family encounters to kitchen disasters.

66. An Old Fashioned Thanksgiving (2008)

Cast: Jacqueline Bisset, Tatiana Maslany, Helene Joy, Kris Turner, Ted Atherton, Paula Boudreau, Vivien Endicott-Douglas
Director: Graeme Campbell
Run Time: 1 hour 28 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 52% | IMDb 6.5/10
Genre: drama
Rating: TV-PG

Based on a short story by Louisa May Alcott, the TV movie centers on a widow named Mary Bassett and her three children, who all reside on a farm. When Tilly sees that her mom can't afford to put food on the table for Thanksgiving dinner, she pens an exaggerated letter to her wealthy grandmother and enlists her help. Unfortunately, when Isabella arrives, Tilly’s mom isn’t thrilled.

67. Notes of Autumn (2023)

Cast: Ashley Williams, Luke Macfarlane, Marcus Rosner, Peter Porte
Director: Troy Scott
Run Time: 1 hour 24 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes N/A | IMDb 6.3/10
Genre: romantic comedy
Rating: G

Think The Holiday, but with an autumn backdrop and a fairytale Hallmark twist. Ellie, a classically-trained pianist, decides to swap homes with her best friend and novelist, Leo, when both of them find themselves stuck in a rut creatively. Will this help them reignite their passions?

68. Sleepy Hollow (1999)

Cast: Johnny Depp, Christina Ricci, Christopher Walken, Casper Van Dien
Director: Tim Burton
Run Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 71% | IMDb 7.3/10
Genre: spooky mystery
Rating: R

This was by far one of my favorites from childhood, with the ultimate spooky trio of Tim Burton, Johnny Depp and Christina Ricci. Based on the classic tale, Ichabod Crane arrives in the town of Sleepy Hollow to solve a mysterious case involving the Headless Horseman. Is the murderous being a Sleepy Hollow citizen in disguise? Or is something more sinister and supernatural going on...?

69. The Witches (2020)

Cast: Anne Hathaway, Octavia Spencer, Stanley Tucci
Director: Robert Zemeckis
Run Time: 1 hour 46 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 50% | IMDb 5.4/10
Genre: supernatural fantasy
Rating: PG

I will always and forever love the Anjelica Huston version of this Roald Dahl classic, however, the more recent Anne Hathaway adaptation is a delight in its own right. A young boy suddenly finds himself smack-dab in the middle of a wild conspiracy involving witches and their attempts to turn all children into mice. The family-friendly film is action packed, though probably a little too scary for especially young children.

70. Ghost (1990)

Cast: Patrick Swayze, Demi Moore, Whoopi Goldberg, Tony Goldwyn
Director: Jerry Zucker
Run Time: 2 hours 6 minutes
Reviews: Rotten Tomatoes 74% | IMDb 7.1/10
Genre: drama
Rating: PG-13

Despite its spooky name, this supernatural romance follows an epic love story that defies the laws of nature. It's a must-see classic drama starring some of Hollywood's heaviest hitters of the 1990s, including Swayze, Moore, Goldberg and a not-yet-super-famous-pre-Scandal Goldwyn. Goldberg plays a psychic who helps connect Moore with the ghost of her murdered love. Pottery making ensues.

watch on cbs and paramount+

Your Weekly Horoscopes: September 27-October 3, 2026

Whitney Will — 2026-09-24T06:00:00-04:00

How to explain everything that happens this week?! Safety first, everyone: Put your helmets on because this week is fast-paced and dangerous. The good news? It will likely fly by.

Mars goes into Leo on Sunday. When Mars leaves Cancer for Leo, it leaves emotional waters for the warrior’s heart. What Mars fights for in Leo is the authenticity of identity, leadership, pride and power. Both bravery and bravado abound, and the flames of Leo stoke power struggles already lit. So Mars’s time in Leo (from September 27th to November 25th) will likely see much higher conflict, but it will also be more decisive and champion causes with fortitude and brilliance.

The work week begins with the moon moving into grounded Taurus on Monday. This gets the week off to a solid and calm beginning, so allow yourself slow and steady movements to set the tone as things get more hectic later in the week. Morning stretching or meal prepping for later in the week fit Monday and Tuesday’s vibe.

On Wednesday, Mercury leaves diplomatic Libra for obsessive Scorpio. Focus becomes sharper, questions more piercing and secrets more valuable. Mercury will also turn retrograde in Scorpio later in the month, so prepare for your thoughts to ruminate in the Scorpio area of your chart from September 30th to December 6th. Shortly after Mercury's ingress, the Moon enters cerebral Gemini, and the pace of things picks up.

If you haven’t put your helmet on, it is an absolute requirement for the end of the week.

There’s fighting words on Thursday as Mercury, the planet of communication, wrestles with Mars, the planet of will and conflict. This is the first of three such verbal throwdowns they will have over the coming months, so look at the subtext as well as the explicit content, as we’ll need to revisit later.

The fallout may come on Friday as Mercury then engages potent Pluto in the same combative stance. This combination usually portends the revelation of powerful secrets and changes the psychological landscape with new information. On the heels of Mercury-Pluto, Mars gets caught up in Neptune and just runs with it—a dangerous thing with Neptune’s deceptive intel. We can certainly make decisions with too little or the wrong information, with serious consequences.

Finally, Venus stations retrograde on Saturday. For the next 40 days, she’ll rearrange the furniture in our hearts and the Scorpio/Libra houses of our charts, revealing fresh longings and new aesthetics. If you stay present with yourself and follow the instructions of your heart, you’ll find a refreshed sense of love on the other side.

BUT ALSO—Saturday, Mars faces down Pluto and things are likely to get triggered and take the nuclear option. I tell you this not to predict doom, but because if there is any way to not engage in the drama this weekend, sit this one out. Take your feelings to the gym and your words to your journal until the storm blows over.

In the first three days, the major storylines of October have been set, and lots of the month will focus on unpacking what happened here. So maybe keep that helmet on, just to be safe.

(Horoscopes follow for each sign. If you know your rising sign, reading for that sign too will provide further insight.)

Aries (March 21 - April 19)

Cut your losses and do what you love. On Sunday, it seems that simple. On Wednesday, it gets a little more complicated as Mercury tries to negotiate the implications of doing that with those closest to you. Your passion has gotten you so far, but this week your conviction gets tested. How much will you allow others to influence you? It’s the question of the season, and it gets asked so many ways this week.

This week’s mantra: “turning point”

Taurus (April 20 - May 20)

Work begins on the home front, discussions deepen in your relationship, and Venus pivots her take on the role relationships play in your identity. Let the games begin. This week resets the storylines in all major areas of your life. It’s a lot all at once, but a transformation that is guiding you towards a richer and more meaningful life. Boldness will get you farther than politeness this week, so don’t be afraid to make big moves.

This week’s mantra: “everywhere, everything”

Gemini (May 21 - June 20)

Communication gets edgier this week and this season when you need to put a finer point on things to get the message across. It might ruffle feathers but is likely appropriate and somewhat overdue. How you spend your days is how you spend your life, and if you’re not doing something personally meaningful, what are you doing? These and other questions of weekly schedules and daily habits are the focus of the retrograde ahead.

This week’s mantra: “immaculate”

Cancer (June 21 - July 22)

Mars finally leaves your sign, wrapping up a productive but exhausting seven weeks there. It’s on to deal with your finances, risking self-promotion and asking for what you’re worth from the higher-ups. Meanwhile, your life is craving fun. How can you pursue more pleasure and playfulness to balance out how many hours you’ve put in this year? The next couple months will use retrogrades to reorganize your priorities, so you don’t miss out on the sweeter things.

This week’s mantra: “harmony”

Leo (July 23 - August 22)

Oh man, Leo! What a week to walk into! Mars enters your sign, bursting with purpose and motivation. Mercury dives deep into family history and home stuff, looking for secret threads of identity and purpose that may need to come back to light. The tension between focus and action, being seen and being invisible while you do deep personal work has you strained. Venus stations retrograde and your foundations crack. Not like an earthquake, but like an egg, with new life emerging.

This week’s mantra: “looking”

Virgo (August 23 - September 23)

Motivation becomes elusive as Mars disappears behind the scenes on Sunday. Your ruling planet moves into the sector of your weekly schedule and social calendar, looking for deeper, more meaningful connections for the next several months. There’s an internal conflict between wanting to connect and needing solo time. Take cues from your body: What do you physically feel up for?

