Hot Movie Premieres of September: What to Watch in California Theaters
September in the film industry traditionally marks the transition from the summer blockbuster season to the fall marathon of bright premieres, auteur films, and titles already aiming for awards. In California, where cinema is not just an industry but part of the cultural code, September premieres become a reason for conversations, trips to theaters, and lively discussions.
This month will delight fans of all kinds of genres: from psychological thrillers and dramas to family animated movies and sequels of cult franchises. Let’s take a look at the films already being discussed by critics and audiences, and what should be on your must-watch list.
1. One Battle After Another — a new thriller with Leonardo DiCaprio
One of the most anticipated films of September, premiering on September 26, is the tense thriller One Battle After Another by director Paul Thomas Anderson. The lead role is played by Leonardo DiCaprio, which already makes the picture an event.
The film tells the story of a man caught in the middle of a tangled plot where personal dramas intertwine with political intrigue. According to critics, it’s not just a thriller but a deep psychological drama where every scene keeps the viewer on edge. In California, the film is already being called “a must-see.”
2. Dune: Part Two — a return to the desert planet
Although the film’s world premiere took place earlier, September marks the start of the wide release of the second part of Dune in California. Director Denis Villeneuve once again brings viewers into the epic story of the struggle for power and resources on the distant planet Arrakis.
Timothée Chalamet and Zendaya play the key roles, and the film promises even more large-scale battle scenes, intrigue, and philosophical reflections on power. Audiences in Los Angeles and San Francisco are already reserving tickets for the first IMAX screenings.
3. The Marvels — a superhero highlight of the fall
Marvel traditionally kicks off fall with a loud release. In The Marvels, viewers will see the uniting of several heroines of the cinematic universe, including Captain Marvel and Ms. Marvel.
For comic book fans, it’s a chance to witness a long-awaited team-up on the big screen, and for the studio, an opportunity to win back some of the audience tired of endless franchises. Theaters across California are preparing for a big influx of viewers, especially in San Diego, where Marvel fans are traditionally active.
4. Family animation: Wish
Disney will present a new animated film Wish in September, which promises to become a favorite for family outings. The story about the power of wishes and friendship has already received warm reviews from critics, while its visual style—a blend of classic animation and modern technology—has drawn admiration.
In Sacramento and Oakland, screenings are planned with extended children’s showtimes, making the premiere a true family event.
5. Killers of the Flower Moon — a crime drama by Martin Scorsese
Although this film has already been screened at festivals, in September it will get a wide release. Based on real events, the story tells of a series of murders in a Native American community in the 1920s.
Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro reunite in Scorsese’s project, and critics predict the film will play a serious role in the upcoming awards season. In California, the premiere promises sold-out screenings, especially in arthouse theaters.
6. Saw X — for horror fans
Fall in cinema is always also the season of horror films. This September brings the release of Saw 10 — the continuation of the cult horror franchise. The creators promise to return to the spirit of the first films: a dark atmosphere, psychological pressure, and unexpected twists.
In Sacramento, it’s already being discussed that screenings will be accompanied by late-night horror marathons. An event for those who love to give their nerves a scare.
7. European cinema: Anatomy of a Fall
For festival film lovers, September will see the release of the French drama Anatomy of a Fall, which won the Palme d’Or in Cannes. The story of a woman accused of murdering her husband promises to be not just a detective but a deep exploration of human relationships and the justice system.
In San Francisco and Berkeley, such premieres traditionally gather an intellectual audience, and it’s precisely there the film will draw the most interest.
Conclusion: September promises to be hot
September in California theaters is a true celebration for everyone who loves cinema. There’s something for everyone:
for blockbuster fans — Dune and The Marvels;
for drama lovers — One Battle After Another and Killers of the Flower Moon;
for families — Wish;
for horror fans — Saw X;
for festivalgoers — Anatomy of a Fall.
This month sets the tone for the entire fall film season. So if you live in California, September is the perfect excuse to head to the theater more often, share impressions, and discover new stories.