The film follows Powell’s character as he attempts to secure his rightful slice of a messy family inheritance, a setup that leans into chaos, suspicion and sharp-witted maneuvering. Think the quirky, self-aware storytelling style of the Knives Out franchise: playful narration, eccentric characters and a tone that flirts with absurdity without completely losing the plot.

It’s a straightforward story, easy to follow, and anchored by a lingering sense of intrigue that keeps you guessing, especially as it builds toward a twist worth sticking around for. This is precisely where Powell thrives. The role fits him like a glove, allowing him to flex that effortless charm that’s quickly becoming his trademark.

The film doesn’t take itself too seriously, and that works in its favour. It taps into a proven formula, stylish mystery meets comedic timing, that continues to resonate when executed well. That said, it’s not flawless. A few antics stretch believability a little too far, and the script could’ve been tightened to sharpen its impact. Still, as an enjoyable, switch-off-your-brain watch, it absolutely delivers.

Powell is joined by a strong supporting cast, including Margaret Qualley (Maid, Happy Gilmore), Jessica Henwick (Iron Fist, The Matrix Resurrections), and the legendary Ed Harris (A Beautiful Mind, Westworld).

If you haven’t been paying attention to Powell’s run, where have you been? From Anyone but You to Hit Man (and more on the way), his catalogue is growing fast, and wisely chosen.

Shout out to Sun Africa Group for hosting the pre-screening.

Verdict: If you’re after a dose of stylish, slightly silly escapism, a film that entertains without demanding too much, How to Make a Killing is right up your alley.

This exclusive event, held at Ster-Kinekor Eastgate, that offered attendees an early glimpse into the film’s richly imagined universe, delivered all the sparkle of a major premiere, blending spectacle and anticipation as guests experienced the film ahead of its national release in cinemas on Friday 21 November 2025.

A positively spellbinding guest list

The yellow brick road arrivals carpet buzzed with a show-stopping line-up of South Africa’s most recognisable personalities, each adding their own touch of magic to the Wicked For Good celebration. Among the many farmiliar faces were Bontle Modiselle, Mrs SA Verushka Singh, Tamara Day, Hope Ramafalo and others. 

Kim Jayde took the spotlight as the official host, guiding the event with her signature charm and vibrant presence. Her energy kept the crowd enchanted as she welcomed guests on the carpet and in cinema, celebrating the magic, the emotion and the cinematic spectacle that define Wicked for Good.

Guests were also treated to a live rendition of the film’s beloved song “For Good” by the Johannesburg Queer Chorus, whose heartfelt harmonies filled the room with emotion and added a beautifully poignant touch to the celebration.

More Wicked For Good magic to come

Wicked For Good tells the untold story of the unlikely friendship between Elphaba and Glinda as they navigate love, rivalry and the forces that will shape their destinies, long before Dorothy ever arrives in Oz. With ticket bookings now open, local cinemagoers are encouraged to secure their seats for the nationwide release this Friday, 21 November. Not one to be missed, we can safely and confidently declare that after seeing the movie. Whilst you wait, check out the official trailer below:

The 234-metre skyscraper was illuminated with striking “TRON: Ares” – inspired visuals, echoing the film’s digital world and signature neon aesthetic, symbolising the film’s bold leap from the digital world into the real world.

This Johannesburg moment adds to “TRON: Ares” global celebration, following a series of international stunts and activations that have captured audiences’ imaginations around the world.

“TRON: Ares” follows a highly sophisticated Program, Ares, who is sent from the digital world into the real world on a dangerous mission, marking humankind’s first encounter with A.I. beings. The feature film is directed by Joachim Rønning and stars Jared Leto, Greta Lee, Evan Peters, Jodie Turner-Smith, Hasan Minhaj, Arturo Castro and Cameron Monaghan, with Gillian Anderson and Jeff Bridges.

Sean Bailey, Jared Leto, p.g.a., Emma Ludbrook, p.g.a., Jeffrey Silver, Justin Springer, p.g.a., and Steven Lisberger are the producers, with Trent Reznor & Atticus Ross, Russell Allen, and Joseph Kosinski serving as executive producers. The screenplay is by Jesse Wigutow, with story by David DiGilio and Wigutow, based on characters created by Steven Lisberger and Bonnie MacBird.

Disney’s “TRON: Ares” is now showing in cinemas nationwide.

