As the fall film season approaches, cinephiles have plenty to look forward to with an array of highly anticipated releases. This year’s slate offers something for everyone, from intimate dramas and thought-provoking thrillers to star-studded comedies and bold directorial debuts. Whether you’re drawn to the emotional resonance of character-driven stories or the allure of high-concept filmmaking, the fall lineup is packed with films that showcase what it takes to deliver fresh perspectives and unforgettable experiences.

Many of these films come from celebrated directors returning to the screen and rising talents making their mark. With award season just around the corner, several titles are already generating buzz, boasting powerhouse performances, innovative storytelling, and visual artistry that will likely leave a lasting impression. This selection will explore some of the most exciting films set to hit theaters and streaming platforms this fall and why they deserve a spot on your watchlist.

Emilia Pérez (2024)

Jacques Audiard, known for his captivating storytelling in films like A Prophet, Rust and Bone, and Dheepan, returns this fall with the highly anticipated Emilia Pérez. This Spanish-language French musical crime comedy marks a bold departure from Audiard’s usual gritty, character-driven dramas, offering a unique blend of genres that will showcase both intrigue and humor. Starring Karla Sofía Gascón as Emilia, a feared cartel leader yearning to live authentically, and Zoe Saldaña as Rita, an underappreciated lawyer caught in Emilia’s web, the film brings together an exciting cast that also includes Selena Gomez. Having Premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and set for a limited U.S. and Canadian release on November 1st before debuting on Netflix on November 13th, 2024,  Emilia Pérez is poised to be a standout this fall. With its inventive narrative, musical flair, and Audiard’s deft direction, the film is a refreshing addition to his already impressive body of work, making it a sought-after for fans of genre-bending cinema.

.Nosferatu (2024) 

Robert Eggers, known for his distinctive blend of historical accuracy and atmospheric tension in films like The Witch and The Lighthouse, is set to bring his unique vision to the iconic vampire story Nosferatu this fall. Scheduled for release on December 25, 2024, Eggers’ adaptation is a modern retelling of the 1922 German expressionist film Nosferatu, a loose adaptation of Bram Stoker’s Dracula. With a cast led by Bill Skarsgård, Lily-Rose Depp, and Nicholas Hoult, the film is set to be a haunting blend of gothic terror and psychological depth. Eggers’ commitment to period authenticity and mastery of shadowy, foreboding imagery makes Nosferatu a film to watch when it releases this fall. Given his past work’s ability to conjure tension and dread from minor details, fans can expect a chilling, visually arresting experience faithful to its roots and distinctly Eggers in its execution.

Conclave (2024)

 Edward Berger, the acclaimed director behind the Oscar-winning All Quiet on the Western Front, brings his meticulous, atmospheric storytelling to the upcoming psychological thriller Conclave. Set to release on October 25, 2024, the film possesses the bandwidth to captivate audiences with a tense, cerebral exploration of power and faith within one of the world’s oldest institutions: the Roman Catholic Church. Based on Robert Harris’s 2016 novel, Conclave plunges viewers into the secretive process of selecting a new pope following the sudden death of the beloved Holy Father. The story centers on Cardinal Lawrence (played by Ralph Fiennes), who finds himself amid a covert election and a dark conspiracy threatening the church’s foundations. Joining Fiennes is a stellar cast, including Stanley Tucci, John Lithgow, Sergio Castellitto, and Isabella Rossellini, whose collective performances will likely elevate the film’s intrigue. Berger, known for his ability to craft nuanced, tension-filled narratives, looks set to create a deeply engaging film that explores the power dynamics within the Vatican and the psychological weight of navigating religious and political secrets. Following the success of All Quiet on the Western Front, which expertly balanced large-scale conflict with personal, emotional stakes, Berger’s direction in Conclave is one to anticipate. Its unique premise, powerhouse cast, and the director’s skill at weaving suspense into layered storytelling make this film worthy of looking into.

Babygirl (2024)

This Christmas, A24 is set to release Babygirl, a provocative drama directed by Halina Reijn, known for her acclaimed works such as Instinct and Bodies Bodies Bodies. Starring a powerhouse cast including Nicole Kidman, Harris Dickinson, Sophie Wilde, and Antonio Banderas, the film delves into the tumultuous affair between a high-powered CEO and her much younger intern, challenging the boundaries of desire and ambition. Beyond the surface of their illicit relationship, Babygirl unravels deeper themes of secrets, marriage, truth, power, and consent, positioning itself as a compelling exploration of the complexities of modern relationships. Kidman, who won the Volpi Cup for Best Actress at the 81st Venice International Film Festival, has emphasized that the film transcends mere eroticism, making it a timely narrative in today’s discourse. With its U.S. theatrical release set for December 25, 2024, Babygirl has the backing to be a thought-provoking addition to the holiday film lineup.

Gladiator II (2024)

Ridley Scott returns to the epic saga of Gladiator with the highly anticipated sequel set for release on November 22, 2024. Following the emotional journey of Lucius, the nephew of Commodus, the film is sure to delve deep into the legacy of his family’s tumultuous history. After witnessing the death of Maximus, Lucius is propelled into the heart of the Colosseum, driven by a fierce desire to reclaim honor and restore glory to Rome amid its conquest. Scott, known for masterworks like Blade Runner, Alien, and The Martian, can weave intricate narratives with breathtaking visuals. Gladiator II is a sequel to the iconic 2000 film that captivated audiences with Russell Crowe’s unforgettable performance and stands on its own as a compelling exploration of power, revenge, and redemption. With a fresh perspective and a talented cast, including Paul Mescal, this film is equipped to reignite the grandeur of ancient Rome while echoing timeless themes that resonate with today’s viewers.