Christmas box office showdown: A vampire classic, an illicit affair, and a CGI Chimpanzee

From gothic horror and a steamy office drama to an unconventional musical biopic, these December releases promise captivating storytelling and standout performances.

Robert Eggers’ Nosferatu: A Chilling Reinvention of a Classic

Robert Eggers breathes new life into Nosferatu, a gothic reimagining of the 1922 silent classic. This haunting tale follows Count Orlok’s obsession with Ellen Hutter (Lily-Rose Depp) in 19th-century Germany. Bill Skarsgård transforms into Orlok, embodying pure evil with unsettling subtlety after months of intense preparation. Eggers’ passion project, long delayed, features an all-star cast, including Nicholas Hoult and Willem Dafoe. With meticulous attention to period detail and atmospheric visuals, Nosferatu promises a unique blend of history and horror. Set to release December 25, 2024, this film is poised to redefine the iconic vampire legend for a modern audience.

Helena Reijn's Babygirl: Power, Desire, and Consequences

Helena Reijn’s Babygirl, an A24 production set for release on December 25, 2024, is a bold erotic thriller exploring forbidden attraction and power dynamics. Starring Nicole Kidman as Romy, a high-powered CEO, and Harris Dickinson as her enigmatic younger intern, Samuel, the film delves into the complexities of age-gap relationships, dominance, and desire. The story follows Romy, whose seemingly perfect life unravels when a passionate affair with Samuel threatens her career and family. With its layered characters, Babygirl challenges societal norms on relationships and power, offering a provocative cinematic experience from the Bodies Bodies Bodies director.

Michael Gracey's Better Man: A Pop Star’s Legacy

Slated to release in limited theatres on Christmas and a nationwide release in Januay 2025, Michael Gracey’s upcoming film dives into Robbie Williams' life in the most unconventional way possible. Better Man reimagines the rise, fall, and resurgence of British pop icon Robbie Williams—through the lens of a CGI chimpanzee. Directed by Michael Gracey (The Greatest Showman), the biopic uses surreal visuals to tell Williams' story, combining his meteoric success with deeply personal struggles. Robbie’s animated alter ego brings to life his journey from Take That to solo superstardom. With its unique style and emotional depth, Better Man promises a fresh take on celebrity biopics.