Lights, Camera, Action: The Hottest Movie Releases Heating Up Theaters and Streaming PlatformsAs the year winds down, the entertainment industry is gearing up for a blockbuster finale. Three of the biggest movies of 2023 are set to hit theaters next week, but before the big-budget behemoths take over, there are some intriguing options worth exploring in the Milwaukee area and beyond.

Prepare for a Cinematic Extravaganza

Unwrapping the Gift of "Red One"

When the jolly old elf himself, Santa Claus (J.K. Simmons), is kidnapped, the North Pole's security chief (Dwayne Johnson) is forced to bring in the world's top bounty hunter (Chris Evans) – a perennial naughty-list contender – to track him down. This effects-laden action comedy, directed by "Jumanji" reboot mastermind Jake Kasdan, promises a wild ride as these unlikely allies navigate the chaos of the holiday season. Catch it at a variety of theaters, including ACX Cinema/Bayshore, AMC Mayfair Mall, Avalon Theater, and Marcus Theatres' Bistroplex Southridge, Hillside, Majestic, Menomonee Falls, Movie Tavern Brookfield Square, North Shore, Ridge, and South Shore cinemas, as well as Rosebud Cinema and Silverspot Cinema.

Exploring Family Dynamics in "A Real Pain"

Bickering cousins Jesse Eisenberg and Kieran Culkin embark on a tour of Poland to honor their beloved grandmother, but their travels stir up old tensions and uncover the complexities of their family's history. Eisenberg, who also wrote and directed the film, has earned praise for his work behind the camera, while Culkin's performance in front of it has been widely acclaimed. Catch this comedy-drama at AMC Mayfair Mall, Downer Theatre, and select Marcus Theatres locations.

A Chance Encounter in "Albany Road"

An executive (Renée Elise Goldsberry) driving a rental car to a make-or-break meeting is forced to share the ride with her ex-fiancé's combative mother (Lynn Whitfield), and the journey takes an unexpected turn. This intriguing premise unfolds at AMC Mayfair Mall.

Discovering the "Ghost Cat Anzu"

A tween girl living with her grandfather at a rural temple finds an unlikely guardian in the form of an unreliable "ghost cat" whose efforts to win her over don't go as expected. This Japanese anime film is being shown in both subtitled and dubbed versions at Marcus Theatres' Majestic Cinema.

Mariachi Melodies and Cinematic Collaborations

The Latino Arts Mariachi Juvenil will perform and participate in a talkback following a screening of the documentary "Going Varsity in Mariachi" at the Oriental Theatre on November 19th. Additionally, artist Robert Longo, whose work is on display at the Milwaukee Art Museum, will be on hand for a discussion after a black-and-white screening of the sci-fi thriller "Johnny Mnemonic" at the same venue on November 21st.

Disco Fever and Independent Filmmaking

The Friday Night Freak Show at the Oriental Theatre is bringing back the iconic "Saturday Night Fever" on November 15th, complete with a DJ session to set the mood. Meanwhile, the inaugural Milwaukee Independent Film Awards is showcasing 45 movies, including three feature-length films, across multiple venues on November 16th and 17th.

Keanu Reeves and Classic Film Masters

Milwaukee Film is honoring the legendary Keanu Reeves with a "Keaunthon" at the Oriental Theatre, featuring screenings of "Something's Gotta Give" and "River's Edge." The theater is also shining a spotlight on the influential filmmaking duo of Michael Powell and Emeric Pressburger, with a showing of their hypnotic thriller "Black Narcissus."

Cinematic Gems on Demand

For those seeking a more intimate viewing experience, a variety of new releases are available on streaming and on-demand platforms. From the action-packed "Get Fast" to the documentary "Lead and Copper" and the concert film "Yoshiki: Under the Sky," there's something to pique the interest of every movie lover.Whether you're in the mood for big-screen blockbusters, independent gems, or cozy nights in, the Milwaukee area and the world of streaming have an abundance of cinematic delights to explore. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and get ready for a cinematic extravaganza that's sure to captivate and entertain.