Movies coming out in over the summer school holidays

Wonka 2023 movie still

Jessica Taylor Yates

Posted January 10, 2024


From comedies to dramas, action, family flicks and romances, here’s a pick of the best upcoming movies out now and coming soon to Australian cinemas this summer.

As a new season comes around, so too does the variety of great films on offer, from big budget Hollywood blockbusters to great kids flicks and Oscar nominees, with plenty of movies coming out in December, January and February. 

With a range of discounts for RACV Members, including savings of up to 40 per cent on movie tickets* at selected Hoyts, Village, Palace, Event, IMAX and Moonlight cinemas, there’s never been a better time to sit back and enjoy some movie magic.

Here’s the best movies showing or coming soon to an Australian cinema near you for the 2024 summer.

Please note release dates and classifications subject to change.

Contents


Movies out in cinemas over Australia summer 2024

Blockbuster movies out now and coming soon

Napoleon

  • Classification: MA 15+
  • Release Date: 23/11/23
  • Starring: Joaquin Phoenix

Ridley Scott's latest biopic delves into the rise of French emperor Napoleon Bonaparte, focusing on his passionate relationship with Josephine de Beauharnais. Joaquin Phoenix brings the historical figure to life in this epic tale of love and power.

Maestro

  • Classification: M
  • Release Date: 7/12/23
  • Starring: Bradley Cooper, Carey Mulligan

Bradley Cooper directs and stars in this biographical love story alongside Carey Mulligan. The film chronicles the complex life of composer Leonard Bernstein and actress Felicia Montealegre, from their chance meeting in 1946 to a 25-year marriage.

Wonka

  • Classification: PG
  • Release Date: 14/12/23
  • Starring: Timothée Chalamet, Hugh Grant, Rowan Atkinson

Timothée Chalamet steps into the shoes of the young Willy Wonka in this whimsical tale directed by the BAFTA-nominated director of Paddington. Explore the origins of the iconic chocolate factory as Wonka encounters the Oompa-Loompas and begins his sweet journey.

Star Wars: Rogue Squadron

  • Classification: TBC
  • Release Date: 21/12/23
  • Starring: Gal Gadot, Lynda Carter

Patty Jenkins, known for her work on Wonder Woman, takes the helm of this Star Wars epic. Set in a galaxy far, far away, the film follows a new generation of starfighter pilots as they navigate the challenges of earning their wings and defending the galaxy.

Anatomy of a Fall

  • Classification: TBC
  • Release Date: 25/1/24
  • Starring: Sandra Hüller, Samuel Theis, Milo Machado Graner

Winner of the 2023 Palme d'Or, this French mystery from filmmaker Justine Triet stars Sandra Hüller as a mother suspected of her husband's death, with their blind son being the sole witness.

 

Dune: Part Two | Official Trailer


Blockbuster movies out now and coming soon

Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom

  • Classification: TBC
  • Release Date: 26/12/23
  • Starring: Jason Momoa

In this highly anticipated sequel, Jason Momoa reprises his role as Aquaman, diving back into the depths of the DC universe. Directed by James Wan, the film promises a thrilling underwater adventure as Aquaman faces new challenges and uncovers secrets of the lost kingdom.

Madame Web

  • Classification: Not specified
  • Release Date: 14/2/24
  • Starring: Dakota Johnson, Sydney Sweeney

Dakota Johnson takes on the role of Madame Web, a clairvoyant mutant, in this Spider-Man spinoff filled with mysterious powers and thrilling adventures.

The Color Purple

  • Classification: TBC
  • Release Date: 25/1/24
  • Starring: Halle Bailey, Fantasia Barrino

Produced by Steven Spielberg and Oprah Winfrey, this musical adaptation of Alice Walker's novel depicts the life-long struggles of an African American woman living in the southern United States during the early 1900s.

Argylle

  • Classification: TBC
  • Release Date: 1/2/24
  • Starring: Henry Cavill, Bryan Cranston, Bryce Dallas Howard, Sam Rockwell, Samuel L. Jackson, John Cena, Dua Lipa

Henry Cavill takes on the role of the world's greatest spy, Argylle, in this globe-trotting adventure thriller directed by Matthew Vaughn. The star-studded cast embarks on a high-stakes journey full of espionage and intrigue.

