Autumn is officially upon us, and it’s the perfect time to cozy up and enjoy some of the most exciting new films hitting theaters. With a mix of psychological thrillers, musicals, horror flicks, and family favorites, this season’s lineup has something for everyone. Here’s a selection of six highly anticipated movies releasing in October and November 2024 that are well worth checking out.
Smile 2
Release Date: October 20, 2024
Runtime: 2h 7m
Rating: R
Director: Parker Finn
Stars: Naomi Scott, Rosemarie DeWitt, Lukas Gage
Why Watch: Following the success of the 2022 horror hit Smile, the sequel follows global pop sensation Skye Riley as she experiences terrifying and inexplicable events just as she’s about to embark on a world tour. With haunting imagery and a gripping storyline, Smile 2 dives deep into psychological horror territory, making it a perfect film for those craving spine-chilling thrills this October.
Heretic
Release Date: November 15, 2024
Runtime: 1h 50m
Rating: R
Director: Scott Beck, Bryan Woods
Stars: Hugh Grant, Sophie Thatcher, Chloe East
Why Watch: In Heretic, two young religious women find themselves trapped in a sinister game of cat-and-mouse inside a strange man’s house. With a gripping premise and Hugh Grant taking on a darker role, this film is poised to keep audiences on the edge of their seats. If you’re looking for a psychological thriller with a dash of religious tension, Heretic is a solid pick this autumn.
Paddington in Peru
Release Date: November 22, 2024
Runtime: 1h 43m
Rating: PG
Director: Dougal Wilson
Stars: Olivia Colman, Ben Whishaw, Emily Mortimer
Why Watch: Everyone’s favorite bear is back! In Paddington in Peru, Paddington, along with the Browns, heads to Peru to visit his beloved Aunt Lucy. What starts as a charming trip turns into an unexpected adventure through the Amazon. This heartwarming, family-friendly film is perfect for autumn, offering thrills, laughs, and all the warmth you’d expect from a Paddington adventure.
Wicked
Release Date: November 27, 2024
Runtime: 2h 40m
Rating: PG
Director: Jon M. Chu
Stars: Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Jonathan Bailey
Why Watch: After enchanting audiences for years on stage, Wicked finally makes its cinematic debut. With an all-star cast including Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, this adaptation of the beloved musical is set to be a holiday season hit. Follow the story of Elphaba and Glinda as they navigate friendship, power, and identity in the magical land of Oz. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the musical or experiencing it for the first time, Wicked is set to deliver spectacle and heart.
Salem’s Lot
Release Date: October 31, 2024
Runtime: 1h 54m
Rating: R
Director: Gary Dauberman
Stars: Lewis Pullman, Makenzie Leigh, Jordan Preston Carter
Why Watch: Perfect for Halloween night, Salem’s Lot is a new adaptation of Stephen King’s classic vampire novel. When a writer returns to his small hometown, he discovers that the locals are falling victim to a bloodthirsty vampire. Full of eerie atmosphere, suspense, and horror, this movie is the perfect choice to cap off a spooky October. If you’re a fan of Stephen King’s work or simply looking for a good scare, Salem’s Lot won’t disappoint.
The Front Room
Release Date: October 24, 2024
Runtime: 1h 34m
Rating: R
Director: Max Eggers, Sam Eggers
Stars: Brandy Norwood, Andrew Burnap, Kathryn Hunter
Why Watch: The Front Room offers a chilling psychological horror as a newly pregnant couple is forced to take in an estranged, ailing stepmother. Directed by Max and Sam Eggers, this unsettling film promises tension, family drama, and a haunting atmosphere that will resonate with fans of slow-burn psychological thrillers.
Wrap-Up
This autumn’s movie lineup offers a little something for everyone. From the spine-chilling horrors of Smile 2 and Salem’s Lot, to the heartwarming adventure of Paddington in Peru, and the much-anticipated musical magic of Wicked, there’s no shortage of great films to watch. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and get ready to enjoy the best of the season!