This week’s mantra: “soma”

Libra (September 23 - October 21)

You can take a step back from professional accomplishment as likely some of the biggest projects are wrapping up at work. This may leave you with the sense of ‘what next?’ You’re in a period of changing your relationship with money, what you do to acquire it, and what you put it towards. All of these things are connected. Use your heart to discover what is truly meaningful to you at this point in life.

This week’s mantra: “reinvest”

Scorpio (October 22 - November 21)

Your boldness is on fire starting with Mars moving into Leo on Sunday, and when Mercury enters your sign on Wednesday, you’re fully in control of your own destiny. There are challenges ahead, but you are your own greatest adversary and ally. It all comes down to how much you believe in yourself and how far you’re willing to go. This is the week to stop holding back and make the boldest of moves. The Venus retrograde will rewrite how others see you, so give them a great starting-off point.

This week’s mantra: “fearless”

Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21)

The travel bug hits hard this week and you’re off on the next adventure, or at least planning it. Mercury plumbs deep questions while you wrestle with doubts as to what you’re putting all your energy into currently. Everything feels like a big deal this week, but it’s impossible to know what to take action on and what decisions need more information. If you’re feeling stuck, find a trusted friend and talk it out.

This week’s mantra: “hold”

Capricorn (December 22 - January 19)

There is some relief that comes this week as Mars moves into a place of more respite and Mercury looks towards larger friend groups and the future before you. How to balance your goals with your financial reality has been an important question this year already and will continue to be, but the plan is taking shape in unexpected ways. Cautious optimism while things are in flux is not out of the question.

This week’s mantra: “look ahead”

Aquarius (January 20 - February 18)

You’ve been working so hard solo, but this week you need to lean on partnership and teamwork. Your career and legacy projects all depend upon who’s in your corner and how well you work towards a shared goal. There may be some difference of opinion that seem hard to navigate on Friday, but they are setting the scene for a more profound personal transformation over the course of the Venus retrograde.

This week’s mantra: “we”

Pisces (February 19 - March 20)

To quote Rihanna, show me how you work work work work work work! Mars enters your daily labor house and begins a multi-month journey of hyper-productivity. You are very locked in and increasingly focused on what you need to learn to elevate your game professionally. Use all the forward momentum to set goals for the rest of the year. Even if you adjust them later, it’s a great jumping-off point.

This week’s mantra: “lock in”

The Best Salad Chain Caesar Salads, Ranked & Reviewed

Taryn Pire — 2026-09-23T18:00:00-04:00

The Caesar salad never seems to go out of style. What started as the signature salad at an Italian immigrant’s Tijuana restaurant has become an undeniable cornerstone of American cuisine since hitting the dining scene in the 1920s. Today, it’s as endemic to the U.S. as the Cobb or Waldorf, both in salad and wrap form. It’s the no-brainer side for a juicy steak, hearty pasta or slice of pizza. It’s the roughage in #girldinner, a crisp balancing agent for a basket of fries and potent dirty martini. It’s arguably the salad for people who don’t like salad—after all, how can you go wrong with chopped greens, bread, cheese and a boatload of creamy dressing?

With an ever-growing sea of chains at our disposal, the Caesar salad now comes in many forms. A slight departure from its original form, it can come crowned with alternative proteins, fancy breadcrumbs or Parmesan crisps instead of croutons, and all sorts of veggies that we wouldn’t have expected from our go-to cafeteria lunch. To find out which of them offers the tastiest, I, a food writer, tried offerings from six popular brands. Below, you’ll find my honest reviews, original photos and detailed ranking.

(Note: Prices may vary by location; they’ve been rounded to the nearest half-dollar.)

How I Ranked the Caesar Salads

Yes, there are a lot of streaming services, and, yes, there's a lot of buzz around the latest releases. But just because something's trending or on lists of most-viewed titles doesn't mean it's always worth a watch (take Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story, for example).

The past few weeks have delivered a ton of great new content, from Practical Magic 2 to The Gentlemen. And this week is no different.

Allow me, an entertainment editor, to help you parse through it all with shows and movies that are actually worth watching. I'm talking exciting new sequel shows like A Different World, buzzy movies like UNABOMBER and returning series like American Horror Story season 13 and Survivor season 51. Enjoy the best selections (recommended by yours truly) on Apple TV, Prime Video and more.

From the 2026 VMAs to Brothers (starring Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson), here's what to watch this weekend.

1. Brothers

Rating: TV-MA
Number of seasons: 1

Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson play fictionalized versions of themselves in this fun new comedy on Apple TV. Things take a major turn for the real-life buds when McConaughey's onscreen mother (played by Holland Taylor) drops the bomb that they could actually be related. The show is really enjoyable, and the chemistry between the potential brothers is off the charts.

watch on apple tv

2. The VMAs

Rating: TV-MA
Runtime: 120 minutes

The 2026 VMAs—arguably the most memorable awards show of the year—take place at the Peacock Theatre in L.A. this Sunday. Martha Stewart BFF's Snoop Dogg is set to host, Madonna will be opening and LISA, Shaboozey, Sienna Spiro and RAYE are performing. But make sure to keep an eye on the red carpet for what are bound to be some wild looks.

3. A Different World

Rating: TV-14
Number of seasons: 1

Now here's a spinoff series I can fully get behind. The O.G. series ran from 1987 to 1993 and was groundbreaking as it showcased the experiences of students at an HBCU. More than 30 years later, we follow a new class of students at Hillman College. But don't worry, the show is just as funny as its predecessor and features quite a few familiar faces like Jasmine Guy and Kadeem Hardison.

4. The Traitors: New Blood

Rating: TV-14
Number of seasons: 1

No, there aren't any celebrities in this version (other than the iconic Alan Cumming), but the drama and the treachery are just as prominent. A castle full of "regular people" try to sniff out the Traitors—and the first episode already features a huge twist. No spoilers here, but it does involve two players facing a major test...

watch on peacock

5. American Horror Story

Rating: TV-MA
Number of seasons: 13

Another day, another Ryan Murphy show. But unlike All's Fair, The Shards and Monster: The Lizzie Borden Story (meh, meh and meh), AHS is known to be a fan favorite. And in this impressive 13th installment, it's a who's who of the best characters of the series, with Sarah Paulson, Jessica Lange and Evan Peters playing multiple familiar parts.

watch on fx and hulu

6. UNABOMBER

Rating: R
Runtime: 97 minutes

It's been 30 years since the Unabomber was caught in a remote cabin in Montana, so it was only a matter of time before Ted Kaczynski got the Netflix treatment. Jacob Tremblay plays the notorious bombmaker and murderer, and he's joined by several big names including Shailene Woodley and Russell Crowe.

watch on cbs and paramount+

7. The Love Hypothesis

Rating: R
Runtime: 112 minutes

A student and a professor pretend to be in a relationship but (gasp!) start to develop feelings for one another. Does this romantic Prime Video offering follow basically the same plot as Off Campus? Yes, yes, it does. Is it likely to be a smash hit anyway? I mean, we did really like Off Campus...

watch on prime video

8. Survivor

Rating: TV-14
Number of seasons: 51

Nothing will make you feel quite as old as discovering that Survivor has been airing for 26 years and a mind-boggling 51 seasons. Jeff Probst is back as host of this groundbreaking competition series. And the 51st edition finds the 21 castaways divided into only two tribes. They sure do know how to keep us on our toes.

9. Line of Fire

Rating: TV-14
Number of seasons: 1

While I'm not usually a fan of new, unproven procedurals, I'm willing to make an exception when it stars the incredible Peter Krause. He was brilliant in Sports Night, Six Feet Under, Parenthood and 9-1-1, so I'm surprisingly eager to give this series about federal law enforcement agents a proper shot.

watch on nbc and peacock

10. Wonka's The Golden Ticket

Rating: TV-PG
Number of seasons: 1

Imagine the thrill of being able to visit a real-life version of Willy Wonka's chocolate factory. (Who am I kidding? I'd fall in the chocolate river on Day One.) Well, these lucky contestants are entering the factory to compete in a series of tests and games as part of this colorful and delicious new reality series.

