By Anne Fry
As the cinematic landscape of 2024 unfolds, September offers a diverse array of films that cater to every taste – from sci-fi thrillers and gritty crime dramas to poignant family sagas and horror reboots. Whether you’re heading to the cinema or streaming at home, this month is packed with must-see movies that promise to captivate and entertain. Here’s a look at some of the most intriguing releases this September.
“Slingshot”: A Sci-Fi Thriller with a Psychological Twist
In Slingshot, director Mikael Håfström, best known for his work on 1408, returns with a gripping sci-fi psychological thriller. Set against the vast, isolating backdrop of space, the film follows a crew of astronauts on a mission to Titan. Led by Casey Affleck, Laurence Fishburne, and Emily Beecham, the story delves into the psychological challenges of deep-space travel, where reality begins to blur, and the boundaries of sanity are tested.
Slingshot is not just about the external threats of space but also the internal battles faced by those who dare to explore the unknown. With Håfström’s knack for suspense, this film is a must-watch for fans of intelligent, character-driven sci-fi.
“The Killer’s Game”: A Darkly Comic Action-Adventure
For those who enjoy their action with a side of dark humour, The Killer’s Game offers a fresh and thrilling ride. Directed by former stuntman J.J. Perry, the film stars Dave Bautista as a hitman who mistakenly believes he has a terminal illness. In a twist of fate, he hires a group of assassins to kill him – only to discover that his diagnosis was a clerical error. Now, he must survive the very killers he hired.
With a stellar cast that includes Sofia Boutella, Terry Crews, and Ben Kingsley, The Killer’s Game blends action, comedy, and heart in a unique way. The film’s fast-paced narrative and quirky characters are likely to make it a standout in the genre.
“Greedy People”: Crime, Comedy, and Consequences
Greedy People, directed by Potsy Ponciroli, is a dark comedy that explores the moral ambiguities of crime. The film stars Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Himesh Patel as two police officers who accidentally kill a woman while responding to a call. When they discover a stash of cash, they decide to take it, setting off a chain of events that spirals out of control.
This film combines sharp wit with a biting social commentary, offering a humorous yet cautionary tale about greed and its consequences. Greedy People is poised to be both a critical and audience favourite, appealing to those who appreciate dark humour laced with irony.
“The Substance”: A Body Horror with a Thought-Provoking Edge
One of the most anticipated films of the year, The Substance is directed by Coralie Fargeat, who won Best Screenplay at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival. The film stars Demi Moore, Margaret Qualley, and Dennis Quaid in a story that blends body horror with a scathing critique of society’s obsession with youth and beauty.
The plot revolves around an aging celebrity who turns to an illegal drug that promises to restore her youth. However, the horrifying side effects lead her down a path of self-destruction. The Substance is more than just a horror film; it’s a commentary on the lengths to which people will go to defy nature, making it both a chilling and thought-provoking watch.
“Hellboy: The Crooked Man”: A Gritty Reboot of a Cult Classic
Fans of the Hellboy franchise have much to look forward to with Hellboy: The Crooked Man. Directed by Brian Taylor, known for his work on Crank, this reboot promises a darker, grittier take on the beloved comic book character. Set in the 1950s, the film follows Hellboy, played by Jack Kesy, as he and his partner discover a small village in Appalachia plagued by the demon known as the Crooked Man.
This film aims to return to the horror roots of the original comics, with a focus on atmosphere and dread. With its period setting and supernatural elements, Hellboy: The Crooked Man is likely to appeal to both longtime fans and newcomers to the franchise.
“Le Comte de Monte-Cristo”: A Lavish Adaptation of a Literary Masterpiece
September also brings a lavish adaptation of Alexandre Dumas’s classic novel Le Comte de Monte-Cristo. Directed by Alexandre de La Patellière and Matthieu Delaporte, the film stars Pierre Niney as Edmond Dantès, a man wrongfully imprisoned who escapes and embarks on a journey of revenge against those who betrayed him.
This French production has garnered positive reviews for its faithful adaptation of Dumas’s work, as well as its stunning cinematography and powerful performances. Le Comte de Monte-Cristo is a must-see for lovers of historical dramas and literary adaptations.
“Terrifier”: The Return of a Cult Horror Icon
Horror fans are in for a treat with the re-release of Terrifier, directed by Damien Leone. The film, which has gained a cult following since its original release, follows the terrifying exploits of Art the Clown, a sadistic killer who preys on victims during Halloween night.
Terrifier is not for the faint of heart, with its intense and graphic scenes earning it a reputation as one of the most disturbing slasher films in recent memory. For those who appreciate horror that pushes boundaries, Terrifier is an essential watch.
“His Three Daughters”: A Netflix Drama with Emotional Depth
His Three Daughters, directed by Azazel Jacobs, is a poignant family drama set to debut on Netflix. The film stars Carrie Coon, Elizabeth Olsen, and Natasha Lyonne as three sisters who come together to care for their dying father. As they navigate their complex relationships, old wounds are reopened, and the sisters must confront their past to find a way forward.
With its strong performances and emotionally resonant story, His Three Daughters is a deeply moving exploration of family, loss, and reconciliation. This Netflix release is perfect for those seeking a film that is both heartfelt and thought-provoking.
“Sterben”: A German Drama with Universal Themes
Winner of the Best Screenplay award at the 2024 Berlin International Film Festival, Sterben is a German drama directed by Matthias Glasner. The film centres on a married couple facing their mortality, as well as their two children who are grappling with their own issues.
Sterben is a contemplative film that delves into the human experience of death and dying, exploring themes of love, fear, and acceptance. Its nuanced portrayal of family dynamics and existential questions makes it a powerful and universal story that will resonate with audiences worldwide.
“Wolfs”: A Star-Studded Action Comedy on Apple TV+
Rounding out the month is Wolfs, an action-comedy directed by Jon Watts and featuring the dynamic duo of George Clooney and Brad Pitt. The film follows two professional cleaners – experts in covering up crimes – who are forced to work together on a high-stakes job, despite their preference for working alone.
Wolfs promises a mix of sharp humour, thrilling action, and the undeniable chemistry between Clooney and Pitt. As an Apple TV+ exclusive, this film is sure to be a hit with subscribers, offering the perfect blend of star power and entertainment.
A September to Remember
With such a varied lineup, September 2024 is shaping up to be a month that caters to all cinematic tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for a mind-bending sci-fi thriller, a laugh-out-loud action-comedy, or a deeply emotional drama, this month’s offerings are sure to leave a lasting impression. As you make your way through this curated list of films, you’ll find that September is not just the start of autumn, but a season of cinematic excellence.
