Cinemas across Brisbane lit up this week with a massive lineup, featuring James L. Brooks’ long-awaited return, a high-octane sci-fi treasure hunt, and a controversial horror remake just in time for the holidays. Whether you’re catching a concert film at the Barracks or diving into Japanese classics at GOMA, there’s something fresh to enjoy on the silver screen.
Opening This Week
Ella McCay
In cinemas from 11 December
The legendary James L. Brooks (Terms of Endearment) returns with a sharp political dramedy. Emma Mackey stars as an idealistic young politician juggling a chaotic family and a high-stakes promotion. Catch it at Event Cinemas (City, Carindale, Chermside, Indooroopilly, Mt Gravatt), Palace, Dendy, Reading, Five Star Cinemas, and Angelika Woolloongabba.
Afterburn
In cinemas from 11 December
Dave Bautista and Samuel L. Jackson star in this post-apocalyptic sci-fi actioner. Ten years after a solar flare wiped out technology, a treasure hunter is hired to recover the Mona Lisa from a warlord. Catch it at Event Cinemas (City, Chermside, Mt Gravatt, Indooroopilly) and BCC Capalaba.
Silent Night, Deadly Night
In cinemas from 11 December
The controversial 80s slasher gets a terrifying modern reimagining. A young man traumatized by a Christmas Eve massacre transforms into a killer Santa. Catch it at Event Cinemas (City, Chermside, Mt Gravatt), Limelight Morayfield, Reading Jindalee, Cineplex, and HOYTS.
Pets on a Train
In cinemas from 11 December
All aboard for a family-friendly animated adventure! When a group of pampered pets get separated from their owners on a cross-country train, they must work together to find their way home. Catch it at Event Cinemas, Reading, Cineplex, and HOYTS.
The Carpenter’s Son
In cinemas from 11 December
Nicolas Cage and FKA Twigs star in this dark, biblical horror exploring the childhood of Jesus. Based on apocryphal texts, a family hides in Egypt where the boy’s divine powers begin to attract terrifying attention. Catch it at Event Cinemas (Chermside, Indooroopilly, Mt Gravatt) and Five Star Cinemas.
Special Events
The Cure: The Show of a Lost World
In cinemas from 11 December
Experience the legendary band live on the big screen in this immersive concert film.
- Where: Palace Barracks and Five Star Cinemas (New Farm, City, Graceville, Red Hill).
Met Opera: Arabella
In cinemas 14 & 17 December
Strauss’s romantic comedy of mistaken identity.
- Where: Palace James St and Dendy (Coorparoo, Portside).
GOMA: Japanese Classics
Special screenings at the Gallery of Modern Art
- Nezumikozō Jirokichi + Priest of Darkness – 12 Dec
- Three Sisters with Maiden Hearts – 12 Dec
- The Only Son (Ozu) – 13 Dec
- Woman of the Mist – 14 Dec
- Osaka Elegy – 17 Dec
From political satire and sci-fi action to the darker side of Christmas, Brisbane’s cinemas are packed with incredible stories this week. Grab some popcorn and enjoy a screening near you.