What we’re watching at the cinema this August

From the return of Lindsay Lohan to the big screen, to chilling thrillers and a modern rom-com from one of Hollywood’s rising stars, here’s what’s worth booking a seat for…

August might mark the tail end of blockbuster season, but the North East’s cinema listings are still packed with fresh releases that are worth a watch. Whether you’re a horror fan or a rom-com lover, there’s plenty to tempt you off your sun lounger and into the cinema this month.

The Naked Gun – out 1st August

Liam Neeson is back… and this time, he’s hilarious (on purpose). Taking up the baton from Leslie Nielsen, Neeson stars as the deadpan Lt Frank Drebin Jr. in The Naked Gun, a new take on the beloved slapstick franchise. Produced by Seth MacFarlane and directed by SNL alum Akiva Schaffer, expect over-the-top gags, outrageous cameos and some surprisingly fun turns from Pamela Anderson and Paul Walter Hauser.

Freakier Friday – out 8th August

Yes, it’s really happening. Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis are back as mother-daughter duo Tess and Anna – only this time, there’s another generation involved. Chaos ensues when Anna’s daughter gets pulled into a three-way body swap that’s set to test more than just family bonds. Expect nostalgia, mishaps and a little Disney magic (again).

Weapons – out 8th August

From the director of Barbarian comes Weapons, a dark, disturbing mystery about a class of children who vanish – except one. With a star-studded cast including Josh Brolin, Julia Garner and Benedict Wong, this psychological thriller is already gaining buzz for its tension and originality.

Together – out 15th August

A country escape. A decaying relationship. And a mysterious horror lurking in the woods. Dave Franco and Alison Brie star as a couple attempting to start fresh – until something very, very wrong starts infecting their rural retreat. Together is body horror with emotional weight, and one to watch if you like your love stories twisted.

NOBODY 2 – out 15th August

Bob Odenkirk’s back in action mode, and he’s not holding back. This sequel to the 2021 sleeper hit sees ex-assassin Hutch Mansell try to take a normal family holiday. Spoiler: It doesn’t go to plan. Expect high-octane fight scenes, dry humour and some serious cathartic chaos.

Materialists – out 15th August

Following her breakout success with Past Lives, Celine Song turns her attention to the romantic comedy genre in Materialists. Dakota Johnson plays a glamorous NYC matchmaker caught between a charming millionaire (Pedro Pascal) and her perfectly imperfect ex (Chris Evans). Stylish, smart and full of chemistry – this one’s a summer treat.

The Life of Chuck – out 22nd August

A Stephen King adaptation that isn’t horror? Believe it. Directed by Mike Flanagan (The Haunting of Hill House), The Life of Chuck stars Tom Hiddleston in a deeply human, genre-bending story told in reverse – starting with Chuck’s death and ending with his childhood. Surprisingly uplifting, and a must for King fans.

Caught Stealing – out 29th August

Baseball. Cats. Crime syndicates. Darren Aronofsky’s Caught Stealing has it all. Austin Butler stars as a washed-up athlete whose quiet life unravels when his neighbour asks him to cat-sit. Set in the murky underworld of ‘90s NYC, this gritty thriller features Zoë Kravitz, Matt Smith and a whole lot of secrets.

The Roses – out 29th August

Marriage, ambition, and unspoken resentment – all served with a side of biting humour. Olivia Colman and Benedict Cumberbatch star as a picture-perfect couple whose relationship is quietly imploding in this black comedy remake of The War of the Roses. Bonus: Ncuti Gatwa rounds out the cast.

Honourable mention: The Thursday Murder Club – out 22 August (cinemas) and 28th August (Netflix)

Richard Osman’s bestselling crime novel gets the star treatment with a cast including Pierce Brosnan, Celia Imrie and Helen Mirren. Four pensioners solving murders at their retirement village? Sign us up. Catch it in cinemas or stream at home later in the month.

Chris Kingston
Entertainment Writer

Chris is Laura's brother and the font of all knowledge when it comes to anything related to TV, film and books. He provides our popular round-ups on what to watch at the cinema, the TV not to miss, and new cultural releases.

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