11. Doc

Rating: TV-14
Number of seasons: 3

A brilliant doctor, Dr. Amy Larsen (Molly Parker), suffers a traumatic injury and forgets the last eight years of her life. In this third installment, Dr. Larsen takes on a new role as a Co-Chief Resident—but it seems her flashbacks are revealing she may have a complicated past with another doctor (played by Blair Underwood).

watch on fox

12. Minerva Academy

Rating: TV-MA
Number of seasons: 1

Is anyone else getting Elite vibes here? I can only hope this new Italian offering on Netflix lives up to the same high-drama standards. A mystery begins to unfold inside this prominent military school in Naples, but these students must still navigate the usual high school turmoil.

13. Youth

Rating: TV-MA
Number of seasons: 1

If you're a Sharon Horgan stan like me (anyone else absolutely love the dark comedy Bad Sisters?!), you're in for a treat with her new HBO series Youth. This slice-of-life rom-com follows a divorcee who is trying to balance her love life with taking care of her elderly parents.

watch on hbo

14. The Doll

Rating: TV-MA
Number of seasons: 1

This brand-new show from Netflix has been garnering a lot of buzz, with the New York Times even asking, "Can a Polish epic become the world's next period drama hit?" The historical series tells the story of a woman who refuses to follow the rules of high society—and, like all of my favorite shows, it features quite a few dramatic plot twists.

15. Slow Horses

Rating: TV-MA
Number of seasons: 6

This funny spy thriller about a team of dysfunctional agents has a whopping 98 percent fresh rating on Rotten Tomatoes, has received 23 Emmy nominations and has already been renewed for season seven. According to my colleague, this is "the one show me, my millennial husband and my boomer parents are equally obsessed with."

watch on apple tv

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Anthropologie's Latest Cashmere Collection Reinvents the Classic Knit—Here Are 6 Styles I'm Swooning Over

Stephanie Maida — 2026-09-23T15:56:48-04:00

Anthropologie

If you can't resist a classic button-up cardi, this style provides the look you love, but with a striped pattern that makes it feel particularly of the moment this season. It's also incredibly versatile—wear it on its own as a top or toss it on over your shoulders for a preppy vibe (and to have an extra layer at the ready on those fickle fall days).

$158 at anthropologie

Why You Should Trust Us

Ashley Tisdale on Losing Her 'Soulmate' Dog, Dealing with Anxiety & Embracing the Chaos of Two Kids

Philip Mutz — 2026-09-23T14:57:50-04:00

Fans of Ashley Tisdale know that her work in High School Musical is just the tip of the iceberg. Beyond her acting credits, she's also a wife, mother of two, wellness expert, entrepreneur and dog mom.

Fortunately, Tisdale was able to take time out from her busy and "chaotic" schedule (more on that in a minute) to chat with me exclusively about everything from meditation and motherhood to her new partnership with Nylabone.

Luis Yllanes/Shutterstock

As Tisdale has two dogs, Ziggy and Sushi, collaborating with the iconic dog toy, chew and treat company felt like a natural fit. "I'm excited to celebrate their chew toys with the real meats. Obviously, I'm very into my blog, which is very wellness-lifestyle-focused. I'm always looking into ingredients for my children, so of course I'm going to look into it for my dogs."

The actress went on to dish about how animals have always played an important role in her life. "I've always been an animal lover. I've had dogs for so long, and before I was a mom of two kids, I was very much a dog mom."

"My dog that has passed, she was like my soulmate. I feel like she taught us how to be parents, to be honest. She really did teach us all the things before we had kids. And so then we got two dogs, hoping that it would fulfill the loss of Maui. And obviously they're not Maui, but they are the best dogs."

Tisdale confessed that Ziggy does get anxiety, but thankfully had a few tips. "It is about the distraction. I have anxiety and have dealt with that in the past. So when you're distracting yourself from the thought, that's what helps calm you down. Make sure they have something to chew on, make sure they have a little treat mat, and it really helps their mind focus more on that, versus focus on whatever she's anxious about."

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In addition to speaking about her own anxiety and her dog's anxiety, the wellness guru also discussed how she approaches difficult issues with her children, ages two and five. "Anxiety obviously starts at a younger age than when it starts to really show up, and so it's about communication. We have really great books that we read—one of them is The Monster Parade that we love. It walks you through all the different emotions that you have, and each one is a monster, like the anger monster. And it teaches your child that those feelings come and go, and you can let them go. You don't have to sit in it."

Nylabone

In a chaotic household (her words, not mine), Tisdale tries to find the moments for mental wellness. "I don't know how you can have a very calm life with two children. It's a little chaotic. It's crazy. I do a 10-minute Insight Timer meditation. It's good to start with one, and it's good to end the day with one."

"What I was going through years ago with anxiety and depression, it inspired me to work on myself and set myself up in a better way, which I'm so glad I did before having kids."

"We're not perfect in any way, but we are into mindfulness. You have to be healthy to take care of your kids, you know?"

It's Official: This ‘Law & Order: SVU’ Fan-Favorite Character Will Return

Danielle Long — 2026-09-23T13:56:19-04:00

Law & Order: Special Victims Unit fans, get ready because a fan-favorite detective is back! Christopher Meloni is returning as Elliot Stabler, and this time, it’s for a pretty major occasion.

News of Meloni’s return spread quickly after fellow SVU star Mariska Hargitay shared a photo from set on Instagram Tuesday, September 22. In the selfie, Hargitay points toward Meloni, who can be seen hanging out in the background.

"WHO DAT," she captioned the post.

Needless to say, fans went absolutely wild over the surprise reunion.

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A post shared by Mariska (@therealmariskahargitay)

"THE SCREAM I JUST SCRUMT. 600 about to be epic," one person commented, noting the show's upcoming milestone 600th episode.

"OH MY GOD GUYS ITS HAPPENING!!!! MOM AND DAD IN THE HOUSE," another wrote. A third chimed in, "It’s my favorite bald man," while a fourth exclaimed, "I’m literally dying from excitement!!!"

Another fan simply declared, "ELLIOT STABLER AND OLIVIA BENSON ARE BACK!!!!!!!!!!"

For a little context, Meloni played Stabler on SVU for 12 seasons before leaving the series. He later reprised the role in the spinoff Law & Order: Organized Crime, which announced in April that its fifth season would be its last. Following the news, Meloni shared a teary-eyed video on Instagram.

"Thank you OC/SVU fans. You gave me a life,” he captioned the post.

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A post shared by Chris Meloni (@chris_meloni)

Meloni has made several SVU guest appearances over the years, including at the start of Season 27, when Stabler and his former partner, Capt. Olivia Benson, played by Hargitay, crossed paths outside a wake for their former boss, Capt. Donald Cragen. The emotional scene ended with Stabler telling Benson, with whom he has shared a longtime friendship that has occasionally veered into romantic territory, that he loved her.

Now, fans will get to see them together again. Season 28 of Law & Order: SVU premieres October 8 at 9 p.m. ET on NBC.

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Kate Middleton’s Body Language (and Jaw-Dropping Necklace) Stole the Show at Tom Cruise's Movie Premiere

Danielle Long — 2026-09-23T13:16:28-04:00

When it comes to royal outings, the family pretty much always looks polished. But every once in a while, they really take things up a notch and the photos are next-level. Think state dinners, awards ceremonies or, more recently, Kate Middleton at a movie premiere.

The Princess of Wales, 44, attended the world premiere of Digger alongside Prince William, and she absolutely dressed for the occasion.

Photos shared on the royals’ official social media page show Catherine wearing a plum, floor-length gown featuring a V-neck and sheer long sleeves. Her hair, styled half-up with cascading waves, perfectly matched the glamorous vibe. And then there was the jewelry.

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A post shared by The Prince and Princess of Wales (@princeandprincessofwales)

The princess of Wales wore the Queen Mother’s Amethyst Sautoir Necklace, which features pearls, diamonds and amethyst surrounding a heart-shaped gemstone pendant. The piece was last worn publicly by Queen Camilla at the 2012 premiere of Skyfall.

While Catherine's ensemble was clearly a standout, her body language also caught our attention. In one particular photo of the princess walking the carpet, she looks completely at ease.

For starters, there’s that smile. It’s wide, her cheeks are lifted and she’s looking out toward the crowd rather than holding the more guarded expression that can come with formal royal appearances. Her shoulders are relaxed, while her posture remains upright without looking stiff. She’s also walking alongside William with an easy, natural stride. Basically, the whole moment gives more “enjoying the day” than “official engagement.”

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Then there are the little details. One arm hangs loosely at her side, while her other hand is linked with William’s in a way that looks comfortable rather than tense.

