Here’s When (and Where!) You Can Catch All Your Favorite Halloween Flicks on TV

Nicole Briese
Oct 14, 2016

Now that you’ve cycled through all nine of the best Halloween flicks on Netflix RN, you’ll want to mark your calendars for October 19 to November 1, when Freeform (formerly ABC Family) will be screening all of your fave holiday flicks with its killer “13 Nights of Halloween” lineup. A venerable ode to Tim Burton, all of your most beloved spooks are here (The Nightmare Before Christmas, Corpse Bride, Sleepy Hollow), along with Disney (soon to be owners of Netflix?) classics such as Hocus Pocus and The Sorcerer’s Apprentice. We couldn’t have hand-picked a better schedule ourselves, so read on to find out when you can catch all 20+ films!

1. The Nightmare Before Christmas: The ultimate Halloween flick, Freeform kicks things off with The Nightmare Before Christmas. This Tim Burton masterpiece has it all: ghosts (Zero), ghouls (Oogie Boogie), goblins and talking skeletons to boot? What more could you ask for? Oh, yes: Two holidays wrapped into one. Check! (Photo via The Nightmare Before Christmas/Buena Vista Pictures)

(October 19: 5:30pm/4:30c; October 20: 3pm/2c; October 28: 6:45pm/5:45c; October 29: 11am/10c)

2. Hocus Pocus: With 10 chances to watch this Halloween classic (by far more than any film featured in the lineup), there’s no excuse not to catch your annual dose of Thackery Binx as he attempts to escape the curse of three wicked (albeit hilarious) witches played by Better Midler, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kathy Nijimy. After all — you’ve already got the perfect shirt for your viewing part(ies)! (Photo via Hocus Pocus/Disney)

(October 19: 9pm/8c; October 20: 4:35pm/3:35c; October 23: 9:50pm/8:50c; October 24: 8:50pm/7:50c; October 27: 8:50pm/7:50c; October 28: 4:40pm/3:40c; October 29: 9:25p/8:25c; October 30: 7:25p/6:25c; October 31 9pm/8c; November 1: 12am/11c)

3. Corpse Bride: While Corpse Bride never quite reached the level of fanaticism that its predecessor, The Nightmare Before Christmas, did, we must admit: We like it just as much, if not better. This tale of true love from beyond the grave has just enough spooky to make it seasonally appropriate while still satisfying our inner romantic. Perfect. (Photo via Corpse Bride/Warner Bros. Pictures)

(October 20: 12am/11c; October 23 12am/11c; October 28: 2:40pm/1:40c; October 29: 12:30pm/11:35c)

4. The Addams Family + Addams Family Values: Your favorite creepy family hits Freeform hard, with both The Addams Family and Addams Family Values playing in heavy rotation. Watch the all-star cast, including Anjelica Huston and Christina Ricci, thwart off would-be looters and murdering seductresses for the zillionth time, because, hey, it’s Halloween! (Photo via The Addams Family/Paramount)

(The Addams Family:October 20: 6:40pm; 5:40c; October 21: 4pm/3c; October 24: 4:35pm/3:35c; October 25: 4pm/3c; October 29: 5:15pm/4:15c; October 30: 3:15pm/2:15c; October 31: 5pm/4c; Addams Family Values: October 20: 8:50pm/7:50c; October 21: 6:10pm/5:10c; October 24: 6:40pm/5:40c; October 25: 6pm/5c; October 29: 7:20pm/6:20c; October 30: 6:20pm/5:20c; October 31: 7pm/6c)

5. Scooby-Doo: The Movie + Scooby Doo 2: Monsters Unleashed: Scooby and the gang get not one, but two slots on the lineup with Scooby-Doo: The Movie and Scooby-Doo 2: Monsters Unleashed. The first sees them exploring a mysterious horror resort dubbed Spooky Island (the perfect setting for a Halloween film, no?), while the second has them dealing with real-life monsters. (Photo via Scooby-Doo: The Movie/Warner Bros. Pictures)

(Scooby Doo: The Movie: October 22: 4:40pm/3:40c; October 23: 12:20pm/11:20c; October 25: 12am/1c; October 30: 11:05am/10:05c; October 31: 1pm/12c; Scooby Doo 2: Monsters Unleashed: October 22: 6:50pm/5:50c; October 23: 2:30pm/1:30c; October 30: 1:10pm/12:10c; October 31: 3pm/2c)

6. Sleepy Hollow: Because what better time to watch the classic mystery of the headless horseman being solved by none other than Christina Ricci and Johnny Depp in period-piece garb? (Bonus points for a villainous Christopher Walken.) (Photo via Sleepy Hollow/Paramount Pictures)

(October 21: 8:20pm/7:20c; October 22: 11:20am/10:20c; October 26: 8:20pm/7:20c; October 27: 6:10/5:10c; October 29: 11:30pm/10:30c; October 30: 9:30pm/8:30c)

7. Frankenweenie: Tim Burton’s heartwarming tale of a boy and his dead mutt prove that some love lasts longer than just one lifetime. Oh, and fair warning? It’s kind of a tearjerker. (Photo via Frankenweenie/Disney)

(October 22: 12am/11c; October 29: 7am/6c)

8. Dark Shadows: For those who haven’t seen Tim Burton’s relatively new (2012) vampire flick, do yourself a favor and watch one of its showings. A reVAMPed tale for the ages, we like to think of this one as the Corpse Bride come to life. (Bonus points for a random-but-glorious Alice Cooper appearance.) (Photo via Dark Shadows/Warner Bros.)