Dune: Part Two

  • Classification: Not specified
  • Release Date: 29/2/24
  • Starring: Timothee Chalamet, Florence Pugh, Austin Butler, Zendaya, Jason Momoa, Christopher Walken

In the second part of Denis Villeneuve's adaptation of Frank Herbert's classic science fiction epic, Duke Paul Atreides continues his journey to become Muad'dib and faces the challenges of preventing a Holy War spreading throughout the universe.

 

The second film in the Aquaman franchise was cowritten by Jason Momoa. Image: ALAMY.
Napoleon tells the story of the emperor's rise and fall. Image: ALAMY.
Argylle is the latest British spy thriller from the director of the Kingsman franchise. Image: ALAMY.

Action and adventure movies out now and coming soon

In the Land of Saints and Sinners

  • Classification: TBC
  • Release Date: 30/11/23
  • Starring: Liam Neeson, Ciarán Hinds

Liam Neeson returns to action as a former assassin forced out of retirement to confront a trio of lethal terrorists in a remote Irish village.

Silent Night

  • Classification: MA15+
  • Release Date: 7/12/24
  • Starring: Joel Kinnaman

Joel Kinnaman leads this Christmas-themed John Woo action film, where a father seeks revenge after his son is killed, delivering a dose of action-packed holiday intensity.

Ferrari

  • Classification: TBC
  • Release Date: 4/1/24
  • Starring: Adam Driver, Penélope Cruz, Shailene Woodley, Patrick Dempsey

Set in the summer of 1957, this biographical drama follows Italian sports car entrepreneur Enzo Ferrari as he faces bankruptcy, family struggles, and a high-stakes race across Italy.

The Beekeeper

  • Classification: TBC
  • Release Date: 11/1/24
  • Starring: Jason Statham, Josh Hutcherson, Jeremy Irons

This action-thriller explores the world of beekeeping as a man's personal journey of vengeance takes on national significance, revealing his ties to a clandestine organisation known as the 'Beekeepers.'

 

Ferrari is the latest feature based the life of Enzo Ferrari. Image: ALAMY.
Killers of the Flower Moon is getting Oscar buzz. Image: ALAMY.

Family and kids movies out now and coming soon

Trolls: Band Together

  • Classification: PG
  • Release Date: 30/11/23
  • Starring: Justin Timberlake, Anna Kendrick

Join Poppy and Branch in the third instalment of the Trolls story as they embark on a musical journey to find Branch's long-lost boy-band brothers.

The Canterville Ghost

  • Classification: TBC
  • Release Date: 11/1/24
  • Starring: Stephen Fry, Emily Carey

This adaptation of Oscar Wilde's classic children's story follows the ghost of Sir Simon Canterville as he searches for a descendant to release him from his curse, leading to a brave and inquisitive girl named Virginia.

Wish 

  • Classification: TBC
  • Release Date: 26/12/24
  • Starring: Ariana DeBose, Alan Tudyk, Chris Pine

In this Disney fairy tale from the writers and directors of Frozen, when Asha sees darkness in the Kingdom of Wishes and decides to wish upon a star, the star magically comes to life to help show that wondrous things can happen. 

Migration

  • Classification: TBC
  • Release Date: 26/12/23
  • Starring: Awkwafina, Elizabeth Banks, Danny DeVito, Kumail Nanjiani, Mark Ruffalo

From the director of Minions, this family film tells the story of a duck family attempting to convince their overprotective father to embark on the vacation of a lifetime.

Inspector Sun and the Curse of the Black Widow 

  • Classification: TBC
  • Release Date: 15/2/24
  • Starring: Ronny Chieng

Set in the bug world where spiders are the cops, Inspector Sun boards a seaplane to San Francisco after capturing his arch-nemesis, only to be drawn into a plot threatening both human and bug worlds.

 

After the success of singalongs like Frozen and Encanto, Wish is another musical fantasy from Pixar. Image: ALAMY.
Trolls 3 is a musical comedy animation for kids and families. Image: Alamy.
Migration is the latest adventure from the producers of Sing and Despicable Me. Image: Alamy.

