As the summer blockbuster season winds down, movie enthusiasts are turning their attention to the comfort of their own homes for entertainment. September 2024 brings a fresh wave of new movies to stream across popular platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, and Disney Plus. From gripping dramas to animated masterpieces, this month’s lineup promises to captivate viewers with diverse storytelling and stellar performances.
Streaming services are gearing up to deliver an impressive array of films to suit every taste. Hulu, Max, Paramount Plus, and Peacock are joining the fray with their own exclusive releases. This article highlights some of the most anticipated new movies to stream in September, offering a glimpse into the cinematic experiences awaiting audiences from the comfort of their couches. From thought-provoking narratives to visually stunning adventures, these films are set to make a splash in the streaming world.
Civil War
Alex Garland’s “Civil War” presents a gripping portrayal of a United States torn apart by internal conflict. Set in a near-future scenario, the film follows a group of journalists navigating through a war-ravaged America .
Civil War Plot
The story unfolds in a nation where an authoritarian federal government, led by a third-term president, faces off against secessionist movements. As the “Western Forces” (WF), a coalition led by Texas and California, approach Washington D.C., the president claims imminent victory despite widespread expectations of the capital’s fall .
The narrative centers on Lee Smith, a seasoned war photographer played by Kirsten Dunst, and her journalist colleague Joel. After surviving a suicide bombing in New York City, they embark on a perilous journey to interview the isolated president. Joined by their mentor Sammy and a young aspiring photojournalist named Jessie Cullen, the group witnesses the brutal realities of civil conflict .
Their journey takes them through various harrowing scenarios, including a gas station protected by armed men, a successful assault by secessionist militiamen, and a sniper battle amidst the remnants of a Christmas fair. The film culminates in a tense assault on the White House, where the journalists embed themselves with the WF forces .
Civil War Cast
The film boasts a stellar cast, bringing depth and authenticity to their roles:
- Kirsten Dunst as Lee Smith, the veteran war photographer
- Wagner Moura as Joel, Lee’s journalist colleague
- Stephen McKinley Henderson as Sammy, an older African-American journalist
- Cailee Spaeny as Jessie Cullen, a young aspiring photojournalist
- Nick Offerman as the President
Civil War Critical Reception
“Civil War” has garnered attention for its unique approach to war journalism. The film is praised for its portrayal of pure reporters who prioritize getting the scoop over explaining the meaning behind events. It delves into the mentality of war correspondents who often compartmentalize the political realities they document to maintain focus .
Garland’s directorial style has been compared to Haskell Wexler’s “Medium Cool,” for its immersive approach to dropping viewers into the heart of the conflict . The film’s terse dialog and ambiguous presentation of certain events, such as the “Antifa massacre,” have been noted for their potential to provoke varied interpretations among viewers .
“Civil War” stands out as a thought-provoking exploration of journalism in extreme conditions, offering a stark look at a fractured America through the lens of those documenting its downfall.
Wolfs
“Wolfs” is a highly anticipated 2024 American action comedy film that brings together two of Hollywood’s most beloved stars, George Clooney and Brad Pitt . The movie, written and directed by Jon Watts, promises to deliver a thrilling and humorous experience as it follows the story of two professional fixers forced to collaborate on a job despite their preference for working alone .
Wolfs Plot
The film centers around Jack (George Clooney) and Nick (Brad Pitt), two skilled fixers who typically operate independently . Their paths cross when they are hired for the same job, compelling them to work together despite their lone wolf tendencies . The plot thickens when an ambitious politician, played by Amy Ryan, finds herself in a precarious situation involving a possible corpse in her hotel room . This incident sets the stage for a series of events that lead to a spectacular multi-borough New York chase scene, showcasing the city’s diverse neighborhoods .
As the story unfolds, Jack and Nick find themselves dealing with unexpected complications, including the discovery of four bricks of a mysterious substance and the pursuit by murderous Albanians . The film keeps viewers on the edge of their seats with its blend of action, comedy, and the unmistakable chemistry between its lead actors.
