The Best Films in UK Cinemas for October 2025

Hello, cinephiles, and welcome back to the silver screen, where the popcorn is hot, the seats are comfortable, and the magic is about to unfold. Autumn is officially upon us, and as the nights draw in, there’s no better time to get lost in the dark of a cinema.

October 2025 is shaping up to be a cracker, with a movie line-up that’s more varied and exciting than a game of cinematic bingo. So, without further ado, grab your tickets and settle in, because here's what you absolutely must see this month.

Tron: Ares

First up, we have the long-awaited return to a digital landscape with Tron: Ares. It’s been a long time coming, but the buzz surrounding this sci-fi spectacle is deafening. With a stellar cast and what promises to be jaw-dropping visuals, this isn't just a sequel; it's a re-imagining of a cult classic for a new generation. Will it live up to the hype? Only time will tell, but I, for one, will be there on opening night with my 3D glasses firmly in place.

The Black Phone 2

For those of you who enjoy a bit of a fright with your film, October is, of course, the month of spooks, and this year delivers in spades. The much-anticipated The Black Phone 2 is set to haunt our dreams with a sequel to the terrifying original. Scott Derrickson returns to the director's chair, and if the first film is anything to go by, we can expect a chilling, character-driven horror that will leave you on the edge of your seat. And if that's not enough to satisfy your craving for dread, look no further than Bugonia. Yorgos Lanthimos's latest is a pitch-black comedy about alien conspiracy theorists that promises to be as delightfully bizarre as his previous works.

The Smashing Machine

But it’s not all scares and sci-fi. For a dose of gritty, real-world drama, we have The Smashing Machine. A biopic about MMA fighter Mark Kerr, starring none other than Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. This role is a genuine departure for Johnson and a chance to show off his serious acting chops. I’m utterly fascinated to see if he can truly embody the vulnerability and ferocity of a real-life champion battling his demons. If he pulls it off, we could be looking at a serious awards contender.

Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere

And speaking of awards, the musical biopic Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere looks like it could be a major player. Following the creation of Bruce Springsteen's iconic Nebraska album, this film has a rawness and intimacy that's already getting critics talking. Starring Jeremy Allen White as The Boss, this could be the definitive rock-and-roll film of the year.

Mortal Kombat II

For the gaming audience, there's Mortal Kombat II. This sequel to the video-game adaptation promises more visceral, fantastical fight choreography and fan-favourite characters. It's pure, unadulterated fun, and sometimes, that's exactly what you need.

After the Hunt

Finally, October brings a handful of films that I’m particularly excited about for their unique perspectives. After the Hunt, starring the incomparable Julia Roberts, is a thriller that delves into a university professor's world after a student's accusation. It sounds like a taut, suspenseful drama that will keep you guessing. Meanwhile, Roofman stars Channing Tatum as a real-life thief, a quirky, off-beat story that could be a sleeper hit.

So there you have it, folks. A smorgasbord of cinematic delights to see you through the autumn. From big-budget spectacles to intimate dramas and nerve-shredding horrors, October 2025 has something for everyone. Get ready to lose yourself in the magic of the movies. I’ll see you at the concessions stand.