The 20 Best Movies Coming This Fall

It’s hard to deny that 2024 has been a fantastic year for movies. After a few rocky years for the film industry and theaters alike, this year has felt like a much-needed revival of that classic cinematic experience. We’ve seen a strong resurgence of films that not only entertain but challenge and inspire—there’s been a little something for everyone. Whether you’re into indie darlings that make you think, or blockbusters packed with action and thrills, 2024 has managed to strike that perfect balance, delivering a wide range of films that appeal to every kind of moviegoer.

What’s even better is that the best might still be ahead. The second half of 2024 is shaping up to be a powerhouse for films, with a lineup of highly anticipated releases that promises to deliver something for everyone. Whether you’re someone who seeks out smaller, art-house films or you can’t wait to see the latest franchise blockbuster, there’s plenty to look forward to. Directors are pushing creative boundaries, actors are delivering career-defining performances, and the storytelling feels more diverse and innovative than ever. For movie fans, the rest of 2024 is going to be an exciting ride—and it’s safe to say, the year will end with a bang.

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice

Director: Tim Burton

Starring: Michael Keaton, Winona Ryder, Catherine O’Hara, Jenna Ortega, Willem Dafoe, Monica Bellucci

Distributor: Warner Bros.

How to Watch: In theaters on September 6

Tim Burton’s Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated films of fall 2024, and it’s easy to see why. The return of Michael Keaton’s iconic character, over 30 years later, is enough to spark intrigue; but it’s the blend of nostalgia and fresh energy that really sets this film apart. The original Beetlejuice (1988) captured the eccentric and whimsical style that defined Burton’s career, and now, with advancements in special effects and storytelling, he’s poised to take the bizarre ghost-world concept to new heights.

The addition of rising star Jenna Ortega to the cast is a stroke of genius. After her standout role in Wednesday, her quirky style seems like a perfect match for Burton’s vision. Ortega, along with the ever-talented Winona Ryder and Catherine O’Hara reprising their roles, creates a dynamic cast that blends the old with the new. With its fantastical sets, quirky humor, and Burton’s unmistakable touch, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice is a must-watch for fans of oddball storytelling this fall.

Wolfs

Director: Jon Watts

Starring: George Clooney, Brad Pitt

Distributor: Sony Pictures, Apple Production

How to Watch: In theaters on September 20

When Brad Pitt and George Clooney join forces, you know it’s going to be cinematic gold. Wolfs is their latest collaboration, and it’s already generating buzz as one of the top fall releases of 2024. Directed by Jon Watts, known for his work on Spider-Man: Homecoming, this new crime drama centers on two lone wolf fixers hired for the same job. It’s a reunion of sorts for Pitt and Clooney, who last shared the screen in Burn After Reading and, of course, the Ocean's trilogy. Their undeniable chemistry brings a familiar yet fresh energy to Wolfs, offering fans a chance to see the two Hollywood legends spar in a brand-new setting.

Watts’ direction promises a unique balance of intensity and humor, making Wolfs not just a star vehicle but a deeply engaging cinematic experience. With Pitt and Clooney at the helm, both known for their charm and charisma, Wolfs is poised to be one of the most captivating films of the fall season. Whether you're a fan of crime dramas or simply enjoy watching these two actors work their magic on screen, Wolfs is a must-watch.

Megalopolis

Director: Francis Ford Coppola

Starring: Adam Driver, Giancarlo Esposito, Nathalie Emmanuel

Distributor: Lionsgate Films

How to Watch: In theaters on September 27

Francis Ford Coppola’s Megalopolis is arguably the most ambitious and intriguing film of the fall 2024 season. After decades of development, the legendary director returns with a project that promises to be both epic in scope and deeply personal. Megalopolis tells the story of an architect's dream to build a utopian city in a dystopian world, exploring themes of power, ambition, and the very nature of civilization. With a sprawling cast that includes Adam Driver, Giancarlo Esposito, and Nathalie Emmanuel, the film blends sci-fi, drama, and philosophy in a way that only Coppola can pull off.

Coppola’s return to the director’s chair is enough to get film lovers excited, but the scale and ambition of Megalopolis make it a must-see. The film itself has found itself in the middle of controversy, after it was reported that the film’s trailer utilized fake quotes from journalists. Regardless, this movie is sure to be an artistic experience that’s worth seeing on the big screen this year.

Joker: Folie à Deux

Director: Todd Philipps

Starring: Joaquin Phoenix, Lady Gaga

Distributor: Warner Bros.

How to Watch: In theaters on October 4

With Joaquin Phoenix reprising his Oscar-winning role as Arthur Fleck, and Lady Gaga joining the cast as Harley Quinn, Joker: Folie à Deux is shaping up to be one of the boldest and most talked-about films of fall 2024. Director Todd Phillips is taking a unique approach to the film, blending the unsettling world of Joker with musical elements that are sure to add new elements and intrigue to the world that already captivated audiences before, even if Lady Gaga insists “it isn’t a musical.”

