November's Essential Movie Releases: From 'The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes' to 'The Marvels'

The holiday movie season is off to a busy start this November, featuring several highly-anticipated releases. Fans can look forward to returning to the world of Panem with The Hunger Games prequel, The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes. Marvel's latest blockbuster, The Marvels, brings together fan-favorite characters like Captain Marvel, Ms. Marvel, and Monica Rambeau. Disney's animated musical, Wish, tells the story of a girl who wishes upon a star to save her kingdom, starring the talented Ariana DeBose and the melodious Chris Pine. The lovable troll dolls make a comeback in Trolls Band Together, offering more catchy tunes for audiences to enjoy.

Independent films also have their time to shine this season. In The Marsh King's Daughter, Star Wars stars Daisy Ridley and Ben Mendelsohn venture into a different galaxy for a thrilling suspense experience. Meg Ryan makes a long-awaited return to the screen in the romantic comedy, What Happens Later, which she also directed. Sofia Coppola's biopic, Priscilla, impresses audiences with its wide release. Ridley Scott and Joaquin Phoenix join forces for the grandiose epic, Napoleon, while Taika Waititi's Next Goal Wins brings a true story about national football to life. Award season buzz begins with May December, featuring Natalie Portman and Julianne Moore blurring the boundaries between fiction and reality. Lastly, the captivating duo of Bradley Cooper and Carey Mulligan take the lead in the enchanting Maestro.

The Marsh King’s Daughter

Mark your calendars for November 3rd because that's when this dynamic duo hits the big screen. Daisy Ridley and Ben Mendelsohn join forces in the thrilling adaptation of Karen Dionne's critically acclaimed novel, The Marsh King's Daughter. Ridley takes on the role of Helena, leading a peaceful life alongside her husband Stephen (played by Garrett Hedlund) and their young daughter Marigold (portrayed by Joey Carson). But when Helena's estranged father escapes from prison, long-buried secrets come to light. Her father, known as the Marsh King, had abducted Helena's mother and confined them both to the remote marshlands of Michigan for years. Now it's up to Helena to confront her past and stop her father's reign of terror, a task that only she is capable of despite the dark teachings he bestowed upon her.

What Happens Later

Coming to theaters on November 3rd, Meg Ryan makes a comeback as the leading lady and director of the captivating romantic comedy, What Happens Later. In the midst of a treacherous winter storm, former lovers Willa and Bill (played by David Duchovny) find themselves stranded at an airport. Forced to confront their past after years of separation, they reminisce about the highs and lows of their love story and contemplate what lies ahead in their futures. As fate seems to intervene through an eerily familiar disembodied voice, they question whether this reunion is more than just a coincidence.

Priscilla

Coming to theaters on November 3rd, "Priscilla" is Sofia Coppola's compelling portrayal of the life of Priscilla Presley, the first wife of the iconic Rock and Roll legend, Elvis Presley. Played by Cailee Spaeny, Priscilla's journey is explored, showcasing her eventual success as an actress and her significant impact as a pioneering businesswoman. Drawing inspiration from Priscilla's own autobiography, "Elvis and Me," the film has been crafted under the guidance of Priscilla, who also takes on the role of a producer.

Rustin

Rustin, a historical drama directed by George C. Wolfe, is set to be released on November 3 on Netflix. The film tells the story of Bayard Rustin, an influential figure in the civil rights, gay rights, and nonviolence movements. Rustin played a crucial role in organizing the historic March on Washington in 1963 and was a key player in the Civil Rights movement of the 20th century. Produced by President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama's company, Higher Ground, Rustin features Colman Domingo in his first leading role, alongside an impressive cast including Chris Rock, Glynn Turman, Aml Ameen, CCH Pounder, Jeffrey Wright, and Audra McDonald.

Quiz Lady

Quiz Lady, a hilarious comedy on Hulu, follows the story of sisters Anne and Jenny Yum, played by Awkwafina and Sandra Oh. When their mother disappears, leaving behind unpaid gambling debts, the sisters devise a plan to gather the money and save Anne's kidnapped dog. Utilizing Anne's vast knowledge of trivia from countless hours of watching game shows, they decide to enter her as a contestant. Joining the talented cast are Jason Schwartzman, Tony Hale, and Will Ferrell, with Jessica Yu taking the director's chair. Mark your calendars for the highly anticipated release on November 3.

