The 2024 MRI-Simmons report, analyzed by the Video Advertising Bureau, has uncovered compelling evidence that positions moviegoers as a uniquely valuable consumer demographic. The study demonstrates that moviegoers consistently and significantly outspend their non-moviegoing counterparts across diverse spending categories, marking them as a premium audience segment for advertisers.
This comprehensive analysis comes at a critical juncture in the advertising landscape, where brands face mounting challenges in identifying and engaging consumers with genuine purchasing power at scale.
As advertising environments become increasingly fragmented, the need for channels that can deliver both audience quality and quantity has never been more pressing.
Cinema stands tall in this landscape, excelling through its distinctive combination of attributes. It provides an environment where advertisements naturally command attention, delivering significantly higher attention scores compared to other media channels. Hence, this leads to elevated engagement within a premium, brand-safe setting that enhances advertiser messaging – a finding reinforced by Hearst’s power of positivity research, which highlights the unique receptivity of cinema audiences.
The value proposition extends beyond mere attention metrics. Cinema audiences represent an affluent demographic with substantial disposable income, and crucially, they demonstrate exceptional trust in cinema as an advertising medium. The Advertising Association’s 2024 report underscores this trust factor, revealing that 56% of audiences aged 18-34 – a coveted demographic for many brands – place their highest trust in cinema advertising. This trust extends across age groups, with 48% of the 35-54 demographic expressing similar confidence in the medium, positioning cinema just one percentage point behind the leader in this age bracket.
These converging factors create a unique advertising environment where brands can connect with highly attentive audiences who not only trust the medium but also possess significant spending power – all delivered at an impressive scale.
Simply put, cinema addresses the triple challenge of attention, trust, and purchasing capacity that many advertisers struggle to find in other channels.
This latest analysis further validates cinema’s position by finding that moviegoers consistently demonstrate higher spending patterns than non-moviegoers across 19 distinct categories.
Moviegoers are multifaceted in their interests and behaviors, making them highly valuable to brands
The most striking finding is moviegoers’ spending in the travel and tourism sector, where they spend 65% more than non-moviegoers. This premium spending pattern extends across lifestyle categories, with 58% higher spending at florists and 55% more on sports and recreation. Even in everyday categories like personal care (+21%) and grocery stores (+4%), moviegoers demonstrate stronger purchasing power.
This data reinforces cinema’s unique position in the advertising landscape, offering access to an audience that not only demonstrates higher purchase prowess and intent, cinema also maintains greater receptivity to advertising compared to other media channels.
Source: VAB Insights
With the announcement of the 2025 Jury Presidents line-up, the Cannes Lions Festival reaffirms its commitment to celebrating outstanding creativity across various categories, with distinguished industry leaders presiding over each jury.
The Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity has unveiled its 2025 Jury Presidents and opened submissions for its prestigious Awards. The appointed global experts will convene in Cannes this June for the 72nd edition to evaluate and set benchmarks for creative excellence across the industry’s most impactful work.
A significant update for 2025 includes the evolution of the Social & Influencer Lions to Social & Creator Lions, reflecting the dynamic shifts in the marketing landscape. Additionally, the Glass: The Lion for Change marks its 10th anniversary with an expanded scope, now celebrating creative excellence that promotes equitable representation across a broader spectrum of communities, including disability, race, sexuality, and social inequity.
Commenting on the Jury Presidents, Simon Cook, CEO, LIONS, said: “We are excited to welcome a diverse and forward-thinking group of leaders who understand the transformative power of creative excellence to drive business growth and impact. All experts in their field, their incredible talent, combined with the commitment and leadership they bring to their roles, ensures the highest levels of integrity and rigor in the judging process. We thank them for all that they will bring to the important task ahead of them in June.”
