A Feast for the Senses: Fall 2024’s Most Anticipated Fantasy, Horror, and Sci-Fi Films
Get ready to dive into a world of cinematic thrills and chills this fall, as a wave of anticipated fantasy, horror, and sci-fi films washes over movie theaters and streaming services. From classic franchises revitalized to fresh and exciting new stories, there’s something for every taste and every thrill seeker.
The Ghost With the Most is Back:
Beetlejuice (September 6) will be a nostalgic treat for fans, as Michael Keaton returns as the iconic Ghost with the Most, alongside Winona Ryder and Catherine O’Hara. The sequel promises spooky shenanigans with a fresh cast, including Jenna Ortega, Willem Dafoe, Monica Bellucci, and Justin Theroux, all under the direction of the legendary Tim Burton.
Horror, but Make it Eggers:
The Front Room (September 6) is the co-writing and co-directing debut of Max and Sam Eggers, brothers of acclaimed horror auteur Robert Eggers. This unsettling tale will explore the terrifying anxieties of impending motherhood as a pregnant woman, Brandy, navigates her husband’s overbearing stepmother, played by Kathryn Hunter from the hit series Andor.
Vacations From Hell:
Speak No Evil (September 13) is a remake of the Danish horror film, promising a vacation getaway from hell that keeps viewers on edge. While a remake might be unnecessary, the casting of James McAvoy as the disturbingly complex villain ensures a captivating and unsettling experience.
Transformers: A New Era Begins:
Transformers One (September 20), the first animated theatrical Transformers film in nearly four decades, offers a unique opportunity to delve into the franchise’s origin story. This origin story of Optimus Prime and Megatron promises to be a moving tale of friendship turned to enmity, exploring the lore of the Transformers universe in ways we’ve never seen before.
Hollywood’s Dark Side:
The Substance (September 20) starring Demi Moore, tackles the controversial issues of sexism and ageism in Hollywood, pushing boundaries with shocking and gruesome scenes. The film promises a unique blend of the styles of renowned directors like John Carpenter, Darren Aronofsky, Peter Jackson, and David Cronenberg, creating a truly unforgettable cinematic experience.
A Superman Story Like No Other:
Super/Man (September 21) takes a different approach to the Superman mythos, offering a touching documentary about Christopher Reeve’s life. The film explores his journey from Hollywood’s most iconic Superman to a tireless advocate for disability rights, offering a heartfelt look at a beloved figure beyond the cape and tights.
Escaping the Apocalypse:
Azrael (September 27) is a dialogue-free action-horror thriller about a woman played by Samara Weaving (Ready or Not) who escapes a dangerous cult seeking to sacrifice her. The film’s setting in a post-apocalyptic world filled with monsters heightens the stakes and amps up the tension, making it a must-watch for fans of high-octane action and haunting horror.
Sleepless Nights & Creepiness:
Sleep (September 27) is a South Korean thriller already lauded for its chilling depiction of sleep terrors. A couple expecting their first child finds themselves plunged into a world of nightmarish sleepwalking and unsettling secrets. This film is a heart-pounding thriller that will keep you up long after you’ve watched it.
Robot-Goose Companionship:
The Wild Robot (September 27) is a DreamWorks animated film that will appeal to audiences of all ages. The story revolves around Roz, a robot voiced by Lupita Nyong’o, shipwrecked on a deserted island. There, she finds unexpected companionship in an orphaned goose, offering a heartwarming tale of friendship against the backdrop of a stunningly animated world.
Terror Comes Home:
Apartment 7A (September 27, streaming on Paramount+) is a prequel to the iconic Rosemary’s Baby, a horror film that dives deep into the unsettling world of devil worshipers. With Julia Garner in the lead role and Dianne Wiest as the unsettling Minnie Castavet – a role made famous by Ruth Gordon – this film promises to be a chilling descent into the dark heart of a seemingly ordinary apartment building.
Coppola’s Epic Vision:
Megalopolis (September 27) is the magnum opus of Francis Ford Coppola, a visionary director known for films like The Godfather, Apocalypse Now, and The Conversation. The film follows an architect with the ability to manipulate time who rebuilds a city after its destruction. Featuring a star-studded cast including Adam Driver, Giancarlo Esposito, Aubrey Plaza, and Shia LaBeouf, this film promises to be a visually stunning, thought-provoking exploration of urban development and the passage of time.
Salem’s Lot: A New Bite:
Salem’s Lot (October, streaming on Max) offers a fresh take on the classic vampire story by Stephen King. Gary Dauberman, known for his work on the Annabelle and It franchise, wrote and directed this adaptation, with Lewis Pullman portraying protagonist Ben Mears. This film promises a thrilling and terrifying journey into a town besieged by vampires, with a team of skilled actors bringing the iconic story to life.
