Wondering what to watch this January? Plenty of new releases are in store, from a musical adaptation of a modern classic, to fascinating documentaries, to engrossing series, to poignant book-to-screen adaptations. Whether you’re looking to catch a movie in theatres or stream from home, here are some of the films and series we have our eye on in January 2024.
Mean Girls
20 years later, Mean Girls is back. This highly-anticipated remake, written and produced by Tina Fey, follows the same beloved characters from the original films, with both familiar and fresh faces on screen. Reneé Rapp leads The Plastics as Regina George and Angourie Rice stars as new girl Cady Heron. Expect a 2024 twist on the classic, but with all the quotable lines you love from the original (fetch!). And… it’s a musical! Look forward to hearing songs from the Broadway production of Mean Girls and some original tracks.
Release Date: January 12
Where to Watch: In theatres
Origin
This latest film from Ava Duvernay stars Academy Award nominee Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor as journalist Isabel Wilkerson. While investigating the global phenomenon of caste and its dark influence on society for what would become her New York Times bestseller Caste, Isabel faces unfathomable loss and uncovers the beauty of love and human resilience.
Release Date: January 19
Where to Watch: In theatres
The Braid
The Braid is the story of three women, three continents, and three battles, based on director Laetitia Colombani’s bestselling novel. In India, Smita is an Untouchable, dreaming of her daughter escaping their miserable condition and attending school. In Italy, when Giulia’s father is the victim of an accident, she discovers that the family business is ruined. In Canada, renowned lawyer Sarah is on the verge of a huge promotion, until she learns of a devastating illness. Separated by distances and different lives, Smita, Giulia and Sarah are bound unknowingly by something intimate and singular.
Release Date: January 19
Where to Watch: In select theatres
Griselda
We can’t wait to see Sofia Vergara star in Griselda, a gritty limited series inspired by the life of Griselda Blanco, the ambitious founder of one of the most powerful cartels in history. Set in 1970s-80s Miami, Griselda’s lethal blend of savagery and charm helps her expertly navigate between business and family. Executive-produced by Vergara and the team behind Narcos, and featuring Karol G’s on-screen debut, this series is bound to pack a powerful punch.
Release Date: January 25
Where to Watch: Netflix
Expats
Starring Nicole Kidman and created by Lulu Wang, director of The Farewell, this new series follows a multifaceted group of women after a single encounter sets off a chain of life-altering events. Set against the complex tapestry of Hong Kong residents, Expats explores how these women navigate the intricate balance between blame and accountability. This vibrant adaptation of the bestselling 2016 novel The Expatriates by Janice Y. K. Lee premiered at TIFF in 2023, and has been praised for its gripping storytelling.
Release Date: January 26
Where to Watch: Prime
299 Queen Street West
Curious about what happened behind the scenes in the early days of MuchMusic? This new documentary dives into the history of the iconic music and pop culture brand, with unprecedented access to the MuchMusic archives. From its scrappy beginnings in Canadian television to the rise of rap, grunge, and alt-rock, this two-hour doc traces the rise of MuchMusic, featuring interviews with VJs who helped shape the beloved brand.
Release Date: January 26
Where to Watch: Crave
Coven
Rama Rau’s documentary Coven follows three millennial witches on their journeys of empowerment and connection. Laura, Andra, and Ayo (aka Toronto singer Witch Prophet), travel to Romania, Scotland, New Orleans, and Salem in search of past lives and lost traditions, as they explore their identities and define what witchcraft means to them. See our review and interview with Rama Rau from last year’s premiere at Hot Docs film festival.
Release Date: January 28
Where to Watch: CBC Gem
For The Culture with Amanda Parris
In this six-part docu-series, award-winning writer, producer and host Amanda Parris travels around the world for insightful conversations and sharp takes on important topics impacting Black communities. For The Culture crosses borders and creates space for critical conversations about reparations, Black maternal health, the business of Black hair and more, and features an incredible lineup of special guests, including Larry Wilmore, Gina Yashere, and Bolu Babalola.
Release Date: January 30
Where to Watch: CBC Gem
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