The Wild Robot
The latest from DreamWorks animation is being heralded as a classic with a place among its most successful properties like “Kung Fu Panda,” and “How to Train Your Dragon.” So, it’s no surprise that Chris Sanders, who directed “The Wild Robot,” also wrote “How to Train Your Dragon,” “The Croods,” and “Lilo & Stitch.” The titular robot, named Roz, is a kind of futuristic assistant in the vein of Alexa/Siri, but she can’t be much help when she winds up on an island inhabited by animals and no humans. At first the animals consider her a threat, even calling her a monster. The turning point comes when Roz, all alone, finds an egg that holds a baby bird. Taking on parental duties, robot and bird bond. When the baby bird wants to discover more about its kind, Roz will have to win over the animals that once feared her. Starring Lupita Nyong’o, Kit Connor and Bill Nighy
Now playing at the State Theatre.
LEE
Kate Winslet stars as Lee Harris, an American fashion model turned World War II photographer, based on the book “The Lives of Lee Miller” written by her son. The film shows the horrors of war through the eyes of its protagonist. Lee faced immeasurable challenges to take photographs of the atrocities of war. The work that she did to inform the world ultimately drove her to the edge of mental and emotional stability. Directed by award winning cinematographer Ellen Kuras (“Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind,” “Summer of Sam”), who faithfully recreates some of Lee’s iconic photographs, “LEE” benefits from two powerhouse talents in its director and star. See it before it leaves the big screen.Starring Kate Winslet, Andy Samberg, Alexander Skarsgard and Josh O’Conner
Now playing at the Michigan Theater.
1-800-ON-HER-OWN
This 80-minute documentary offers an intimate glimpse into the musical and personal life of rebel singer/songwriter Ani DiFranco who spent a career defying the “rock chick” stereo type.
Opens Oct. 8 at the Michigan Theater.
RELATED: Ani DiFranco Visits the Michigan Theater for Documentary Screening
Saturday Night
“Saturday Night” focuses on the true story of what happened in the 90 minutes leading up to the first broadcast of the now iconic “Saturday Night Live.” Fittingly, the film will be released on the show’s 50th anniversary, October 11, 2024. The film itself is fast moving and claustrophobic, conveying the frenetic energy of that first night, and filmed mostly in the famous Studio 8H. Adding some street cred is Jason Reitman (“Up in The Air”, “Juno”), son of Ivan Reitman, who directed many SNL alum like Bill Murray and Dan Aykroyd, in seminal 80s films like “Ghostbusters” and “Stripes.” Reitman also co-wrote the film with Gil Kenan. Starring Gabriel LaBelle, Rachel Sennott and Corey Michael Smith
Opens Oct. 11 at the State Theatre.
ENO
For 50 years Brian Eno has been a name synonymous with cutting edge creativity. From his early days as a founding member of Roxy Music to his work as a producer with artists like David Bowie, U2, The Talking Heads and Coldplay, to his work as a composer — he even created the startup sound for Microsoft Windows — he has shaped modern music unlike any other. This documentary includes never-before-seen footage and experiments with new technology that creates a new version with every screening. Director Gary Hustwit will be in attendance for a post-film discussion.
Playing Oct. 13 at the Michigan Theater.
Halloween Movies
The Evil Dead, 10/10, Michigan Theater
The “OG Evil Dead” from 1981 that started it all. Written and directed by Sam Rami and starring Bruce Campbell.
Young Frankenstein, 10/12, Michigan Theater
Gene Wilder plays Dr. Frederick Frankenstein in this spoof of the original Frankenstein movies — a cult movie classic! Directed by Mel Brooks
The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, 10/24, Michigan Theater
Back on the big screen this year for its 50th anniversary— one of the most shocking, terrifying movies ever made. Directed by Tobe Hooper.
Rocky Horror Picture Show, 10/25 & 26, Michigan Theater
It’s time to do the Time Warp again with Dr Frank-N-Furter (Tim Curry), Brad and Janet (Barry Bostwick, Susan Sarandon), Meatloaf and cast.
Nosferatu, 10/27, Michigan Theater
The original F.W. Murnau silent film with a live organ accompaniment— a Michigan Theater tradition.
Halaloween: Three,10/31, State Theatre
A boy in Dubai is going through a mental health crisis, prompting his mother to seek help from local and foreign sources. One unlikely man must set aside his scientific thinking in an intense ritual. Directed by Nayla Al Khaja, the UAE’s first woman director in person for the screening.
Halloween, 10/31, Michigan Theater
John Carpenter’s 1978 classic— essential Halloween viewing.