Wolfs Cast
The movie boasts an impressive ensemble cast, led by the dynamic duo of George Clooney as Jack and Brad Pitt as Nick . Supporting roles are filled by talented actors, each bringing depth to their characters:
- Amy Ryan as Margaret, the politician at the center of the initial crisis
- Austin Abrams as Kid, a character both terrified and in awe of the fixers
- Poorna Jagannathan as June
- Zlatko Burić as Dimitri
- Richard Kind as Kid’s dad
The film also features Frances McDormand in a voice role as Pamela Dowd-Henry, adding another layer of star power to the production .
Wolfs Director
Jon Watts, known for his work on “Cop Car” (2015), takes the helm as both writer and director of “Wolfs” . The project sparked a studio bidding war in September 2021, with Watts’ involvement being a key factor alongside the star power of Clooney and Pitt . Watts’ direction is complemented by the cinematography of Larkin Seiple, who previously collaborated with him on “Cop Car” .
The film’s production began in January 2023, with shooting taking place across various New York City locations, including Harlem and Chinatown . The approximately 70-day shoot allowed Watts to capture the essence of the city, providing a vibrant backdrop for the action-packed story .
“Wolfs” marks a significant reunion for Clooney and Pitt, who previously shared the screen in the Ocean’s trilogy and “Burn After Reading” . Their on-screen chemistry and witty banter are expected to be a highlight of the film, as Watts plays on their status as iconic aging male movie stars .
The Boy and the Heron
“The Boy and the Heron” marks the triumphant return of legendary filmmaker Hayao Miyazaki after a decade-long hiatus. This Studio Ghibli production, Miyazaki’s 12th film, has captivated audiences worldwide with its stunning visuals and profound storytelling .
The Boy and the Heron Plot
The film follows the journey of Mahito, a young boy grappling with the loss of his mother during wartime. After moving to his family’s countryside estate, Mahito encounters a mischievous gray heron that leads him to an ancient tower. When his new stepmother mysteriously disappears, Mahito ventures into the tower, entering a fantastical world shared by the living and the dead .
In this dreamlike realm, Mahito embarks on an epic quest guided by the heron. He encounters various unique creatures, including human-sized parakeets and adorable beings called Warawara . The story unfolds as a semi-autobiographical fantasy, exploring themes of life, death, and creation .
Miyazaki’s signature style shines through in the film’s breathtaking animation. Each frame is a work of art, with meticulous attention to detail in landscapes and character designs. The movement of elements like grass, flames, and waves creates a sense of tranquility throughout the narrative .
The Boy and the Heron Box Office
The film has achieved remarkable success at the box office. It made history as the first original anime title to top the North American box office chart, earning an impressive USD 12.80 million in its opening weekend . The movie’s total domestic box office reached USD 46,832,867, ranking it 2,008th in the all-time domestic box office list .
Internationally, “The Boy and the Heron” has performed exceptionally well, grossing USD 246,354,746 and ranking 376th in the all-time international box office list. Its worldwide box office total stands at an impressive USD 293,187,613, placing it 584th in the all-time worldwide box office rankings .
The Boy and the Heron Streaming
As of now, “The Boy and the Heron” is available for digital purchase on various platforms, including Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV+, and Vudu, priced at USD 19.99 . The film is not currently included in any streaming subscription services. However, it’s worth noting that almost all previous Studio Ghibli films (except “Grave of the Fireflies”) are available for streaming on Max .
For those who prefer physical copies, Blu-ray and limited-edition steelbooks of the film are now available for purchase through Amazon and other online retailers .
I Saw the TV Glow
I Saw the TV Glow Plot
“I Saw the TV Glow” is a psychological horror-drama film that follows the journey of two isolated teenagers, Owen and Maddy, who bond over their shared love for a young adult television show called “The Pink Opaque” . Set in 1996, the show follows teenagers Isabel and Tara as they use their psychic connection to fight the villain Mr. Melancholy, who has the power to warp “time and reality” .
As the story progresses, Maddy decides to run away from her abusive stepfather, urging Owen to join her. However, Owen loses his nerve and stays behind . Eight years later, in 2006, Owen still lives with his father Frank and works at a local movie theater. Maddy reappears, claiming to have lived inside “The Pink Opaque” for the past eight years. She encourages Owen to review the final episode, which reveals a connection between their lives and the show’s characters .