(October 26: 5:40pm/4:40c; October 28: 8:20pm/7:20c)

9. Death Becomes Her: You can never really go wrong with Meryl Streep and Goldie Hawn, but this sordid tale of eternal youth (and love!) gone awry has to be one of our all-time movie faves. Sadly, there’s just one chance to see it this year, and it’s early, so we highly suggest having those DVRs at the ready. (Photo via Universal Studios)

(October 25: 7am/6c)

10. Matilda: Mara Wilson may be all grown up (and doling out the best career advice) now, but back in 1996, she was just an adorable little girl, plotting her revenge on her adult tormentors with her powers of telekinesis. (Photo via TriStar Pictures)

(October 24: 2:30pm/1:30c; October 25: 4:40pm/3:30c)

11. The Goonies: Okay, okay, so it’s not the most obvious choice for Halloween, but with a pirate ship and three bad guys on the loose, there’s definitely an element of “scary” — we don’t know about you, but we’d probably be a litttttttle creeped out to be stuck underground in a cave with those three! (Photo via The Goonies/Warner Bros.)

(October 22: 2pm/1c; October 23: 7:30am/6:30c; October 27: 3:30pm/2:30c; October 28: 12pm/11c; October 31: 7am/6c)

12. Practical Magic: While this one is also currently on Netflix for your viewing pleasure, watching witches work their magic (particularly when those witches just so happen to be Sandra Bullock and Nicole Kidman) never gets old, so we’ll go ahead and screen it again via Freeform. (Photo via Hulton Archive/Getty)

(October 24: 7am/6c)

13. Monsters University: For those that want to get into the Halloween Spirit but aren’t quite ready for oh, say, The Exorcist, there’s Monsters University. A prequel to the beloved Monsters, Inc., this family-friendly flick sees our favorite lovable monsters in their glory days of college. (Photo via Monsters University/Disney)

(October 22: 9pm/8c; October 23: 7:20pm/6:20c)

14. Halloweentown Series: Disney’s own spin on Teen Witch, in which a teenage girl (what else?) discovers she’s a witch and travels to a magical land full of Halloween-esque characters, was so beloved that it spawned not one, not two, but three spin-offs, all of which are playing on Freeform — eeee! (Photo via Disney)

Halloweentown: October 26: 12am/11c; October 27: Halloweentown II: Kalabar’s Revenge: October 27: 12am/11c; Halloweentown High: October 28: 12am/11c; Return to Halloweentown: October 29: 12a/11c

15. R.L. Stine’s Monsterville: Cabinet of Souls: ’90s fans of Goosebumps‘ older sibling Fear Street (say you remember Fear Street!) will likely enjoy the teenage master of horror’s take on an evil carnival out to get its attendees. (Photo via Universal Studios)

(October 19: 7pm/6c; October 23: 10:10am/9:10c; October 29: 9am/8c)

16. The Final Girls: Starring all your favorite teen queens (Taissa Farminga of AHS, Nina Dobrev), The Final Girlsis gratification for anyone (read: all of us) who have ever watched a scary movie and yelled out at the screen not to go in that room/alley/whatever. The main characters are thrown into a real-life version of a slasher flick, and they have to use their wits to change the ending — no dum-dum moves here! (Photo via The Final Girls/Stage 6 Productions)

(October 21: 12am/11c)

17. Spooky Buddies: Uh, cute dogs in Halloween costumes. What more do you want? (Photo via Disney)

(October 22: 7am/6c; October 30: 9am/8c)

18. ParaNorman: Making history as the first stop-motion film to use a 3D printer to create its characters faces and only the second to be shot in 3D, ParaNorman makes its animated spooks all the more realistic, which is good, ’cause there’s a lot of them — 11-year-old Norman can speak with the dead. (Photo via ParaNorman/Focus Features)

(October 22: 9:10am/8:10c; October 30: 7am/6c; October 21: 11am/10c)

19. Toy Story of TERROR!: This is pretty much exactly what you’d expect a Halloween spoof of Toy Story to be: Woody, Buzz and Jessie on a mission to save their missing toy pal after a chance encounter at a creepy motel while roadtrippin’. (Never mind that there’s a gang of toys roadtrippin’.) (Photo via Disney/Pixar)

(October 22: 11:30pm/10:30c; October 23: 6:50pm/5:50c)

20. The Sorcerer’s Apprentice: Full of magic, Fantasia references and Nicholas Cage with flowing locks (yes, really!), The Sorcerer’s Apprentice makes a single appearance in the lineup as an afternoon delight. (Photo via Walt Disney Studios)

(October 26: 3:30pm/2:30c)

Which of these Halloween classics is your favorite? Share @BritandCo.