Xolisa Dyeshana, Chief Creative Officer, Joe Public, Africa and Middle East – Audio & Radio
Tara Ford, Chief Creative Officer, Droga5 ANZ and Accenture Song, APAC – Brand Experience & Activation
Wendy Walker, Vice President Marketing ASEAN, Salesforce, ASEAN – Creative B2B
Jane Lin-Baden, CEO APAC, Member of the Global Management Committee, Publicis Groupe – Creative Business Transformation
Gabriel Schmitt, Global Chief Creative Officer, Grey, Global – Creative Commerce
Tina Allan, Global Chief Data and Intelligence Officer, FCB, Global – Creative Data
Andrea Diquez, Global CEO, GUT, Global – Creative Effectiveness
Pats McDonald, Global Chief Strategy Officer, Dentsu Creative, Global – Creative Strategy
Naoki Tanaka, Chief Creative Officer, Dentsu Lab, Dentsu, Global – Digital Craft
Gaëtan du Peloux, President and Chief Creative Officer, Marcel, France – Direct
David Rolfe, Global Head of Production, WPP / Hogarth, Global – Entertainment Lions
Sue Anderson, Vice President, Creative, Roblox, USA – Entertainment Lions for Gaming
Seiya Matsumiya, CEO and Co-Founder, Black Cat White Cat Music, Global – Entertainment Lions for Music
Kate Stanners, Chairwoman and Global Chief Creative Officer, Saatchi & Saatchi, Global – Film
Ali Ali, Co-Founder and Film Director, Good People Films, Egypt – Film Craft
KR Liu, Global Head of Disability Innovation, Google, Global – Glass: The Lion for Change
Eric Weisberg, Global Chief Creative Officer, Havas Health Network, Global – Health & Wellness
Matthias Spaetgens, Chief Creative Officer, Scholz & Friends, Germany, Austria and Switzerland – Industry Craft
Courtney Brown Warren, Chief Marketing Officer, Kickstarter, Global – Innovation
Mathilde Delhoume Debreu, Global Brand Officer, LVMH, Global – Luxury
Dan Clays, CEO, Omnicom Media Group, EMEA – Media
Keka Morelle, Chief Creative Officer LATAM, Ogilvy, LATAM – Outdoor
Franklin Williams, EVP, Executive Experience Director, AREA 23, an IPG Health company, USA – Pharma
Tom Beckman, Global Chief Creative Officer, Weber Shandwick, Global – PR
Icaro Doria, President and Chief Creative Officer, DM9, Brazil – Print & Publishing
Beth Keamy, Chief Digital Officer, TBWA\Media Arts Lab, Global – Social & Creator
Josy Paul, Chairperson and Chief Creative Officer, BBDO, India – Sustainable Development Goals
Judy John, Global Chief Creative Officer, Edelman, Global – Dan Wieden Titanium
The Cannes Lions 2025 Awards are now accepting submissions until April 10, 2025, with the Festival scheduled to take place from June 16-20 in Cannes, France. The complete list of Jury Presidents and detailed information about the Awards, including entry kits and pass options, can be found at www.canneslions.com.
Motivate Val Morgan and Motivate Media Group are the official representatives of Cannes Lions in the UAE.
Highlights of the META Cinema Forum 2024 include the launch of the region’s first talent agency and private film fund, which aims to nurture local filmmakers, connect talent to global opportunities, and bring groundbreaking projects to life.
The META Cinema Forum announces its 7th edition, taking place on November 11-12, 2024, at Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre. As the largest cinema convention across the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, the event continues to be a crucial platform for industry professionals and stakeholders to connect, collaborate, and drive the sector forward.
Since its inception, the META Cinema Forum has demonstrated consistent growth, attracting participation from major Hollywood studios, regional cinema operators, and industry innovators.
The forum has established itself as a significant platform for industry discussions, content previews, and business networking. Previous editions have featured participation from prominent organizations including Warner Bros., VOX Cinemas, and Universal, contributing to the forum’s development as a key industry event.
The META Cinema Forum offers invaluable networking opportunities with industry executives and decision-makers from leading studios and cinema operators. Through structured sessions and professional meetings, the forum fosters meaningful connections in a business-focused environment. Attendees can also engage in industry-driven discussions, explore technological advancements, experience content previews, and participate in professional development sessions led by regional cinema experts.
The two-day event offers access to presentations, screenings, networking sessions, and industry insights. Registration is priced at $25 per attendee, with limited seating available.
Click here for the event overview, past highlights, agenda, speaker lineup, top reasons to attend, and more.
Click here to register.
Motivate Val Morgan is the official Media Sponsor for this year’s META Cinema Forum.
Source: META Cinem Forum Press Release
Longlegs, the Nicolas Cage starrer directed by Osgood Perkins, leads our list of top 2024 horror movies.