Gaga’s introduction to the world as Harley Quinn is particularly exciting. Known for her powerful on-screen presence, she brings a combination of glamor and edge that perfectly suits the character. The musical elements, combined with the intense performances of Phoenix and Gaga, give Joker: Folie à Deux an experimental edge, making it one of the most intriguing releases of the season.

Saturday Night

Director: Jason Reitman

Starring: Willem Dafoe, J.K. Simmons, Kaia Gerber, Rachel Sennott, Dylan O’Brien

Distributor: Universal Pictures

How to Watch: Releasing in theaters on October 11

This fall, Jason Reitman brings us Saturday Night, a film that takes audiences deep into the fast-paced world of one of the most iconic and enduring shows in television history: Saturday Night Live. The film’s ensemble cast–made up of (names)–brings to life both the comedians and the crew behind the show, highlighting the creative tension and camaraderie that have made SNL such a beloved institution. With Reitman at the helm, known for his character-driven films like Up in the Air and Juno, the film will be more than just a biographical look—it will be an experience that resonates with anyone who’s ever stayed up late to catch the latest sketch.

Piece by Piece

Director: Morgan Neville

Starring: Pharrell Williams, Jay-Z, Kendrick Lamar, Snoop Dogg, Daft Punk, Gwen Stefani, Justin Timberlake

Distributor: Focus Features

How to Watch: In theaters on October 11

Pharrell is bringing a fresh new take to the beloved Lego universe with Piece by Piece. Partnering with documentary filmmaker Morgan Neville, the two have crafted a movie that blends music, animation, and storytelling in a way that feels fresh and innovative. Piece by Piece tells the story of singer/songwriter and record producer Pharrell – “from his childhood in Virginia to his success in the music and fashion industry.”

Morgan Neville, the Oscar-winning director behind 20 Feet from Stardom, brings a grounded, humanistic approach to the Lego universe, elevating Piece by Piece into more than just another animated film. It’s a colorful, fast-paced adventure that will also surely deliver thoughtful first-hand insight into Pharrell’s creative universe. With an engaging story at play, a must-hear soundtrack, and Pharrell’s unmistakable touch, Piece by Piece is poised to be a must-watch for families and animation lovers alike this fall.

We Live in Time

Director: John Crowley

Starring: Andrew Garfield, Florence Pugh

Distributor: StudioCanal, A24

How to Watch: In theaters on October 11

We Live in Time is poised to be one of A24’s most intimate and moving releases this fall, featuring powerhouse performances from Andrew Garfield and Florence Pugh. Directed by John Crowley, the film tells the story of a couple whose relationship is marked by love, longing, and heartbreak. Garfield and Pugh, both known for their ability to convey deep emotional complexity, are a perfect pairing for this kind of soulful, character-driven narrative.

The film won’t hit you over the head with any action or huge set pieces—this one’s all about the heart. It’s this deep, reflective love story that really digs into how time and memory shape our relationships. A24 knows how to pick their projects, and We Live in Time looks like it’s going to give us a love story that’s equal parts beautiful and heart-wrenching.

Venom: The Last Dance

Director: Kelly Marcel

Starring: Tom Hardy, Juno Temple, Stephen Graham, Chiwetel Ejiofor

Distributor: Sony Pictures

How to Watch: In theaters on October 25

Tom Hardy is back as Venom in Venom: The Last Dance, and there’s a lot to be excited about. Hardy just gets this character in a way that’s chaotic and fun all at once. If you’ve seen the first two movies, you know that this whole Venom and Eddie Brock dynamic is unlike anything else out there in the superhero landscape. It’s messy, it's weird, and it’s totally entertaining.

This time around, the stakes are even bigger, and it feels like they’re gearing up for some kind of wild finale. What’s great about this movie is it doesn’t take itself too seriously. It’s all about embracing the weirdness, and honestly, that’s what makes it so much fun. If you’re looking for a movie that’s action-packed but also doesn’t feel like your typical superhero fare, Venom: The Last Dance is definitely the one to catch this fall. Plus, come on, it’s Tom Hardy—you know he’s going to bring that intensity and unpredictability we can’t get enough of.

The Piano Lesson

Director: Malcolm Washington

Starring: Samuel L. Jackson, John David Washington, Ray Fisher, Danielle Deadwyler, Erykah Badu

Distributor: Netflix

How to Watch: In select theaters on November 8, streaming on Netflix on November 22

Malcolm Washington’s directorial debut, The Piano Room, is about to make waves this fall. As his first feature film, Washington, the son of acting icon Denzel Washington, brings a fresh and unique vision to the screen with this intimate, character-driven drama. The story follows a talented pianist navigating personal and professional struggles, set against the backdrop of the intense world of classical music. It will feature much of the cast from the play’s recent Broadway revival, including John David Washington and Samuel L. Jackson.