The narrative takes a surreal turn as Owen’s reality begins to unravel. By 2026, during a birthday party at work, Owen experiences a breakdown, screaming for help and claiming he is dying. The film culminates in a haunting scene where Owen locks himself in the bathroom, cuts open his chest, and smiles upon seeing glowing TV static inside .
I Saw the TV Glow Cast
The film features a talented ensemble cast:
- Justice Smith as Owen
- Brigette Lundy-Paine as Maddy
- Ian Foreman as Young Owen
- Helena Howard as Isabel
- Lindsey Jordan as Tara
- Danielle Deadwyler as Brenda (Owen’s mother)
- Fred Durst as Frank (Owen’s father)
- Phoebe Bridgers as herself
I Saw the TV Glow Critical Reception
“I Saw the TV Glow” has received critical acclaim, particularly for its unique visual esthetic and emotionally resonant narrative. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds an approval rating of 84% based on 207 reviews, with an average rating of 7.7/10 . The critics consensus praises writer-director Jane Schoenbrun’s talent, stating that the film “further establishes Jane Schoenbrun as a rising talent” .
Metacritic reports a score of 86 out of 100, based on 48 critics, indicating “universal acclaim” . The film has been noted for its profound exploration of themes such as gender identity, adolescence, and the impact of media on personal reality . Its dreamlike quality and atmospheric storytelling have drawn comparisons to David Lynch’s work, resonating particularly with viewers who have experienced feelings of alienation or dysphoria .
His Three Daughters
His Three Daughters Plot
“His Three Daughters” is a poignant drama that explores the complex dynamics of family relationships in the face of impending loss. The story unfolds over three intense days as three sisters gather in their father’s New York apartment to keep vigil during his final moments . Katie, Christina, and Rachel, each at different stages in their lives, are forced to confront their complicated feelings towards their dying father and each other .
The film delves into the mundane yet emotionally charged aspects of waiting for a loved one to pass. It showcases the sisters grappling with practical matters such as obtaining a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) order and writing an obituary, while also navigating their personal struggles and interpersonal tensions . As the hours tick by, old resentments surface, and the sisters’ relationships face new strains, raising the question of whether their father’s imminent death will bring them closer together or push them further apart .
His Three Daughters Cast
The film boasts a stellar cast of talented actresses:
- Carrie Coon portrays Katie, the eldest sister, a controlling Brooklyn mother dealing with a rebellious teenage daughter .
- Elizabeth Olsen plays Christina, a free-spirited mother recently separated from her child .
- Natasha Lyonne takes on the role of Rachel, a sports-betting stoner who has never left her father’s apartment .
- Jay O. Sanders appears as Vincent, the dying father .
His Three Daughters Critical Reception
“His Three Daughters” has received widespread critical acclaim, particularly for its performances and screenplay. Critics have praised the film for its intimate portrayal of family dynamics and its ability to convey complex emotions through subtle performances . The movie has been described as “one of the finest films of the year” and lauded for its truthful depiction of death and grief .
Reviewers have highlighted the exceptional performances of the lead actresses, with many considering it the best work of their careers . The film’s script, written by director Azazel Jacobs, has been commended for its sharp, character-driven approach and its blend of poignancy and humor . Critics have also noted the film’s theatrical quality, comparing it to a powerful stage production due to its confined setting and intense character interactions .
Conclusion
The September 2024 streaming lineup offers a diverse array of cinematic experiences, from thought-provoking dramas to animated masterpieces. Films like “Civil War” and “I Saw the TV Glow” push boundaries with their unique narratives, while “Wolfs” brings star power and comedy to the mix. “The Boy and the Heron” showcases Miyazaki’s return to form, and “His Three Daughters” delivers a poignant exploration of family dynamics. These movies have an influence on different aspects of storytelling and filmmaking, giving viewers plenty to choose from.
As streaming platforms continue to be a major player in the entertainment industry, the quality and variety of content keep improving. The films highlighted here represent just a fraction of what’s available to stream in September. They offer something to suit every taste, from action-packed adventures to intimate character studies. In the end, these new releases show the ever-changing landscape of cinema and how streaming services are shaping the way we consume and appreciate films.