Horror isn’t just a genre—it’s an experience, and 2024 proved exactly why we keep craving that rush. After a standout 2023, this year came in swinging with a mix of mind-bending indie gems and blockbuster sequels we didn’t see coming. From nightmares that linger long after the credits roll to pulse-pounding moments that left us peeking over our shoulders, it’s been a wild ride. If you’ve caught yourself triple-checking the locks or sleeping with the lights on, you’re not alone.
Here’s our roundup of the top horror films of 2024 that hit cinemas in the region—and left us all haunted in the best way possible.
Nicolas Cage in one of the weirdest roles you’ll ever see? Yes, please. Longlegs delivers a slow-burn thriller dripping with eerie vibes and offbeat brilliance. Imagine if David Lynch overdosed on espresso—strange, unsettling, and completely unhinged.
Longlegs is the horror version of Barbie. Not in content, but in vibe—this indie film exploded on social media, especially with Gen Z. By the time it hit cinemas in the Middle East—just a week after its global premiere—the buzz was unstoppable. Thursday nights at Mall of the Emirates and Dubai Mall were swarming with excited, young audiences, eager to catch a glimpse of this strange beast of a movie. It’s rare for an indie horror film to make such waves here, but Longlegs? It owned the spotlight.
A sequel we didn’t think we needed, but now can’t live without. Smile 2 proves that horror franchises can grow without losing their edge. It’s sharper, smarter, and somehow even creepier—oh, and that sinister grin? Still absolutely terrifying.
What’s wild is that the first movie almost didn’t hit theaters. After a test screening that blew expectations out of the water, the studio changed course. With the first film pulling in a cool $217.4 million and the sequel kicking off with a $45 million opening, it’s clear they made the right call. Naomi Scott delivers a gripping performance, while Parker Finn’s direction ensures this sequel cements its place in horror history.
Oddity is all about the discomfort—slow, creeping dread that gets under your skin. At the center of it all? Carolyn Bracken’s mesmerizing performance. She doesn’t just act; she embodies the unease, turning every glance and gesture into pure tension. Though it had a limited release in the region, it left a mark on those lucky enough to catch it on the big screen. This is the kind of psychological horror that demands multiple viewings—each watch peeling back another disturbing layer.
If there’s one thing Korean filmmakers excel at, it’s the art of unnerving you to your core. Exhuma isn’t just a movie—it’s an experience. Atmospheric and unpredictable, it’s easily one of the top 2024 horror movies, cut from the same cloth as The Wailing, blending human fears, raw emotion, and rich folklore. If you know, you know: Korean horror doesn’t rely on cheap scares—it taps into something deeper, something primal, that lingers long after the credits roll. Exhuma honors that tradition and raises the stakes.
Alien may be a sci-fi franchise, but Romulus reminds us of where it all started—with bone-chilling horror. Fede Álvarez, the mastermind behind Evil Dead and Don’t Breathe, brings his horror expertise to this intergalactic nightmare. Dark corridors, flickering lights, and an overwhelming sense of dread—this isn’t just another space flick. Romulus is a masterclass in tension, blending survival horror with sci-fi thrills. Álvarez brings the franchise back to its terrifying roots, making it feel both familiar and frighteningly fresh.
The Bollywood movie that made it to the top 2024 horror movies list. The original Stree was a sleeper hit—one of those rare films that sneaked into cinemas quietly but ended up becoming a fan favorite with repeated watches. Its clever blend of supernatural horror, humor, and social commentary earned it a cult following over time. Stree 2 builds on that foundation, expanding the eerie folklore of the haunted town while retaining its quirky, comedic charm. With returning cast members and fresh twists, the sequel promises more scares, laughs, and social jabs, making it a worthy follow-up that doesn’t rely solely on nostalgia. If you enjoyed the first, the second will feel like revisiting an old friend—one with a mischievous ghost still lurking in the shadows.
Set against the glitzy backdrop of a 70s talk show, Late Night with the Devil offers a unique twist on the genre. David Dastmalchian steals the show with a performance that’s equal parts charming and unsettling. His hypnotic presence keeps you hooked as the film spirals from quirky talk-show antics into surreal horror. The retro vibe adds authenticity, making it feel like you’re watching a piece of lost television history that unravels into pure madness. Refreshing, eerie, and brilliantly executed, it’s a standout in a year full of horror gems.