She’s also tilted slightly toward him as they walk, which subtly suggests they’re moving in sync. At the same time, her head is turned toward the cameras and onlookers, making her appear warm and engaged with the people around her.

“I often film career content Friday afternoons, so I choose something that works equally well at work and then later on camera. On this day, I knew that I was going to go from work to pick-up to the playground and then out for pizza, so I just really wanted to be light on my feet and comfortable. It’s still warm in New York, so this sleeveless blazer dress felt professional, but appropriate for a casual Friday at the office.”

Swifties Thought They Cracked Taylor's New Album Name, Then She Dropped a Major Bomb

Danielle Long — 2026-09-23T11:46:37-04:00

Less than 24 hours ago, Taylor Swift sent fans into a full-blown detective spiral after announcing a new single. And, as tends to happen whenever the pop star does anything, Swifties quickly started connecting dots and coming up with theories about what she could be planning next. But just when fans thought they had cracked the code, Taylor came through with the actual answer: The Life of a Showgirl: The Encore.

The official announcement arrived Wednesday, September 23, when Taylor, 36, took to Instagram to reveal the album cover. Keeping with the aesthetic of her previous The Life of a Showgirl era, the cover features a rich magenta background and the singer posing in a glamorous gold feathered ensemble.

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A post shared by Taylor Swift (@taylorswift)

"About a year ago, you guys did a truly unfathomable thing. Something that completely blew my mind… You gave The Life of a Showgirl the biggest first week for an album in history," the singer wrote in the caption.

"I took a trip to Sweden to celebrate with Max and Shellback, my two collaborators on this album. Really we just wanted to reflect and take in how grateful we were for the moment we were in, but there was a studio there and we did what we do when we feel anything at all: We wrote more songs," Taylor revealed.

"I hope you love them, because they were born out of pure gratitude for your exuberance for and celebration of the album we made," she added.

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A post shared by Taylor Swift (@taylorswift)

"The Life of a Showgirl: The Encore including four new songs is out on Friday and available to pre-order and save now," the "Opalite" singer shared.

Just one day prior, Taylor had revealed that her new single, "Patient Zero," would arrive Friday, sending Swifties straight down another internet rabbit hole.

One TikTok user even theorized that her next album would be called Point of No Return, based on the name of a video file saved from Taylor’s official website.

@inksskni This is of course just speculation and I have no actual proof 🤡 #patientzero #ponr #tspzponr #swiftok #clowning ♬ Mastermind - Taylor Swift

Welp, that theory was clearly debunked. "Patient Zero" is actually one of four new tracks featured on The Life of a Showgirl: The Encore. The other songs are "Cleveland!," "Pink Clouding" and "Babylon."

Honestly, I have to give Swifties credit for the detective work, but this may be one of the quickest Taylor Swift theory debunks yet. Knowing the fandom, though, I have a feeling the theories are far from over.

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Jennifer Aniston ‘Didn’t Listen’ to Advice About Strength Training—Now She’s Changed Her Tune

Rachel Bowie — 2026-09-23T11:38:28-04:00

It can feel like a broken record for women of a certain age. The world over is telling us to prioritize strength training in order to build muscle, but Jennifer Aniston, 57, is quick to acknowledge: It goes against everything we were once taught.

“For women, it used to be ‘cardio, cardio, cardio,’” Aniston says. “Also, ‘No pain, no gain.’ We were all told to build muscle, too, but it wasn’t as popular as it is now. It really comes down to having more information. We now have studies, trials and evidence that all show how much strength training adds to our daily life.”

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It’s the perfect segue into the reason for my conversation with Aniston: The actress and star of The Morning Show has partnered with Pvolve, the functional fitness program, which offers classes in person and virtually, since 2023. (She first discovered it thanks to a friend’s recommendation and following an on-set injury during the pandemic.) Now, for the first time ever, she’s pulling back the curtain to reveal a step-by-step video of her exact total-body strength training routine—designed for her by Pvolve trainer Dani Coleman—and pairing it with Pvolve’s new Movement Longevity Report. The reason? Helping women prepare their bodies for aging is critical and something deeply personal for her.

“The thing about functional fitness is that you’re basically taking everyday functions that take us through our day—grabbing a suitcase out of the upper compartment, bending over to pick up some books, even just walking—and [learning how to carry out those tasks] without hurting ourselves,” Aniston explains in our exclusive chat.

Pvolve

In the case of Pvolve, the program is designed to go beyond targeting only big muscle groups, such as our glutes and quads, and extend into those micro muscles that wrap around our bones and keep them strong as we age. “My mom and dad lived really long lives into their 90s, but when my mom was 80, she just wasn’t mobile,” Aniston (pictured above with Pvolve’s founder, Rachel Katzman) reflects. “Physically, they didn’t have a joyful end, so it’s something I’m really glad I’ve truly taken a hold of.”

This is also where Pvolve’s Longevity Report is impactful. With its launch, it also introduces Pvolve’s Muscle Readiness Score, a first-of-its-kind index that measures how prepared women’s bodies actually are for aging. Also, several fairly staggering stats. (For example, 78 percent of women say strength training matters for long-term health; but 60 percent aren’t doing it in a typical week.)

“I was told about [the value of strength training], I just didn’t listen,” Aniston says. “With Pvolve, I love that weights are incorporated into every workout, so if I have 10 minutes or if I have 20 minutes or if I have an hour, we will just hit every muscle group and every part of the body. It’s really just about getting [a workout] in and making a commitment to yourself to do it.”

And on the days that Aniston doesn’t feel like working out? She says she listens to her biggest cheerleader: Herself. “I say, ‘You’ll feel better, just do it. You can do anything for 40 minutes, 30 minutes—even 10 minutes,’” Aniston says. “I also always give myself a little bit of an out. Like, if I do it for 5 minutes and feel awful, I can just stop.” But once her workout clothes are on, she says it kicks her investment level up a notch. “On the other side, it’s always worth it. I try to remind myself, ‘Just remember how great you’re going to feel.’”

How PinkPantheress Stays Incognito in Public

Philip Mutz — 2026-09-23T11:35:13-04:00

The VMAs are this Sunday night, and musical star PinkPantheress is nominated for a whopping five moon men. But attending a fancy awards show is just the tip of the iceberg for the "Girl Like Me" singer. She also revealed to me she's "on set until, honestly, it could be midnight some days." And then, she's staying up to the wee hours being creative: "When it comes to my creative bouts, I'd say it begins around 12:00, and it ends around 3:00 in the goddamn morning." That's dedication.

And on top of all that, PinkPantheress has found the time to design her very own pair of ballet flats (thanks to a partnership with Google Chrome).

She sat down with me for an exclusive interview to discuss the collab, being inspired by her mom and never letting go of the capris she wears everywhere.

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PinkPantheress is one of three stars, also including Solange and Joe Burrow, to take part in Chrome's "Unfinished Projects" campaign, where they each bring their passions and creative ideas to life (in her case, a personally designed pair of ballet flats). This will all culminate with an exhibition on The High Line in New York City from September 24-27.

The "Stateside" singer said, "Obviously, I've wanted to make a pair of shoes for a while. I'm pretty tall, so I thought to myself, 'what is something that I sure-fire am wearing every day'? And it was essentially a ballet flat. And I think when it comes to design for me, fashion and music go hand-in-hand, and they're both important ways I express myself. So, I thought, 'why not try something that is such a staple in my wardrobe like a ballet flat?'"

As for where she got her itch to dabble in fashion, she told me, "Because of how my mom dressed, I definitely have a broader range of things that I like to have in my closet. I like to give everything a chance. I will never just discard any item of clothing because it has an ugly pattern on it. I'm very down to try clothing in every style because my mom had a lot of range. She's definitely got a unique sense of style, so I definitely take after her."

As for what else is in her closet at the moment? "I love capris, I'm always wearing capris, like even right now I'm wearing them."

Daniel DeSlover/ZUMA/Shutterstock

She also gave me the dirt on her busy daily schedule. "Since I'm on sets most days of the week, I'm up at 7:00. Despairingly. (laughs) It's not up to me at all. I have to use an alarm 100%. I'm not waking up easily."

She continued, "My routine is very quick; I'm very seasoned at this point. I use the most niche Korean skincare products. I don't know where to buy them from, only one person can source them for me. I'm not even trying to gatekeep, I genuinely just don't know the names of them!"

