The film season between August and September sits comfortably between summer blockbusters and Halloween releases. Whether it’s a blockbuster hit or an indie film, the current cinematic scene has a lot to offer. From comedy to drama and politics, The Spectrum has you covered.
“The Meg”
Aug. 10
Most, if not all shark movies are objectively bad. However, a majority of shark movies fall into the ‘so bad it’s good’ category. These movies are the pinnacle of entertainment. “The Meg” is not “Sharknado,” but it does follow a similar, ridiculous plot. Scientists discover the existence of megalodons and accidentally release them onto the scantily clad, bikini wearing public. Chaos ensues.
“Slender Man”
Aug. 10
The worst horror films statistically come out in February and the few months preceding Halloween. A movie about Slender Man should have come out years ago, but better late than never. The story follows a group of young girls who become obsessed with the internet story and discover it isn’t fake.
“Crazy Rich Asians”
Aug. 15
This romantic comedy takes a comedic look into complicated family matters and class relations. The story follows Asian American Rachel, as she attempts to win over her boyfriend’s wealthy family. Diverse racial representation is slowly becoming more prominent within the film and screenwriting industry. Films like “BlacKkKlansman” and “Sorry to Bother You” are some of the best films in the genre in 2018. The production of a film like “Crazy Rich Asians” released during the season of high-profiting blockbuster films shows the social progression of modern production companies and audiences.
“The Nun”
Sept. 7
Aside from loving the fall season, horror film production companies also love cinematic universes and sequels. “The Nun” is a prequel to “The Conjuring,” which was incredibly successful and spawned multiple other sequels. This film explores the canon of the nun character that appears in sequels. It presents yet another storyline in line with “The Conjuring” series with dark and supernatural occurrences.
“Peppermint”
Sept. 7
After the death of her husband and daughter, Riley (Jennifer Garner) goes after her attackers for revenge. The film comes from director Pierre Morel, who also directed “Taken.” It follows a similar premise of normal citizen performs ruthless acts of revenge for their family.
“White Boy Rick”
Sept. 14
Based on a true story, “White Boy Rick” follows a teenager who becomes an undercover informant for the FBI. The story is significant because Ricky became the youngest drug informant in history before receiving a life sentence in prison.
“Fahrenheit 11/9”
Sept. 21
Playing on his 2004 film “Fahrenheit 9/11,” Michael Moore takes a look at the Trump administration as well as current social and political landscape in the United States. The film will focus largely on the 2016 presidential election as well as the reverberations and effects of the election of Donald Trump. Mixing anecdotal comedy with exceptional narration and interviews, Michael Moore is looking to bring his unique filmmaking style to the big screen once again this September.
Sam Vargas is the assistant arts editor and can be reached at sam.vargas@ubspectrum.com
Photo: Paul Hokanson / UB Athletics
Photo: Meredith Forrest Kulwicki
