For cinephiles, the biggest hit from the pandemic has been the lack of theatrical releases for movies we have been waiting years for. A light at the end of the tunnel has been provided with fall 2021 having one of the most-anticipated release lineups in a long time. 

Starting in October, there are many heavy box-office-hitters expected for release. “No Time to Die,” directed by Cary Joji Fukunaga, coming out Oct. 11, is the final installment of Daniel Craig’s reign as James Bond, featuring Rami Malek as the story’s villain. Brian Shaw ‘23 says “Daniel Craig brings an amazing edge to the Bond series.” It is hard to think of movies with the same levels of excitement and nail-biting action as the most recent Bond movies.

The weekend of Oct. 22 has two highly anticipated movies that experienced intense delays: “The French Dispatch,” directed by Wes Anderson and “Dune,” directed by Denis Villeneuve. The former is Anderson’s eleventh feature film, centered around an American newspaper in 20th century France. The cast is packed, with names such as Timothée Chalamet as our lead, Tilda Swinton, Bill Murray, Benicio del Toro, Adrien Brody, Willem Dafoe and more. Anderson is a master of his craft, so seeing any one of his movies on the big screen should be worth the time. 

“Dune” is an adaptation of Frank Herbert’s 1965 novel of the same name. The story is based around dystopian politics in a different universe, which was seemingly a big influence for other sci-fi universes like Star Wars. It stars Timothée Chalamet, Zendeya, Oscar Isaac and Jason Momoa. If you enjoy classic sci-fi, this movie is for you.

Edgar Wright’s “Last Night in Soho” is set for release on Oct. 29, which is his first movie after his 2016 hit “Baby Driver.” The plot is based around the disturbing side of the 1960s that aspiring fashion designer Eloise finds herself in. The film stars Anya Taylor-Joy, Thomasin McKenzie, Matt Smith and Jessie Mei Li. Wright is notorious for his comedies and unique directing style, but it is evident that he has the expertise to direct horror due to his passion for the genre. Alex Phillips ‘24 said “I am most excited for ‘Last Night in Soho’ because I think Edgar Wright could make a really good horror movie and it’s something we haven’t seen him try yet.” He is a filmmaker who has a true love for film, so seeing his work in theaters should be worthwhile. 

While it may look as if October could not be topped with releases, November presents a few competitors and brings a lot to the table. On Nov. 5, “Spencer,” directed by Pablo Larraín and Marvel’s “Eternals,” directed by Chloé Zao will be released. 

“Spencer” is a look at the marriage of Princess Diana and Prince Charles, prior to their divorce. The film received critical acclaim at the Venice International Film Festival, and most buzz surrounding the movie has pertained to the portrayal of Diana by Kristen Stewart. She is joined by Sally Hawkins and Timothy Spall. Gianna Bordonaro ‘24 expressed excitement about the film, saying “I am looking forward to seeing Kristen Stewart portray Princess Diana’s character and her beautiful and tragic story in the upcoming movie ‘Spencer.’”  If you are at all interested in historical dramas and the inner workings of the royal family, this movie is for you. 

“Eternals” is a new movie that will be a part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s fourth phase, which introduces a new, immortal race of superheroes into the universe. The unlikely cast is jam-packed with talent, with names like Angelina Jolie, Richard Madden, Kit Harrington, Salma Hayek and Kumail Nanjiani. 

“House of Gucci,” directed by Ridley Scott, premieres Nov. 24. The story revolves around the real relationship and hardship between Patrizia and Maurizio Gucci, played by Lady Gaga and Adam Driver. They are joined by Jared Leto and Al Pacino in the cast. Again, this is a great choice for history buffs who want to learn more about more modern cases of famous murders and public relationships involved.

There is so much to look forward to in the movie industry in these next several weeks, and it is a liberating feeling knowing that we are finally able to get out and see these passion projects. Cedar Lee Theater is a great nearby theater where you can catch a lot of these movies on the big screen. Happy viewing!