She then let slip a little insider secret about how she stays incognito when she finally leaves the house. "When I leave in the morning, I put a lot of things in place for people not to recognize me. When I'm really trying not to be seen, I will leave the house without my hair being done, and I think that helps a lot."

As for what's on the horizon for this mega-star? "I've been trying to have my own bag line. I hope a purse [is] next!"

Kate Middleton & Prince William Stun in Striking New Black-and-White Photo

Danielle Long — 2026-09-23T10:47:50-04:00

Let's be real, Kate Middleton and Prince William know how to make an entrance. Whether William is in his go-to navy suit or Catherine is showing off a standout seasonal look, the Prince and Princess of Wales always give us something to talk about. And their latest appearance is no different, giving us a particularly striking black-and-white photo.

The couple, both 44, attended the London premiere of Digger on September 22, and Kensington Palace shared several photos from the evening on Instagram. One of them was a gorgeous black-and-white shot of Catherine and William smiling brightly in the theater lobby, and yes, those pearly whites were fully on display.

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At first glance, the photo looks like a simple portrait of the royal couple, but, when royal fans open the post fully, there’s a fun little surprise. David Beckham and Tom Cruise are standing on either side of them, both looking equally camera-ready.

The caption was short and sweet: "Royal Film Performance x Digger."

The palace also shared a full-color photo from the premiere, giving us a closer look at the couple’s outfits. Princess Catherine wore a vibrant plum floor-length dress with sheer long sleeves and a V-neckline, while William opted for a black velvet suit jacket, matching trousers, shoes and a bow tie.

"Attending the World Premiere of Digger with @tomcruise and Director Alejandro González Iñárritu," the post was captioned. "Tonight’s event supports the Film and TV Charity, who help those working across the film, television and cinema industries through services and initiatives that promote wellbeing and create more supportive working environments."

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"A special evening in support of those who bring stories to life on our screens and make such an important contribution to British cultural life," the caption concluded.

Between the glamorous outfits and celebrity cameos, this was definitely one premiere photo dump worth a double take.

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Jonathan Bailey Just Debuted Bangs and No One's Mad About It

Danielle Long — 2026-09-23T10:31:53-04:00

When it comes to switching up a hairstyle, celebrities are definitely not shy about experimenting. Whether it’s Kelly Clarkson debuting a chic short bob, Nicole Kidman going fiery red or Paris Hilton embracing her brunette era, there’s always something fun about seeing a familiar face try a totally different look. And now, we can add Jonathan Bailey to the list.

The Wicked star, 38, recently stepped out for the Burberry catwalk show during London Fashion Week on September 21 at London’s Chelsea College of Arts, and his hair was noticeably longer than usual. Rather than his typically polished and carefully styled look, Jonathan wore his hair loose and wavy, with his curls falling all the way down to the bridge of his nose.

SplashNews.com

To go with the more relaxed hairstyle, the Bridgerton actor kept the rest of his outfit sleek and monochromatic, wearing a fitted black sweater with black leather pants and boots. Honestly, it was giving effortlessly cool.

Of course, this isn’t Jonathan’s first time playing around with his signature look. Back in November 2025, the Fellow Travelers star debuted another slightly tousled hairstyle while attending the 16th Governors Awards. That time, he swapped his usual coiffed style for a messier look, letting his bangs fall across his forehead. And yes, there was even some salt-and-pepper coloring peeking through.

He paired the hairstyle with a classic black suit and a hint of pink at the collar, which fans couldn’t help but speculate was a possible nod to his Wicked costar Ariana Grande’s Glinda.

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At this point, Jonathan has pretty much proven he can pull off just about anything. Scruff? Works. No scruff? Also works. “Slutty little glasses”? Somehow, also works. And now, longer, wavier hair? Apparently, add that to the list.

As People’s Sexiest Man Alive 2025, I’d say the man has earned the right to experiment.

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7 Fashion Trends That Will Define Fall 2026 (Plus One We’re Ready to Retire)

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Wait, Why Are We Now Sexualizing Lactation?

Deena Campbell — 2026-09-23T09:59:54-04:00

I was scrolling through Instagram the other day when I came across a video that made me scroll-stop. Leigh-Anne Pinnock, the former Little Mix singer who is currently pregnant with her third child, walked the runway at London Fashion Week. She looked stunning in a white Di Petsa Spring/Summer two-piece with her pregnant belly on display. But it wasn’t her bump that made me do a double take. It was the milk spraying from her breasts. Yes, you read that correctly.

Pinnock closed Di Petsa’s Spring 2027 show, titled Holy Milk, wearing a bra designed to simulate lactation. As she walked, streams of a milk-like liquid sprayed from her breasts onto the models surrounding her. According to the brand, the collection is an exploration of motherhood, femininity and transformation, and Pinnock later described the experience as one of the most empowering of her life. She explained that pregnancy is so often treated as something women should hide, and that she appreciated being given the opportunity to make her changing body the center of the story rather than conceal it.

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It’s not my place to tell Pinnock whether the moment was empowering or ridiculous. After all, if she walked off that runway feeling strong, beautiful and more connected to her body, then I love that for her. However, as a mother of two, I couldn’t shake my own reaction: It made me uncomfortable. And the more I thought about why, the more I realized it wasn’t really about the spraying of milk. It was because our effort to stop hiding pregnant bodies seems to have morphed into an expectation that we sexualize them.

To be clear, I’m very happy we’ve moved on from the days when pregnancy meant disappearing underneath a giant tent dress. For generations, maternity fashion asked women to make their bumps as unobtrusive as possible. Then celebrities began pushing back against that idea. The pregnant body could be fashionable. And, yes, it could be sexy. Remember when Rihanna was pregnant in 2022, and she wore crop tops, low-rise pants, and a Dior dress over lingerie? Her stylist, Jahleel Weaver, said their approach was to make her bump the focal point rather than disguise it. Same with Sienna Miller, who, last year, wore a sheer Givenchy gown that exposed her belly.

Obviously, a pregnant woman has every right to feel sexy and becoming someone’s mother doesn’t erase one’s sensuality. But these days, it seems like seeing the pregnant body isn’t enough. It’s almost as if we have to make it a spectacle. Earlier this year, a pregnant Daisy Lowe attended London Fashion Week in a completely sheer lace dress with only a bra and briefs underneath. And, after revealing her fourth pregnancy in September 2025, Cardi B wore a sheer black lace catsuit over a bra and underwear. Clearly the exposed pregnant belly has become a red-carpet trend of its own, but Pinnock’s runway appearance takes things one step further.

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A post shared by Cardi B (@iamcardib)

Breastfeeding is perhaps one of the most maternal things a body can do. It’s nourishment and an extremely intimate moment between a mother and child. But, it’s also messy, painful, frustrating, exhausting and VERY unsexy. Di Petsa took that bodily function and transformed it into a highly stylized fashion performance, complete with a barely-there bra, wet-look clothing and milk dramatically shooting through the air in apparent orgasmic delight. Yikes!

For me, there has to be some space between those two extremes. Yes, a woman should be able to wear a naked dress while nine months pregnant without anyone clutching their pearls. She should also be able to show up in a muumuu and Birkenstocks without anyone deciding she’s given up. And she certainly shouldn’t have to prove that pregnancy hasn’t diminished her desirability.

Pinnock’s response to the hoopla resonates with me most: “My body is not something to be ashamed of because it is changing,” she wrote. “And it does not stop belonging to me because I am becoming a mother.”

She’s right. A pregnant woman’s body still belongs entirely to her and she gets to decide whether she wants to cover it, expose it, sexualize it, celebrate it. Or even shoot fake breast milk across a runway with it. I just hope that in our rush to liberate pregnant bodies from one set of expectations, we aren’t creating another.

Motherhood is already powerful. Why do we keep acting like we need to make it sexy to prove that?

The 28 Best Fall Cocktails, Whether You're Craving Something Warm & Cozy or Crisp & Refreshing

Candace Davison — 2026-09-23T09:00:00-04:00

The Sarti Spritz had its moment. But now that fall is here, it's time to unlock a whole new series of cocktails that embrace sweater weather. Whether you're into soul-warming drinks (like chai hot toddies or hot buttered rum) or crave something as crisp as the air on a sunset stroll in mid-October (Psst: Opt for a mezcal cider spritz), I've got you. I've researched the top fall drink trends and polled our @Cocktails team to curate our list of the best (and easiest) fall cocktails to try this season.

