Hollywood is set to ignite the autumn season with a dynamic and diverse slate of film releases scheduled for September 2025. Moviegoers can anticipate a compelling mix of genres, from the supernatural chills of established horror franchises to the adrenaline-fueled action of star-studded thrillers and the nuanced explorations of modern romance and relationships. This month is shaping up to be a significant period, generating considerable hype among film enthusiasts and industry watchers alike.
Horror’s Reign Continues with Franchise Favorites
The supernatural horror genre is prominently featured with the highly anticipated release of The Conjuring: Last Rites on September 5. This installment is poised to be a pivotal moment for the beloved franchise, widely discussed as the concluding chapter for the iconic paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren. The film will delve into their investigation of the Smurl haunting, a case that tormented a family for over a decade. Directed by Michael Chaves, who helmed the previous entry, the film sees Patrick Wilson and Vera Farmiga return as the Warrens, promising the intense scares and supernatural tension fans have come to expect.
Adding to the trending horror landscape, The Strangers: Chapter 2 is slated for release on September 26. This sequel continues the narrative of the new trilogy, delving deeper into the masked terror that has captivated audiences. Under the direction of Renny Harlin, the film stars Madelaine Petsch, Gabriel Basso, and Ema Horvath. The story escalates the threat, expanding the perilous encounters from a singular home to encompass an entire town, ensuring a heightened level of suspense and dread.
Star Power and Auteur Vision Light Up the Screen
September 2025 also showcases the power of star-studded casts and acclaimed directorial visions. One Battle After Another, the latest from director Paul Thomas Anderson, is scheduled for a September 26 debut. This action thriller boasts an all-star lineup featuring Leonardo DiCaprio, Sean Penn, Benicio del Toro, Regina Hall, and Teyana Taylor. Notably, this marks Anderson’s tenth feature film and his first to be released in IMAX, with a reported production budget in the range of $130–175 million. The film, a crime thriller, is already generating buzz as a potential awards contender, further amplifying audience anticipation.
In the romantic fantasy arena, A Big Bold Beautiful Journey is set to enchant audiences on September 19. Directed by Kogonada and penned by Seth Reiss, the film stars Margot Robbie and Colin Farrell as two strangers whose lives become intricately connected through a series of mysterious and magical events. Their journey involves revisiting pivotal moments from their pasts, offering a poignant exploration of self-discovery and second chances, complemented by a supporting cast including Kevin Kline and Phoebe Waller-Bridge.
Furthermore, Splitsville offers a sharp and witty look at modern relationships and the complexities of open marriages. Directed by Michael Angelo Covino and co-written with Kyle Marvin, the cast includes Dakota Johnson and Adria Arjona. The dramedy, which premiered at Cannes, expands nationwide on September 5 after a limited release on August 22. It humorously navigates the fallout when personal boundaries are crossed within a friend group, promising a relatable and comedic take on romantic entanglements.
A Month of Diverse Cinematic Offerings
Beyond these headliners, September 2025 also welcomes Primitive War, an intense thriller set against the backdrop of the Vietnam War, slated for release on September 1. The varied lineup for the month underscores Hollywood’s commitment to providing a broad spectrum of cinematic experiences. The news surrounding these releases points to a vibrant start to the fall season, ensuring ample choice for audiences seeking everything from pulse-pounding action to heartwarming dramas and terrifying encounters.