Written and directed by Benny Safdie, The Smashing Machine is a biographical sports drama that tells the tragic rise and fall of mixed martial arts fighter Mark Kerr, played by Johnson. The story zeroes in on the late 1990s, showcasing Kerr’s dominance in the ring, his subsequent struggles with opioid addiction, and his turbulent relationship with his wife, Dawn Staples (portrayed by Emily Blunt).

Interestingly, the film is a scripted adaptation of HBO’s 2002 documentary of the same name, which chronicled the same pivotal chapter in Kerr’s life. It’s another example of Hollywood leaning into the “true story” formula – a recipe that, when done well, often connects deeply with audiences.

The movie admittedly starts off slow, even with the fight scenes sprinkled in, and the pacing may test your patience at first. Some sequences feel oddly put together, almost disjointed, but as the narrative unfolds, the pieces begin to align, pulling you deeper into Kerr’s world.

For Johnson, this is arguably the most demanding role of his career. It required a massive physical transformation (he looks even more like a monster of an athlete than ever before), cosmetic alterations to his appearance, and, perhaps most importantly, a willingness to push his emotional range further than we’ve seen from him. One scene in particular, where Johnson breaks down in tears, is a standout moment that reminds us he’s more than just muscle and charm.

While the film doesn’t fully live up to its potential, it’s uneven in parts and some key moments feel rushed, it does eventually win you over. By the end, it lands with an emotional punch that sticks.

The performances are where the film shines brightest. Johnson delivers a career-best turn, while Emily Blunt gives a powerful and layered performance as Kerr’s wife. Together, they bring real humanity to a story that could have easily been overshadowed by the brutality of the sport. Credit also goes to the casting team for putting together a lineup that feels authentic and compelling.

At its heart, The Smashing Machine is an ode to an underappreciated MMA pioneer. Kerr’s sacrifices, resilience, and raw humanity are on full display. He comes across as a kind, humble man who became an unstoppable force once the cage doors closed. It’s a story that not only inspires but also highlights just how much Kerr contributed to shaping modern MMA.

For Johnson, this role marks an important turning point. It elevates his career to new heights and shows he’s capable of far more than the blockbuster archetypes he’s known for. Here’s hoping this is the first of many roles that challenge him to dig deeper into his craft.

Verdict: Not perfect, but powerful where it counts. The Smashing Machine delivers Dwayne Johnson’s finest performance yet and pays fitting tribute to an MMA legend who deserves the spotlight.

On the international front, catch the thrilling conclusion of Cobra Kai on February 13 and dive into the drama of Love Is Blind: Season 8 also launching on February 14. Be sure to also not miss the glamorous 31st Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards hosted by Kristen Bell on February 24.

All this and a whole lot more are coming your way this February! Here are the links to download the Full list of content and Imagery. 

Local Content

Umjolo: There is No Cure – Netflix Series – 14 February

After losing her title for publicly exposing a scandal, a former pageant queen works on a tell-all book — all while her love life remains unwritten.

International Content

Cobra Kai: Season 6: Part 3 – Netflix Series – 13 February

Granted one final chance to finish the Sekai Taikai, Daniel, Johnny and the team lay it all on the line in the ultimate championship showdown.

Love Is Blind: Season 8 – Netflix Series – 14 February

A new group of singles face the ultimate dating experiment. Will they find their soulmates and get married, or will looks get in the way of love?

The 31st Annual Screen Actors Guild Awards – Netflix Live Event – 24 February

Kristen Bell hosts as the biggest names in film and TV light up the stage for the 31st annual Screen Actors Guild Awards. (Live event in English.)

Non-Branded Titles

• Fifty Shades of Grey – 2/1/2025
• Fifty Shades Darker – 2/1/2025
• Fifty Shades Freed – 2/1/2025
• Gladiator – 2/16/2025

The month of Feb is stacked, check out the full line-up here and plan your viewing schedule accordingly.

You can also ring in the new year with Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl (also debuting on January 3rd) an animated adventure where Gromit must save Wallace from a rogue invention. More drama unfolds in Dubai’s most lavish friendship circle in Dubai Bling: Season 3, launching on January 8th. Lastly, XO, Kitty: Season 2 premieres on January 16th, as Kitty returns to Seoul for a fresh start, but drama and romance ensue.

Local Content

Umjolo: My Beginning, My End! – Netflix Film – 3 Jan

Caught between her family and her free spirit, Mayi begins to question her upcoming nuptials when she meets a charming and passionate saxophonist.

