The fall semester at HFU has begun, and as the hustle and bustle of campus life begins to take its toll, what better thing to do than watch a film sure to transport you away from the piling homework? This September, I’ve chosen three films that I believe truly fit the early autumnal aesthetic of this monthーfilms that you do not want to miss!

1. Silver Linings Playbook (2012) dir. David O’Russell

Football is back, baby! What better way to celebrate than alongside Robert De Niro playing a Philadelphia native rooting for the E-A-G-L-E-S, Eagles?! While football does play a central role in the film’s exploration of male aggression, Silver Linings Playbook is so much more than a film featuring local sports. Revolving around a bipolar man named Pat Solitano (Bradley Cooper) recovering from the traumatic experience of his recent divorce, the film explores deeply emotional topics such as mental health, dysfunctional families, and the triumph of love. When he meets a woman who feels just as ostracized by their small Philadelphia neighborhood as he does, the audience is thrust into a realistic depiction of love that is sure to stick with them for many years after. SLP is the unshakeable tale of a local hero, one that each knows and loves. With a gorgeous score, and even more dazzling cast, SLP is an inspiring film for those who want to regain faith in themselves, the changing world around them… and the Philadelphia Eagles.

2. St. Elmo’s Fire (1985) dir. Joel Schumacher

Campy 1980’s fashion, collegiate angst, and a strange amount of saxophone, St. Elmo’s Fire is the perfect film to get you back into the swing of things this fall semester. Centering around a group of recent college graduates, the film covers topics of love, friendship, and post-graduate uncertainty in Washington, DC. St. Elmo’s Fire takes place in the early autumn months, something quite evident in their apparel (is there a limit on how many tweed coats one should own?), as well as the set design displayed in each scene. So, if you’re searching for a film with equal parts drama, comedy, cheesy synth music, and a star studded cast, look no further!

3. Dead Poets Society (1989) dir. Peter Weir – “Carpe Diem. Seize the day. Make your lives extraordinary.”

Color grading enthusiasts gather around, because Dead Poets Society is the perfect film for you this September. With a more than ample amount of brown and gold shading in this back to school film, the aesthetics of DPS have solidified it as an iconic film for academia lovers. The film features beloved character actor Robin Williams stepping out of his usual comedic roles, and into the role of Mr.John Keating, an English teacher at the esteemed Welton Academy. Williams gives an absolutely unforgettable performance, one that you, dear reader, do not want to neglect. Dead Poets Society follows a group of boys that develop a life-altering fascination with poetry, as they begin to explore their own independence, friendships and love lives. The film is laced with angst and tension (I mean, they are poets after all), but the passion of the film is what makes Dead Poets Society an unforgettable watch.

So grab your comfiest blanket and favorite snacks, and plan your next movie night! As the weather grows chillier and the nights grow longer, cuddling up with a new movie doesn’t sound so bad, right? Happy September, friends!

Susie DiPietro is a fourth year English major at Holy Family University. She is currently interning as a co- executive editor of Tri-Lite, and her interests include vintage music, film, and fashion.