Remaking a favorite isn’t easy but Speak No Evil nails it. Staying true to the Dutch original, this adaptation captures the same nerve-wracking tension that made the first film unforgettable. With James McAvoy delivering a performance that feels both uncomfortably intimate and deeply unsettling, the film drags you deeper into psychological torment with each passing scene. Fans of the original will appreciate the faithfulness, while newcomers will be swept away by the creeping dread and emotional weight. Brutal, unrelenting, and impossible to look away from—this one leaves a mark.
Curious how Damian, the demon child from The Omen, got his start? The First Omen goes back to the beginning, digging into the origin of the Antichrist with eerie precision. This prequel adds depth to the mythology, exploring the dark forces that shaped Damian’s childhood and set him on the path to ultimate evil. Wrapped in lush cinematography and eerie atmosphere, it breathes new life into the franchise while staying true to its roots. Whether you’re an Omen fan or diving in for the first time, this prequel is a haunting must-watch.
Blink Twice taps into a primal fear: what if you can’t trust your own eyes? This psychological thriller plays tricks on both its characters and its audience, making you question everything you see. With a plot that twists like a corkscrew and cinematography designed to disorient, it feels like a mashup of Black Swan and Hereditary. Miss even a second, and you’ll be lost in its labyrinth of lies. Just when you think you’ve got it figured out, Blink Twice delivers a gut-punch of a twist.
The Substance is definitely one of the top 2024 horror movies. The only reason it didn’t make the main list is that it wasn’t released in the Middle East, as it leans heavily into body horror. This film refuses to leave your brain days after you’ve watched it. It’s a twisted, unsettling dive into obsession and control—one that doesn’t just crawl under your skin; it moves in and makes itself at home. If you vibed with David Cronenberg’s Crimes of the Future or James Wan’s Malignant, this is a must-watch. It’s like Cronenberg cranked up to 11, with every scene pushing boundaries, leaving you equal parts disturbed and mesmerized.
Some of these 2024 horror movies are still captivating audiences in cinemas, while others have already hit streaming platforms. Just in time for Halloween, grab your popcorn and prepare for a thrilling night with spine-tingling scares!
Ascential, the media and events company behind Cannes Lions, has entered into an agreement to acquire the commercial assets of Effie, the global benchmark in marketing effectiveness.
Pending regulatory approval, Effie will join Ascential’s LIONS Division, bringing with it more than 55 global, regional, and national Effie Awards programs, covering over 125 markets.
In acquiring Effie, Ascential also plans to undertake a long-term partnership with its not-for-profit arm, Effie Worldwide, which provides research and resources on effective marketing strategy. Moving forward, the organization will become The Effie LIONS Foundation and will focus on educating the next generation of talent, offering training for all marketing students, particularly those underrepresented in the marketing community. The Foundation will also provide a home for LIONS’ existing not-for-profit initiatives and access to some of the LIONS Division’s digital products.
Philip Thomas, CEO of Ascential, commented: “The coming together of LIONS and Effie is a powerful testament to the fact that effectiveness and creativity in marketing are inextricably linked. All enlightened businesses know that creative, effective marketing drives growth. This historic partnership will complement the insights and intelligence on marketing and creative effectiveness that LIONS already offers via WARC, The Work, and Contagious, providing marketing leaders worldwide with the data and evidence they need to make the case for creative marketing that matters. Meanwhile, the creation of The Effie LIONS Foundation, Inc. will educate and inspire our industry and broaden the opportunities available to everyone to build a career in creativity and marketing.”
Traci Alford, President and CEO of Effie Worldwide, commented: “We are excited to join LIONS with such a complementary, yet distinct, portfolio of brands. Closer collaboration between Effie, as the definitive marketing effectiveness benchmark globally, and the LIONS brands is an exciting prospect for the industry. Our ability to share insights and find synergies in our data will help to dissect the role creativity plays in driving marketing effectiveness overall. Together we will be able to better understand the key drivers of growth and ultimately help all businesses succeed.”
Headquartered in New York, with offices in Beijing and the UK, Effie has a network of 59 partners covering over 125 markets. Effie will continue to be led by Traci Alford, President and CEO of EffieWorldwide.
As the official representative of Cannes Lions in the UAE, Motivate Val Morgan warmly welcomes this exciting new partnership.
