The trailer for 20th Century Studios’ No One Will Save You kicks off with a home invasion of a different sort. The intruder announces its presence with a growl, confirming there’s something inhuman entering the house. And rather than draw out the tease, the trailer wraps up with a quick shot of the alien invader.
Writer/director Brian Duffield follows up his directorial debut Spontaneous with this sci-fi thriller, which focuses on the alien invasion through the eyes of a young woman named Brynn (Kaitlyn Dever, Dopesick, Booksmart).
“I wanted the movie to take the lead of a small, intimate character study and drop an alien invasion on top of them,” stated Duffield. “The end of the world won’t only be for those that are ready for it, and the idea of an alien movie rudely bursting the bubble our character has spent years building and cultivating felt like a unique way to tell a favorite story.”
The trailer shows Brynn fighting the aliens, and Duffield revealed that her reaction will confuse the creatures.
“I think there’s a deeply buried feeling that every alien invasion movie could turn out to be true because they remain such an unknown in our daily lives. As our world careens more and more out of control, maybe there’s even a desire that there’s something out there smarter than us that can help put us on a more sane path. The aliens in No One Will Save You are superior to humans in every way, which makes Brynn and her surprising resistance somewhat puzzling to them,” explained Duffield.
Duffield, Tim White, Trevor White, and Allan Mandelbaum serve as producers. Kaitlyn Dever and Joshua Throne executive produce, and Joseph Trapanese composed the music.
The sci-fi psychological thriller premieres on Hulu on September 22, 2023.
Poster for ‘No One Will Save You’ (Photo Credit: 20th Century Studios)
The Plot, Courtesy of 20th Century Studios:
No One Will Save You is an action-packed face-off between Brynn and a host of extraterrestrial beings who threaten her future while forcing her to deal with her past.
George Takei, Jonathan Frakes, and Ethan Peck are among the Star Trek alumni lending their voices to Star Trek: very Short Treks. The new animated promotional spots pay homage to the classic Saturday morning show Star Trek: The Animated Series which is celebrating its 50th anniversary on Star Trek Day – September 8, 2023.
Jonathan Frakes returns as Will Riker, George Takei voices Sulu, Ethan Peck as Spock, Doug Jones is Saru, and Armin Shimerman as Quark. Gates McFadden voices Dr. Beverly Crusher, Celia Rose Gooding voices Uhura, Connor Trinneer voices Trip Tucker, Bruce Horak is Hemmer, and Noël Wells is Tendi.
The first short of the very Short Treks created by Casper Kelly (“Too Many Cooks,” Star Trek: Short Treks) will premiere on StarTrek.com and the official Star Trek YouTube channel on September 8th at 10am PT/1pm ET. CBS Studios released this lineup:
Sept. 8 – “Skin a Cat”
Sept. 13 – “Holiday Party”
Sept. 20 – “Worst Contact”
Sept. 27 – “Holograms, All the Way Down”
Oct. 4 – “Walk, Don’t Run”
The 50th-anniversary celebration also includes a new comic book with IDW Publishing from Casper Kelly – Star Trek: The Animated Celebration Presents the Scheimer Barrier. Chapter one launches on September 8 on StarTrek.com.
Netflix‘s fall slate of films includes a new entry in the Spy Kids franchise, a rom-com with a meet-cute on an airplane, and a psychological thriller starring Alden Ehrenreich and Phoebe Dynevor. Emily Blunt and Chris Evans headline Pain Hustlers, Sylvester Stallone’s life and career is examined in Sly, and Michael Fassbender plays an assassin in David Fincher’s The Killer.
The streaming service’s lineup also includes a film that’s generating Oscar buzz following its premiere at the 2023 Telluride Film Festival on August 31, 2023. Colman Domingo stars as gay civil rights leader Bayard Rustin in Rustin, directed by DGA award winner George C. Wolfe (Lackawanna Blues, Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom). Rustin will open in select theaters on November 3, 2023 before streaming on Netflix on November 17, 2023.
SEPTEMBER 2023 NEW FILMS:
SCOUTS HONOR: THE SECRET FILES OF THE BOY SCOUTS OF AMERICA – September 6
Through compelling on-screen interviews and verite, this investigative documentary will reveal the institutional cover-up and follow the whistleblowers fighting to bring justice against what was once one of America’s most beloved and trusted institutions.
LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT – September 15
After missing her flight from New York to London, Hadley (Haley Lu Richardson) meets Oliver (Ben Hardy) in a chance encounter at the airport that sparks an instant connection. A long night on the plane together passes in the blink of an eye but upon landing at Heathrow, the pair are separated and finding each other in the chaos seems impossible. Will fate intervene to transform these seat mates into soul mates?