All Dirt Roads Taste of Salt

All Dirt Roads Taste of Salt, the debut film by writer and director Raven Jackson, is a poetic coming of age drama and a heartfelt exploration of life in Mississippi. Following the journey of Mack, a Black woman, from her childhood in the 1970s to adulthood, the film intricately weaves together a non-linear narrative through the lens of the five senses. Produced by Barry Jenkins, director of Moonlight, and distributed by independent studio A24, this film is set to hit theaters on November 3.

The Marvels

The Marvels, directed by Nia DaCosta, is set to release in theaters on November 10. This highly anticipated sequel stars Brie Larson as Carol Danvers, who is joined by Teyonah Parris as Monica Rambeau and Iman Vellani as Kamala Khan, making their big-screen debuts. Together, these three heroines must unite to face off against the villainous Dar-Benn, a vengeful Kree warrior who poses a threat to Captain Marvel. However, there's a twist - every time one of them uses their powers, they switch places, adding a new challenge to their teamwork. Alongside them, Samuel L. Jackson reprises his role as Nick Fury, and Park Seo-joon, a prominent Korean star, makes his debut in Hollywood.

It’s a Wonderful Knife

Release Date: November 10 in Theaters

Christmas wouldn't be complete without a taste of the macabre. Director Tyler MacIntyre and writer Michael Kennedy present It's a Wonderful Knife, a twisted take on the beloved Jimmy Stewart classic It's a Wonderful Life, injecting it with all the elements of a slasher film. After surviving a chilling Christmastime murder spree, Winnie (played by Jane Widdop) is left deeply scarred. Overwhelmed by her trauma, she starts to believe that life would be better if she had never existed. Fate grants her wish, but there's a catch - without her intervention, notorious serial killer Henry Waters (portrayed by Justin Long) continues his killing spree. This holiday horrorfest also features Joel McHale as Winnie's father and indie horror icon Katharine Isabelle as the aptly named Gale Prescott.

Dream Scenario

Coming to theaters on November 10th, A24 does it again! In the captivating and unconventional Dream Scenario, directed by Kristoffer Borgli, Nicolas Cage undergoes a mesmerizing transformation as he embodies the anti-Freddy Krueger character. Meet Paul Matthews, a seemingly unremarkable professor who goes unnoticed by his students and acquaintances. However, his world takes a surprising turn when millions of people inexplicably begin dreaming about Paul, immersing him in a mix of amusing, sensual, and suspenseful scenarios that range from the absurd to the terrifying.

The Holdovers

In theaters starting November 10th, experience Alexander Payne's new dramedy set in the 1970s. The story revolves around the clash between the grumpy professor Paul Hunham, portrayed by Paul Giamatti, and the troublesome student Angus Tully, played by Dominic Sessa, as they find themselves compelled to stay on campus for winter break. Can these rivals overcome their differences and find common ground? While it's likely that they will, The Holdovers inject some heartfelt humor into the mix.

The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes

Coming to theaters on November 17th, "The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes" takes us back 64 years before the events of Suzanne Collins' popular series. This time, the focus is on the future dictator, President Coriolanus Snow, portrayed by Tom Blythe. Snow, who hails from a once prominent family facing decline, is assigned to mentor District 12 tribute Lucy Gray Baird, played by Rachel Zegler. Lucy is a talented traveling musician who has captured the nation's attention with her captivating voice. As their love story unfolds, we witness Snow's journey of corruption and the path that leads him to power. Alongside Blythe and Zegler, the film boasts an impressive cast including Jason Schwartzman, Peter Dinklage, and Viola Davis. Francis Lawrence, who directed three films from the original Hunger Games franchise, returns to helm this latest installment.