You can scroll through them all, or use the Table of Contents below to filter the drinks based on your mood: iced or hot? Decisions, decisions.

Cold Fall Cocktails

1. Spiced Honey Bourbon Old Fashioned

Half Baked Harvest

Time Commitment: 15 minutes
Why I Love It: ready in <15 minutes
Serves: 1

Once you’ve made a batch of the spiced rosemary and honey simple syrup (which makes enough for about six cocktails), this sipper is easy to shake up. To make them extra festive, recipe creator Tieghan Gerard recommends serving them with candied ginger. “Just grab some fresh rosemary sprigs, dampen them with water and cover in granulated sugar. Let the rosemary dry for an hour at room temperature. Now you have pretty, glistening, rosemary that’s the perfect final touch,” she writes.

2. Trader Joe's Apple Pie Espresso Martini

@Cocktails

Time Commitment: 15 minutes
Why I Love It: ready in <15 minutes
Serves: 1

Trader Joe's Apple Pie Spread is the secret to this swoon-worthy cocktail, which combines the condiment with vanilla vodka, espresso, coffee liqueur and a dash of cinnamon to create a liquid dessert. And while you could avoid a potential mess and pour the spread into a squeeze bottle to get the "cupscaped" stripes along the inner rim of the glass—or omit them entirely—it's worth trying the milk frother trick shown in the video. It's fast and effective...as long as you don't power up the frother before it's fully submerged in the glass. (In that case, you may have a bit of a mess to clean up afterward.)

3. Fig Dark and Stormy

Half Baked Harvest

Time Commitment: 10 minutes
Why I Love It: <10 ingredients, special occasion-worthy
Serves: 1

Fall is officially the time for fig recipes, and the fruit happens to be ideal for this rum, lime and ginger beer concoction. If you want to swap bourbon for rum, go for it. It'll have a little more bite that way.

4. Mezcal Cider Spritz

Photo: Katherine Gillen

Time Commitment: 5 minutes
Why I Love It: beginner-friendly, no cook
Serves: 1

The smoky mezcal and festive fruit flavors make for a beverage that’s strong and complex but still sippable. FYI, if you use homemade apple cider, you get bonus points, but as Ina Garten would say, "store-bought is fine."

5. Frozen Pumpkin Marshmallow Slush

@cocktails

Time Commitment: 15 minutes
Why I Love It: ready in <15 minutes, special occasion-worthy
Serves: 1

Sometimes, you want to go all out for a party. When you want a cocktail that will surprise and delight people—and give you an excuse to bust out a mini torch—this is the drink to serve. Toasting the marshmallow on top isn't necessary, sure, but oh, what delightful smoky, roasty notes it adds to the drink. You'll get all the bonfire vibes without having to build an actual fire. Or go outside.

6. Ruby Vermouth Spritzers

Photo: Nico Schinco/Styling: Heath Goldman

Time Commitment: 5 minutes
Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, beginner-friendly
Serves: 8

Think of this fall cocktail as the autumnal alternative to summer’s Aperol spritz. It’s refreshing yet warm, and better yet, you can make a big batch to serve all your friends at once.

7. Big Batch Rum Cider

@cocktails

Time Commitment: 5 minutes
Why I Love It: ready in <15 minutes, special occasion-worthy, crowd-pleaser
Serves: 6-8

A five-ingredient cocktail that takes less than 5 minutes to make and can serve your entire book club at once? Say less.

But, because I'm a yapper, I will add: Spiced rum, apple cider and a splash of prosecco are the stars of this bubbly drink, but don't skip the lemon juice—it brightens the whole thing up.

8. Cranberry Cobbler Smash

How Sweet Eats

Time Commitment: 15 minutes
Why I Love It: special occasion-worthy
Serves: 1

This smash is ideal for Thanksgiving, but tasty enough that you don’t have to wait until November to make one. And if you want to scale the drink up for a party, it’s really easy. Recipe developer Jessica Merchant recommends creating a DIY station on your bar cart or table: "Set up a bottle of bourbon, a bottle of seltzer on ice, an adorable pitcher filled with the syrup and a jug of cranberry juice," she writes.

9. Pumpkin Spice Kentucky Mule

So Much Food

Time Commitment: 5 minutes
Why I Love It: special occasion-worthy, ready in <15 minutes
Serves: 1

It’s called a Kentucky mule because it’s made with bourbon instead of vodka. (But don’t skip the pumpkin butter or copper mugs.)

10. Apple Cider Sangria

A Cookie Named Desire

Time Commitment: 20 minutes
Why I Love It: ready in <30 minutes, crowd-pleaser
Serves: 4 to 6

The recipe calls for a few specific ingredients (like maple bourbon, pinot grigio, oranges, pears and apples), but you can swap in a few substitutes to make it your own. Try cinnamon whiskey, apple brandy, sparkling wine, cranberries, lemons and more.

11. Spiced Apple Margaritas

Cookie and Kate

Time Commitment: 10 minutes
Why I Love It: special occasion-worthy
Serves: 1

It’s as easy to make and drink as the original. You’ll simply swap the usual silver tequila for reposado (which is slightly aged) and add cider with the lime juice to fall-ify it.

12. Honeycrisp Crush

How Sweet Eats

Time Commitment: 30 minutes
Why I Love It: ready in <30 minutes, special occasion–worthy
Serves: 1

Among all the types of apples, Honeycrisps are the ideal mix of sweet, tart, crisp and refreshing. It’s only natural, then, that they make a stellar drink. This one has ginger beer and vodka for a little kick.

13. Cinnamon Maple Whiskey Sour

Cookie and Kate

Time Commitment: 5 minutes
Why I Love It: special occasion-worthy, ready in <15 minutes, <10 ingredients
Serves: 1

With fresh lemon juice and maple syrup, I think I’ll be drinking this one long after fall is over. If you have a large enough cocktail shaker, you can scale the ingredients up by four to make enough for a small crowd.

14. Apple Cider Prosecco Spritz

How Sweet Eats

Time Commitment: 5 minutes
Why I Love It: make-ahead, crowd-pleaser
Serves: 1

When in doubt, add bubbles. This spritz is equal parts cool and refreshing, and warm and cozy. And there's no complicated mixing or shaking required.

15. Cranberry Pear Bourbon Cocktail

Salt and Wind

Time Commitment: 5 minutes
Why I Love It: beginner-friendly, ready in <15 minutes
Serves: 1

You could use any kind of whiskey you like and this would still be delicious, but bourbon adds a slightly sweet element that ties the flavors of cranberry and pear together quite nicely.

16. Apple Cider Mimosa

A Cookie Named Desire

Time Commitment: 2 minutes
Why I Love It: beginner-friendly, <10 ingredients, ready in <15 minutes
Serves: 1

Add this autumnal flavor to your mimosa bar offering and your festive fall brunch on the porch will be even better. Pecan pie scones, anyone?

17. Spiced Bourbon Punch

The Modern Proper

Time Commitment: 20 minutes
Why I Love It: crowd-pleaser, ready in <30 minutes
Serves: 16

This punch bowl is all dressed up and ready to party, whether you serve it at a Halloween bash or Thanksgiving soiree. Make the simple syrup the night before so it has time to cool completely.

18. Boulevardier Spritz

What's Gaby Cooking

Time Commitment: 5 minutes
Why I Love It: <15 minutes
Serves: 1

A traditional Boulevardier is a boozy cocktail made of whiskey, sweet vermouth and Campari (kind of like a Negroni but with whiskey instead of gin). Turning it into a spritz and using bourbon transforms it into a fall cocktail that’s slightly lighter and easier to drink.

19. Spiced Bourbon Cocktail

The Modern Proper

Time Commitment: 30 minutes
Why I Love It: dairy free, <10 ingredients
Serves: 1

Cranberry-orange simple syrup and apple cider will carry this elegant cocktail from fall straight into the holiday season. Serve it in a chilled coupe with an orange twist for the full effect.

20. Pomegranate Margarita

Ambitious Kitchen

Time Commitment: 5 minutes
Why I Love It: special occasion–worthy, <15 minutes
Serves: 1

This four-ingredient margarita is ideal for everything from a fancy Halloween dinner to Thanksgiving. Adjust the amount of simple syrup as you see fit, if you prefer a less-sweet drink (and definitely spring for the salted rim).