EL CONDE – On Netflix September 15 | In Select Theaters September 7
The story revolves around Augusto Pinochet who is not dead but an aged vampire who, after 250 years in this world, has decided to die once and for all, due to ailments brought about by his dishonor and family conflicts.
THE SAINT OF SECOND CHANCES – September 19
Mike Veeck grew up in the shadow of his hustler father, Hall of Fame baseball owner Bill Veeck. The Veeck name is both legendary and notorious in professional baseball, introducing the fun at the ballpark that we now take for granted: giveaways, theme nights, fireworks, and more. So when Bill invites Mike along for one last hurrah with the White Sox in 1975, Mike figures this is his chance to prove himself to his dad. But the fun comes to a screeching halt when Mike blows up his father’s career with the ill-fated promotion, Disco Demolition Night. Mike is kicked out of the game he loves and spends the next few decades clawing his way back from rock bottom, determined to redeem himself and carry on the family legacy.
Directed by Academy Award winner Morgan Neville (20 Feet From Stardom) and Jeff Malmberg (Marwencol), The Saint of Second Chances is wildly unexpected, full of heart, and keeps you laughing through a family redemption story unlike any other.
SPY KIDS: ARMAGEDDON – September 22
When the children of the world’s greatest secret agents unwittingly help a powerful Game Developer unleash a computer virus that gives him control of all technology, they must become spies themselves to save their parents and the world.
THE WONDERFUL STORY OF HENRY SUGAR – On Netflix September 27 | In Select Theaters September 20
A beloved Roald Dahl story about a rich man who learns about a guru who can see without using his eyes and then sets out to master the skill in order to cheat at gambling.
Alden Ehrenreich as Luke and Phoebe Dynevor as Emily in ‘Fair Play’ (Photo Credit: Sergej Radovic / Courtesy of Netflix)
OCTOBER 2023 RELEASES
REPTILE – On Netflix October 6 | In Select Theaters September 29
Following the brutal murder of a young real estate agent, a hardened detective attempts to uncover the truth in a case where nothing is as it seems, and by doing so dismantles the illusions in his own life.
FAIR PLAY – On Netflix October 13 | In Select Theaters September 29
An unexpected promotion at a cutthroat hedge fund pushes a young couple’s relationship to the brink, threatening to unravel far more than their recent engagement.
When a coveted promotion at a cutthroat financial firm arises, once supportive exchanges between lovers Emily (Phoebe Dynevor) and Luke (Alden Ehrenreich) begin to sour into something more sinister. As the power dynamics irrevocably shift in their relationship, the couple must face the true price of success and the unnerving limits of ambition. In her feature debut, writer-director Chloe Domont weaves a taut relationship thriller, staring down the destructive gender dynamics that pit partners against each other in a world that is transforming faster than the rules can keep up.
Also starring Eddie Marsan, Rich Sommer, and Sebastian De Souza, Fair Play unravels the uncomfortable collision of empowerment and ego.
THE DEVIL ON TRIAL – October 17 The Devil on Trial explores the first – and only – time “demonic possession” has officially been used as a defense in a U.S. murder trial. Including firsthand accounts of alleged devil possession and a shocking murder, this extraordinary story forces reflection on our fear of the unknown.
OLD DADS – October 20
Three best friends become fathers later in life and find themselves battling preschool principals, millennial CEOs, and anything created after 1987.
PAIN HUSTLERS – On Netflix October 27 | In Select Theaters October 20
Liza Drake (Emily Blunt) is a blue-collar single mom who has just lost her job and is at the end of her rope. A chance meeting with pharmaceutical sales rep Pete Brenner (Chris Evans) puts her on an upwards trajectory economically but dubious path ethically as she becomes entangled in a dangerous racketeering scheme. Dealing with her increasingly unhinged boss (Andy Garcia), the worsening medical condition of her daughter (Chloe Coleman), and a growing awareness of the devastation the company is causing forces Liza to examine her choices.
Pain Hustlers is a sharp and revealing look at what some people do out of desperation and others do out of greed. The film is directed by BAFTA award winner David Yates, produced by Lawrence Grey, and also starring Catherine O’Hara, Jay Duplass and Brian d’Arcy James.
SISTER DEATH [Spain] – On Netflix this October
In post-war Spain, Narcisa (Aria Bedmar), a young novice with supernatural powers, arrives at a former convent, now a school for girls, to become a teacher. As the days go by, the strange events and increasingly disturbing situations that torment her will eventually lead her to unravel the terrible skein of secrets that surround the convent and haunt its inhabitants.
