From the long-awaited return of Freaky Friday to chilling new thrillers and heartfelt biopics, this month’s lineup of film releases offers something for every taste—whether you’re heading to the cinema or streaming from your sofa.
Souleymane’s Story
(In cinemas in the US and Canada from 1 August)
Winner of two awards at Cannes and holding a perfect score on Rotten Tomatoes, Souleymane follows a young West African immigrant (played by newcomer Abou Sangaré) navigating Paris as a food courier. His urgent mission? Memorize a fabricated personal history in time for a life-altering residency interview. With no stable housing and constant run-ins with police and debtors, the task seems nearly impossible. Director Boris Lojkine delivers a tense, socially charged story that plays like a thriller while exposing the bureaucratic machinery around immigration.
Weapons
(In cinemas internationally from 8 August)
Following the breakout success of Barbarian, Zach Cregger returns with a bigger, bolder horror tale. When 17 children vanish without a trace one eerie night, suspicion quickly turns toward their teacher (Julia Garner). But the real story sprawls far beyond a simple disappearance. With clear influences from ensemble dramas like Magnolia, Weapons promises an ambitious blend of suspense and emotional storytelling, anchored by performances from Josh Brolin and others.
The Bad Guys 2
(In cinemas internationally from 1 August)
DreamWorks’ animal anti-heroes return in this high-octane sequel to the 2022 hit. Now reformed (sort of), the crew finds themselves roped into a new caper—this time teaming up with the equally chaotic “Bad Girls.” Director Pierre Perifel amps up the action, blending classic heist tropes with Mission: Impossible-inspired spectacle. Expect stylish animation, snappy banter, and fast-paced chaos.
Caught Stealing
(In cinemas internationally from 29 August)
Director Darren Aronofsky shifts gears from heavy dramas to wild crime comedy in Caught Stealing, a 1990s-set romp through gritty New York. Austin Butler stars as a bar manager pulled into a bizarre underworld full of gangsters, punk rockers, and hitmen. Adapted from Charlie Huston’s novel, the film marks a tonal shift for Aronofsky, who promises a fast, fun ride with heart and humour.
It’s Never Over, Jeff Buckley
(Available in the US from 8 August)
Amy Berg’s moving documentary revisits the life of Jeff Buckley, whose iconic 1994 album Grace still resonates decades later. Through archival footage and heartfelt interviews, the film explores Buckley’s creative genius, personal struggles, and the tragic legacy he shares with his father. Critics call it a haunting yet celebratory portrait of a lost star.
Highest 2 Lowest
(In US cinemas from 22 August)
Spike Lee’s reimagining of High and Low brings the classic Kurosawa crime tale into the world of modern music. Denzel Washington stars as a struggling record executive whose son is kidnapped. With cameos from A$AP Rocky and Ice Spice, the film blends gripping tension with smart, culturally rich storytelling—balancing entertainment and deeper reflections on power, fame, and fatherhood.
The Roses
(In cinemas internationally from 29 August)
A contemporary twist on The War of the Roses, this dark comedy reunites Olivia Colman and Benedict Cumberbatch as a crumbling couple amid professional upheaval. Directed by Jay Roach and penned by Tony McNamara (The Favourite), the film leans into screwball absurdity while exploring the complexities of long-term love, ambition, and rivalry.
Splitsville
(In US cinemas from 22 August)
Michael Angelo Covino and Kyle Marvin’s witty relationship comedy explores modern love through the lens of infidelity, open marriage, and emotional chaos. Dakota Johnson and Adria Arjona co-star in this character-driven story of four adults navigating mismatched desires and unconventional solutions, all with endearing humour and charm.
Freakier Friday
(In cinemas internationally from 8 August)
Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis return in this multi-generational body-swap sequel to Disney’s 2003 hit. This time, not only do mother and daughter switch roles, but Lohan’s character experiences the bizarre twist of swapping with both her daughter and stepdaughter. It’s a light-hearted, feel-good family comedy designed to spark nostalgia and new laughs.
The Naked Gun
(In cinemas internationally from 1 August)
The beloved spoof franchise is back—this time with Liam Neeson stepping into the deadpan detective role made famous by Leslie Nielsen. With Pamela Anderson co-starring and Seth MacFarlane producing, this reboot promises laugh-out-loud gags and satirical action, aiming to revive the classic hard-hitting Hollywood comedy.
The Thursday Murder Club
(Streaming on Netflix from 28 August)
Richard Osman’s bestselling cosy crime novel gets the big-screen treatment with a stellar cast including Helen Mirren, Pierce Brosnan, Ben Kingsley, and Celia Imrie. Set in a retirement village, the story follows a group of pensioners who dabble in murder investigations. Directed by Chris Columbus (Home Alone), it’s both charming and cleverly plotted.
Nobody 2
(In cinemas internationally from 15 August)
Bob Odenkirk returns as Hutch, the seemingly average dad with a deadly past. In this follow-up to 2021’s sleeper hit Nobody, Hutch’s attempt at a peaceful family vacation is derailed when a ruthless crime boss (Sharon Stone) drags him back into chaos. Expect brutal action and sharp wit in a sequel that explores the pressure of balancing violence and domestic life.
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