(Feature photo via Hocus Pocus/Disney)

10 New Books For April That Your Group Chat Will Devour

Each month I tell myself there's no way I'm going to fall in love with new rom-com or self improvement books, but somehow I always do. Between BookTokand book club discoveries, I can't get enough of all the talented authors out there. It seems like there are endless tales of romantic mishaps, pop cultural hot takes, and high-stakes mysteries with endings that leave me reeling. That's honestly what makes reading so much fun!

If you need a new dose of romance — or a social commentary that makes you reevaluate your relationship with overthinking — check out these 10 must-read books coming in April! In case you can't get enough, be sure to review the hot new books from March!

Must-Read New Books Coming In April 2024

Image via Amazon

Old Flames and New Fortunesby Sarah Hogle

Romina Tempest has been using her magical gift to create beauty and romantic love around her, even if said love is evading her. It's been like this for the past decade, but she's learned to live with the decision that ended her chance at romance.

Creating magic in her floral shop, Romina can't help but get excited when she learns about a dream angel investor's upcoming (and very prestigious) wedding. Cooking up an elaborate scheme to help her business, she and her co-worker Trevor decide to pretend they're in a relationship.

Things go fairly well until she realizes Trevor knows the man responsible for her love deficit: Alex King. It's a recipe for disaster, but maybe a bit of magic can help.

Image via Amazon

Just For the Summerby Abby Jimenez

Justin and Emma are in the same predicament: every person they date seems to end up in a successful relationship after dating them. Unfortunately for Justin, everyone knows. However, they hope that dating each other will undo whatever omen is hovering over their chance at love.

Over the summer, they spend time together on Lake Minnetonka and become wrapped up in each other's lives. From an overbearing mother to a sudden change in family dynamics, Emma and Justin begin to suspect their mutual bad luck in love may not have been so bad after all.

Image via Amazon

An Inconvenient Wife by Karen E. Olson

Kate Parker was Hank Tudor's efficient assistant before she took on the role of wife #6. She knows about his previous marriages, but she's too busy enjoying the beginning of their relationship. Before she can fully enjoy their honeymoon, their plans are interrupted when a dead woman is discovered near Hank's vacation home. The twisted part about this death is that it isn't the first time a headless body has shown up.
Kate finds herself on the other side of Hank Tudor's life, where there are countless secrets and his demeanor grows colder with every question she has. With the help of his fourth wife Anna Klein, she beings uncovering the truth behind these deaths, and how far the wealthy will go to get rid of scandal or competition.

Image via Amazon

The Husbandsby Holly Gramazio

Lauren feels like she'd remember whether she was married or not, but the people around her are convinced she's always had a husband: Michael. Sadly, she's having trouble proving she doesn't know who he is because there are too many signs that they've been together.

In the midst of her confusion, Michael disappears into the attic and a new husband appears for Lauren. She watches in fascination as life slowly tweaks to accommodate this new marriage, and she wonders how many lives she's able to live. The more husbands Lauren sees, the more she realizes that jumping from one marriage to the next may not be worth it. That finding one version of happy is enough.

Image via Amazon

Daughter of Mine by Megan Miranda

Hazel Sharp has a complicated relationship with Mirror Lake. It's the place she grew up, but she's got conflicted feelings about her mother's sudden disappearance and the unshakable feeling that one of her brothers really doesn't like her. When she's forced to come back after her father dies, Hazel has to deal with suddenly inheriting his house — and wondering why a car was discovered in their backyard lake.

She knows she should probably leave it alone, but Hazel can't help but feel like it's time to uncover what happened to her mother. What'll she discover is far worse than anything she could've imagined.

Image via Amazon

The Age of Magical Overthinkingby Amanda Montell

Have you noticed you have a tendency to overthink? Join the party because we've all been living in an analytical bubble, but there may be hope! In The Age of Magical Overthinking, author Amanda Montell breaks down the things we tend to overthink and why they occupy our brain so much.

From celebrity worship to a hilarious chapter about Mercury Retrograde, she talks about the way we relate to pop culture and life around us in a way that's easy to understand. And, she makes it clear that she's still an optimist who believes there's a method to our supposed irrationality.

How to End a Love Story by Yulin Kuang

Fate doesn't always bring people together in cute ways that make our hearts patter. Sometimes our hearts are shattered and there's no way we can see a future with someone. In How to End a Love Story, Helen Zhang is a successful young adult author whose carrying around insecurities and anger from her past. 13 years ago her younger sister committed suicide, but the family blames the young man whose car was caught in her sister's choice — Grant Shepard.
Despite the fact his life was just as affected by the horror of the tragic accident, he's shunned by the Zhang family and doesn't see Helen until he becomes the Co-Executive Producer of an adaption of her latest amazing novel. 13 years hasn't been enough to erase the resentment Helen feels until a writer's group bonding trip starts breaking down the walls she's built up.
Helen and Grant both have issues, but are willing to see how far their connection will take them. It all boils down to whether they can see a future for themselves that doesn't involve being weighed down my outside opinions and a ghost from the past.

