Just because summer is ending doesn't mean there's nothing left to look forward to. In fact, this September is shaping up to be pretty awesome... if you subscribe to one of HBO's streaming services like HBO Now or HBO Go. The premium cable/streaming network has outdone itself with its new movie offerings for September, putting serious pressure on rival networks and platforms when it comes to the quality of its films. So, what's good on HBO Now in September?
Like I hinted at before, HBO Now has a ton of quality movies heading to their service in the coming month. I'm talking Oscar winners. I'm talking classics. I'm talking some of the biggest blockbusters of all time mixed in with cult favorites. There's an original HBO documentary that looks amazing, and some genre films that are considered to be the pinnacle of their craft. There are also a few killer feminist films, and some seasonal fare to get you in the mood for Halloween. In other words, HBO Now is where it's at. But enough chit chat — here are 14 awesome movies streaming on HBO Now in September, so get your line-up ready.
1. Beetlejuice
With the recent news that a sequel is in the works, it's time to revisit Tim Burton's super odd (and super awesome) creepy comedy. I'm going to watch it three times just to see what happens.
2. Blades Of Glory
Made at that bizarre window in time when it seemed like Jon Heder was going to be a huge comedy star, his pairing with Will Ferrell in this movie is a bit of strange casting that doesn't always work. Still, this movie's contributions to the art of physical comedy are seriously underrated. Simply some of the best physical bits ever captured on film.
3. Blade Runner
Considered by many to be the greatest sci-fi movie ever made, Ridley Scott's 1982 classic still holds up over 30 years later. If you only know Harrison Ford as Han Solo and Indiana Jones, it's time to expand your horizons.
4. Bring It On
A cheerleading movie that was actually good, Bring It On inspired somewhere around 400 sequels (at least that's what it seems like), but none captured the feeling (or sweet year 2000 fashion) of the original.
5. The Departed
The film that finally won Martin Scorsese his long-overdue Oscar is also one of the greatest mobster movies ever made. And that cast! Jack Nicholson, Leonardo DiCaprio, Matt Damon, Martin Sheen, Vera Farmiga, Mark Wahlberg, Alec Baldwin... movies don't get much better than this.
6. Ferrell Takes The Field
In case Blades of Glory wasn't enough Will Ferrell for you, HBO is debuting its documentary about the time Will Ferrell played 10 positions for 10 MLB teams last year. It's going to be insane in the best way.
7. The Good, the Bad, And The Ugly
Westerns haven't been a big draw in decades, but they used to be all the rage. Clint Eastwood's turn in this 1966 example of the genre is considered one of the best ever, and you've definitely whistled the theme before.
8. Her
Loneliness and technology intersect in this poignant (and possibly accurate) depiction of the near future. Thought-provoking stuff.
9. In the Heat Of The Night
Long before Pumbaa screamed, "They call me Mister Pig!" in The Lion King, Sidney Poitier said, "They call me Mister Tibbs!" in this Best Picture winner from 1967 about a black cop from Philadelphia who is accused of murder by a racist white cop in Mississippi. After being cleared, he then stays in town to help solve the crime.
10. Manhattan
The context of the film is somewhat disturbing, as it involves a middle-aged Woody Allen character falling in love with a 17-year-old girl. But if you can get past that, the movie is truly gorgeous and plays like a love letter to New York City. If you have any affection for New York's most famous borough, Manhattan is a must-see.
11. The Rocky Horror Picture Show
Campy and weird with great songs. If you're not watching this '70s favorite ever year around Halloween, you're doing it wrong.
12. Thelma And Louise
Even if you've never seen Thelma and Louise, you know Thelma and Louise. The movie is an iconic feminist landmark, with great performances from Susan Sarandon and Geena Davis, and it's also notable for making Brad Pitt the '90s biggest sex symbol.
13. Titanic
One of the biggest movies of all time. You know it. You love it. Watch it again.
14. Wild
A new release offering, this film from last year earned both Reese Witherspoon and Laura Dern Oscar noms for acting. This movie will seriously inspire to get out and discover yourself.
This is just a sample of the films coming to HBO Now and HBO Go in September, not to mention the plethora they already have available. So what are you waiting for? Get streaming!
Images: Paramount Pictures