21. Cranberry Thyme Sparklers

A Classic Twist

Time Commitment: 15 minutes
Why I Love It: ready in <15 minutes, special occasion-worthy
Serves: 3

Sure, you could skip the alcohol and make these into mocktails. But a splash of vodka is welcome. With lemon-lime soda and cranberry syrup, they taste like a Dirty Shirley with a twist.

Warm Fall Cocktails

22. Chai Hot Toddy

Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell

Time Commitment: 15 minutes
Why I Love It: beginner-friendly, <10 ingredients
Serves: 4

The warm spices in chai tea (think cinnamon and ginger) plus rum make this the ultimate warming fall cocktail for a cozy night. If you want to make this one dairy free, try oat or almond milk for the tastiest results.

23. Hot Buttered Rum

Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell

Time Commitment: 15 minutes
Why I Love It: ready in <15 minutes, special occasion-worthy
Serves: 4

This fall cocktail is kind of like the grown-up’s alternative to hot chocolate—it’s plenty sweet thanks to brown sugar and honey, but gets a kick from the spices and a generous pour of booze. (Don’t forget the cinnamon sticks for stirring.)

24. Mulled Wine Sangria

Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell

Time Commitment: 15 minutes
Why I Love It: beginner-friendly
Serves: 4

Wait, sangria isn’t just for summer? This cozy version shows it’s just as good for fall as it is for the warmer months. (Oh, and there’s brandy in there, too, to kick it up an extra notch.)

25. Slow Cooker Cranberry Hot Toddy

Photo: Liz Andrew/Styling: Erin McDowell

Time Commitment: 4 hours, 5 minutes
Why I Love It: slow cooker recipe, crowd-pleaser
Serves: 12 to 14

Big-batch cocktails and easy entertaining go hand in hand. Instead of playing bartender, pour everything into your Crock-pot (and never look back).

26. Slow Cooker Spiked Cinnamon Lattes

Photo: Jon Cospito/Styling: Erin McDowell

Time Commitment: 3 hours, 5 minutes
Why I Love It: slow cooker recipe, crowd-pleaser
Serves: 12

With your handy slow cooker, you can leave this boozy brew on a low setting and it’ll stay warm for hours. That means that if the conversations are good and the hangout lingers longer than expected, the drinks are still just as great as when everybody first arrived. If they last that long.

27. Hot Buttered Bourbon

How Sweet Eats

Time Commitment: 20 minutes
Why I Love It: ready in <15 minutes, crowd-pleaser
Serves: 4 to 6

This one pairs well with a flannel shirt, a chunky knit throw blanket and a dark academia book. You can prepare the flavored butter in advance and keep it in the fridge for last-minute drinks or easy entertaining.

28. Bourbon Spiked Hot Chocolate

A Cookie Named Desire

Time Commitment: 7 minutes
Why I Love It: <10 ingredients, ready in <15 minutes
Serves: 1

If you don’t make a bit of a mess, it means you haven’t drizzled on enough caramel sauce. If you want to make the drink for a crowd, scale up the ingredients and keep it warm in a slow cooker.

@cocktails The perfect batched beverage for the fall.🍹🍁 Ingredients: - 1 cup spiced rum - 3 cups apple cider - squeeze of lemon juice - dash of cinnamon - pour over ice and top with prosecco #rum #cider #applecider #fall #batch ♬ Sunset Vibes - Brandon Parrell

Psst: Follow @Cocktails on TikTok and Instagram for even more great recipe ideas!

The Mom Group Chat is Sacred & Meghan Markle Has Every Right to Be Pissed

Rachel Bowie — 2026-09-23T07:12:37-04:00

When news broke last week that Meghan Markle’s phone number had been leaked from the school’s group chat, I was shocked. Not because she’s the Duchess of Sussex, who—according to most U.K. tabloids—can hardly ever put a foot right. But simply because, as a mom of school-aged kids myself, I know that the WhatsApp parenting group is sacred. It’s where we get our bread-and-butter info. It’s where we bitch about the one million early dismissals. And, if I were Meghan Markle (or any mom participating in one), I’d be pissed if my info was shared.

The latest royal drama all began with what sounds like a totally benign digital interaction. According to reports, Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet were about to start at their new U.K.-based school when Markle was welcomed to the chat.

One parent kicked things off with an introduction that read: “Welcome to Meghan who has Archie joining tomo,” which was followed by another parent chiming in with, “Welcome!!” Markle replied back: “Hi moms! Thanks for the warm welcome. So happy to be a part of this community xx”. From there, a screenshot was taken, the Duchess of Sussex’s phone number was leaked and pretty much anyone with an internet connection knew the back and forth of her school-related conversation.

I was shocked, not by the tabloids who amplified her personal info, but by the parent who violated what’s meant to be a safe space. After all, there’s an unspoken rule here. The school WhatsApp chat is not just home to our phone numbers and emails. It’s also a place where parents’ addresses and Venmo handles live, as well as children’s photos, allergies and—yes—lice outbreak information.

The minute I’m added to one, I suddenly feel responsible for the collective privacy of every family who joins. That’s not to say I won’t verbally discuss any drama that plays out, it’s just that I would never screenshot anything and share it outside the chat.

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A post shared by Meghan, Duchess of Sussex (@meghan)

Etiquette expert Myka Meier agrees: “School group chats should be treated as a trusted and private space,” she says. “Parents join them to share information about their children, schedules and school with the reasonable expectation that what is shared within the group stays within the group. Passing along someone’s phone number, screenshots or private messages without permission is a serious break of that trust, regardless of who the person is.”

Should Markle have clapped back at the information breach? Delivered a searing side-eye to the mom who outed her? I would have. Ultimately, we can’t know how she responded. We know she switched the kids’ school, though that was more about the lack of security on the commute, according to reports. And we also know that, as always, she comes away from this kerfuffle with both admirers and critics.

Bottom line: The next time you’re tempted to screenshot something annoying in the class chat and blast it to your friend group, try to pause and reconsider. Just pretend the mom is royalty.

16 Nordstrom Fall Fashion Finds That Nail This Season’s Biggest Trends

Stephanie Maida — 2026-09-22T19:44:01-04:00

‘Tis the season for cozy knits, crisp jeans and the perfect pair of boots. Indeed, when it comes to autumn dressing, many of us probably already have our capsule wardrobes down pat. But as a shopping editor (and a Gemini), I can’t resist throwing a few trendy pieces into the mix to keep my rotation feeling fresh. You too? Well, lucky for us, Nordstrom—the ultimate one-stop fashion shop—is stocked with stylish finds that embrace the biggest trends of the season.

From buzzy prints and textures (hello, paisley dresses and corduroy jackets) to accessories in this fall’s hottest hue (bring on the cherry red bags!), I’ve browsed hundreds of styles at Nordstrom to bring you 16 of the trendiest, fall-ready finds fit for every occasion.

Want to know which buzzy products are *really* worth buying? Sign up for our shopping newsletter to uncover our favorite finds.

What’s New for Fall at Nordstrom?

Nordstrom has a ton of new fall items, many of which are in line with the trends we've seen this year, from funnel-neck outerwear to cargo pants and upscale animal prints. As always, you can also count on the retailer to supply the best of the basics, from cozy sweaters to comfy boots, albeit with a few up-to-date twists.

Nordstrom

Not a fall goes by without at least some form of plaid returning to our closets. This time around, it’s all about the heritage blazer. More fitted than the oversized styles we’ve seen trending in seasons past, this posh pick gets it right. The tailored shape, faux suede accents and thick material (featuring a touch of wool) give it a British-royal-in-the-countryside vibe that’s refined but still outdoorsy. Just the thing for a leaf-peeping getaway upstate.

$148 at Nordstrom

Does Nordstrom Price Match?

Excellent news for all you deal-hunters out there: Nordstrom’s price match policy is (almost) as good as its fall assortment. Per the company, "If we—or one of the select competitors listed below—mark down the price of an item you've already purchased, we're happy to adjust the price at your request within 10 days of your shipment date." You'll want to note that the adjustment does not apply to outlet or flash sale prices or most already on sale at Nordstrom.

What Is Nordstrom’s Return Policy?

On the off chance you don’t absolutely love the item you purchased from Nordstrom, you can easily return it either in-store or via mail. Nordstrom will provide the shipping label if you choose to send the item back in the mail or the QR code if you'd rather bring it back to the store. Once the item has been received, refunds can be expected in roughly three to 19 business days. (Note that in-store purchases are processed more quickly.)