Drama / Art House movies out now and coming soon

Killers Of The Flower Moon (MA)

  • Classification: MA
  • Release Date: 19/10/23
  • Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Lily Gladstone, Robert De Niro

From famed director Martin Scorsese, the true crime drama is set in 1920s Oklahoma, and follows the story of crime and brutality during the oil region's Reign of Terror.  

Master Gardener

  • Classification: M
  • Release Date: 7/12/23
  • Starring: Joel Edgerton, Sigourney Weaver, Quintessa Swindell

A horticulturist working for a wealthy owner takes on an apprentice. But soon, his dark secrets are discovered, turning his world into chaos. 

The Boys in the Boat

  • Classification: TBC
  • Release Date: 4/1/24
  • Starring: Joel Edgerton

Directed by George Clooney, this film retells the true story of the University of Washington's rowing team that won gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics.

Fallen Leaves 

  • Classification: TBC
  • Release Date: 8/1/24
  • Starring: Alma Pöysti 

Award-winning Finnish filmmaker Aki Kaurismäki's comedic drama tells the story of Ansa and Holappa, two individuals on the lower end of the economic spectrum whose paths cross, attempting to build a relationship despite adversity.

The Holdovers

  • Classification: TBC
  • Release Date: 11/1/24
  • Starring: Paul Giamatti

Directed by Alexander Payne, this disgruntled teacher dramedy set in the '70s brings together a universally disliked teacher, a troubled student, and a grieving school cook over the holidays at Deerfield Academy.

All Of Us Strangers

  • Classification: CTC
  • Release Date: 18/1/24
  • Starring: Andrew Scott, Paul Mescal, Claire Foy, Jamie Bell

Set in contemporary London, this drama explores the chance encounter between Adam and a mysterious neighbour, leading to a relationship that stirs up memories and takes unexpected turns.

Priscilla 

  • Classification: TBC
  • Release Date: 18/1/24
  • Starring: Cailee Spaeny, Jacob Elordi

Directed by Oscar winner Sofia Coppola, Priscilla is a biopic that explores the complex relationship between Priscilla Presley and her husband, the iconic rock-and-roll superstar Elvis Presley.

 

The Boys in the Boat is centred around the 1936 Munich Olympics. Image: Alamy.
After stints on stage and the big screen, Priscilla is the latest lens on live in the Presley household. Image: Alamy.

Drama / Art House movies out now and coming soon

The Iron Claw

  • Classification: TBC
  • Release Date: 18/1/24
  • Starring: Zac Efron, Jeremy Allen White, Lily James

A sports biopic that delves into the tragedy-tainted wrestling dynasty of the Von Erich family in this gripping tale of success and hardship.

May December 

  • Classification: MA
  • Release Date: 1/2/24
  • Starring: Natalie Portman, Julianne Moore

Directed by Todd Haynes, this Palme d'Or-nominated drama explores the consequences of a notorious tabloid romance that gripped the nation 20 years earlier, as a married couple buckles under the pressure when an actress arrives to research their past.

Force of Nature: The Dry 2 (M)

  • Classification: M
  • Release Date: 8/2/24
  • Starring: Eric Bana, Jacqueline McKenzie, Anna Torv

Eric Bana returns in this sequel to the 2020 Australian mystery thriller The Dry.

Federal Agents Aaron Falk and Carmen Cooper investigate the mysterious disappearance of a whistleblower during a corporate hiking retreat in the Victorian mountains.

Bob Marley: One Love 

  • Classification: TBC
  • Release Date: 14/2/24
  • Starring: Kingsley Ben-Adir, Lashana Lynch

A biographical look at the life and times of legendary reggae musician Bob Marley, from the director of King Richard.

The Rooster 

  • Classification: TBC
  • Release Date: 22/2/24
  • Starring: Phoenix Raei, Hugo Weaving

When the body of his oldest friend is found buried in a shallow grave, a small-town cop seeks answers from a hostile man that frequents the forest, and who may have been the last person to see his friend alive.

