February cinema releases – from gothic romance to nerve-shredding thrillers

February brought a diverse mix of cinematic releases, from Sam Raimi’s nerve-shredding survival thriller to Emerald Fennell’s bold, modern take on a gothic classic.

Whether you love horror, romance, animation or thought-provoking drama, there’s something new to discover on the big screen.

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Directed by Sam Raimi (The Evil DeadSpider-Man), this tense survival thriller follows Linda (Rachel McAdams) and her sexist boss Bradley (Dylan O’Brien), who find themselves the only survivors of a devastating plane crash. Stranded on a deserted island, they’re forced to put aside their differences to survive — but rising tensions and buried resentments threaten to derail their fragile alliance. Expect psychological tension, emotional conflict and plenty of Raimi’s trademark suspense.

Cold Storage

Based on David Koepp’s bestselling novel, this sci-fi thriller sees a deadly fungus escape from a secret government facility, threatening humanity. Two unassuming employees must team up with a hardened bioterror operative to stop the outbreak before it spreads beyond control. Starring Joe Keery, Georgina Campbell and Liam Neeson, this is a fast-paced, high-stakes ride with plenty of twists.

The Strangers: Chapter 3

The final instalment of The Strangers trilogy brings Maya (Madelaine Petsch) face-to-face with the masked killers in a brutal showdown. This concluding chapter delivers the franchise’s trademark tension and violence, bringing Maya’s story to a chilling and explosive end.

Wuthering Heights

Emerald Fennell (Saltburn) reimagines Emily Brontë’s iconic love story with a bold new perspective. Margot Robbie and Jacob Elordi star as Cathy and Heathcliff, whose intense and destructive relationship unfolds against the wild Yorkshire moors. With a modern soundtrack from Charli XCX, this visually striking adaptation blends classic romance with contemporary edge.

Crime 101

Chris Hemsworth stars as a jewel thief whose meticulous heists along California’s 101 freeway leave police baffled. When he targets his biggest score yet, his path collides with a struggling insurance broker (Halle Berry) and a determined detective (Mark Ruffalo). This stylish crime drama explores ambition, risk and the blurred lines between hunter and hunted.

Whistle

A group of teenagers stumble upon an ancient Aztec death whistle with terrifying consequences. Each time it’s blown, it summons their future deaths. As they race to break the curse, they must confront their fate in this chilling supernatural horror.

GOAT

From Sony Pictures Animation, this action-comedy is set in an all-animal world where a determined young goat named Will dreams of joining the professional roarball league. Voiced by Caleb McLaughlin, Will must prove himself against bigger, stronger competitors. Heartwarming, funny and visually vibrant, this family-friendly film is full of underdog spirit.

Good Luck, Have Fun, Don’t Die

Sam Rockwell stars as an eccentric time traveller who holds a diner hostage while recruiting unlikely allies to help save humanity from an AI threat. Directed by Gore Verbinski, this sci-fi comedy blends action, humour and existential stakes.

The Testament of Ann Lee

Amanda Seyfried delivers a powerful performance as Ann Lee, founder of the Shakers religious movement. This sweeping historical drama explores her leadership, vision of equality and the creation of one of America’s most radical utopian communities.

If I Had Legs, I’d Kick You

Rose Byrne stars as a mother pushed to breaking point as she navigates her child’s mysterious illness, a missing person case and her own deteriorating mental health. This intense psychological drama examines grief, stress and resilience.

EPIC: Elvis Presley in Concert

Baz Luhrmann returns to Elvis Presley’s story with a cinematic experience using restored archive footage and interviews. Blending concert performance and storytelling, this immersive tribute celebrates the music and legacy of the King of Rock and Roll.

National Theatre Live: The Audience

Helen Mirren reprises her award-winning role as Queen Elizabeth II in this acclaimed stage production. The play explores the monarch’s private weekly meetings with her prime ministers, offering an intimate look at the woman behind the crown.

Scream 7

Neve Campbell returns as Sidney Prescott, whose peaceful life is shattered when a new Ghostface killer targets her family. Forced to confront her past once again, Sidney must face the ultimate test in this latest instalment of the iconic horror franchise.

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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