Deep Is the Fen by Lili Wilkinson (April 16)

Merry has her own version of paradise in her small village despite losing her mother. She still has her father and two best friends without the need for the magic that's been banned. But, her perfect slice of heaven is threatened when she learns one of her best friends is joining the secret society of Toadmen. Although she doesn't consider herself a witch, she can see the dark magic that covers the Toadmen — including her dad.

To help save her best friend, she begrudgingly teams up with her rival Caraway. Together they form an uneasy bond that's consistently tested by things the latter hides from her. She eventually learns he isn't her real enemy and that something much sinister lurks behind the legacy of the Toadmen. It'll take more than her knowing eyes and Caraway's advanced magic to stop an ancient horror.

Image via Amazon

Funny Storyby Emily Henry (April 23)

Funny Story is the latest Emily Henry book that's been on my radar for a while! Daphne feels like she has the perfect love story with her fiancé Peter, but he decides his love story should actually involve his best friend Petra — and then leaves Daphne before their wedding. Facing this unfortunate news, Daphne decides there's no use in wallowing and moves forward with her life in Waning Bay, Michigan.

Faced with the reality she's back to a single income, she moves in with Miles Nowak...Petra's ex. Sparks don't immediately fly until one fateful day convinces them to play a long game of pretend. After receiving invites to their exes' wedding, Daphne and Miles decide to find "love" in each other, and to put everything on display for the world to see. After all, it's the best way to rub something in Peter and Petra's faces. But, feelings don't always know when people are pretending and this duo quickly forms a bond, whether that was a part of the plan or not.

Image via Amazon

The Paris Novel by Ruth Reichl (April 23)

Stella isn't the first person you'd call to go on a spontaneous trip, but life — and her deceased mother's inheritance — nudge her to explore life beyond what she knows. Reluctantly traveling to Paris, Stella doesn't enjoy the city at first. She'd rather find a comfortable rhythm she's used to until she crosses paths with a gorgeous vintage Dior dress she can't bring herself to walk away from.

Intrigued by the way it makes her feel (and the confidence it gives her), Stella decides she's ready to see what life has to offer, and the people and experiences she encounter encourage her to grab life by the horns. At the center of her renewed sense for living is the discovery that she truly feels alive when indulging in delicious food, art, and literature.

The more she allows herself to live, the more Stella is able to understand who she is and how her identity is connected to the past.

Follow our Amazon page for more of our top new book picks!

Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

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"Bridget Jones 4" Is Officially On Its Way

If you're a rom-com fan who also can't get enough of Jane Austen's books, you've probably seen the Bridget Jones movies. The story (which is loosely based on Pride & Prejudice) follows the titular Bridget Jones, a 30-something who sets out on a mission to improve herself over the course of a year while she looks for a partner. And, in true romantic movie form, she keeps a diary the whole time. Not only can we rewatch the original trilogy as many times as we want, but we're also getting a fourth movie! Here's everything we know about Bridget Jones 4.

Will there be a Bridget Jones 4?

Image via Giles Keyte/Universal Pictures

Yes, Bridget Jones 4 is on its way! Deadline confirmed that the new movie, officially titled Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy, is on its way. The film will follow Bridget in her early 50s as she juggles motherhood with all the other areas of her life. We don't know much else quite yet, but if it's anything like the rest of the series, Bridget Jones 4 is sure to have plenty of heart *and* humor.

When is Bridget Jones 4 coming out?

Image via Giles Keyte/Universal Pictures

Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy is scheduled to premiere on February 14, 2025. Romantic comedies are always the perfect choice for a Valentine's Day movie night, whether you're with your partner or celebrating with all your Galentines! Even though we have quite a way to go before we can watch the new movie, you can binge all three of the other Bridget Jones movies on Max now!

Is Mark Darcy in Bridget Jones 4?

Image via Giles Keyte/Universal Pictures

There's no word on whether Colin Firth's Mark Darcy will return for Bridget Jones 4, but never say never! We do know that Renée Zellweger will be back as Bridget Jones, and that we'll also see Hugh Grant return as Daniel Cleaver and Emma Thompson as Dr. Rawling. The movie also stars Chiwetel Ejiofor and The White Lotus & One Day star Leo Woodall.

Is there a fourth Bridget Jones book?

Image via Giles Keyte/Universal Pictures

Yes, there's a fourth Bridget Jones book, but it might surprise you to know the order of the titles is different than the order of the movies! Helen Fielding published the Bridget Jones's Diary column in the British newspaper The Independent, then published a novel version in 1996. The first book was followed by The Edge of Reason in 1999, Mad About the Boy in 2013, and Bridget Jones's Baby: The Diaries in 2016.

The film series is made up of Bridget Jones's Diary in 2001, Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason in 2004, Bridget Jones's Baby in 2016, and Bridget Jones: Mad About the Boy in 2025.

Who was the father of Bridget Jones baby?

Image via Giles Keyte/Universal Pictures

At the end of the Bridget Jones's Babymovie, we learn that Mark Darcy is the father of Bridget Jones's baby, and the couple ends up getting married!

Are you excited to see Leo Woodall in Bridget Jones 4? What do you hope to see in the movie? Follow us on Facebook for more pop culture news!