Please Don’t Destroy: The Treasure of Foggy Mountain

Coming to Peacock on November 17th, Please Don't Destroy: The Treasure of Foggy Mountain follows a group of underestimated individuals on a quest to uncover their long-lost childhood treasure. Their mission not only serves to prove their worth to loved ones, but also promises a lucrative reward. However, their journey is far from simple, as they must navigate through the dangers of the wilderness, including wild animals, park rangers, and even a cult leader. This hilarious adventure features Ben Marshall, John Higgins, and Martin Herlihy from Saturday Night Live, with a cameo appearance by Conan O'Brien as Ben's father and narration by John Goodman.

Trolls Band Together

Coming to theaters on November 17, "Trolls Band Together" is the highly anticipated third installment of DreamWorks' Trolls franchise. Director Walt Dohrn introduces a captivating story where Poppy, played by Anna Kendrick, and Branch, played by Justin Timberlake, embark on a mission to bring Branch's boy band brothers back together. This heartwarming tale emphasizes the importance of family bonds. Joining the stellar cast are talented voices, including Eric André, Daveed Diggs, Troye Sivan, Camila Cabello, Amy Schumer, and RuPaul. Get ready to be entertained and captivated once again!

Thanksgiving

Coming to theaters on November 17th, get ready for some holiday horror with Eli Roth's Thanksgiving. In the small town of Plymouth, Massachusetts, a mysterious killer named "John Carver" begins a gruesome spree using Thanksgiving-themed weapons. Patrick Dempsey, Addison Rae, and Milo Manheim must work together to stop Carver before they become his next victims. This dark comedy by Roth is a full-length adaptation of his 2007 fake movie trailer created for Grindhouse, a collaboration with Robert Rodriguez and Quentin Tarantino.

Next Goal Wins

Coming to theaters on November 17th, "Next Goal Wins" is the latest film by Taika Waititi, the renowned director and comedic talent who won an Oscar. This movie takes a fictional approach to the real-life events documented in the 2014 film by Mike Brett and Steve Jamison. The story revolves around Thomas Rongen (played by Michael Fassbender), a national football coach on the verge of losing his job. Despite the challenging circumstances, he agrees to take charge of coaching the American Samoa team. This task may seem insurmountable, considering that the team had endured a decade-long struggle in the depths of Fifa's world rankings, with no wins and just two goals. However, the plot takes an inspiring turn as the team experiences a remarkable improvement, and the journey itself becomes just as significant as reaching the destination.

May December

Coming to theaters on November 17th

In the month of May, actress Elizabeth Berry (Natalie Portman) is dedicated to her craft. She has a preference for portraying complex characters with questionable morals, which is why she agrees to be part of a script that fictionalizes the life of Gracie Atherton-Yoo (Julianne Moore). Gracie was involved in a case of statutory rape, having had a relationship with 12-year-old Joe Yoo when she was 37 years old. Now, twenty years later, Elizabeth delves deeply into studying Gracie and Joe (Charles Melton), who are currently married and have children. Directed by Todd Haynes, this dark dramedy is "loosely" inspired by the infamous sex offender Mary Kay Letourneau.

Leo

Coming to Netflix on November 21, "Leo the Aging Lizard" tells the heartfelt story of Leo (played by Adam Sandler), a lizard who has spent his entire life imprisoned as a class pet behind glass. Determined to make the most of his remaining days, Leo embarks on a mission to break free. However, his plans are constantly foiled. As Leo begins to engage with his elementary school students, imparting important life lessons, a bond forms between them, leading to an unexpected love and respect for Leo. With an all-star voice cast including Cecily Strong, Jason Alexander, Rob Schneider, and Stephanie Hsu, this animated musical on Netflix is sure to captivate audiences.

Wish

Release Date: November 22 in Theaters

In Disney's latest animated film, Ariana DeBose takes on the role of Asha, a 17-year-old who uncovers unsettling secrets in the seemingly kind and wish-granting kingdom of Rosas, ruled by King Magnifico (played by Chris Pine). Instead of relying on the corrupt King to fulfill her desires, Asha turns to a star for help. This star not only grants her wish but also joins her on a journey to save her kingdom. Alongside her, Asha has her loyal goat companion, Valentino (played by Alan Tudyk). The film is directed by Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn, with a screenplay by Jennifer Lee and Allison Moore. The cast also includes Angelique Cabral, Victor Garber, Evan Peters, Jennifer Kumiyama, and Harvey Guillén.

