Best films released in the UK this month: October 2024

As a cinephile who has traversed the seven seas of cinematic experiences, I must say that this October is shaping up to be a veritable cornucopia of celluloid delights!


In October, you can typically expect two types of movies being released: a multitude of suspenseful and eerie films perfect for Halloween, and the beginning of the influx of films vying for awards, having premiered at prominent fall film festivals earlier.

As a movie enthusiast, I can’t help but express my excitement about one film that seems to straddle two intriguing categories and is without a doubt the most anticipated release of the month: Joker: Folie á Deux. This time around, Joaquin Phoenix reprises his captivating role, five years after the original’s premiere, and this time he’s teamed up with the extraordinary Lady Gaga for a unique, music-infused twist on the superhero genre.

In terms of horror movies, you’ve got a couple of fresh options to sink your teeth into, such as the upcoming sequel “Smile 2” and the latest adaptation of Stephen King’s “Salem’s Lot,” which are currently making waves.

At the moment, Sebastian’s admirers (could we say Sebastian’s fanbase?) are in for quite a treat this month. This is because Sebastian has delivered remarkable performances in two contrasting movies, one of which features his transformation into a character resembling a younger Donald Trump…

Additionally, Alice Lowe’s debut film in eight years is out, alongside a stunning new animated production, marking the release of the first English-language film from a renowned Spanish director.

To help you pick out the highlights, we’ve put together a selection of some of the best films to watch this month – check out the video above or read on for our choices.

Joker Folie à Deux

Release date: Friday 4th October in cinemas

In the much-awaited sequel, Joaquin Phoenix once again assumes the Oscar-winning role of Arthur Fleck, now accompanied by Lady Gaga, who plays his romantic interest and the renowned DC Comics figure, Harley Quinn. This time around, they’re presenting a musical rendition of the city of Gotham.

The movie chronicles their relationship that blossoms shortly after they encounter each other within Arkham Asylum, and it unfolds as they both are in love, while Arthur’s legal representative argues for his freedom based on him having a split personality condition.

A Different Man

Release date: Friday 4th October in cinemas

As a cinephile, I must say that Sebastian Stan and Adam Pearson deliver captivating performances in this mind-bending psychological thriller penned and directed by Aaron Schimberg. The story revolves around Edward, portrayed by Stan, who’s an aspiring actor with neurofibromatosis. In a dramatic turn of events, he consents to an experimental medical procedure that dramatically alters his physical appearance.

Yet, though Edward appeared initially satisfied with the outcomes, he subsequently found himself on a declining path, particularly upon meeting Oswald (Pearson), another individual living with neurofibromatosis who seemed quite at ease in his own skin.

Salem’s Lot

Release date: Friday 11th October in cinemas

In a refreshing twist, the long-awaited movie rendition of Stephen King’s classic vampire novel, which has finally come to light, showcases a remarkable assemblage of talents such as Lewis Pullman, Bill Camp, and Alfre Woodard on its roster.

Similar to the book and Tobe Hooper’s earlier adaptation, the story revolves around a writer going back to his old hometown in search of creative sparks, but discovers instead that his former residence has become a dwelling place for a ravenous vampire, gradually gaining control.

Timestalker

Release date: Friday 11th October in cinemas

Alice Lowe’s debut as both writer and director since her work on Prevenge eight years prior presents a humorous, science fiction tale that unfolds across different time periods. The story revolves around a woman named Agnes who repeatedly finds herself falling for the wrong man after experiencing multiple reincarnations throughout history.

In this production, Lowe plays the lead role of Agnes, while an array of familiar British actors such as Jacob Anderson, Nick Frost, Tanya Reynolds, and Aneurin Barnard grace the supporting cast.

Smile 2

Release date: Friday 18th October in cinemas

In the continuation of last year’s chilling horror sensation, “Smile,” I, a passionate fan, find myself drawn into the tale of Skye Riley, a popular music star. This time around, she’s unfortunately caught in the relentless curse, right when her global tour is about to kick off. As fate would have it, this ordeal compels her to delve deep into her haunting past.

As a movie lover, I’m thrilled to share that Parker Finn is once again at the helm, both writing and directing. This time, Anatomy of a Scandal star, Naomi Scott, takes center stage, with Rosemarie DeWitt and Lukas Gage being some of the fresh faces joining her in this captivating ensemble cast.

The Apprentice 

Release date: Friday 18th October in cinemas

In the second Sebastian Stan movie featured this month, Bucky Barnes, portrayed by Stan, assumes a distinct character: Donald Trump. This biographical film delves into Trump’s interactions with infamous prosecutor Roy Cohn, played by Jeremy Strong, during the ’70s and ’80s, shaping him into the person we recognize today.

In the movie I’m referring to, I’m thrilled to share that it was skillfully directed by Ali Abassi. One of its standout performances comes from Maria Bakalova, who stole the show in Borat: Subsequent Moviefilm. Her character, Ivanna Trump, is involved in a number of incidents, and her portrayal of Trump’s marriage and subsequent divorce is one such incident that adds depth to the narrative.

The Wild Robot

Release date: Friday 18th October in cinemas

In this animated movie, we find the story derived from a cherished kids’ novel. It centers around a stranded robot that finds itself in an unfamiliar wild environment. Quickly, it forms bonds with various forest animals, adding a diverse group of woodland friends to its repertoire.

As a film enthusiast, I’d be hard-pressed to find words that truly capture the brilliance of the vocal talents gracing our screens. Beyond the concept of a “star-studded” cast, we have Lupita Nyong’o, Pedro Pascal, Kit Connor, Bill Nighy, Stephanie Hsu, Mark Hamill, Catherine O’Hara, and Matt Berry lending their voices to this film. Quite simply, it’s a dream lineup!

The Room Next Door

Release date: Friday 25th October in cinemas

Renowned Spanish filmmaker Pedro Almodóvar steps into the realm of English-language cinema for the first time with this drama, centering around a war correspondent nearing the end of his life who rekindles a friendship with an old acquaintance, having been apart for several years.

In the lead roles for this award-winning movie from the Venice Film Festival are Tilda Swinton and Julianne Moore. The secondary characters in this film are played by John Turturro and Alessandro Nivola.

Venom: The Last Dance

Release date: Friday 25th October in cinemas

Once more, I find myself in the role of a film critic, penning my thoughts about Sony’s latest installment in the Spider-Man Universe: Venom: Let There Be Carnage. This time around, Tom Hardy reprises his gripping portrayal of Eddie Brock, the symbiotic host we’ve come to know as Venom. And according to the filmmakers, this may very well be Brock’s swan song.

While specific storyline particulars remain concealed, it’s been confirmed that the movie will trace his escape exploits. The ensemble cast features Chiwetel Ejiofor, Juno Temple, Rhys Ifans, and Stephen Graham.

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2024-10-02 20:04