WINGWOMEN (Voleuses)– November 1
Best friends Carole and Alex are two master thieves – they’re both attractive and ruthless and remain undefeated. Tired of life on the run, they agree to take on one last heist and ask feisty Sam to assist them in one last job – unlike any they’ve done before. They don’t realize the mission will turn out to be very different from what they expected.
NYAD – On Netflix November 3 | In Select Theaters October 20
A remarkable true story of tenacity, friendship and the triumph of the human spirit, NYAD recounts a riveting chapter in the life of world-class athlete Diana Nyad. Three decades after giving up marathon swimming in exchange for a prominent career as a sports journalist, at the age of 60, Diana (four-time Academy Award nominee Annette Bening) becomes obsessed with completing an epic swim that always eluded her: the 110 mile trek from Cuba to Florida, often referred to as the “Mount Everest” of swims.
Determined to become the first person to finish the swim without a shark cage, Diana goes on a thrilling, four-year journey with her best friend and coach Bonnie Stoll (two-time Academy Award winner Jodie Foster) and a dedicated sailing team.
SLY – November 3
For nearly 50 years Sylvester Stallone has entertained millions with iconic characters and blockbuster franchises, from Rocky to Rambo to The Expendables. This retrospective documentary offers an intimate look at the Oscar-nominated actor-writer-director-producer, paralleling his inspirational underdog-story with the indelible characters he has brought to life.
THE KILLER – On Netflix November 10 | In Select Theaters October 27
After a fateful near-miss an assassin battles his employers, and himself, on an international manhunt he insists isn’t personal.
STAMPED FROM THE BEGINNING – November 15
Oscar-winning director Roger Ross Williams brings Dr. Ibram X. Kendi’s New York Times bestseller to the screen with Stamped From the Beginning. Published in 2016, Dr. Kendi’s National Book Award winner chronicles the entire story of anti-Black racist ideas and their staggering power over the course of American history.
Williams’ documentary adaptation uses vivid animations that illuminate figures and moments both well-known and obscure, both historical and contemporary. Leading female academics and activists such as Dr. Angela Davis, Honorée Fanonne Jeffers, Brittany Packnett Cunningham, Dr. Jennifer L. Morgan, and Dr. Kendi guide viewers through a searing account of how racist tropes and imagery were developed and enshrined in American culture.
BEST. CHRISTMAS. EVER! – November 16
Every Christmas Jackie sends a boastful holiday newsletter that makes her old college friend Charlotte feel like a lump of coal. When a twist of fate lands Charlotte and her family on Jackie’s snowy doorstep just days before Christmas, she seizes the opportunity to prove her old friend’s life can’t possibly be that perfect. Starring Heather Graham, Brandy, Jason Biggs, and Matt Cedeño.
RUSTIN – On Netflix November 17 | In Select Theaters November 3
The architect of 1963’s momentous March on Washington, Bayard Rustin was one of the greatest activists and organizers the world has ever known. He challenged authority, never apologized for who he was, what he believed, or who he desired. And he did not back down. He made history, and in turn, he was forgotten.
Directed by DGA Award and five-time Tony Award winner George C. Wolfe and starring Emmy Award winner Colman Domingo, Rustin shines a long overdue spotlight on the extraordinary man who, alongside giants like the Reverend Martin Luther King Jr., Adam Clayton Powell Jr., and Ella Baker, dared to imagine a different world, and inspired a movement in a march toward freedom.
LEO – November 21
Actor and comedian Adam Sandler delivers signature laughs in this coming-of-age animated musical comedy about the last year of elementary school – as seen through the eyes of a class pet. Jaded 74-year-old lizard Leo (Sandler) has been stuck in the same Florida classroom for decades with his terrarium-mate turtle (Bill Burr). When he learns he only has one year left to live, he plans to escape to experience life on the outside but instead gets caught up in the problems of his anxious students — including an impossibly mean substitute teacher. It ends up being the strangest but most rewarding bucket list ever…
FAMILY SWITCH – November 30
Jess and Bill Walker are doing their best to keep their family connected as their children grow older, more independent, and more distant. When a chance encounter with an astrological reader causes the family to wake up to a full body switch, on the morning of the most important day of each of their lives, can the Walkers unite to land a promotion, college interview, record deal and soccer tryout?
NUOVO OLIMPO [Italy] – On Netflix 2023
Set in the late 1970s. They are young, beautiful and just 25 years old. They meet by chance and fall madly in love. An unexpected event, however, separates them. For thirty years, however, they pursued the hope of finding each other again, because they still love each other.