Red One

Director: Jake Kasdan

Starring: Dwayne Johnson, Chris Evans, Luci Liu, J.K. Simmons

Distributor: Amazon MGM Studios

How to Watch: In theaters on November 15

Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Chris Evans teaming up for a holiday action-comedy? Sign me up! Red One is shaping up to be a wild ride, combining the star power of these two Hollywood heavyweights in a film that promises to deliver a fresh twist on the holiday genre. With The Rock’s larger-than-life charisma and Evans’ charm, this movie is already setting itself apart as one of the most anticipated releases of the year.

What’s great about Red One is that it’s taking the holiday movie genre and turning it on its head. We’re getting big action set pieces, festive humor, and a storyline that promises to be both heartwarming and hilarious. With the natural chemistry these two actors bring, this is one holiday movie that’s going to ap

Heretic

Directors: Scott Beck, Bryan Woods

Starring: Hugh Grant, Sophie Thatcher, Chloe East

Distributor: A24

How to Watch: In theaters on November 15

If you're a fan of Hugh Grant and love A24's unique storytelling, Heretic is going to be right up your alley. Grant takes on a darker, more intense role in this film, moving away from his usual charming, witty persona. Directed by Scott Beck and Bryan Woods, Heretic explores themes of power, betrayal, and faith, all set in a mysterious, atmospheric world. It's a bold move for Grant, and it's already generating buzz as one of the most intriguing releases of the fall.

What makes Heretic stand out is the way A24 handles the material. You know you’re in for something thought-provoking and visually stunning when this studio is involved. Plus, seeing Grant dive into a more complex, morally ambiguous role is something we’re all here for. Whether you're drawn to the story or just curious to see Hugh Grant in a completely different light, Heretic is shaping up to be one of the films you won’t want to miss this fall.

Gladiator II

Director: Ridley Scott

Starring: Paul Mescal, Pedro Pascal, Denzel Washington, Joseph Quinn, Connie Nielsen

Distributor: Paramount Pictures

How to Watch: In theaters on November 22

Ridley Scott is back with Gladiator II, and it’s personally my most anticipated movie releasing this fall season. Over two decades after the original Gladiator took the world by storm, Scott returns to the world of ancient Rome, this time with a new protagonist and a fresh story that continues the epic legacy. While Russell Crowe’s Maximus won’t be returning, the film stars Paul Mescal, who’s been on fire lately and seems ready to take his stardom to a new level with this project.

What makes Gladiator 2 exciting isn’t just the epic battles and grand set pieces (which Scott always delivers) but the promise of a deeper, more nuanced narrative. Add the all-star cast, made up of Mescal, Pedro Pascal, Denzel Washington, and Joseph Quinn, to name a few, and that’s enough to get me seated. For fans of the original or anyone who loves epic historical dramas with insane action sequences, Gladiator 2 is shaping up to be an unforgettable cinematic experience.

Wicked

Director: Jon M. Chu

Starring: Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Michelle Yeoh, Jeff Goldblum, Jonathan Bailey

Distributor: Universal Pictures

How to Watch: In theaters on November 22

Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo are stepping into the magical world of Oz with Wicked. Based on the wildly popular Broadway musical of the same name, Wicked gives us the backstory of the Wicked Witch of the West and Glinda the Good Witch, offering a fresh perspective on their complex relationship. Grande as Glinda and Erivo as Elphaba are a powerhouse pairing—both known for their incredible vocal talent, they’re sure to bring the house down with those iconic musical numbers.

What makes Wicked so exciting is that it brings the beloved musical to the big screen for the first time, with stunning visuals and a stellar cast. If you’re a fan of the musical or just love a good story filled with magic, friendship, and unexpected twists, this is definitely one to watch. Plus, with Grande and Erivo leading the way, you know the performances are going to be nothing short of spectacular.

Moana 2

Directors: David G. Derrick Jr., Jason Hand, Dana Ledoux Miller

Starring: Dwayne Johnson, Alan Tudyk

Distributor: Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures

How to Watch: In theaters on November 27

Moana 2 is on the horizon, and it’s bringing back all the magic, music, and adventure that made the original a beloved classic. This time around, Moana is set to explore even bigger waters, and with Auliʻi Cravalho returning to voice Moana, you know the heart and spirit of the character will be just as powerful as ever. If you’re a fan of the first movie, Moana 2 is shaping up to be an exciting return to the oceanic world we fell in love with.