Napoleon

In theaters on November 22, Ridley Scott and Joaquin Phoenix reunite after 23 years since "Gladiator" for "Napoleon," a sweeping epic by Scott that delves into the life of the renowned military leader and future Emperor of France. In the titular role, Phoenix captures the essence of the infamous French commander who triumphs on the battlefield, while also cementing his authority through political maneuvering, ultimately claiming rulership of France through a coup. Vanessa Kirby delivers a mesmerizing performance as Joséphine, Napoleon's eventual spouse and Empress.

Good Burger 2

Good Burger 2, the highly anticipated sequel to the 1997 Good Burger film, is set to be released on November 22 on Paramount+. Bringing back the iconic duo of Kenan Thompson and Kel Mitchell, also known as Kenan and Kel to '90s kids, the film revives the beloved Nickelodeon All That sketch. While specific plot details remain limited, the storyline revolves around Dexter and Ed, played by Thompson and Mitchell respectively, as they come together again when Dexter's life takes a downturn. With this exciting premise, what else could you possibly ask for?

Maestro

Maestro, a film directed by Bradley Cooper and produced by Martin Scorsese and Steven Spielberg, is a fictionalized account of the romance between renowned composer and conductor, Leonard Bernstein, played by Bradley Cooper, and Felicia Montealegre Cohn Bernstein, portrayed by Carey Mulligan. Set to be released in theaters on November 22, the film combines both black and white and color to bring this captivating story to life.

Saltburn

In Theaters on November 22

Emerald Fennell, director of Promising Young Woman, presents a captivating gothic psychological thriller with her latest film, Saltburn. Taking place in the 2000s, the disenchanted Oxford student Oliver Quick (played by Barry Keoghan) reluctantly agrees to spend his summer at the luxurious estate of his wealthy classmate Felix Catton (portrayed by Jacob Elordi). Fennell's second film delves into themes of desire and obsession, resulting in a compelling narrative. The outstanding cast includes Rosamund Pike, Richard E. Grant, Carey Mulligan, and Ewan Mitchell.

Family Switch

Coming to Theaters on November 30th

In the spirit of the holiday season, Jess (played by Jennifer Garner) and Bill Walker (played by Ed Helms), a concerned couple, fear their family is drifting apart. Their kids CC (portrayed by Emma Myers) and Wyatt (played by Brady Noon) are addicted to their smartphones and fail to recognize their parents' hard work. Jess and Bill long for their children's carefree youth. A Christmas miracle occurs when the Walker family unexpectedly swaps bodies. With only 24 hours to rectify the situation, they must not only return to their own bodies but also mend their relationships. Directed by McG, this heartwarming and family-friendly comedy, written by Adam Sztykiel and Victoria Strouse, draws inspiration from Amy Krouse Rosenthal's beloved children's book "Bedtime For Mommy."

Editor's P/S

As a movie enthusiast, I am eagerly anticipating the upcoming releases in November. The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes is at the top of my must-see list. As a fan of the original trilogy, I'm excited to return to Panem and explore the origins of the brutal and captivating Hunger Games. The prequel, set years before the events of the original series, promises to delve into the life of a young Coriolanus Snow, who will eventually become the tyrannical President of Panem. With Francis Lawrence returning to direct, I'm confident that the film will capture the essence of Suzanne Collins's novel and expand the rich lore of the Hunger Games universe.

Another highly anticipated film for me is Maestro, directed by Bradley Cooper. This biopic chronicles the life and career of the legendary composer Leonard Bernstein. Cooper not only directs but also stars in the film as Bernstein, showcasing his versatility as an actor and filmmaker. The supporting cast, including Carey Mulligan as Bernstein's wife Felicia Montealegre, is equally impressive. Maestro promises to be a poignant and emotionally charged exploration of Bernstein's genius, struggles, and enduring legacy in the world of music.