Welcome to our first blog of August, which means it’s time to have a look at the new movies coming up this month. Don’t forget to check if your local cinema has special deals for over 55’s or cheap weekday screenings.
Screening Now
Diego Maradona
This documentary about the legendary footballer, directed by Oscar-winner Asif Kamadia, was nominated for the Cannes Golden Camera award. The film is constructed from 500 hours of previously unseen archival footage and follows Maradona’s spectacular career after joining S.S.C. Napoli.
Check your screening times here.
The Lion King
Everyone has been raving about this CG-animated remake of the original 1994 cartoon film. The characters are brought to life by the voices of Donald Glover, Beyoncé, James Earl Jones, Seth Rogen, Chiwetel Ejiofor and satirist John Oliver. Elton John and Hanz Zimmer are back to provide an epic soundtrack.
Check your screening times here.
Yesterday
If you loved comedies like Four Weddings and a Funeral, Notting Hill and Love Actually, you won’t want to miss this hilarious movie about Jack, a struggling musician who suddenly becomes the only person in the world who can remember The Beatles. Hijinks ensue when he decides to use this special gift to his advantage. This film is directed by Danny Boyle (Trainspotting, Slumdog Millionaire) with a screenplay by Richard Curtis (Blackadder, Bridget Jones’s Diary, The Vicar of Dibley) and a cameo by Ed Sheeran.
Check your screening times here.
New in August
Late Night (starting 8 August)
Emma Thompson shines in this comedy/drama about a late-night talk show host with falling ratings who is desperate to revive her career. The screenplay is by co-star and comedian Mindy Kaling (The Office). Late Night has earned praise from US critics for its social satire and commentary.
Check your screening times here.
Palm Beach (starting 8 August)
Rachel Ward (The Thorn Birds, Against All Odds) directs this Australian drama about a group of lifelong friends who gather for a reunion in Palm Beach, Sydney. The stellar cast includes Sam Neill, Bryan Brown, Greta Scacchi and Richard E. Grant.
Check your screening times here.
Amazing Grace (starting 29 August)
Fans of the Queen of Soul won’t want to miss this musical documentary that immortalises the recording of her live gospel album, Amazing Grace, at Los Angeles’ New Temple Missionary Baptist Church in 1972. Recorded by Sydney Pollack (Out of Africa), the film was originally shelved due to technical and legal issues and has now finally been completed after 45 years.
Check your screening times here.