Lead image via Giles Keyte/Universal Pictures

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5 Life-Changing A24 Movies That Are Worth The Watch

I love the magic of the movies (my monthly Alamo Drafthouse membership proves it), but there's no other type of movies that do it for me like A24 movies. The studio, made big for their work in film production and primarily, distribution, has been around since 2012 but just recently came to the mainstream with heavy-hitting titles like The Iron Claw, Moonlight, Everything Everywhere All At Once, The Whale, Aftersun, and many more.

I've crafted a list of 5 must-watch A24 movies you need to see to understand the hype. A24 movies range from surreal to horrific, and comedic to heartwarming, so there's something for everyone. Let's dive into it!

What is special about A24 movies?

Lady Bird (2017)

There are many things that make A24 movies stand out: stunning visual composition, original style, bold plot lines, mind-bending themes, and their support of indie talent (both directorial and for actors), but most of all, A24 movies are special because they stray from the status quo. The studio has built up a passionate fan base of film-lovers, which also contributes to their reputation.

Does HBO have A24 films?

The Florida Project (2017)

Yes, HBO has over 100 A24 movies available for streaming. The studio struck a deal with Warner Bros. Discovery in December 2023 to bring its entire collection of new releases to HBO, Max, and Cinemax. Any new A24 movies that come out will also be added to the platforms for a set period of time.

Are there any upcoming A24 movies?

Dream Scenario (2023)

Yes, A24 has a lot of movies slated for the future. These are the upcoming A24 movies we know of:

  • MaXXXine (July 2024) – Mia Goth, Elizabeth Debicki, Moses Sumney, Michelle Monaghan, Bobby Cannavale, Lily Collins, Halsey, Giancarlo Esposito, and Kevin Bacon
  • Sing Sing (July 2024) – Colman Domingo
  • Eddington(no release date) – Emma Stone, Joaquin Phoenix, Austin Butler, and Pedro Pascal
  • Janet Planet (no release date) – Julianne Nicholson and Zoe Ziegler
  • Civil War (no release date) – Kirsten Dunst, Wagner Moura, Stephen McKinley Henderson, Cailee Spaeny, Karl Glusman, and Sonoya Mizuno
  • We Live In Time(no release date) – Florence Pugh and Andrew Garfield
  • Y2K (no release date) – Jaeden Martell, Julian Dennison, Rachel Zegler, Lachlan Watson, Mason Gooding, The Kid Laroi, Eduardo Franco, Miles Robbins, Fred Hechinger, Alicia Silverstone, Tim Heidecker, and Daniel Zolghadri
  • Death of a Unicorn (no release date) – Paul Rudd and Jenna Ortega
  • A Different Man (no release date) – Sebastian Stan, Adam Pearson, and Renate Reinsve
  • The Front Room (no release date) – Brandy, Kathryn Hunter, Andrew Burnap, and Neal Huff
  • I Saw the TV Glow (no release date) – Justice Smith, Brigette Lundy-Paine, Phoebe Bridgers, Danielle Deadwyler, Amber Benson, Conner O’Malley, and Fred Durst
  • The Legend of Ochi (no release date) – Helena Zengel, Willem Dafoe, Emily Watson, and Finn Wolfhard
  • Mother Mary (no release date) – Anne Hathaway, Michaela Coel, and Hunter Schafer
  • Opus (no release date) – Ayo Edebiri, John Malkovich, Murray Bartlett, Amber Midthunder, Stephanie Suganami, Young Mazino, and Tatanka Means
  • Talk 2 Me (no release date) – sequel to A24's Talk to Me
  • Wizards! (no release date) – Pete Davidson, Naomi Scott, Sean Harris, Orlando Bloom, and Franz Rogowski.
  • The Backrooms (no release date)

Which A24 movies have won awards?

Moonlight (2016)

A24 has been nominated for 55 Academy Awards with 16 wins total thus far.

  • 2016: Best Actress for Brie Larson’s performance in Room, Best Documentary Feature Film for Amy, and Best Visual Effects for Ex Machina.
  • 2017: Best Picture, Best Adapted Screenplay, and Best Supporting Actor for Moonlight.
  • 2021: Best Supporting Actress for Yuh-jung Youn’s performance in Minari.

In 2023, A24 gathered more critical acclaim than ever before, being nominated for 18 Oscars. Everything Everywhere All at Once won Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actress, Best Supporting Actor, Best Supporting Actress, Best Original Screenplay, and Best Film Editing. The Whale won Best Actor and Best Makeup and Hairstyling.

Has A24 made TV shows?

Beef (2023)

Yes, A24 has made a handful of TV shows since founding the studio in 2012. The shows include: The Curse, At Home with Amy Sedaris, Beef, The Carmichael Show, Euphoria, I'm Sorry, Irma Vep, Mo, Mr. Corman, Ramy, and Ziwe.

My Top 5 A24 Movies You Need To See To Believe The Hype

The Whale (2022)

This A24 movie is a total tearjerker, but it's 1000% worth the box of tissues, IMO. The plot introduces Charlie, a morbidly obese English teacher who’s grown to be extremely reclusive and self-destructive due to his appearance and overall mental health.

