Nothing is better than grabbing a few friends, some snacks, putting on some comfy clothes, and heading to the movie theater on a cool winter afternoon or evening. With so many new movies out in November and December, there are a lot of movies to choose from. If you want to sing along, go back in time, or take an adventure in Hawaii there is a new movie out there for you. 

Moana 2 is the sequel to the beloved film Moana. After receiving an unexpected call from her wayfinding ancestors, Moana embarks on a journey across the far seas of Oceania, venturing into perilous, long-lost waters for an adventure unlike any she has ever faced. American actress Auli’i Cravalho returns as the voice of Moana, while Maui is once again voiced by American actor and professional wrestler Dwayne Johnson. Upon its release, Moana 2 received $13.8 million in previews and trailers, $225 million in sales in the US, and $389 million in global sales during its opening weekend while receiving an audience rating summary of 3.5 and 61% rotten tomatoes. 

Wicked is based on Gregory Maguire’s 1995 novel and tells the story of Elphaba, a young woman misunderstood because of her green skin. She forms an unlikely but profound friendship with Glinda, a student driven by an unrelenting desire for popularity. However, their bond is tested when they encounter the Wizard of Oz, leading their lives to diverge unexpectedly. American singer-songwriter and actress Ariana Grande portrays Glinda, while British actress and singer Cynthia Erivo takes on the role of Elphaba. Upon its release, Wicked received $19.2 million in previews and trailers, and $163 million in sales during its opening weekend while receiving an audience rating summary of 4.1 and 88% rotten tomatoes. 

Gladiator II is a sequel to the iconic movie Gladiator. The story follows Lucius, who, years after witnessing Maximus’s death at his uncle’s hands, is forced to enter the Colosseum after the powerful emperors of Rome conquer his homeland. Consumed by rage and with the future of the empire at stake, Lucius looks to the past to find the strength and honor needed to restore Rome’s glory to its people. Irish actor Paul Mescal portrays Lucius, while American actor and producer Denzel Washington plays Macrinus. Upon its release, Gladiator II received $6.5  million in previews and trailers, and $55.03 million in sales during its opening weekend while receiving an audience rating summary of 3.1 and 71% rotten tomatoes. 

Out of 30 students surveyed about their favorite recently released movie, 15 chose Wicked, 10 selected Moana 2, 3 preferred Gladiator II, 1 picked Venom: The Last Dance, and 1 chose Smile 2. Skye Nelsen (’25), Leyla Sandford (’25), and Peter Cirioli (’26) thought Wicked was the best recent release due to its amazing cinematography, production quality, and acting. Lily Sinodis (’27) and Markus Keeter (’26) chose Gladiator II because of its well-done action scenes and its success as a sequel to the original. Lillian van Donk (’26) enjoyed Moana 2 for its engaging and fun portrayal of different cultures, especially for children.

In conclusion, many people who went to see Wicked, Moana 2, and Gladiator II thoroughly enjoyed the films and would highly recommend them to anyone who hasn’t had the chance to watch them yet. If you’re interested in catching these movies in theaters, here are the websites of movie theaters in the Triangle area!

https://www.regmovies.com/theatres/regal-brier-creek-1843

https://www.amctheatres.com/movie-theatres/raleigh-durham/amc-southpoint-17

https://www.paragontheaters.com/theater-details/g01az-paragon-fenton-axis15-extreme-cary/

https://www.regmovies.com/theatres/regal-north-hills-1846Contact

https://www.fandango.com/triangle-cinemas-aaguu/theater-page?format=all