There are a number of new Hollywood releases hitting screens this week, each with a very different tone. A large-scale fantasy sequel, a revenge action film, and a Tokyo-set drama all come together at their own pace. Here’s a look at three titles releasing on November 21st.
Wicked: for good
The second chapter of the Wicked saga returns to the final segment of Glinda (Ariana Grande) and Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo)’s story. The angry mob closes in on the witch and pushes both women into a last ditch effort to cooperate. Their friendship becomes the support upon which the future of Oz turns, with the film based on themes of honesty, loyalty, and consequences.
New cast members include Bowen Yang and Bronwyn James as Glinda’s assistants, Puffany and Shenshen. Sharon D. Clarke voices Elphaba’s childhood grandmother, Dulcibeer. Marc Platt and David Stone are producing, with executive producers Stephen Schwartz, David Nicksay, Jared LeBoeuf, Winnie Holzman and Dana Fox.
The first film, released in November 2024, earned 10 Oscar nominations and won for Costume Design and Production Design. According to NBC, the franchise has grossed over $750 million worldwide to date.
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Sisu: Path of Revenge
Jorma Tomila is back as “the man who refuses to die” in the sequel to sleeper hit Sisu. This time, he returns to the site of his family’s murder, destroys the remains of the house and sets out to rebuild it elsewhere. His plan is disrupted when the Red Army commander responsible for the attack, played by Stephen Lang, reappears.
What follows is a chase that crosses terrain and towns. The film is written and directed by Jalmari Helander and maintains the sharp, harsh tone of the first installment.
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rental family
Set in present-day Tokyo, Rental Family tells the story of an American actor, played by Brendan Fraser, who takes an unusual job at a “rental family” agency. Their jobs place them in different homes, filling temporary roles for clients who need a stand-in relative.
The work starts out routine but changes when he begins to make connections that complicate the boundaries of the work. The film looks at identity, paid relationships and the difficulty of maintaining distance once emotions enter the equation.
Directed by HIKARI, the cast includes Fraser, Takehiro Hira, Mari Yamamoto, Shannon Gorman and Akira Emoto.
The calendar remains busy, but these films set the tone for the week ahead.
questions to ask
Wicked: What’s for the good?
It continues the Wicked story as Glinda and Elphaba face a final conflict that tests their friendship.
Sisu: What is Road to Revenge?
It is the action sequel to Sisu, the story of a survivor who confronts the Soviet commander who killed his family.
What is Rental Family Starring Brendan Fraser?
It is a drama set in Tokyo where an actor takes paid stand-in roles while forming unexpected bonds.
Which movies should I watch this week?
Wicked: For Good, Sisu: Road to Revenge, and Rental Family headline the week’s new releases.