Mike Prince has been able to finesse his way out of sticky situations so far in season seven of Showtime’s Billions, but the promo for episode five teases that Chuck Rhoades isn’t ready to throw in the towel just yet. Episode five – “The Gulag Archipelago” – will air on Paramount+ with Showtime on Friday, September 8, 2023.
Season seven episodes also air on Showtime on Sundays at 8pm ET/PT.
Season seven stars Paul Giamatti as Chuck Rhoades, Corey Stoll as Mike Prince, Maggie Siff as Wendy Rhoades, David Costabile as Mike “Wags” Wagner, Asia Kate Dillon as Taylor Mason, and Dola Rashad as Kate Sacker. Jeffrey DeMunn plays Chuck Rhoades Sr., Sakina Jaffrey is Daevisha “Dave” Mahar, Kelly AuCoin is “Dollar” Bill Stern, Daniel Breaker is Roger “Scooter” Dunbar, and Toney Goins plays Philip Charyn.
Damian Lewis reprises his role as Bobby Axelrod for the final season.
“The Gulag Archipelago” Plot: Prince clashes with his employees over who has ultimate authority. Ira turns to Chuck for help with an embarrassing problem. Wendy and Luke forge a connection. Sacker confronts a figure from her past who poses a threat to her future.
Toney Goins as Philip Charyn, Asia Kate Dillon as Taylor Mason and David Costabile as Mike ‘Wags’ Wagner in ‘Billions’ season 7 episode 5 (Photo Credit: Christopher T. Saunders/SHOWTIME)
The Season 7 Plot, Courtesy of Showtime:
In season seven, alliances are turned on their heads. Old wounds are weaponized. Loyalties are tested. Betrayal takes on epic proportions. Enemies become wary friends. And Bobby Axelrod returns, as the stakes grow from Wall Street to the world.
Paul Giamatti as Chuck Rhoades and Ben Shenkman as Ira Schirmer in “The Gulag Archipelago” episode (Photo Credit: Christopher T. Saunders/SHOWTIME)Eva Victor as Rian and Daniel K. Isaac as Ben Kim in season 7 episode 5 (Photo Credit: Christopher T. Saunders/SHOWTIME)Ben Shenkman as Ira Schirmer, Paul Giamatti as Chuck Rhoades, Sakina Jaffrey as Daevisha ‘Dave’ Mahar and Ruben Santiago-Hudson as Raul Gomez in season 7 episode 5 (Photo Credit: Christopher T. Saunders/SHOWTIME)Dhruv Maheshwari as Tuk Lal, Toney Goins as Philip Charyn, Louis Cancelmi as Victor Mateo, Asia Kate Dillon as Taylor Mason, David Costabile as Mike ‘Wags’ Wagner, Eva Victor as Rian and Daniel K. Isaac as Ben Kim in “The Gulag Archipelago” episode (Photo Credit: Christopher T. Saunders/SHOWTIME)Paul Giamatti as Chuck Rhoades in season 7 episode 5 (Photo Credit: Christopher T. Saunders/SHOWTIME)
AMC’s 2023 “Fearfest” lineup includes classic horror film franchises Scream and Halloween, the original The Shining and Firestarter, and four Joe Bob Briggs specials. New genre films and season four of Creepshow also join the lineup to deliver chills and thrills.
This year’s horror-centric programming spreads across all of AMC Networks’ properties and kicked off on September 1st with the return of Shudder’s 101 Scariest Horror Movie Moments of All Time. New episodes will air on Fridays at 11pm ET/PT.
Overall, Fearfest 2023 will include 700+ hours of programming.
Fearfest Highlights
Perpetrator (Shudder Original Film)
Premieres Friday, September 1 on Shudder and AMC+
Jonny Baptiste is a reckless teen sent to live with her estranged Aunt Hildie. On the event of her 18th birthday, she experiences a radical metamorphosis: a family spell that redefines her called Forevering. When several teen girls go missing at her new school, a mythically feral Jonny goes after the Perpetrator.
Written and directed by Jennifer Reeder (Knives and Skin) and starring Kiah McKirnan, Christopher Lowell, Melanie Liburd, Ireon Roach, and Alicia Silverstone.
Blood Flower (Shudder Original Film)
Premieres Friday, September 8 on Shudder and AMC+
Malaysian horror Blood Flower (Harum Malam) tells the story of Iqbal, a 16-year-old apprentice faith healer and exorcist, tormented by visions of the dead and spirits from other dimensions. When a malicious spirit begins to wreak havoc around him, Iqbal is forced to harness his supernatural gifts to save his family and friends.
