December 2024 Movie Releases: The Ultimate Watchlist

The festive season is upon us, and what better way to end 2024 than with a lineup of cinematic gems?

From heart-pounding action to nostalgic animations, December’s movies are as varied as your relatives at Christmas dinner.

Let’s dive into the must-see releases this month, and trust us, there’s something for everyone (even your hard-to-please cousin).

1. ‘The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim’

Release Date: December 13, 2024

Two decades after Peter Jackson’s iconic trilogy, Middle-earth is calling us back.

Directed by anime legend Kenji Kamiyama, this animated prequel is set 183 years before the events of the original films.

It chronicles the siege of Helm’s Deep, long before Aragorn and his brood made it trendy.

The voice cast includes Brian Cox and Miranda Otto, so expect gravitas aplenty.

For Tolkien fans, it’s the perfect excuse to nerd out while eating holiday leftovers.

2. ‘Kraven the Hunter’

Release Date: December 13, 2024

Marvel’s anti-hero Kraven finally takes center stage in Sony’s Spider-Man Universe.

Played by Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Kraven’s origin story blends familial drama with wild action sequences—think Shakespeare meets “The Revenant,” but with less bear wrestling.

Ariana DeBose and Russell Crowe round out the cast, making this a must-watch for comic book enthusiasts and action aficionados alike.

3. ‘Mufasa: The Lion King’

Release Date: December 20, 2024

Ever wondered how everyone’s favorite lion king rose to power? Barry Jenkins’s prequel takes us back to Mufasa’s orphaned cub days, where destiny, danger, and delightful musical numbers collide.

Featuring the voices of Seth Rogen and Donald Glover, this film is bound to tug on your heartstrings while keeping you singing along.

Plus, it’s a great way to distract the kids during post-Christmas cleanup.

4. ‘Sonic the Hedgehog 3’

Release Date: December 20, 2024

Jim Carrey returns as the delightfully unhinged Dr. Robotnik, alongside Ben Schwartz’s Sonic, Idris Elba’s Knuckles, and a mysterious foe: Shadow the Hedgehog.

This family-friendly adventure promises a mix of humor, high-speed chases, and enough nostalgia to make any millennial weep. Pro tip: Stay for the post-credit scene.

5. ‘Babygirl’

Release Date: December 25, 2024

Nicole Kidman spices up Christmas with this steamy drama about forbidden romance and power dynamics.

Set against a glossy backdrop, ‘Babygirl’ explores the intricacies of desire and betrayal.

Featuring Harris Dickinson and Antonio Banderas, it’s the perfect pick for those who prefer their holiday flicks with a bit of bite.

6. ‘A Complete Unknown’

Release Date: December 25, 2024

Timothée Chalamet steps into the iconic shoes of Bob Dylan during his seismic shift from folk to rock.

With a cast including Elle Fanning and Edward Norton, this biopic promises an intimate look at the man behind the music.

If you’re still humming “Like a Rolling Stone” after all these years, this one’s for you.

7. ‘Nightbitch’

Release Date: December 6, 2024

Amy Adams stars as a mother convinced she’s turning into a dog. Yes, you read that right.

Based on Rachel Yoder’s darkly comedic novel, this film blurs the line between reality and fantasy in the most intriguing way. A howl-worthy addition to the December slate.

8. ‘The Return’

Release Date: December 6, 2024

This sci-fi thriller has been kept under wraps, but early buzz suggests it’s a mind-bender in the vein of “Inception” and “Arrival.”

With a star-studded cast and cryptic teasers, it’s already generating Oscar whispers.

9. ‘F Marry Kill’

Release Date: December 6, 2024

Dating apps meet true crime in this darkly comedic thriller. Lucy Hale stars as Eva, a woman caught in a deadly game of swipe-right roulette.

Equal parts chilling and cheeky, it’s the perfect pick for fans of edgy storytelling.

10. ‘Maria’

Release Date: December 11, 2024

Angelina Jolie portrays opera legend Maria Callas in this lush biopic. Exploring the diva’s final days in Paris, the film is a poignant reflection on fame, artistry, and the price of greatness.