Why You Should Trust Us

Peloton Launches 3 New Treadmills for Every Type of Runner (and Yes, One of Them Folds)

Catrina Yohay — 2026-09-22T17:22:10-04:00

What do Miley Cyrus, Peloton’s five million members and I all have in common? We’re beyond stoked about the tech giant’s latest fitness launch. Or should I say launches.

Three new treadmills are joining the Peloton hardware lineup—including their most affordable option to date: Tread Flex, Tread Vision and Tread+ Vision. Created for every type of runner, walker, hiker and HYROX-er (more on that later), these machines combine “next-gen equipment with intelligent personalization” to level up your workout from day one. I got a sneak peek earlier this month during a media preview at Peloton's NYC studio, and the excitement was palpable. Expect swivel screens and new jump buttons, as well as an expansion of Peloton IQ, the brand’s AI-enabled operating system offering even more personalized fitness coaching.

And because Peloton is anything but subtle, they teamed up with Miley Cyrus (the icon that she is) to share the announcement and tease her new Artist Series coming to the app later this fall. Available to order starting October 1, here’s everything you need to know about the three new treadmills on Peloton’s roster.

Hardware Updates

1. Peloton Tread Flex

Peloton

Hi, meet Peloton’s most affordable treadmill to date. Oh, and it also happens to be the brand’s first-ever folding design. (Do I have your attention now? Great!) For the casual runner, walker or hiker that refuses to let a lack of space limit their training, this is the treadmill for you. When not in use, it compacts to about 50 percent of its original size (taking up less floor space than the Peloton Bike). It’s also ultra-quiet, has caster wheels for effortless repositioning and a two-step cylinder release for safe deck lowering. It’s the treadmill members have been begging Peloton to make, and I have a hunch it will be on everyone’s Christmas list this year.

Price: $2,195
Best for: walkers, joggers, hikers

2. Peloton Tread Vision

Peloton

Runners looking for a few more bells and whistles will love the Tread Vision. This treadmill features a larger swivel screen, a new belt cushioning system for greater joint comfort and convenient jump buttons on both the speed and incline dials, helping members easily move between high-intensity training and recovery during hikes and HIIT runs. It also has a movement-tracking camera that provides post-workout insights on your running form (as well as your lifting form when exercising on the mat). Think of it as your personal running companion, powered by AI intelligence.

Price: $3,495
Best for: walkers, runners, strength trainers

3. Peloton Tread+ Vision

Peloton

Peloton describes the Tread+ Vision as “the ultimate training partner,” pairing all of the hardware upgrades found in the Tread Vision with an energy-returning rubberized slat running belt and Peloton’s IQ-powered movement-tracking software. For the HYROX devotees, this treadmill also features Sled Mode, a brand-new training functionality (with a 300-pound push weight) that mimics the challenging sled push exercise the fitness competition is known for.

Price: $6,695
Best for: long-distance runners, endurance athletes, HYROX competitors

Software Updates

Peloton

Hardware can’t have all the fun! Here are some of the new software upgrades Peloton members can expect:

Run Analysis: Peloton IQ analyzes cadence, vertical oscillation and stride length to generate a running efficiency score along with tips to help members run smarter and safer. Available on Tread Vision and all Tread+ equipment.
IQ Pace Targets: After completing 10 running workouts, this feature will set personalized target speed ranges for every interval based on the member’s recent performance. During class, suggested speeds will appear on screen so you can change your pace with a simple tap. Available on all Tread equipment.
Heart Rate Zone Workouts: A new offering for Zone 2 cardiovascular training that integrates heart rate data from your smartwatch or band, allowing for more personalized training targets. Available on all Tread equipment.
ReRuns: Relive the experience of your favorite outdoor run (or race) by syncing the inclines from your outdoor routes via the Peloton app. Available on all Tread equipment.

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Lauren Graham Taught Me How to Make Her Banana Coffee Cake Muffins & They Took Me Straight to Stars Hollow

Candace Davison — 2026-09-22T16:53:45-04:00

As a Gilmore Girls fan, when an invitation to bake with Lorelai lands in your inbox, you pour yourself a bucket of coffee, practice tongue-twisters to improve your speed talking and rearrange your schedule. Even though a decade has passed since its follow-up miniseries debuted on Netflix, the show has endured. It's become synonymous with fall, with searches literally spiking every September, inspiring rewatches, festivals and a sense of parasocial nostalgia for a fictional New England community.

So, naturally, I jumped at the chance to bake alongside Lauren Graham. Even more so, because Graham likes to cook and bake herself; something her TV counterpart wasn't exactly known for.

"I don't think we baked anything [on the show]," Graham said, as we—and by we, I mean her, me and roughly 30 others who had RSVP'ed to the Bob's Red Mill baking class she was co-hosting, as part of the brand's Moregetherness campaign—rolled up our sleeves. If we were to make anything Gilmore Girls-inspired, "it would be a bowl of Cheetos or something."

Instead, we turned to one of Graham's go-to recipes: Banana Coffee Cake Muffins.

bob's red mill

"I'm always trying to be more healthy, and I buy bananas that I'm supposed to eat, like after I work out. And I forget, and they sit there, and then they become mushy, and then I'd make banana bread," she said.

It started out as a way to make use of browned bananas, but the ease of baking banana bread got her hooked. "You don't need a mixer; it's just really easy and it's impressive. People don't understand how simple it is," the Talking As Fast As I Can author shared.

Over time—and after a friendly competition with her brother-in-law to bake the best banana bread recipe, she landed on this hybrid, adding a coffee cake-esque streusel on top to make it stand out. And, since Graham avoids gluten, the recipe itself is gluten-free. (It's also part of the reason she partnered with Bob's Red Mill—the company recently reformulated its Gluten-Free 1:1 Baking Flour, which she uses while baking.)

Candace Davison

As the rest of us sat on stools in a U-shape surrounding Graham, she walked us through her Banana Coffee Cake Muffins recipe. We worked in small groups, mashing bananas and measuring out ingredients, then mixing the batter into shared muffin tins. It was a fitting collaboration, considering the crux of the "Moregetherness" campaign is the idea that sharing food creates a deeper sense of connection. It worked; we had barely gotten through the first step before everyone at my table started sharing stories about their own baking wins and fails, the latest pop culture news (side note: Why haven't I seen Widow's Bay yet?!) and life in general. Suddenly, downtown Manhattan was feeling a little more like Stars Hollow.

So, what does it take to make her recipe—and, more importantly, how do they taste? Let's dive in.

What's in Lauren Graham's Banana Coffee Cake Muffins?

Candace Davison

Beyond gluten-free flour, the two most noticeable differences from your typical banana bread recipe are (1) it doesn't require eggs—the bananas are enough of a binder, and milk and oil provide plenty of moisture—and (2) it calls for rice vinegar. Why rice vinegar specifically? The acid reacts with the baking soda to help the banana bread rise, yet its flavor is so mild that it doesn't add tanginess to the recipe itself.

The streusel is a simple combination of turbinado sugar, gluten-free flour, oil and cinnamon.

How Do You Make Them?

Candace Davison

Graham was right; the recipe is incredibly easy. In fact, it's a three-step process:

As the oven preheats to 350 degrees F, you mash bananas in one bowl. In another, you whisk the dry ingredients, then stir in the bananas, milk, oil, vinegar and vanilla, then divide the batter into lined or greased muffin cups.
Next, you make the streusel, combining all four ingredients until crumbly, then sprinkle it atop the muffin batter.
Finally, you bake them for about 15 to 20 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

How Do The Muffins Taste?

Candace Davison

They're dense—almost pillowy, with a light chewiness and a rich banana flavor. The streusel is truly a standout topping; it adds an oh-so fall touch of cinnamon and a crunchy sweetness to offset the tender muffin. My only tweak? I'd add some crushed, toasted walnuts and a pinch of flaky sea salt to the streusel for a little more contrast and depth of flavor.

The Bottom Line: Are They Worth Making?

Candace Davison

Yes—they're a delightful, foolproof treat that pairs excellently with a massive cup of coffee and a Gilmore Girls binge-watch. And while you may be tempted to eat them all yourself, each batch makes a dozen muffins, giving you an excuse to invite people over and create your own Stars Hollow at home.