In the movie, Charlie aims to reconnect with his abandoned daughter, Ellie (Sadie Sink), and we watch their tense relationship develop as Ellie primarily consults Charlie for help on her English homework.

Despite efforts to help Charlie turn his life around – by Liz (his primary caretaker), Thomas (a local missionary), and Ellie – he spirals.

The Whale is an absolute emotional roller coaster of a movie and one of Brendan Fraser’s best works I’ve ever seen. It can be grotesque at times, but no detail, either plot-wise or visually, is in there for fluffing up the timeline.

It’s a must-watch considering its positive critical acclaim with over 20 awards won.

Beau is Afraid (2023)

Beau Is Afraid follows Beau (Joaquin Phoenix), a severely anxious man, and his journey to get back to his mother. He embarks on an unusual odyssey through everything from crime, injury, love, and most of all, grief.

The general tone of the movie is very surreal, and the beautiful visuals and wonky plot line work together to create a sense of wonder.

I really enjoyed Joaquin Phoenix’s performance in this wacky, very A24-esque film, and probably felt every emotion ever while watching it. It ranges from violent to tender, and it’s very intriguing because due to Beau’s anxiety, you can’t clearly tell what’s real and what’s not.

Phoenix was nominated for a Golden Globe for his work with Beau Is Afraid.

Midsommar (2019)

A lot of A24 movies follow an explicitly surreal vibe, and Midsommar starring Florence Pugh and Jack Reynor is definitely no exception. Ari Aster steps in as director for this film, giving it his own twist of horror and dark comedy.

Midsommar centers around dysfunctional couple Dani (Florence Pugh) and Christian (Jack Reynor) who are invited to rural Sweden to celebrate the midsummer festival with some friends with family ties there.

What they don’t know is that they’re essentially staying there with a cult. Aaand things get even more complicated when their friend group gets dosed with psychedelic mushrooms in the midst of the midsummer ceremonies.

Midsommar definitely leans on the creepy and gory side, but I don't think it really eclipses the beauty of the cinematography and compelling storyline.

The Bling Ring (2013)

Written and directed by Sofia Coppola (Lost in Translation, Marie Antoinette, Priscilla), The Bling Ring is one of my favorite A24 movies. I had a phase of pure obsession once, where I probably watched it 5 times in a month.

The Bling Ring is based on a real story, and it’s just such a period piece, encapsulating the culture of fame and celebrity in early 2010’s Los Angeles with pretty spot-on accuracy. It’s packed with tons of visual details from the zebra-print clothing to the flip phones that speak to the trends of the time. Not to mention, the soundtrack is bomb.

Following a squad of bored, fame-obsessed teens who keep tabs on LA-based celebs from the likes of Paris Hilton and Audrina Patridge to break into their homes while they’re away, The Bling Ring shines a light on the real-life group’s tactics as well as each teens’ obsession with money and fame (and the problems it ultimately causes).

The cast features a stacked ensemble: Emma Watson, Katie Chang, Israel Broussard, Taissa Farmiga, Claire Julien, Georgia Rock and Leslie Mann.

The Killing of a Sacred Deer (2017)

Directed by Yorgos Lanthimos (who also directed Poor Things with Emma Stone), The Killing of a Sacred Deer is an absurd tale of a family who begins to fall mysteriously ill after they connect with Martin (Barry Keoghan), a boy whom Steven (Colin Farrell) the father of the family had been friendly with since Martin’s father died.

Much like his disruptive role in Saltburn, Barry Keoghan as Martin stirs the pot in an elusive way. This movie is definitely chilling and will leave you wondering the logic of the plot (common with most A24 movies).

All A24 Movies To Watch Now

Priscilla (2023)

  • 20th Century Women
  • Aftersun
  • After Yang
  • A Ghost Story
  • All Dirt Roads Taste of Salt
  • American Honey
  • Amy
  • Beau Is Afraid
  • Barely Lethal
  • Backstabbing for Beginners
  • Bodies Bodies Bodies
  • The Ballad of Lefty Brown
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  • Dicks: The Musical
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Here's Your First Look At Lady Gaga In "Joker 2"

After we binge watch all the best fresh and inspiring spring movies, and all the summer movies that capture the colorful, carefree nature of warmer months, it's time for fall movies! And the best part about these 2024 movies is, without a doubt, their casts. This year's fall flicks have some seriously big names attached to them (Pedro Pascal! Paul Mescal! Lady Gaga!), and they promise to be some of the best titles we've seen this year. Here are the most-anticipated fall movies to add to your watchlist in 2024.

Beetlejuice Beetlejuice — In Theaters September 6, 2024

Image via Warner Bros. Entertainment

This follow-up to Tim Burton's original Beetlejuice stars Jenna Ortega as Astrid, the daughter of Winona Ryder's iconic character Lydia. We don't have too many plot details about this fall movie, but considering Jenna promises Astrid is weird, it's safe to assume the movie plot will be just as strange as the original.

Beetlejuice 2 hits theaters September 6, 2024 and stars Jenna Ortega, Winona Ryder, Michael Keaton, Willem Dafoe, and Justin Theroux.