The Book of Clarence 

  • Classification: TBC
  • Release Date: 22/2/24
  • Starring: LaKeith Stanfield, Benedict Cumberbatch, Teyana Taylor, Omar Sy, James McAvoy

A man who is down-on-his-luck embarks on a misguided attempt to capitalise on the rise of celebrity and influence of the Messiah for his own gain.

 

The Iron Claw is as much about the battle in the ring as the one in the family. Image: ALAMY.
Oscar winner Emma Stone leans into the fantastic in the black comedy drama Poor Things. Image: ALAMY.
In Imaginary, a teddy bear isn't too happy to be left alone... Image: Alamy.
The Book of Clarence is inspired by biblical times with a modern twist. Image: Alamy.

Horror

Night Swim

  • Classification: TBC
  • Release Date: 4/1/24
  • Starring: Kerry Condon, Wyatt Russell

Based on a 2014 short horror, this feature-length film follows a woman terrorised by an evil spirit while swimming in her pool at night.

Imaginary

  • Classification: TBC
  • Release Date: 14/3/24
  • Starring: DeQanda Wise, Taegan Burns

A woman returns to her childhood home to discover that the imaginary friend she left behind is very real and unhappy she abandoned him.

You'll Never Find Me 

  • Classification: TBC
  • Release Date: 14/3/24
  • Starring: Jordan Cowan, Brendan Rock 

After a violent thunderstorm, a mysterious young woman seeks shelter from Patrick, a strange and lonely resident living in a mobile home, leading to a night filled with eerie discoveries.

 

American actors holiday Down Under in Anyone But You. Image: ALAMY.
Drive Away Dolls is a comedy caper from the acclaimed director of Fargo. Image: ALAMY.
Next Goal Wins is based on a documentary of the same name - with the Taika Waititi touch. Image: Alamy.

Romance movies out now and coming soon

Anyone But You

  • Classification: CTC
  • Release Date: 26/12/23
  • Starring: Sydney Sweeney, Glen Powell

When a first date turns sour, Bea and Ben are happy to see the back of each other. That is, until they turn up at the same destination wedding in Australia. They pretend to play nice as the perfect couple - even when reality is far from it. 

Poor Things 

  • Classification: TBC
  • Release Date: 26/12/23
  • Starring: Emma Stone, Willem Dafoe, Margaret Qualley, Ramy Youssef, Christopher Abbott, Mark Ruffalo

A young woman is brought back to life by a brilliant scientist. She soon heads on an exploration of romance, the world and finding purpose and liberation in this fantasy film. 

Comedy movies out now and coming soon

Time Addicts

  • Classification: CTC
  • Release Date: 7/12/23
  • Starring: Freya Tingley, Charles Grounds

In this comedy heist flick, best friends Denise and Johnny find themselves in a sticky situation after breaking into a house they shouldn't, leading to unexpected and funny time-travel adventures.

Two Tickets to Greece 

  • Classification: M
  • Release Date: 26/12/24
  • Starring: Laure Calamy, Kristin Scott Thomas

In this French comedy directed by Marc Fitoussi, estranged childhood friends tentatively reunite for a trip to the Greek Islands. 

Next Goal Wins

  • Classification: M
  • Release Date: 1/1/24
  • Starring: Michael Fassbender, Elisabeth Moss, Rhys Darby

Taika Waititi's follow-up to Jojo Rabbit is an adaptation of the 2014 soccer documentary. Michael Fassbender leads the cast as Dutch coach Thomas Rongen, attempting to turn around the fortunes of the American Samoan football team, known as the worst team in the world

Mean Girls Musical

  • Classification: TBC
  • Release Date: 12/1/24
  • Starring: Angourie Rice, Christopher Briney, Reneé Rapp

Tina Fey brings the Mean Girls stage musical (based on the original 2003 film) to the big screen in this next adaptation. Angourie Rice takes on the role of Cady Heron, navigating the ups and downs of high school life and the notorious Plastics.

Drive-Away Dolls

  • Classification: TBC
  • Release Date: 22/2/24
  • Starring: Pedro Pascal, Matt Damon, Colman Domingo, Geraldine Viswanathan

Directed by Ethan Coen, this lovers-on-the-run comedy caper follows Jamie and Marian on an impromptu road trip to Tallahassee, encountering inept criminals along the way.

 


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