We’ve done all the hard work of sorting through the noise, so you can focus on the important stuff—like which indie film will blow your mind this weekend, or which museum exhibition will make you feel like a smarter version of yourself. We’ve curated the finest selection of cultural gems: the art that’ll have you questioning your life choices, the theatre that’ll have you laughing or sobbing (sometimes both), and the TV shows that everyone’s pretending they’re not binge-watching. It’s all here, so you can look effortlessly in-the-know.
As we move into November and December 2024, the movie lineup feels like a cinematic buffet—packed with sequels, surprises, and even a dash of dark comedy. November kicks off with "Gladiator 2" (Nov 22), Ridley Scott’s return to ancient Rome, bringing back that same epic sweep from the original film. But this time, the story focuses on Lucius, nephew to the late emperor, as he navigates the brutal politics of Rome's arena once again. Scott's visuals will undoubtedly be as breathtaking as ever, paired with a story that taps into familiar themes of honor and revenge—it's sure to be a blockbuster for those craving spectacle.
And then, as if a journey to the Roman Colosseum wasn’t enough, "Wicked: Part One" (Nov 27) lands just in time to take you on a magical musical ride. This highly anticipated film adaptation of the Broadway hit stars Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and Ariana Grande as Glinda, telling the untold story of the witches of Oz. With elaborate musical numbers and a narrative about power, prejudice, and unlikely friendships, "Wicked" promises to be as relevant as ever in today’s polarized world.
November and December bring heavy hitters to the small screen, with series that promise to dominate the conversation well into the new year. One of the most exciting is “Dune: Prophecy” (Nov 17 on HBO). Set within the rich, sprawling universe of Dune, this series dives deeper into the intrigue of spice politics, desert power, and the ever-looming conflicts between noble houses. For fans of the Dune saga, this promises to be a grand extension of the film universe, weaving in new characters and complex narratives. Prepare to be immersed once again in the sand-swept world of Arrakis, where every grain of spice holds the key to both life and war.
As December arrives, things get wonderfully weird. "Nightbitch" (Dec 6), starring Amy Adams, gives us a darkly comedic take on motherhood—with a twist. Imagine if becoming a stay-at-home mom wasn’t just mentally taxing but also... physically transformative. Slowly realizing she might be turning into a dog, Adams’ character embraces the "feral power" of parenthood in a bizarre, delightful exploration of identity, rage, and the strange magic of life in the suburbs. This film offers a surreal break from the usual holiday cheer, perfect for those who like their movies on the edge of reality.
But don’t worry—there’s something for every mood in December. On the 13th, we return to the sweeping plains of Middle-earth with "The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim", an animated prequel to the iconic Peter Jackson films. This installment dives into the story of Helm Hammerhand, the legendary King of Rohan, offering the epic battles and emotional stakes that Tolkien fans have come to expect. It’s perfect for anyone looking to escape into an immersive fantasy world.
In December, Netflix is ready to reignite the global phenomenon with “Squid Game: Season 2” (Dec 26). The stakes are higher, the games deadlier, and the societal critique even sharper. After the massive success of the first season, which forced viewers to question the value of human life in the face of desperation, the second season promises new twists and even darker psychological territory. If you thought the games couldn’t get more intense, brace yourself—this time, the competition is about to dig even deeper into what humans are willing to do when backed into a corner. Expect a cultural event that’s sure to be discussed over coffee, in classrooms, and all over the internet.