Y2K

Director: Kyle Mooney

Starring: Rachel Zegler, Kyle Mooney, Jaeden Martell, Julian Dennison, Fred Durst

Distributor: A24

How to Watch: In theaters on December 6

Kyle Mooney’s Y2K is gearing up to be a nostalgic, hilarious dive into the wildest era—the late ’90s. Set on New Year’s Eve 1999, the film follows a group of teens as they navigate the chaos of the Y2K panic. Mooney, known for his offbeat sense of humor from Saturday Night Live, is taking audiences on a nostalgic ride filled with 90s references, awkward social moments, and a lot of laughs. Whether you remember the Y2K situation or just love a good throwback comedy, Y2K is shaping up to be one of those movies that’s both funny and filled with heart. Get ready to revisit the late '90s in all its awkward glory!

The Lord of the Rings: The War of Rohirrim

Director: Kenji Kamiyama

Starring: Brian Cox, Miranda Otto, Shaun Dooley, Lorraine Ashbourne

Distributor: Warner Bros. Pictures

How to Watch: In theaters on December 13

If you’ve been craving more stories from Middle-earth, The Lord of the Rings: The War of Rohirrim is here to deliver. This animated film dives into the untold history of Rohan, focusing on the legendary king Helm Hammerhand and the construction of Helm’s Deep. It’s set well before the events of The Lord of the Rings, giving fans a fresh perspective on the rich lore of Tolkien’s world. The animation style looks stunning, and the focus on Rohan’s warriors promises to bring a new kind of action-packed energy. With familiar elements of Tolkien’s storytelling—heroism, sacrifice, and epic battles—this movie is shaping up to be an exciting addition to the LOTR universe.

Kraven the Hunter

Director: J.C. Chandor

Starring: Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Russell Crowe, Christopher Abbott, Ariana DeBose

Distributor: Sony Pictures

How to Watch: In theaters on December 13

Aaron Taylor-Johnson is stepping into the role of one of Marvel’s most infamous antiheroes in Kraven the Hunter, and it’s going to be a wild ride. Known for his intense performances, Taylor-Johnson brings a raw, gritty energy to the character of Kraven, a master tracker and brutal hunter. This film dives deep into Kraven’s origin story, giving fans a fresh look at one of Spider-Man’s most complex foes, and judging by the early buzz, it’s going to be darker and more grounded than your typical superhero fare.

Sonic the Hedgehog 3

Director: Jeff Fowler

Starring: Ben Schwartz, Colleen O’Shaughnessey, Idris Elba, Keanu Reeves

Distributor: Paramount Pictures

How to Watch: In theaters on December 20

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 is speeding into theaters this fall, and fans of the franchise couldn’t be more excited. After the massive success of the first two films, this third installment promises to up the ante with even more action, humor, and heart. Plus, the legend Keanu Reeves is joining the franchise as Shadow, in a move that fans were incredibly hyped about. Reeves’ involvement takes this already fun and action-packed franchise to the next level. Shadow, one of the most iconic and mysterious characters in the Sonic universe, will bring a darker, more intense energy to the story, and with Reeves lending his voice, fans are in for a real treat. With Sonic, Tails, Knuckles, and Shadow now returning for more fast-paced adventures, you can bet this movie will be packed with the same energy that’s made the series such a hit.

Nosferatu

Director: Robert Eggers

Starring: Bill Skarsgård, Lily Rose Depp, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Emma Corrin, Willem Dafoe, Nicholas Hoult

Distributor: Focus Features, Universal Pictures

How to Watch:In theaters on December 25

Robert Eggers is remaking Nosferatu, and honestly, it feels like the perfect project for him. Known for films like The Witch and The Lighthouse, Eggers has a knack for creating eerie, atmospheric horror that gets under your skin, and Nosferatu is the perfect fit for his style. This is a reimagining of the 1922 silent horror classic, and it promises to be a dark, unsettling dive into the world of vampires like we’ve never seen before.

With Eggers at the helm, you can expect stunning visuals, meticulous attention to period detail, and a haunting atmosphere that feels both timeless and fresh. The cast, which includes Anya Taylor-Joy and Willem Dafoe, is top-notch, adding even more excitement to the mix.

A Complete Unknown

Director: James Mangold

Starring: Timothée Chalamet, Elle Fanning, Boyd Holbrook, Edward Norton

Distributor: Searchlight Pictures

How to Watch: In theaters on December 25

Timothée Chalamet steps into the shoes of one of music’s most iconic figures in A Complete Unknown, a biopic that follows the early life and rise of Bob Dylan. Directed by James Mangold, the film is set to explore Dylan’s transformation from a young folk singer into the cultural icon who revolutionized music. Chalamet, known for his ability to bring depth and emotion to every role, is perfectly cast to capture the complexity of Dylan’s enigmatic persona. For fans of Dylan or anyone interested in the story behind one of the most influential artists in history, A Complete Unknown is going to be a must-see this fall.