International Content

Wallace & Gromit: Vengeance Most Fowl- Netflix Kids and Family – 3 Jan

Top dog Gromit springs into action to save his master when Wallace’s high-tech invention goes rogue and he’s framed for a series of suspicious crimes.

Dubai Bling: Season 3 – Netflix Series – 8 Jan

With friends like these, who needs enemies? Dubai’s most dysfunctional and lavish friendship circle is back as the drama unfolds in the latest season.

XO, Kitty: Season 2 – Netflix Series – 16 Jan

Kitty returns to Seoul ready for a fresh start, but her plan for a drama-free semester fizzles fast amid new faces, messy crushes and family secrets.

Non-Branded Titles

Ma – 1/1/2025

A woman agrees to buy booze for a group of teens and offers them her basement to party in. But her hospitality soon turns into obsession — and terror.

Escape Room – 1/1/2025

Six strangers use their wits to survive a series of deadly mystery rooms that cater to their worst fears — or die trying.

Tears of the Sun- 1/1/2025

When a coup plunges Nigeria into bloodshed, a Navy SEAL must rescue a doctor working in the jungle — and all the people in her care.

Check out the entire line-up here and start properly planning your viewing schedule to kick off your 2025 on an oh so cool note.

Zanele (Sibusisiwe Jili) and Andile (Kay Sibiya) are the ultimate BFFs — from being each other’s go-to plus-one to providing a comforting shoulder to lean on. Andile, however, is in a healthy marriage with Jessica (Trix Vivier), while Zanele’s love life is a depressing rollercoaster of swipes, ghosting and questionable choices. Jessica reluctantly welcomes her husband’s best friend into their lives, but she can’t ignore the uneasy feeling sparked by their undeniable closeness. As friends and family repeatedly joke about their bond, doubts creep in, leaving her questioning whether there’s more to their relationship than meets the eye.

An encounter between Zanele and Andile shatters their friendship, leaving them grappling with the weight of their secret. Zanele finds herself swept off her feet by a new, seemingly perfect love interest, leaving Andile to step aside, no longer the ‘knight in shining armour’ in her story. 

The Umjolo four-part film collection is produced by the award-winning production company Stained Glass, which has been at the forefront of iconic South African television shows for a decade. 

The original songs were written by Grammy®, Tony® and Emmy® Award winner and Kennedy Center Honor® recipient Lin-Manuel Miranda, and produced by Grammy Award winner Mark Mancina and Lin-Manuel Miranda, with additional music and performances by Lebo M. Said Miranda, “’The Lion King’ has an incredible musical legacy with music from some the greatest songwriters around, and I’m humbled and proud to be a part of it. It’s been a joy working alongside Barry Jenkins to bring Mufasa’s story to life, and we can’t wait for audiences to experience this film in theaters.”

The album was produced by Miranda, Mancina and Grammy Award winner and Walt Disney Music President Tom MacDougall. The score, which will be included in the Deluxe version of the soundtrack, was composed by Tony Award winner and composer Dave Metzger.

The Mufasa: The Lion King Original Soundtrack track list follows.

1. “Ngomso” Performed by Lebo M
2. “Milele” Performed by Anika Noni Rose and Keith David
3. “I Always Wanted A Brother” Performed by Braelyn Rankins, Theo Somulo, Aaron Pierre and Kelvin Harrison, Jr.
4. “Bye Bye” Performed by Mads Mikkelsen, Joanna Jones and Folake Olowofoyeku
5. “We Go Together” Performed by Aaron Pierre, Kelvin Harrison Jr., Tiffany Boone, Preston Nyman and Kagiso Lediga
6. “Tell Me It’s You” Performed by Aaron Pierre and Tiffany Boone
7. “Brother Betrayed” Performed by Kelvin Harrison Jr.

Tickets are on sale now for “Mufasa: The Lion King,” which explores the unlikely rise of the beloved king of the Pride Lands. Rafiki relays the legend of Mufasa to young lion cub Kiara, daughter of Simba and Nala, with Timon and Pumbaa lending their signature schtick. Told in flashbacks, the story introduces Mufasa as an orphaned cub, lost and alone until he meets a sympathetic lion named Taka—the heir to a royal bloodline. The chance meeting sets in motion an expansive journey of an extraordinary group of misfits searching for their destiny—their bonds will be tested as they work together to evade a threatening and deadly foe. 