Joker: A Musical Nightmare:
Joker: Folie à Deux (October 4) is the anticipated sequel to the Oscar-winning Joker, starring Joaquin Phoenix and Lady Gaga as a grounded Harley Quinn. This time around, the film incorporates musical numbers, adding a unique layer of complexity and depth to the characters’ stories. The film’s powerful performance elements and potential for cultural impact make it one of the most anticipated film events of the fall.
Art the Clown Returns for More:
Terrifier 3 (October 11) is set to be even more gruesome and even bigger than its predecessor, Terrifier 2. With Art the Clown, the iconic villain of the franchise, returning for more mayhem and blood, this Christmas-themed, pre-Halloween release is guaranteed to send shivers down the spines of horror fans.
Smile’s Return With a New Twist:
Smile 2 (October 18) is Parker Finn’s follow-up to the successful 2022 horror film Smile. This sequel focuses on a pop star played by Naomi Scott, whose world tour takes a terrifying turn, driven by the creepy, grinning entity that haunts the film.
Venom’s Final Showdown:
Venom: The Last Dance (October 25) promises to be the biggest Venom sequel yet, concluding the trilogy with a bang. It returns Tom Hardy as Eddie Brock, this time facing off against his home planet, which has discovered his whereabouts. The film is sure to be filled with plenty of over-the-top action and chaotic humor, showcasing the iconic symbiote’s distinct personality.
Here: A Timeless Cinematic Experience:
Here (November 1) is a highly ambitious project from Robert Zemeckis, the director of Forrest Gump, once again joined by screenwriter Eric Roth and stars Tom Hanks and Robin Wright. This film is unique in its approach to storytelling as the camera remains stationary throughout the film, showcasing the entire history of humankind, from the dawn of time to the distant future.
Wicked: A Musical Journey:
Wicked (November 22) is the highly anticipated film adaptation of the hit musical. While only the first part of the two-part film will be released this year, the powerful music, elaborate set design, and compelling backstory promise a dazzling and enchanting cinematic experience.
A Dark Comedy with Mormon Twist:
Heretic (November 24) is a psychological thriller written and directed by the team behind A Quiet Place, Scott Beck and Bryan Woods. In this film, two Mormon missionaries played by Sophie Thatcher and Chloe East encounter a charismatic man, portrayed by a villain-era Hugh Grant, who welcomes them into his home with disturbing enthusiasm. The film promises creepy twists and turns, showcasing a dark side to seemingly innocent religious evangelism.
Y2K: Chaos and Laughter:
Y2K (December 6) is a period sci-fi disaster comedy with a nostalgic feel. Starring Jaeden Martell, Julian Dennison, Rachel Zegler, Fred Durst, and Alicia Silverstone, this film highlights a hypothetical scenario in which the Y2K bug causes a technological apocalypse. The film is expected to be a hilarious and thought-provoking look at the anxieties surrounding technology and the chaos that can ensue when it malfunctions.
Kraven’s Rise to Vengeance:
Kraven the Hunter (December 13) is Sony’s latest attempt to expand the cinematic universe surrounding Spider-Man, without featuring the iconic web-slinger himself. The film follows the rise of Sergei Kravinoff, portrayed by Aaron Taylor-Johnson, as he embraces his family’s legacy as hunters. The film’s focus on Kraven’s quest for revenge promises high-octane action and a compelling exploration of a compelling but morally gray character.
Middle-earth in Anime Form:
The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim (December 13) is a new approach to the beloved Middle-earth universe, offering a full-fledged anime film set before the events of the Lord of the Rings movies and the TV show. The film focuses on a vital battle between the Rohirrim and a powerful force, offering a fresh perspective on a crucial turning point in Middle-earth history.
Sonic the Hedgehog: The Ultimate Showdown:
Sonic the Hedgehog 3 (December 20) brings us the third installment of the popular gaming adaptation. This time, Sonic, Knuckles, Tails, and Dr. Robotnik are brought together to face their toughest challenge yet: Shadow the Hedgehog, played by Keanu Reeves. The film promises high-stakes action, captivating animation, and a fun showdown with Sega’s iconic villain.
Nosferatu Returns in a Modern Reimagining:
Nosferatu (December 25) is Robert Eggers’ reimagining of the silent film classic, featuring Bill Skarsgård as the infamous Count Orlok. With a stellar cast including Nicholas Hoult, Lily-Rose Depp, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Emma Corrin, Ralph Ineson, Simon McBurney, and Willem Dafoe, this film promises a stunning visual experience and a terrifying re-imagination of one of the most iconic horror villains of all time.
Wallace and Gromit: A Classic Returns:
Wallace and Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl (Winter, on Netflix) marks the return of Aardman’s beloved duo after a 16-year hiatus. This new film promises hilarious adventures as Wallace and Gromit face their most cunning villain yet: Feathers McGraw, the notorious chicken-loving villain.
This Fall, get ready for a remarkable selection of films that are sure to captivate audiences and leave them craving more. From the long-awaited return of iconic franchises to fresh and innovative storytelling, the world of fantasy, horror, and sci-fi has something to offer every cinema lover. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and prepare yourself for a cinematic journey you will not want to miss.