Source: Cannes Lions Press Release
The region embraced the joy of Eid al-Adha with an extended holiday break, with cinema offering an abundance of blockbuster entrainment options to elevate the festivities for residents who opted to stay back and indulge in activities at malls and entertainment venues.
From thrilling adventures such as Inside Out 2, Bad Boys: Ride or Die, Watchers, Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes along with other exciting releases such as Welad Rizk 3 (Arabic), El La3eb Ma3 El 3iyal (Arabic) and more, the big screen served as a dynamic platform for brands to engage with captive audiences.
Here are the ads that lit up the big screen during the joyous celebration of Eid al-Adha.
Cadillac XT4 – FTM Inside Out 2
Country: UAE, KSA & KWT
Operator(s): VOX, Reel, AMC & Muvi
Abu Dhabi Public Health Centre (ADPHC) – FTM Kids/Animation
Country: UAE
Operator(s): VOX, Royal & CinemaCity
Parkville Shaan – FTM Welad Rizk 3
Country: Egypt
Operator(s): VOX Cinemas
Audio Technology – FTM Welad Rizk 3
Country: Egypt
Operator(s): VOX Cinemas
Bazooka Fried Chicken
Country: Egypt
Operator(s): VOX Cinemas
Garnier Color Natural
Country: Egypt
Operator(s): VOX Cinemas
Burger King
Country: Egypt
Operator(s): VOX locations
Hardees
Country: Egypt
Operator(s): VOX Cinemas
KFC
Country: Egypt
Operator(s): VOX Cinemas
Krispy Kreme
Country: Egypt
Operator(s): VOX Cinemas
Maybelline
Country: Egypt
Operator(s): VOX Cinemas
Pizza Hut
Country: Egypt
Operator(s): VOX Cinemas
Jazeera Airways
Country: Kuwait
Operator(s): VOX Cinemas
ENBD x VOX Cinemas
Country: UAE
Operator(s): VOX Cinemas
YAS Island Abu Dhabi
Country: UAE, KSA & KWT
Operator(s): VOX, Reel, AMC & Muvi
Al Rajhi Capital
Country: KSA
Operator(s): VOX, AMC & Muvi
Banque Saudi Fransi
Country: KSA
Operator(s): VOX
P&G Always
Country: KSA
Operator(s): VOX, AMC & Muvi
Tabby
Country: KSA
Operator(s): VOX
Think cinema for ‘attention-grabbing’ advertising! Contact us for cinema advertising opportunities alongside special events and celebrations.
Related Articles:
Eid al-Fitr 2024 Cinema Campaigns
Pixar has long established itself as a powerhouse in the world of animation, consistently delivering blockbuster hits that captivate audiences of all ages. From the record-breaking success of ‘Elemental’ to the heartwarming tales of ‘Toy Story’ and ‘The Incredibles,’ Pixar has cemented its reputation for creating some of the most beloved animated films of all time. Adding to its impressive roster is the sequel to the Academy AwardⓇ-winning ‘Inside Out’, poised to continue Pixar’s legacy of excellence in emotional storytelling and animation.
Eight years after the original release, excitement for the sequel has reached new heights, demonstrating just how beloved the first film was. With news and speculation continuously emerging, here is everything we know about Inside Out 2 so far.
Inside Out 2 hits the big screen on June 13th, 2024. The release is just around the corner, so get ready to revisit the world inside Riley’s head.
Inside Out 2 will premiere in all Middle Eastern markets with a full Arabic voice cast, alongside the original English language, showcasing Arab talent. This marks the first Disney animation to be released in Arabic.
The latest trailer teases the arrival of new emotions and the challenges Riley faces as a teenager.
The good news? The original cast is returning! Amy Poehler is back as Joy, Phyllis Smith voices Sadness, Lewis Black brings Anger to life, and Bill Hader and Mindy Kaling return as Fear and Disgust, respectively. New additions to the voice cast include Maya Hawke and Tony Hale, though their roles remain a mystery for now.
Picking up from the first film, Inside Out 2 explores Riley’s mind as she enters her teenage years. The established emotions—Joy, Sadness, Anger, Fear, and Disgust—will face some new company. The trailer hints at the arrival of complex emotions like Anxiety, Embarrassment, and possibly Ennui (boredom). How will these new players navigate Headquarters and influence Riley’s life?
