As the weather outside turns frightful and you have no place to go, it’s the perfect weather to warp yourself in a blanket and watch some great movies. From action-packed films to holiday horror, several great movies were released last week that you shouldn’t miss. Here’s a list of what to watch.
Released Last Week
Lord of Misrule
In Select Theaters
From director William Brent Bell, who brought you The Boy, The Boy 2, and Orphan: First Kill, comes a dark and twisted tale of a Vicor on a mission to rescue her daughter from a cult. After you watch Lord of Misrule, a “haunting must-see” movie in my spoiler-free review, be sure to watch my interview with director Bell.
Poor Things
In Theaters
In the film inspired by Frankenstein, Emma Stone is a young woman brought back to life by the brilliant and unorthodox scientist Dr. Godwin Baxter (Willem Dafoe). Under Baxter’s protection, Bella is eager to learn. Hungry for the worldliness she lacks, Bella runs off with Duncan Wedderburn (Mark Ruffalo), a slick and passionate lawyer, on a whirlwind adventure across the continents. Free from the prejudices of her times, Bella grows steadfast in her purpose to stand for equality and liberation.
Leave The World Behind
Netflix
The story follows a family on a seemingly idyllic vacation to a secluded rental home. However, their peaceful escape is shattered when a mysterious blackout strikes, plunging the world into darkness. As anxieties rise and communications are cut off, two strangers unexpectedly arrive at their door.
The film features an all-star cast, headlined by the Academy Award-winning actress Julia Roberts, known for her iconic roles in Pretty Woman and Erin Brockovich. Alongside her is Mahershala Ali, the critically acclaimed actor who has captivated audiences in projects like “True Detective” and “Moonlight.” The film also stars Ethan Hawke, known for his captivating performances in films like The Black Phone, which is getting a sequel, and the Sinister franchise.
Santa Isn’t Real
Digital and VOD
In the new Christmas horror film Santa Isn’t Real, a masked serial killer dons a red suit and beard, turning the holiday season into a bloody nightmare.
The Sacrifice Game
Shudder
Set in 1971, The Sacrifice Game follows two students, Samantha (Madison Baines) and Clara (Georgia Acken), stuck at Blackvale School for Girls over the holidays. But their festive cheer turns into a fight for survival when a gang of cult killers arrives at their doorstep – just in time for Christmas.
Peacock
IndiPix Unlimited/Prime Video
Directed by Jaco Minnaar, who co-wrote the film with David Cornwell, Peacock is an upcoming South African gothic horror film set to make its U.S. debut this December. The film follows Anna Pohl, played by Tarryn Wyngaard. A young woman who was raised in a strict and brutal Authoritarian institute called “The Foundation.” After violating the institute’s strict moral standards, Anna is sent to care for one of the founding members, Sarel Cilliers (Johan Botha), an Apartheid-era theologian who is living out his days on his isolated farm in a state of paranoia and demonic hallucinations.
Abigail
VOD and DVD
Set in 1976, Alabama, the film sees Abigail and her mom move to a new town for a fresh start. A precocious teen, Abigail befriends the lonely boy next door and soon stands up to his bullies. As she takes him under her wing, the secrets of her past begin to surface as she begins a reign of brutality and twisted justice.
Coming This Week
Walden
Digital and On Demand – 12/12
The film centers on “Walden Dean, a stenographer whose mind witnessed all types of injustices in the courtroom. After discovering he has a terminal illness, repressed anger deep within him surfaces – taking justice into his own hands in the most gruesome ways imaginable.”
Director Mick Davis sat down with us to discuss the film in an interview. Be sure to check it out.
With Christmas quickly approaching, you may be on the lookout for new and classic holiday horror films. We’ve got you covered with our Christmas Horror Movies To Unwarp This December list.
For more information on the movies, click on the highlighted titles.
