For Election Day: “Boys State” (2020)
This recent documentary follows four teenagers during the 2019 Texas Boys State, a week-long program sponsored by the American Legion where high school juniors are tasked with running for office and creating their own government. What follows is a fight between quiet bipartisanship and outspoken conservatism where dirty tricks abound. The state of our government becomes more understandable while watching the depressing ways in which our future leaders are created.
For Veteran’s Day: “Da 5 Bloods” (2020)
Spike Lee’s sprawling epic about four Vietnam veterans returning to the country to retrieve the body of their fallen fifth friend is not a typical war movie. It is an insightful examination of how the United States forces men to fight for freedom while simultaneously denying them that very freedom at home.
For fall vibes: “Fantastic Mr. Fox” (2009)
Roald Dahl’s classic children’s book about a clever fox’s heist to rob three farmers comes to life in twee stop-motion. Director Wes Anderson brings just enough of his off-kilter charm to make this child’s tale something all ages can enjoy. And the vibrant colors and various foods give this perfect autumn vibes.
For sweater weather: “The Holiday” (2006)
This is a classic romantic comedy about two women whose struggles and frustration with men led them to completely swap homes with one another for the holiday season. Packed with stars like Kate Winslet, Cameron Diaz, Jude Law and Jack Black, you know it’s going to be good.
It’s a little bit of a fall movie, a little bit of a Christmas movie and a whole lot of fun. This movie will make you want to grab some hot coco and your fuzziest socks to curl up on the couch with your friends or partner.