Transformers One — In Theaters September 13, 2024

Image via Paramount Pictures

Given the success of Barbie and the latest Transformers movie (not to mention the fact we're getting Polly Pocket and Sims movies too!), toy-themed films will always be a good idea. This fall movie serves as an origin story between two characters we know and love — Optimus Prime and Megatron — and traces how they went from friends to enemies.

Transformers One is in theaters September 13 and stars Scarlett Johansson, Chris Hemsworth, Brian Tyree Henry, Jon Hamm, Laurence Fishburne, and Keegan-Michael Key.

​The Wild Robot — In Theaters September 20, 2024

Image via Universal Pictures

Roz is a robot who gets shipwrecked on a deserted island. In an effort to adapt to its surroundings, Roz begins to form relationships with the animals it meets — including an orphaned (and very cute) baby goose. Watch The Wild Robot trailer here.

You can watch The Wild Robot in theaters September 20. The fall movie stars Lupita Nyong’o, Pedro Pascal, Catherine O’Hara, Bill Nighy, Matt Berry, Kit Connor, Stephanie Hsu, Mark Hamill, and Ving Rhames.

Joker: Folie à Deux — In theaters October 4, 2024

Image via Warner Bros. Entertainment

Harley Quinn is back, and this time she's played by Lady Gaga (when can we get a reunion with Margot Robbie à la Spiderman: No Way Home?). Lady Gaga will star opposite Joaquin Phoenix's Joker and based on the first shots from the film, I'm going to be on the edge of my seat the entire time.

Joker 2 hits theaters October 4 and stars Lady Gaga, Joaquin Phoenix, Zazie Beetz, Brendan Gleeson, Catherine Keener, Jacob Lofland, and Harry Lawtey.

Venom: The Last Dance — In theaters October 25, 2024

"Venom: Let Their Be Carnage" image via Sony Pictures Releasing

Speaking of Spider-Man, we're getting another chapter in the Venom saga with Venom: The Last Dance. We know (thanks to the end of Venom 2) that this movie series has hopped on the multiverse train — and that Venom now knows about Peter Parker. This does not bode well for our friendly neighborhood Spider-Man.

Venom 3 hits theaters October 25 and stars Tom Hardy, Juno Temple, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Clark Backo.

Gladiator 2 — In Theaters November 22, 2024

Image via Universal Pictures/Paramount Pictures

Paul Mescal headlines this huge blockbuster as Lucius, the son of the late Maximus (played by Russell Crowe in the original 2000 film), opposite Joseph Quinn and Pedro Pascal (who we'll see next year in Fantastic Four). So, I see your iconic "Are you not entertained?" and I raise you, "How are you not entertained?"

Gladiator 2 hits theaters November 22 and stars Paul Mescal, Joseph Quinn, Pedro Pascal, Denzel Washington, Connie Nielsen, and Derek Jacobi.

Moana 2 — In Theaters November 27, 2024

Image via Disney

This new Disney movie will see the return of Moana and Maui as they go on a brand new adventure. I didn't know anything could be crazier than returning the Heart of Te Fiti, but Moana 2 will see these beloved characters go on a quest across Oceania — to a part of the ocean.

Moana 2 premieres November 27 and stars Auliʻi Cravalho and Dwane Johnson.

Wicked Part 1 — In Theaters November 27, 2024

Image via Universal Pictures

One of this year's final fall movies is one of my most-anticipated. Jon M. Chu's follow-up to In The Heights and Crazy Rich Asians follows the origin story of the Wicked Witch of the West, and has some majorly important themes about judgement, prejudice, and standing up for what's right. This movie couldn't come at a better time.

You can watch Wicked in theaters November 27, 2024. The movie stars Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Jonathan Bailey, Jeff Goldblum, Michelle Yeoh, Ethan Slater, Marissa Bode, Bowen Yang, and Keala Settle.

Which of these 2024 fall movies are you most excited to see this year? Check out our list of the Most-Anticipated 2024 Movies and The Best New TV Shows to keep up with all the latest titles.

Lead image via Universal Pictures

This post has been updated.

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'Beetlejuice 2' Was Like "A Big Weird Family Reunion"

If you've finished binging Wednesday and you've already seen Scream VI multiple times, you might be itching for a new Jenna Ortega project to watch. Well, we won't have to wait much longer for new images and clips because her newest movie, Beetlejuice 2, is already filming! Not only do we get to return to the wacky world of the 1988 film, but we also get to see Ortega as the daughter of Winona Ryder's Lydia, which might just be our favorite casting decision of the year. Here's everything we know about the fall movie.

What is Beetlejuice 2 about?

Image via Warner Bros.

We finally have some plot details thanks to The Hollywood Reporter! Winona Ryder's Lydia brings her daughter Astrid back to Winter River, and when Astrid finds the town scale model, she accidentally opens a portal to the afterlife. Now, both worlds are being thrown into chaos!

We're excited for Beetlejuice 2 to be another classic Tim Burton movie for one reason — he wanted to go "back to the basics." "I really enjoyed it," Tim Burton told The Independent. "I tried to strip everything and go back to the basics of working with good people and actors and puppets. It was kind of like going back to why I liked making movies.”