The film features an all-star roster of talent, including Aaron Pierre, Kelvin Harrison Jr., John Kani, Tiffany Boone, Kagiso Lediga, Preston Nyman, Mads Mikkelsen, Thandiwe Newton, Lennie James, Anika Noni Rose, Keith David, Seth Rogen, Billy Eichner, Donald Glover, Blue Ivy Carter, Braelyn Rankins, Theo Somolu, Folake Olowofoyeku, Joanna Jones, Thuso Mbedu, Sheila Atim, Abdul Salis, Dominique Jennings and Beyoncé Knowles-Carter.

Blending live-action filmmaking techniques with photoreal computer-generated imagery, the all-new feature film is directed by Barry Jenkins, produced by Adele Romanski & Mark Ceryak, and executive produced by Peter Tobyansen. Featuring original songs by award-winning songwriter Lin-Manuel Miranda, original score by Dave Metzger and additional music and vocal performances by Lebo M, “Mufasa: The Lion King” opens only in cinemas on 20 December, 2024.

South Africa’s favourite funny man, SAFTA-winning Kenneth Nkosi, brings Joseph Ngema to life, a well-meaning father and husband perpetually sidetracked by his work ambitions. To make up for lost time, he plans an extravagant family holiday to Zanzibar, promising a work-free escape with no laptops or calls intruding on their family time. However, when an unexpected work assignment calls him to Durban for a critical pitch, Joseph sneakily reframes the business trip as a family getaway, convincing his unsuspecting wife and children that they’re headed for a fun-filled road trip and holiday.

Caught up between his wife Nandi (played by Lunathi Mampofu in her first comedic role) and his litigious and controlling ex Dora, starring the acclaimed Tina Jaxa, the road trip has unpredictable but hilarious detours. A run-in with an eccentric shebeen queen, Ma Rosie, portrayed by the award-winning Deli Malinga, turns the journey on its head, and what was meant to be a bonding experience quickly turns into a series of mishaps that test Joseph’s patience, the family’s resilience, and everyone’s sense of humour. 

The cast includes young talents Kopano Mahlasi, Lubabalo Tala, and Yeya Ralarala, who bring fresh energy to the comedy. 

For documentary fans, “Our Oceans” will take us on a breathtaking journey through the world’s oceans, premiering on the 20th. Releasing on November 22 is family-friendly entertainment “Spellbound,” a whimsical adventure about a princess on a quest to save her parents from a curse. Finally, the gripping “Cold Case: Who Killed JonBenét Ramsey” delves into the complexities of this notorious case, providing a definitive look at the pursuit of justice.

Local Content

Umjolo: The Gone Girl  – Netflix Film – 8 Nov

A couple’s seemingly perfect relationship falters when one of them learns about the other’s infidelity — but who said that relationships were easy?

International Content

Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson  – Netflix Live Event – 16 Nov

Jake Paul battles Mike Tyson as they headline this must-see boxing mega-event streaming live in five languages from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

Our Oceans – Netflix Documentary – 20 Nov

Discover the stories beneath the surface of the water in this stunning nature documentary series, which explores each of the Earth’s five oceans.

Spellbound – Netflix Kids and Family Film – 22 Nov

When a powerful spell turns her parents into giant monsters, a teenage princess must journey into the wild to reverse the curse before it’s too late.

Cold Case: Who Killed JonBenét Ramsey – Netflix Documentary

Police missteps and a media circus derailed the JonBenét Ramsey murder case. This definitive docuseries chronicles the decades-long quest for justice.

Non-Branded Titles

Hidden Figures – 11/1/2024

Three brilliant African American women overcome bigotry and sexism to become the brains behind the launch of the first American astronaut into space.

The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn: Part 1 – 11/7/2024

After a dream wedding, Bella and Edward enter a new nightmare when a shocking development forces life-or-death decisions.

The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn: Part 2 – 11/7/2024

In the series’s epic final chapter, Bella and Edward’s newborn daughter forces the couple into a life-altering confrontation with the Volturi.

The Mabaso’s Family Reunion: Season 1 – 11/23/2024

A family schemes to outwit ruthless criminals and the law when they discover a coffin stuffed with cash — and the wrong body — at their mother’s funeral.

See the full line-up here and plan your viewing schedule accordingly.

Let’s peak below some the major highlights in addition to the above.

