Family, fights and folklore: what to watch in October

Family, fights and folklore: what to watch in October

A roundup of the dramas, horror flicks and action-thrillers hitting cinemas this month.

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Which films are you looking forward to the most this month?
PETALING JAYA:
September may have kept audiences busy with sequels and mega-franchises, but October brings a whole new flavour to the big screen.

From a Dhanush-led Tamil drama and a moving local father-daughter tale to the bloody savagery of “Mortal Kombat 2”, this month is stacked with variety.

If you’re after haunting scares, mythological epics, or bone-crunching action, here are seven releases to mark on your calendar. Plus, don’t forget “Jagat” is re-released in cinemas on Oct 3!

1. ‘Idly Kadai’ (Oct 1)

Kollywood actor Dhanush proves he is a triple threat in “Idly Kadai”, a film he wrote and directed, and in which he stars.

Humour, heart and small-town flavour come together in heartwarming drama about relationships, generational clashes, and the everyday magic of rural life.

Featuring his “Thiruchitrambalam” co-star Nithya Menen, as well as Arun Vijay and Sathyaraj, expect soulful music, spirited performances, and a warm, nostalgic vibe perfect for viewers of all ages.

2. ‘Badak’ (Oct 2)

A Malaysian, Indonesian and Singaporean collaboration, “Badak” tells the moving story of a deaf single father (Shaheizy Sam) whose life revolves around his daughter, Mirah (Aida Amron).

When Mirah’s talent catapults her into the hip-hop spotlight, their once-unbreakable bond is tested by fame, sound, and distance.

Balancing music and silence, sacrifice and ambition, father and daughter must find their rhythm again.

3. ‘Kantara: Chapter 1’ (Oct 2)

Following the breakout success of “Kantara”, this highly anticipated Indian prequel dives deeper into the world of folklore, mysticism, and raw human struggle.

Set centuries before the original, Chapter 1 explores the origins of the divine conflict that shaped the community’s destiny.

With visually striking landscapes, powerful mythological themes, and emotionally charged storytelling, director Rishab Shetty aims to create another cultural phenomenon that fuses spirituality with gripping cinematic spectacle.

4. ‘Tron: Ares’ (Oct 9)

The digital grid returns in “Tron: Ares”, a high-tech continuation of the legendary sci-fi saga. Jared Leto stars as Ares, a sentient program venturing into the human world in an unprecedented clash of realities.

As technology and humanity collide, the film teases a philosophical, adrenaline-fuelled ride that could redefine the boundary between computer fantasy and real life.

5. ‘The Black Phone 2’ (Oct 16)

Ethan Hawke’s chilling Grabber may be gone, but the cursed phone keeps ringing. In “The Black Phone 2”, the supernatural thriller continues with new victims, more ghostly warnings, and a sinister force that refuses to die.

For fans of the first film, it’s another terrifying plunge into childhood fears and restless spirits. Fun fact: the “Black Phone” films are based on a short story by Joe Hill, son of legendary horror writer Stephen King.

6. ‘Mortal Kombat 2’ (Oct 23)

Fatalities return in “Mortal Kombat 2”, the bloody sequel to the 2021 video game adaptation. With fan-favourite fighters like Johnny Cage joining the fray, the movie promises even more brutal battles, supernatural warriors, and high-octane martial arts.

The stakes are bigger, the action gorier, and the visuals crisper, designed to thrill gamers and casual viewers alike. For those craving popcorn spectacle with a savage edge, this tournament is unmissable.

7. ‘Regretting You’ (Oct 30)

Based on Colleen Hoover’s bestselling novel, this is a heartfelt drama about love, grief, and the complicated bond between a mother and daughter.

When tragedy strikes, long-buried secrets and emotional rifts rise to the surface, forcing them to rebuild trust and rediscover family.

Starring Allison Williams and Mckenna Grace, this silver-screen adaptation blends tender romance with raw coming-of-age moments, making it an emotional closer to October.

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