Kelsey Mann steps in as director, taking the reins from Pete Docter, who helmed the first film. However, Docter remains involved as an executive producer, ensuring the spirit of the original is carried forward.
With a movie targeted toward families and children, Inside Out 2 presents a perfect opportunity for brands to reach a wide audience. Contact us to advertise alongside this upcoming family blockbuster.
Source: Collider, Pixar YouTube, IMDb
The newly renovated THEATRE experience at MOE is part of the exhibitor’s enhancement plans for its flagship destinations across the region
VOX Cinemas, the dedicated cinema arm of Majid Al Futtaim, has unveiled a significant upgrade to its THEATRE experience at the Mall of the Emirates, furthering its commitment to providing patrons with premium cinema experiences.
This enhancement encompasses the four THEATRE screens within the 24-screen cinema at the Mall of the Emirates in Dubai – the largest cinema location operated by VOX in the UAE.
Guests at THEATRE can now enjoy access to the exclusive redesigned Private Lounge featuring a billiards table, shuffleboard, and stylish seating options, as well as décor inspired by the world of cinema, including film memorabilia and walls adorned with digital posters from iconic movies, providing a perfect space for socializing or enjoying a meal before or after the show.
The revamped THEATRE also boasts a complete transformation of the auditoriums, featuring enhanced seating with additional legroom, privacy screens between neighboring seats, and heated recliners. Each seat is equipped with a wireless charger, a swivel table, and personal lighting, ensuring maximum comfort and convenience. Patrons can choose from a variety of seating options to suit their needs – including single seats, double seating for couples, and group seating for four.
VOX Cinemas has also curated a gourmet menu developed by in-house chefs, specifically for the THEATRE experience. This menu offers a diverse selection of culinary creations and handcrafted mocktails which guests can enjoy in the exclusive private lounge before the film or from the comfort of their seats in the auditorium using the on-demand waiter service.
Beyond the upgraded amenities, VOX Cinemas has prioritized a top-tier audio-visual experience. The auditoriums feature state-of-the-art 4K Laser Projectors and Dolby Atmos sound systems, providing exceptional visual clarity and immersive surround sound – ensuring a fully immersive audiovisual experience.
The revamped THEATRE experience at Mall of the Emirates is now open. Contact us to showcase your brand alongside blockbusters on THEATRE by VOX screens, reaching an affluent audience.
Images: VOX Cinemas
The CinemaCon 2024, the official convention of the National Association of Theatre Owners (NATO) in the US, wrapped up successfully after four days brimming with thrilling announcements, captivating presentations, dynamic demonstrations, and insightful discussions. Hosted at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, this event provided an unparalleled platform for industry leaders to convene and delve into the ever-changing landscape of cinema.
Movie enthusiasts are buzzing with excitement over the forthcoming slate of movie announcements from industry giants such as Disney, Warner Bros., Lionsgate, Universal & Focus Features, and Paramount, all featuring a surprising array of star power during their presentations.
While some studios chose a more reserved approach, others went all out, unveiling explosive action sequences, beloved characters, and intriguing new projects. Here’s a glimpse at some of the hottest trailers and announcements that have us eagerly anticipating a trip to the cinema:
Walt Disney Studios kicked off their presentation at CinemaCon 2024 with a captivating 13-minute exclusive footage reel from Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes, showcasing the film’s expansive and visually stunning world. This was followed by an exciting 9-minute preview of Deadpool & Wolverine and an extended 35-minute sneak peek of Pixar’s highly anticipated Inside Out 2. Attendees were also treated to two exclusive clips from Fede Álvarez’s upcoming film, Alien: Romulus.
In addition to these sneak peeks of previously announced tentpole films, Disney Studios unveiled a lineup of top titles slated for release from late 2024 to early 2025. Among these announcements are Moana 2 set to debut on November 26, 2024, Mufasa: The Lion King premiering on December 19, 2024, and Captain America: Brave New World hitting theaters on February 13, 2025.
Warner Bros. electrified CinemaCon 2024 with an extended sneak peek at Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga, setting the stage for an epic cinematic experience. Following this, the panel reached its pinnacle with the debut of the highly anticipated first official trailer for Joker 2: Folie à Deux. As expected, the film promises to delve deep into the toxic yet captivating relationship between Arthur and Harley, interspersed with dreamy dance and song sequences.