Directed Dain Said (Interchange) and starring Idan Aedan, Bront Palarae, and Remy Ishak.
The Last Drive-In with Joe Bob Briggs: Live From the Jamboree (Shudder Original Special)
Premieres LIVE Friday, September 8 at 9p.m. on Shudder TV and AMC+ TV; Available On Demand on Shudder and AMC+ starting Friday, September 15
Join us for a night unlike any other as Joe Bob does things the drive-in way – live and in person.
Elevator Game (Shudder Film Premiere)
Premieres Friday, September 15 on Shudder and AMC+
Follows socially awkward teenager Ryan, who discovers that the night his sister disappeared, she had played ‘The Elevator Game’ — a ritual conducted in an elevator, in which players attempt to travel to another dimension using a set of rules that can be found online. Ignoring warnings, he resolves to follow and find her.
Directed by Rebekah McKendry (Glorious) and starring Gino Anania, Alec Carlos, Megan Best, Nazariy Demkowicz, Verity Marks (Toys of Terror), Madison MacIsaac, and Samantha Halas.
The Last Drive-In with Joe Bob Briggs: The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon (AMC Original Special)
Premieres LIVE Friday, September 15 at 9pm on AMC, AMC+ TV and Shudder; Available On Demand on Shudder and AMC+ starting Friday, September 22
Joe Bob takes us overseas for a very special episode with The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon Executive Producer Greg Nicotero.
The Angry Black Girl and Her Monster (Shudder & ALLBLK Film Premiere)
Premieres Friday, September 22 on Shudder, AMC+ and ALLBLK
Vicaria is a brilliant teenager who believes death is a disease that can be cured. After the brutal and sudden murder of her brother, she embarks on a dangerous journey to bring him back to life. Inspired by Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, the dramatic thriller thematically challenges ideas of life and death following a family that, despite the terrors of systemic pressure, will survive and be reborn together again.
Also starring Denzel Whitaker and Chad L. Coleman.
Nightmare (Shudder Original Film)
Premieres Friday, September 29 on Shudder and AMC+
Mona and Robby are a young couple in love. Robby has just landed his dream job, and they’ve scored an amazing deal on a spacious, if run-down, flat. Never mind that it requires quite a bit of renovation. Never mind the neighbors’ constant fighting, and screaming baby… Never mind that Mona is suddenly plagued by night terrors which grow more intense every time she falls asleep… Robby is eager to start a family, despite Mona’s hesitation. Eventually, Mona’s issues spiral dangerously out of control as she becomes convinced that she is being attacked by a mythical demon – the Mare – intent on possessing her unborn child.
V/H/S/85 (Shudder Original Film)
Premieres Friday, October 6 on Shudder and AMC+
The next installment in the infamous found footage anthology franchise, V/H/S 85 is an ominous mixtape blending never-before-seen snuff footage with nightmarish newscasts and disturbing home video to create a surreal, analog mashup of the forgotten 80s. Starring Freddy Rodriguez, Dani Deetté, Justen Jones and Rolando Davila-Beltran.
The Last Drive-In with Joe Bob Briggs: Halloween (1978) (AMC Original Special)
Premieres LIVE Tuesday, October 10 at 10pm on AMC, AMC+ TV and Shudder TV
Joe Bob celebrates the 45th anniversary of this iconic horror film.
Creepshow Season 4 (Shudder Original Series)
Friday the 13th Premiere as a Full Season Binge on Shudder and AMC+ (Oct 13), with New Episodes Every Friday at 10pm on AMC linear
Based on the 1982 horror comedy classic returns for a new season and is still the most fun you’ll ever have being scared. Executive produced by showrunner Greg Nicotero (The Walking Dead), Creepshow is a comic book coming to life in a series of vignettes, exploring terrors ranging from murder, creatures, monsters, and delusions to the supernatural and unexplainable. You never know what will be on the next page…
The Puppetman (Shudder Original Film)
Premieres Friday, October 13 on Shudder and AMC+
The Puppetman is a convicted killer on death row. He has always maintained his innocence saying it was an evil force controlling his body as he slaughtered his victims. Now Michal, the killer’s daughter, begins to suspect that there may be some truth to her father’s claim when those around her begin to die in brutal ways. All hope rests on her shoulders to break The Puppetman’s curse.
Written and directed by Brandon Christensen and starring Michael Paré, Caryn Richman, and Alyson Gorske.