Movies like The Nightmare Before Christmas, Corpse Bride, and (of course) the first Beetlejuice are cemented in pop culture history because of how stripped back they are. Considering Beetlejuice 2 features a lot of the same actors as the first movie, we're expecting it to continue the story of family and coming of age.

The First Look At "Beetlejuice 2"

Image via Warner Bros.

We finally have our first official look at Winona Ryder and Jenna Ortega in Beetlejuice Beetlejuice! Winona's Lydia is just as emo as she's always been (thank goodness), and I love to see the contrast between Lydia and Jenna Ortega's Astrid. Even though Astrid has similar tones and edge thanks to the dark overcoat and boots, I really like that we can see colorful stripes peeking out from underneath her coat. Now the real question is — whose funeral are they at?!

The first teaser gives us even more of an idea of what to expect from Beetlejuice 2. It's giving small town coming-of-age, it's giving Halloween, it's giving family drama. I can't wait!

And at CinemaCon 2024, Tim Burton said that coming back for Beetlejuice 2 was like “a big weird family reunion” (via The Hollywood Reporter). While a sequel to the original movie has been in talked about, actor Michael Keaton says this version of the script “finally it got right.” He also added: “I have to tell you this though, it’s really f*cking good.”

Image via Warner Bros.

We also have a look at Michael Keaton's Beetlejuice, who clearly hasn't changed a bit. I'm not sure what antics he'll rope Astrid and Lydia into this time, but I can't wait to find out.

Is Jenna Ortega going to be in Beetlejuice 2?

Photo by Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images

Yes, Jenna Ortega will star in Beetlejuice 2! Jenna Ortega will star as the daughter of Winona Ryder's Lydia, and we're totally expecting this "It" girl to lead the film. In an interview with Vanity Fair, she reveals that her character's name is Astrid — which is brand new info!

"She’s weird, but in a different way and not in the way you’d assume," she says. "The relationship between Lydia and Astrid, [is] really strange because it’s a lot of catching up and putting the pieces together of what’s gone on in Lydia’s life since, which is nice, I think, for anybody who loves the character and is excited to see her again."

While Astrid isn't Lydia's polar opposite, Jenna does reveal we'll see them butt heads. "I wouldn’t say [Astrid's] bright and sunny at all," she continues. "She doesn’t go to the opposite end of the spectrum, but any kid who becomes a teenager wants to be removed from their parents. I think they instantly just fight whatever it is that their parent loves."

This leaked first look features Ryder and Ortega filming in Hertfordshire, England. You can see that Winona Ryder still has her iconic hairstyle from the original film, and that Jenna Ortega is wearing a wedding dress. We have so many questions!! Even though Ortega's dress is white instead of red or black, you can see that there is some peachy pink tulle in her dress. Even if her character seems different from Lydia, the two might just be more similar than we expect.

Who else is in the Beetlejuice 2 cast?

Image via Warner Bros.

In addition to Jenna Ortega and Winona Ryder, we'll see Michael Keaton, Willem Dafoe, and Justin Theroux. Tim Burton will direct, Seth Grahame-Smith and David Katzenberg are producing, and Mike Alfred Gough and Miles Millar have written the script.

When is the Beetlejuice 2 release date?

Image via Warner Bros.

The Warner Bros. movie is scheduled for September 6, 2024. When the WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes began, the movie had less than two days of filming left. “I feel grateful we got what we got. Literally, it was a day and a half,” Tim Burton told The Independentat the time. “We know what we have to do. It is 99 per cent done.”

Tim Burton confirmed in late November, via Instagram, that the movie had finished production: "Just finished shooting Beetlejuice. Thank you to everyone involved." Beetlejuice 2 is going to be the perfect fall movie, if you ask us.

What is Beetlejuice about?

Image via Warner Bros.

After Barbara and Adam die in a car accident, they wind up as ghosts unable to leave their home. When the Deetzes move into the home, Barbara and Adam try to scare them away, but only end up making things worse when they attract trickster spirit Beetlejuice. Watch the Beetlejuice trailer here!

Why can't you say Beetlejuice 3 times?

Image via Warner Bros.

When you say "Beetlejuice" three times, it summons the titular spirit to you. Be warned! Life is already crazy enough without the help of the supernatural, thank you very much.

Will there be a Beetlejuice 3?

Image via Warner Bros.

We don't have an official word on a third Beetlejuice movie yet (we haven't even seen the second one!), but if the new poster is any indication, I think we're totally getting a trilogy. The official name of Beetlejuice 2, Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, means that we're getting closer to the original film's iconic phrase. You know, where you say Beetlejuice three times in a row? If we do get a third film, it would be incredible if it was called Beetlejuice Beetlejuice Beetlejuice!

How old was Winona Ryder in Beetlejuice?

Image via Warner Bros.

Winona Ryder turned 16 years old during the filming of Beetlejuice. Jenna Ortega is already 21, but we wouldn't be surprised if her character is the same age as Lydia in the original.

Follow us on Twitter for more movie news and let us know what you think of the Beetlejuice 2 cast in the comments!

Lead photo by Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images

This post has been updated.

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