The audience was also treated to further revelations, including insights into Beetlejuice Beetlejuice, set to premiere on September 5,2024, and The Watchers, directed by Ishana Night Shyamalan and releasing on June 13, 2024. Additionally, attendees were thrilled by the unveiling of the first trailer for Bong Joon-ho’s sci-fi adventure Mickey 17, starring Robert Pattinson, slated to hit theaters on January 30, 2025.
Lionsgate made waves at CinemaCon this year with a plethora of exciting announcements. Among them was the confirmation of the sequel Now You See Me 3, featuring the original cast, and a thrilling remake of the horror classic The Blair Witch Project, helmed by Jason Blum. Additionally, they unveiled plans for a live-action adaptation of ‘Naruto’, a film based on the classic board game ‘Monopoly’, and an adaptation of the beloved video game ‘The Sims’.
The presentation also provided a sneak peek into this year’s upcoming blockbusters, including The Crow, Borderlands, The Strangers: Chapter 1, and Never Let Go.
Looking ahead to the first half of the 2025 slate, Lionsgate teased audiences with Guy Ritchie’s next film, In the Grey, slated for release on January 16, 2025. The film stars Henry Cavill and Jake Gyllenhaal as two extraction specialists tasked with rescuing a negotiator from a perilous situation. Also on the horizon are John Wick Presents: Ballerina, hitting theaters on June 5, 2025, and the eagerly anticipated Michael Jackson biopic Michael, scheduled for release on April 16, 2025.
Universal made a splash at CinemaCon with several exciting announcements. They revealed that the sequel to Five Nights at Freddy’s is set for release in fall 2025, following the mixed yet highly successful reception of the first installment, which grossed nearly 300 million dollars worldwide. This success naturally paves the way for the studio to expand on this franchise.
Furthermore, Universal showcased new projects such as Despicable Me 4, The Wolf Man, the disaster film Twisters, and Wicked, featuring Ariana Grande. The audience was also treated to a glimpse of Robert Egger’s adaptation of Nosferatu, which left a lasting impression with its initial images. Additionally, attendees were captivated by the debut trailer for the remake Speak No Evil, starring James McAvoy.
Paramount Pictures started with a major announcement: a crossover event featuring Transformers meeting G.I. Joe in an upcoming film. Additionally, the audience was treated to the first trailer for Transformers One.
The studio also unveiled plans for two new Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movies: Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem 2 and an R-rated live-action adaptation titled Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: The Last Ronin. A new ‘Star Trek’ film is on the horizon for release next year, and Glen Powell is set to star in Edgar Wright’s remake of ‘The Running Man.’ Additionally, fans can anticipate a new installment in the ‘Scary Movie’ franchise currently in development. A final trailer for IF starring Ryan Reynolds was also showcased.
Fans of the blue hedgehog were delighted with the unveiling of the first teaser trailer for Sonic the Hedgehog 3 during the event. However, the teaser for Ridley Scott’s Gladiator 2, featuring Paul Mescal facing off against attacking wildlife like a rhino and vicious baboons, along with Pedro Pascal, was exclusively presented at the colosseum stage in Caesars Palace, according to Variety.
Sources: Rotten Tomatoes, Kino Check, discussingfilm.com, Variety
Lionsgate and Blumhouse join forces in ‘Imaginary,’ spearheading our compilation of the most eagerly awaited horror films of 2024.
Though Halloween may still be a distant specter on the calendar, the spine-tingling allure of horror knows no season. Reflecting on 2023, it was undeniably a year of resurgence for the genre on the silver screen, solidifying its status as Hollywood’s dependable cash cow, particularly in the wake of underperforming superhero flicks.
Regionally (especially in the UAE & KSA), horror reigned supreme, with blockbusters such as Evil Dead Rise ($3.94M), Nun II ($2.43M – UAE only), Insidious: The Red Door ($1.47M – UAE only), Romancham (Malayalam) ($1.48M – UAE), Five Nights at Freddy’s ($5.86M), and M3gan ($2.17M) dominating the 2023 box office charts.
But as we peer into the murky depths of 2024, a fresh wave of terror awaits, promising both new nightmares and the resurrection of beloved franchises. The new roster includes work from acclaimed filmmakers such as M. Night Shyamalan, Robert Eggers, Tim Burton and Jordan Peele etc.