Night of the Hunted (Shudder Original Film)
Premieres Friday, October 20 on Shudder and AMC+
When an unsuspecting woman (Camille Rowe) stops at a remote gas station in the dead of night, she’s made the plaything of a sociopathic sniper with a secret vendetta. To survive she must not only dodge his bullets and fight for her life, but also figure out who wants her dead and why…
Joe Bob’s Helloween (Shudder Original Special)
Premieres LIVE Friday, October 20 at 9pm on ShudderTV and AMC+ TV
Horror legend Joe Bob Briggs and his co-host Darcy the Mail Girl celebrate the spooky season in style – with a demonic double-feature sure to get your blood pumping and one very scary special guest.
When Evil Lurks (Shudder Original Film)
Premieres Friday, October 27 on Shudder and AMC+
Shudder’s first Spanish-language Original from Demián Rugna (Terrified) is a rural possession thriller revolving around timeless horror concepts and adding contemporary twists. Set in a remote village, two brothers find a demon-infected man just about to give birth to evil itself. After warning the neighbors in town, they decide to get rid of the man but merely succeed in helping him to deliver the inferno.
Starring Ezequiel Rodríguez, Eduardo Salomón, and Silvia Sabater.
Hell House LLC Origins: The Carmichael Manor (Shudder Original Film)
Devil’s Night Premiere on Monday, October 30 on Shudder and AMC+
A group of cold case investigators stay at the Carmichael Manor, the site of the grisly and unsolved murders of the Carmichael family back in the eighties. After four nights, the group was never heard from again. What is discovered in their footage is even more disturbing than anything found on the Hell House tapes. Written and directed by Stephen Cognetti.
The Boulet Brothers’ Dragula Season 5 (Shudder Original Series)
New Season Premiere in October on Shudder and AMC+ *Date TBA
Horror’s new icons The Boulet Brothers’ are on the hunt to find the world’s next drag monster superstar in this brand new, star-studded fifth season of their hit reality competition show. With new competitors, the challenges, special effects makeup, costumes, and performances promise to be truly terrifying and out-of-this-world.
Ciarán Hinds as John Franklin and Tobias Menzies as James Fitzjames in ‘The Terror’ (Photo Credit: AMC)
Additional “Fearfest” Programming:
BBC America’s “Bloody Good Fear,” featuring fan-favorite sci-fi and supernatural movies every Sunday in October to deliver on the “Sunday Scaries”;
IFC’s “Fear on Friday,” establishing a new weekly Friday night horror programming block presented by Shudder, starting in September;
Sundance TV’s “Icons of Fear,” pairing iconic horror films with corresponding Cursed Films episodes for a “shock and a doc” double feature starting October 15;
WE tv’s “Fear After Dark,” featuring Shudder films and documentaries spotlighting Black horror every Thursday in October;
Acorn TV’s debut of the horror anthology The Terror season one starring Tobias Menzies and Jared Harris (also premiering September 25 across Shudder and AMC+);
ALLBLK’s co-premiere of The Angry Black Girl and Her Monster (with Shudder) on September 22), Shudder’s The Boulet Brothers’ Dragula: Titans, and the return of ALLBLK Original Series Wicked City for its second season on October 19;
IFC Films Unlimited’s “Best of IFC Midnight” collection, including top seasonal franchise The Human Centipede;
HiDive’s collection of anime horror including breakout new series Dark Gathering; and
Sundance Now will ungate the first season of fan-favorite supernatural series Being Human for the season.
Robby Ramos, Kelli Berglund, and Trey Tucker in ‘Heels’ season 2 episode 6 (Photo Credit: Starz)
Starz’s Heels season two episode six opens with a brief rundown of what’s happening in the FWD and DWL. The wrap-up ends with Ace (Alexander Ludwig) working on a vision board while his mom (correctly) points out that he’s been acting weird recently.
Ace explains that he’s examined his life, and he’s decided he needs room to just reflect and think.
Jack (Stephen Amell), Staci (Alison Luff), and the newly enlightened Ace meet with Brooks Rizzo (Josh Segarra) to discuss his streaming service. After Jack thanks him for making the trek all the way to Duffy, Brooks confirms Continuum needs to grow its subscriber base in the lead-up to a merger with a larger company. Professional wrestling has a huge audience that Continuum would like to tap into.
While the meeting’s going on, Wild Bill (Chris Bauer) addresses the wrestlers and explains that Jack is meeting with a man who could change the DWL’s future. They need to all think about what they can bring to the table to make an impression.
Bill tells them they need to ask themselves, “How can we be exceptional?” He suggests they each need to come up with something great, something to make them stand out from the pack.
Bill instructs them to write down what they want from this endeavor and what they’ll do to make it a reality.
