Bill Bregoli - At The Movies - September 25th 2024

Fall has brought some surprises to the box office, with Beetlejuice taking the top spot again, earning $26 million this past weekend. Transformers secured second place with $25 million, while Speak No Evil, featuring James McAvoy, came in third. Halle Berry's new film about survival and bonding is also generating interest. The weekly updates reveal that Deadpool still remains popular, and exciting new releases, especially in animation, are on the way. One of the most anticipated films is The Wild Robot, which tells a touching story about a stranded robot bonding with island animals and caring for a baby goose. It has been compared to the previous year's best animated features and is expected to compete for awards this season, showcasing a strong lineup of animated films set to impress audiences.

There are several notable films currently in theaters, including one directed by Francis Ford Coppola called "Megalopolis," featuring a star-studded cast like Adam Driver and Aubrey Plaza. Despite Coppola's personal investment of $120 million, the film is not expected to perform well at the box office. It explores themes of art, loyalty, and ambition in a stylized version of New York City. Also showing is "Haunted Heart," which stars Matt Dillon as a character named Alex, who finds romance while working at a seaside restaurant. While industry experts predict that Coppola's film may receive some award nominations for its direction and visuals due to impressive talent, its financial success remains uncertain, with expectations set very low for box office earnings. The unique stories and high-profile actors involved make both films interesting to follow.

Several intriguing films are showcased, each with unique storylines. Max, the restaurant manager, has a mysterious past as a jazz musician, hinted by the clarinet found in his home. 'Asriel' presents a post-rapture world where a woman fights for survival against a religious community. Netflix offers 'Res Ball,' bringing basketball on an Indian reservation to the forefront, featuring a team that must adapt their unique style when their star player is lost. Additionally, there's a romantic film titled 'Love,' starring Taisa Farmiga, adding to this diverse mix of cinema coming out soon.

Frank is a self-destructive character who encounters a girl with a serious illness that makes him reflect on life and love. This relationship inspires him to check in with himself and address his issues before it's too late. In another film, 'What You Wish For,' a man named Nick Stahl experiences a dark journey in a mysterious Latin American setting, where he becomes involved with a catering company. The story hints at a horror element revolving around an intriguing ingredient he seeks. Also mentioned are available DVDs, including 'Despicable Me 4,' featuring stars like Stephen Colbert and a humorous subplot involving a minion stuck in a vending machine. This mix of films reflects on love, self-discovery, and fun entertainment for families.

This summer, movie fans can rejoice as several exciting films have hit theaters. 'Bad Boys Ride or Die' has made a huge impact, bringing energy back to the box office. Alongside it, Nicolas Cage stars in 'Long Legs,' a gripping film about a serial killer that promises thrills. Additionally, Russell Crowe appears in 'The Exorcism,' one of two similar films he acted in, exploring the theme of exorcism. With such a variety of choices, viewers have no reason to stay home bored and can find something thrilling whether at the theater or on streaming platforms. These movies are perfect for those looking for excitement, whether it's action, horror, or suspense. So, grab some popcorn and enjoy the cinematic adventures that are lighting up the summer season!