So, sharpen your claws, brace yourself for the darkness, and prepare to unleash your most blood-curdling screams (or retreat beneath the safety of your covers) as these spine-tingling spectacles beckon you to the edge of your theater seat. After all, there’s nothing quite like experiencing the chilling terror of these films in the immersive atmosphere of the cinema.
Imaginary – 7 March 2024
Imaginary unfolds through the eyes of a woman who returns to her childhood home, to discover that the imaginary friend that she left behind has a life of its own and is unhappy that she abandoned him. Are you ready to have the memory of your favorite childhood toy ruined forever?
Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire – 21 March 2024
Who you gonna call? The Ghostbusters are back, baby! This time, they’re facing off against ‘The Death Chill,’ a frosty threat that’s giving New York City a serious case of the shivers. With the OG team and some fresh faces, get ready for a ghostly adventure that’ll send chills down your spine!
Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey 2 – 21 March 2024
Hold onto your honey pots, folks! The unexpected smash hit ‘Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey’ is back with a vengeance in its sequel. This time, everyone’s favorite bear is taking the slash-and-dice route, promising even more brutality and weirdness. Who’s gonna make it out alive this time? Your guess is as good as ours!
The First Omen – 04 April 2024
Holy hell! ‘The First Omen’ is here to give you nightmares. Set before the events of the classic horror flick ‘The Omen,’ this prequel follows Margaret, played by Nell Tiger Free (yep, the Baratheon girl from Game of Thrones), as she discovers that not everything behind the church gates is as holy as it seems.
The Watchers – 6 June 2024
Get ready to be on the edge of your seat with ‘The Watchers.’ Inspired by A.M Shine’s gripping novel, this film takes you on a chilling ride through the eerie landscapes of the Western Irish Countryside. With Ishana Night Shyamalan at the helm and a stellar cast, get ready for fear and suspense like never before!
A Quiet Place: Day One – 27 June 2024
Curious how it all began? ‘A Quiet Place – Day One’ takes you back to ground zero, showing the day those deadly death angels first descended upon Earth. Led by the phenomenal Lupita Nyong’o, this installment promises chaos, terror, and some Stranger Things alum thrown in for good measure!
Longlegs – 11 July 2024
FBI Agent Lee Harker is on the case in ‘The Unseen.’ Dive into an unsolved serial killer mystery filled with unexpected twists and occult elements. As Harker races against time, the stakes—and the body count—keep getting higher!
Alien: Romulus – 15 August 2024
Buckle up for an otherworldly adventure! ‘Alien: Romulus’ introduces us to a fresh batch of characters facing off against the universe’s most terrifying beings – Xenomorphs. The seventh installment in the legendary franchise takes us on a whole new journey, stepping away from the prequels and into uncharted territory.
Beetlejuice Beetlejuice – 5 September 2024
Tim Burton is back to haunt your dreams with ‘Beetlejuice Beetlejuice.’ Join a grown-up Lydia Deetz as she returns to her once quaint, now ominously transformed home with her own family. But when chaos ensues, is it time to summon that mischievous poltergeist again? You might want to say his name—twice!
Terrifier 3 – 24 October 2024
Director Damien Leone is set to redefine horror with ‘Terrifier 3,’ pledging elevated levels of violence and gore. The film aims to explore the origins of the menacing antagonist, Art the Clown, and reintroduce pivotal characters like Sienna Shaw. Leone’s vision for the franchise ensures a chilling and gripping cinematic journey.
Smile 2 – 18 October 2024
Remember that unsettling smile that crawled out of your nightmares in 2022? Get ready for another round of psychological horror and spine-tingling scares as the origins of the entity are explored even further. New characters will be drawn into the nightmarish cycle, each facing their own inner demons alongside those terrifying smiles.
Thread: An Insidious Tale – TBA
The next installment of the Insidious saga unfolds with Thread: An Insidious Tale, slated for 2024. This spinoff, starring Kumail Nanjiani and Mandy Moore, delves into the perilous repercussions when a couple tamper with time to avert tragedy. Penned and directed by Jeremy Slater, anticipate a riveting journey into the abyss of fear and desperation.
But hold up, because there’s more! Here are some more that might sneak up and become the sleeper hits we all love and eagerly anticipate sequels for, just like ‘Talk to Me,’ ‘Smile,’ or ‘Barbarian’:
Source: IMDb, SCREENRANT
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