Over at FWL, Rooster (Allen Maldonado) and Charlie Gully (Mike O’Malley) work on a new promo video featuring Rooster calling out Duffy and demanding a last-man-standing fight with The Condamned. If The Condamned has the guts to show up, Rooster will put his belt on the line.
Gully’s shown the numbers from the match with Duffy and is stunned to see Crystal generated more interest than any female wrestler in FWD history. Gully rings up Willie (Mary McCormack) and reveals he wants Crystal to join Dystopia for real – not just the act they put on in the ring. He also offers Willie the job of Crystal’s front-of-house manager, if she’ll jump ship and join FWD.
Gully suggests Willie take time to consider his offer and think about what she really wants for her future.
A flashback shows Tom Spade, Wild Bill, and Willie (Bill’s valet and girlfriend) on the verge of making a deal with Ted Turner. The meeting between the billionaire and the Duffy crew is postponed numerous times, and finally Tom confesses to Willie that Ted isn’t interested in her or Bill – Ted only wants to sign him to the WCW.
Tom planned on signing the contract and then finding a way to bring Willie and Bill along for the ride. However, Ted Turner kept making him wait for hours at his office and then postponing meetings. Tom decided to step away from the deal because he didn’t like being disrespected.
Tom was certain Vince McMahon and the WWF would step in since Ted Turner blew the opportunity. Tom also breaks the news to Bill that Willie is now his valet – a change Willie asked him to make. (To this day, Bill’s heart still aches when he thinks about Willie leaving him.)
Chris Bauer in ‘Heels’ season 2 episode 6 (Photo Credit: Starz)
The flashback fast forwards a bit, and Tom visits Bill on a movie set where Bill’s playing an angel. The DWL is in bad financial straits (its normal condition) and Tom needs more money from his now very successful friend. Tom won’t come right out and ask, and Bill points out that he’s already lent Tom half a million dollars (WHAT?!) that he’ll never see again. Every year or so, Tom reaches out and treats Bill like an ATM. They both play the victim card but, really, only Bill has a point.
Bill’s done with these annual meetings and suggests that Tom should just contact his accountant next time. Before they part, Tom asks Bill not to tell Carol, Ace, or Jack about the loans. It’s too embarrassing.
Tom covers his lies by telling his wife he found new investors to help fund the DWL.
Back to current events, Willie fills Crystal (Kelli Berglund) in on Gully’s offer. Even though Willie doesn’t think Crystal should go to Dystopia, she believes Crystal deserves to know about Gully’s interest. Willie hints that if Crystal stays and they don’t get picked up for streaming on Continuum, Jack might not have the money to start a women’s division.
Crystal takes it all in, not sure she wants to leave her Duffy friends. Willie points out they don’t need to decide right now; they can see how the Continuum deal works out.
The wrestlers watch as Brooks leaves, providing a play-by-play as he walks to his car. Jack joins them and says Brooks is open to working with the DWL, but they’ll need to dig deep and impress him. This is a huge opportunity, and they can’t let it slip away.
Bill leads a “DWL” chant and everyone but Willie joins in. She stares at Crystal and then at Staci, who usurped her position as Jack’s right-hand woman and attended the meeting. Willie doesn’t look pleased about Continuum or about Staci’s increased involvement in the DWL.
The episode ends with a flashback to Bill performing a scene that Tom rewrote. Even the director’s impressed with the new script as the shoot wraps up for the day. A short while later, he receives a phone call from Tom’s wife, Carol, with the news that Tom just shot himself in the head.
Carol has no idea about the $500,000 that Bill’s given to Tom over the years and blames/shames him for not ever helping Tom out after he hit it big. Bill doesn’t divulge Tom’s secret, even when Carol insults him.
Freeform’s 25th anniversary of ’31 Nights of Halloween’ will feature Jack Skellington, the Sanderson Sisters, and goofy monsters Mike and Sully. The network’s plans for the scariest month of the year include 31 nights of Halloween-ish films, mixing timeless family-friendly tales with some more recent releases.
2023’s ’31 Nights of Halloween’ will mark the Freeform premiere of Encanto, Zombies, and Zombies 2.
“Over the last 25 years, our viewers have grown up with ‘31 Nights of Halloween’ as a time-honored tradition to watch Halloween favorites and connect with their loved ones during this special time of the season,” stated Simran Sethi, EVP of Programming and Content Strategy, ABC Entertainment and Freeform. “There’s something sentimental about these holiday classics that brings a real sense of comfort and nostalgia to people, and we look forward to celebrating this anniversary with another spirited lineup.”
