We’re looking at October 2016 films in this second edition covering must-see coming attractions. My first article last month consisted of titles that mostly under-delivered (Blair Witch, The Light Between Oceans), so it’s never a guarantee that all or any of these will be winners. However, they all individually have me intrigued enough to visit a theater to see them if they’re playing locally.
Opening October 7th
– The Birth of a Nation –
I might as well start with the title marred by the most controversy: The Birth of a Nation. I’m personally going out on a limb here by separating the art from the artist, as I feel this is an important lesson in history. Reviews currently indicate this isn’t the much-needed diverse Oscar hopeful Sundance travelers praised it to be, quality-wise, but I’m intrigued to find out for myself regardless. I’m a fan of filmmakers taking risks with their subversive stories and methods, so this movie had me hooked from the first trailer.
– The Girl on the Train –
Reviews are disappointingly mixed for this adapted thriller, but much praise is still being heaped upon Emily Blunt’s performance. I’ll be seeing this opening night purely for the mystery of it, as I’d like to know what the heck is going on after seeing these trailers. It may not end up being the best of these October 2016 films, but I want a movie-going experience that keeps me guessing until the very end. At the least, I expect that from The Girl on the Train.
– The Greasy Strangler –
The teaser was the only safe-for-work trailer I could locate, but you still get the sense that The Greasy Strangler is probably one of the weirdest black comedies to ever be made. Reviews thus far have been positive because of the unconventional nature of this film’s very essence. If I’m lucky enough to be near a theater showing this oddball feature, I’ll definitely be rushing to see it, almost just to say I did.
Streaming October 13th
– Mascots –
I freaking adore Christopher Guest‘s work. Best in Show, A Mighty Wind, Waiting for Guffman. If you’re like me and you’ve not only seen, but adore any one of those three titles, then you’re feeling the hype for when Mascots drops on Netflix this month. Like his previous movies, it’s another documentary, but centered on – you guessed it – mascots. Say no more to me on this: I’m sold.
Opening October 14th
– Christine –
Christine is the heartbreaking true story of news reporter Christine Chubbuck, who committed suicide during a live television broadcast. What drove her to make such a drastic choice? That’s what this film, starring the ludicrously skilled Rebecca Hall, will shed light on. This is another independent movie that I’m unsure will grace our theaters in smaller cities/towns, but this should be a compelling, engrossing piece to witness whenever all audiences somehow stumble upon it.
– Desierto –
Early reviews of our next October 2016 films selection are calling Desierto a rather by-the-numbers affair, but that doesn’t detract from my desire to see it. Being by-the-numbers, if true, also doesn’t remove any possibility of stressful thrills and well-designed tension. Furthermore, this film is directed by the much acclaimed visionary Alfonso Cuaron‘s son, Jonas. My curiosity at his cinematic potential is what will further motivate me to watch this.
– The Handmaiden –
Fortunately I had the luxury of seeing The Handmaiden earlier in September, and I can assure everyone, it’s the epitome of a ‘must-see’ picture. Directed by Chan-wook Park, who brought us the original Oldboy, Handmaiden includes all of his signature striking visuals and intricate, layered narrative perspectives, as well as his occasional disturbing moments. The movie is sexy yet disturbing, magnetic yet repulsive, and thoroughly poetic in its dialogue. There’s nothing like it so far this year. The Handmaiden is certainly one of the October 2016 films to keep an eye on.
Opening October 21st
– Jack Reacher: Never Go Back –
The first Jack Reacher featured Tom Cruise‘s first collaboration with director Christopher McQuarrie, and was a rather enjoyable action romp from start to finish. Cruise is re-teaming with The Last Samurai director Edward Zwick for the second Reacher film, subtitled Never Go Back, and it appears to be more of the same, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Cruise has been on a roll with these entertaining pictures like Mission: Impossible – Rogue Nation and Edge of Tomorrow (or is it Live, Die, Repeat now?), and I’m anticipating equal entertainment value in the latest Reacher entry.
– Moonlight –
I’ve already discussed why we should be excited for Moonlight in my Telluride Film Festival article, as it was considered the best in show there and now at Toronto International Film Festival. The narrative is spread over 3 periods in the lead’s life as he struggles with his sexual identity. The movie appears to also feature some very enthralling cinematography on top of its compelling story. If you didn’t guess from my previous article that included Moonlight, I’m over the moon (get it?) psyched for it.
