One of October’s biggest tentpoles, Tron: Ares arrives on October 10. Directed by Joachim Rønning, this latest entry into the Tron universe brings Jared Leto as Ares, a powerful program sent from the Grid into the real world. The film also reunites Jeff Bridges (returning as Kevin Flynn) and features a cast including Greta Lee, Evan Peters, Jodie Turner-Smith, Gillian Anderson, Cameron Monaghan, and more.
What’s striking is the ambition behind Tron: Ares — it’s the first film in the franchise to carry a PG-13 rating (previous entries were PG), underscoring a shift toward more mature stakes. With visuals built for IMAX, Dolby Cinema, 4DX, and other premium formats, Disney is clearly betting big. Box office forecasts suggest a ~$44 million opening weekend in the U.S.
If you love digital worlds, high-tech visuals, and stakes that blur lines between virtual and real, Tron: Ares is your must-see this month.
Marking a tonal shift from sci-fi, The Smashing Machine drops on October 3. Directed by Benny Safdie, this sports drama stars Dwayne Johnson as UFC legend Mark Kerr. The film delves into the cost of greatness — physical, emotional, and relational. Its Venice Film Festival reception (where it was screened in competition) hints at it being both raw and deeply human.
If you like character-driven stories about rise, fall, and redemption, The Smashing Machine offers that in spades.
Also arriving October 10, After the Hunt is a departure from spectacle. Directed by Luca Guadagnino, this drama stars Julia Roberts, Andrew Garfield, and Ayo Edebiri. Roberts plays Alma Olsson, a Yale professor navigating a turning point in her life. Known for his emotionally rich filmmaking, Guadagnino’s name suggests this might aim for awards buzz more than box office dominance.
For audiences who prefer reflection over spectacle, After the Hunt is a strong bet.
Also released on October 10 is Kiss of the Spider Woman, adapted from the stage musical. Starring Jennifer Lopez (in the titular role), the film made waves at its Sundance premiere with a standing ovation. It’s the first time director Bill Condon has premiered at Sundance since Gods and Monsters (1998).
This version aims to capture the musical’s theatrical intensity on the big screen, with Lopez’s emotive performance expected to be a centerpiece.
One of the scarier bets this month is Black Phone 2, opening October 17. Directed by Scott Derrickson (who helmed the first film), it brings back Ethan Hawke, Mason Thames, Madeleine McGraw, and Jeremy Davies. After the strong response to the original The Black Phone, expectations are high. If you’re into horror with emotional stakes and supernatural tension, Black Phone 2 is a date with the darkness.