Spooky season is creeping closer and closer! The beloved season of Autumn commences this month, and while we are still soaking up the sun while we can, we seriously can’t wait for some of the sinister new (and nostalgic) storylines that are hitting the big (and little) screen this month.

Movies

It doesn’t have to be a book first (although we are total suckers for a good adaptation) to have us standing first in line at the cinema! Whether it’s villains from decades past or debut actors ready to sweet us off their feet, we are here for them all.

A Haunting in Venice

Prepare for a spine-tingling cinematic experience with the upcoming adaptation of Agatha Christie’s Hallowe’en Party, the latest addition to the franchise following Murder on the Orient Express and Death on the Nile. Reuniting Kenneth Branagh as the iconic Hercule Poirot, alongside Tina Fey and Michelle Yeoh, A Haunting in Venice takes us on a pulse-pounding investigation into a murder during a haunted séance in Italy. Get ready for a riveting blend of mystery and action, set against the mesmerizing backdrop of Venice’s canals.

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Saw X 

Saw X, the 10th installment in the Saw series, arrives on September 29, 2023, just in time for the eerie season. Breaking the hiatus since the 2010 release of “Saw 3D,” it revives Roman numeral numbering and continues the storyline between the original 2004 film and Saw II, featuring fan-favorites John Kramer (Tobin Bell) and Amanda Young (Shawnee Smith). For horror enthusiasts new to the franchise, it serves as a direct sequel to the 2004 film, making it an enticing and easily accessible entry point.

The Creator 

In the midst of sequel-dominated releases, The Creator stands out. This original sci-fi by Gareth Edwards, known for Rogue One and Godzilla (2014), features John David Washington, Gemma Chan, Ken Watanabe, Allison Janney, and Ralph Ineson. The story follows mercenary Joshua (Washington), assigned to eliminate an advanced AI’s creator, until he discovers the AI is a child.

Dumb Money

Get ready for the biopic ‘Dumb Money,’ a comedic drama chronicling the 2021 GameStop stock investment frenzy fueled by the r/WallStreetBets subreddit. The film, starring Paul Dano, Pete Davidson, America Ferrera, Vincent D’Onofrio, Shailene Woodley, and Seth Rogen, boasts an impressive cast. By director Craig Gillespie of Cruella and I, Tonya fame, it’s a must-see for anyone intrigued by the events.

The Nun II 

Prepare for a chilling cinematic experience with The Nun II, the highly anticipated horror thriller from New Line Cinema. This sequel delves deeper into the sinister narrative of The Conjuring Universe, following Sister Irene (played by Taissa Farmiga) as she confronts the demon nun Valak amidst a murder in 1956 France. Directed by Michael Chaves, the film features an ensemble cast and continues the successful collaboration of producers Peter Safran and James Wan, creators of the renowned horror franchise.

Aristotle And Dante Discover The Secrets Of The Universe

Fifteen-year-old Aristotle Mendoza’s solitary life takes an unexpected turn when he crosses paths with carefree Dante Quintana at a local pool. Dante’s vibrant spirit sparks a newfound appreciation for life’s wonders and creativity within Ari, breaking down his isolation. However, their transformative summer together is cut short, propelling Aristotle to confront his fears and uncertainties, ultimately choosing between retreating to his former solitude or embracing the limitless possibilities Dante introduced him to.

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Poor Things

Experience the mesmerizing journey of Bella Baxter, played by Emma Stone, in the captivating film adaptation of Alasdair Gray’s novel Poor Things. Revived by the brilliant Dr. Godwin Baxter (Willem Dafoe), Bella embarks on a whirlwind adventure with Mark Ruffalo’s debauched lawyer character, Duncan Wedderburn. As Bella evolves on her quest for equality and liberation, the movie vividly brings to life Gray’s incredible tale.

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Nyad

Get ready to be inspired as Netflix presents the remarkable true story of Diana Nyad, an athlete who defied all odds. At the age of 60, with unwavering determination and the support of her best friend and coach, Diana embarks on a life-long dream: a 110-mile open ocean swim from Cuba to Florida. Directed by Jimmy Chin and Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi, and starring Jodie Foster, Annette Bening, and Rhys Ifans, this extraordinary tale of resilience and triumph will leave you awestruck.

Love at First Sight 

In a world of 100,000 daily flights and 6 million travelers, fate weaves a unique story. When Hadley (Haley Lu Richardson) misses her New York to London flight, a serendipitous encounter with Oliver (Ben Hardy) at the airport ignites an instant connection. Their whirlwind night on the plane is fleeting, but as they part ways at Heathrow, the chaos threatens to keep them apart. Can destiny reunite these seatmates and turn them into soulmates? Discover the enchanting journey streaming on Netflix, based on Jennifer E. Smith’s beloved novel.

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TV

Get your cozy couch spot ready — we’ve found some seriously bingeworthy TV shows and adaptations for you that are perfect for the first month of Fall.

The Other Black Girl 

Adapted from Zakiya Dalila Harris’ best-selling novel, The Other Black Girl delves into the story of Nella, a Black editorial assistant at a predominantly white publishing company. When another Black woman, Hazel, is hired, what begins as celebration soon unravels into a sinister discovery about the company, promising a blend of thriller and clever social satire with many twists and turns.

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The Wheel of Time Season 2

Prepare for the highly anticipated return of The Wheel of Time on Prime Video, based on Robert Jordan’s beloved novel series. In its second season, the epic fantasy continues with Moiraine’s quest to determine whether the prophesied Dragon Reborn will be humanity’s savior or its downfall, raising the stakes to unimaginable heights.

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The Changeling 

The Changeling is a captivating adaptation of Victor LaValle’s bestseller, offering a grown-up fairy tale that blends horror, parenthood, and a mysterious journey through a hidden side of New York City. Led by LaKeith Stanfield, the series also features a talented ensemble cast. With showrunner Kelly Marcel and director Melina Matsoukas at the helm, this Apple Studios and Annapurna production delivers a gripping narrative.

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Virgin River Season 5

One of the most adored shows on Netflix, equal parts cozy and full of drama, is back for Season 5 and we can’t wait! Between threatening wildfires, high-risk pregnancies, wedding planning, and so much more – there is never a dull moment with our favorite power couple Mel and Jack.