As we head toward the holiday weekend, we have some high-profile new releases and a trio of films that are returning to theaters, or expanding, ahead of a potential award run. Below is a look at the films coming back or expanding in theaters this weekend.
September 5 (Expansion)
This film got a limited run in late December but is finally expanding to more audiences this Friday. The film focuses on the team at ABC Sports covering the 1972 Olympics in Munich. It was a revolutionary time as they employed live-via-satellite footage for the first time. But amid a quiet stretch in the games, chaos breaks out as the Israeli delegation is taken hostage in the Olympic village.
This was one of my favorite films of 2024 and one that could be a surprise entry into the Best Picture race. It has a strong ensemble cast, including Peter Sarsgaard as ABC Sports Director Roone Arledge and Benjamin Walker as a young Peter Jennings. At the heart of the film are John Magaro and Ben Chaplin, who play behind-the-scenes producers. Also heavily involved is Leonie Benesch, who plays the German translator for the team. Benesch was great in the under-rated 2023 release Teacher’s Lounge and shines here in this role.
This film is a crisp 95 minutes, keeping the pace and tension of the events moving. I also liked the way the film mixes in stock footage, including the real on-air broadcasts from Jim McKay. It’s a deeply emotional story, and that comes through this biopic. It’s also a story told from a unique perspective that should appeal to viewers.
Sing Sing (Re-Release)
This independent release from A24 made an initial theatrical run in July. It’s expected to be a contender in a few categories at the Academy Awards, so it’s making a re-release in theaters this Friday. This film focuses on a group of inmates at Sing Sing who participate in a drama program meant to rehabilitate and get these men back on track. The film is based on a real program and even features several performers who were part of the real program.
The film is led by Coleman Domingo, who plays an inmate fighting for his freedom who is among the best performers in the group. When his appeals come short, he struggles with the reality of lost years and life on the inside. It’s a beautiful performance that was one of my favorite of last year. Also strong is Clarence Macklin, who was a real graduate of the program and playing a character here based on his own story.
Sing Sing was an emotional and dynamic drama. It’s a deeply moving story that’s well constructed and features some incredible performances. Make sure to check it out as it returns to theaters Friday.
The Substance (Re-Release)
This film, produced by Mubi, is currently streaming on the service but will return to theaters starting Friday. It made an initial theatrical run in the Fall but has been a major player during awards season. That culminated with Demi Moore winning Best Actress at the Golden Globes on January 5.
The film centers on Elisabeth (Moore), an aging actress who is being pushed out as host of her popular TV show. She sees an advertisement for a new drug that will help her regain her youth. That happens in the form of Sue (Margaret Qualley), her younger double. While it seems like a dream-come-true, it soon turns into a nightmare for both Elisabeth and Sue.
This film, from writer/director Coralie Fargeat, features some incredible story and production. The editing and the shot sequences are unlike anything I saw this year, and the story is incredibly engaging through the first two acts. I wasn’t as taken with what felt like an over-the-top third act, but it’s certainly original. Moore is sensational in the lead role and should be a part of the Oscar field. Qualley and Fargeat could also see nominations.
The Substance is one of the wildest films of the year and worth seeking out as it returns to theaters this weekend.