International Content

Selling Sunset: Season 8 – Netflix Series – 6 September

Glam looks. Fierce clashes. Stunning homes. It’s business as usual for The Oppenheim Group as they welcome a new agent and bid farewell to a dear friend.

The Circle: Season 7 – Netflix Series – 11 September

Clever catfish, shady tactics and game-changing twists collide as a new group of players competes for $100,000 in the most cutthroat season to date.

Emily in Paris: Season 4 Part 2 – Netflix Series – 12 September

Emily has everything she wants, but is it what she needs? From skiing in the French Alps to taking a Roman holiday, she’s ready for her next adventure.

Non-Branded Titles

The Purge: Election Year – 9/16/2024

After vowing to end the country’s annual — and violent — night of legalized crime, a presidential candidate becomes a target and must fight for her life.

The Purge – 9/16/2024

On the one night of the year when violent crimes carry no consequences, a family living in a supposedly safe gated community fights to stay alive.

The Purge: Anarchy – 9/16/2024

In a dystopian future America, five people try to survive an annual night of mayhem when any criminal act can be committed without consequences.

Pulp Fiction – 9/22/2024

This stylized crime caper weaves together stories featuring a contract killer, his philosophical partner and a washed-up boxer.

Star Trek – 9/26/2024

On their first voyage aboard the starship Enterprise, brash James T. Kirk and logic-driven Spock face off against a vengeful Romulan commander.

Star Trek Into Darkness – 9/26/2024

A devastating terror attack puts Kirk and Spock on the hunt for a former insider in this action-packed sequel that includes a cameo by Leonard Nimoy.

Star Trek Beyond – 9/26/2024

After an alien seeking revenge on Starfleet destroys the Enterprise and maroons its crew on a lost planet, Captain Kirk must prevent another attack.

Check here to view the rest of the line-up which again promises to deliver fantastic entertainment.

The highly anticipated fourth season of The Umbrella Academy (8 August) finds the Hargreeves siblings scattered after the climactic showdown at the Hotel Oblivion, which led to a complete reset of their timeline. The Union (16 August) tells a high-octane tale of a New Jersey construction worker (Mark Wahlberg) goes from regular guy to aspiring spy when his long-lost high school sweetheart (Halle Berry) recruits him for a high-stakes espionage mission. 

Local Content

Losing Lerato 2  – Netflix Film – 2 August 

Lerato’s father has been in prison for 15 years. When he is finally released due to illness, she’ll do anything to make sure they aren’t parted again.

International Content

Love Is Blind: UK – Netflix Series – 7 August

Emma and Matt Willis host a social experiment where British singles look for love and get engaged before meeting in person. But who will say “I do”?

The Umbrella Academy: Season 4 – Netflix Series – 8 August

The Hargreeves siblings have scattered after the climactic showdown at the Hotel Oblivion led to a complete reset of their timeline. Stripped of their powers, each is left to fend for themselves and find a new normal — with wildly varying degrees of success. Yet the trappings of their uncanny new world prove too hard to ignore for very long.

Their father Reginald, alive and well, has stepped out of the shadows and into the public eye, overseeing a powerful and nefarious business empire. A mysterious association known as The Keepers holds clandestine meetings believing the reality they’re living in is a lie and a great reckoning is coming. As these strange new forces conspire around them, the Umbrella Academy must come together one last time — and risk upsetting the shaky peace they’ve all endured so much to secure — to finally set things right.

The Union  – Netflix Film – 16 August

A New Jersey construction worker (Mark Wahlberg) goes from regular guy to aspiring spy when his long-lost high school sweetheart (Halle Berry) recruits him for a high-stakes espionage mission.

Non-Branded Titles

The Equalizer – 1 August 2024

Retired intelligence operative Robert McCall reluctantly returns to action to protect a young sex worker from the brutal members of the mafia.

Yellowstone: Season 1-3 – 15 August 2024

As the Duttons work to maintain control over the family ranch, a ruthless new adversary forces John to make unexpected allies.

Mission: Impossible -15 August 2024

After his team is double-crossed, a spy races to find the mole who betrayed them and prevent a top-secret list from falling into the wrong hands.

Lost: Season 1-6 – 16 August 2024

After their plane crashes on a remote tropical island, the survivors must contend with hidden dangers and mysterious, malevolent forces to stay alive.

Check out the full August line-up here, do best and prepare your viewing accordingly.