Marvel Studios’ two-minute The Marvels featurette does a great job of briefly recapping where we left off with Carol, Monica, and Kamala and shows how they’ll come together to form an incredible, unstoppable team. And while there are a lot of character-driven moments, the “Journey to The Marvels” featurette doesn’t skimp on the action, confirming fans can expect impressive CG and stunt work.
Brie Larson, Teyonah Parris, and Iman Vellani lead the cast as Captain Marvel/Carol Danvers, Captain Monica Rambeau, and Kamala Khan/Ms. Marvel, respectively. Samuel L. Jackson, Zawe Ashton, Gary Lewis, Seo-Jun Park, Zenobia Shroff, Mohan Kapur, and Saagar Shaikh also star.
Nia DaCosta (2021’s critically acclaimed Candyman) directed and co-wrote the screenplay with Megan McDonnell and Elissa Karasik. Kevin Feige produces, and Louis D’Esposito, Victoria Alonso, Mary Livanos, and Matthew Jenkins executive produce.
The superhero team flies into theaters on November 10, 2023.
Carol Danvers aka Captain Marvel has reclaimed her identity from the tyrannical Kree and taken revenge on the Supreme Intelligence. But unintended consequences see Carol shouldering the burden of a destabilized universe. When her duties send her to an anomalous wormhole linked to a Kree revolutionary, her powers become entangled with that of Jersey City super-fan Kamala Khan, aka Ms. Marvel, and Carol’s estranged niece, now S.A.B.E.R. astronaut Captain Monica Rambeau.
Together, this unlikely trio must team up and learn to work in concert to save the universe as “The Marvels.”
A scene from ‘Murdaugh Murders: A Southern Scandal’ (Photo Credit: Netflix)
Murdaugh Murders: A Southern Scandal season one’s director/executive producer Julia Willoughby Nason and executive producer/showrunner Michael Gasparro are continuing to explore the infamous Murdaugh family with season two of the Netflix documentary series. Netflix has confirmed season two of Murdaugh Murders will consist of three new episodes, premiering on September 20, 2023.
Season one was a deep dive into the Murdaughs, one of South Carolina’s most prominent – and now controversial – families. Season two picks up the story in the aftermath of family patriarch Alex Murdaugh’s murder conviction.
Netflix offers this synopsis of the upcoming second season directed by Willoughby Nason and Gasparro:
“On March 2, 2023, Alex Murdaugh was found guilty of the murder of his wife, Maggie, and son, Paul. The world watched with bated breath as a verdict was announced. The people of the Lowcountry had been waiting the better part of two years to understand what happened the night of June 7, 2021.
Season two will feature first-hand accounts from those who were there the days leading up to and following the murders, giving more insight than ever into that deadly night, including Blanca Turrubiate-Simpson (Former Murdaugh Family Housekeeper) and Mushelle ‘Shelly’ Smith (Caregiver for Libby Murdaugh) – who became some of the most powerful witnesses at the trial – Curtis Edward Smith (aka Cousin Eddie), and Gwen Generette, one of the trial’s jurors. Morgan Doughty, Paul’s ex-girlfriend, Anthony Cook, Paul’s friend, and Valerie Bauerlein, Wall Street Journal reporter, also return.”
Doja Cat (Photo Credit: Dizz Lee / Provided by VMAs)
The roster of artists set to take the stage during MTV’s 2023 Video Music Awards has expanded to include Doja Cat, Anitta, Kelsea Ballerini, and TOMORROW X TOGETHER. Plus, this year’s awards show will include the return to the VMAs stage by Lil Wayne after a 10-year absence.
The just-announced performances join a list of confirmed artists that includes Demi Lovato, Karol G, Måneskin, and Stray Kids.
Grammy winner Lil Wayne will perform “Kat Food,” his new single that’s dropping on September 1, 2023. The VMAs will mark his first live performance of the song. Grammy winner Doja Cat hosted the VMAs in 2021 and has been nominated for 23 VMAs, winning four. She’s nominated for five awards this year, including Artist of the Year and Best Video of the Year.
Anitta will perform a medley of hits off of her Funk Generation: A Favela Love Story. And TOMORROW X TOGETHER (“TXT”) are set to collaborate with Anitta, and premiere a new single. Kelsea Ballerini will be celebrating her 30th birthday with her first performance on the VMAs stage.
Taylor Swift leads the list of 2023 VMAs nominees with eight, followed by SZA with six. Doja Cat, Kim Petras, Miley Cyrus, Nicki Minaj, Olivia Rodrigo, and Sam Smith each scored five nominations.
The 2023 Video Music Awards will air live from New Jersey’s Prudential Center on September 12th at 8pm ET/PT (tape-delayed on the West Coast).
