With finals approaching and the fall semester coming to an end at The New School, there’s no better way for students to unwind than catching up on new movies and TV shows, especially the releases that dropped this November.
This month was packed with highly anticipated premieres. My entire TikTok feed has been people sharing their Thanksgiving-break watchlists like it’s a full-time job. It made me wonder: What are the biggest releases this month, and which ones are everyone buzzing about?
Here are the top November releases to add to your break binge list….
Frankenstein
Even though Frankenstein hit theaters on October 17, its Netflix debut on November 7 is what made it explode online. The retelling of this iconic story is directed by Guillermo del Toro and stars Oscar Isaac, Jacob Elordi, and Mia Goth.
While the film pulls inspiration from the classic, del Toro brings his own emotional and cinematic twist, focusing on themes like generational trauma. With so many Frankenstein adaptations out there, this one stands out. It’s visually stunning, heartfelt, and somehow both devastating and uplifting. Perfect for a cozy break watch.
Now you see me: Now you don’t
The third installment of the beloved Now You See Me franchise arrived on November 14. Returning cast members Dave Franco, Jesse Eisenberg, and Woody Harrelson are joined by new faces like Ariana Greenblatt, Justice Smith, and Dominic Sessa.
This movie’s marketing had everyone talking. I remember seeing random flyers around NYC advertising a “free magic show,” thinking nothing of it—until Jesse Eisenberg actually popped up in Tompkins Square Park and Hudson Yards to perform live as a promo stunt.
If you loved the first two films, definitely give this one a watch. Rumor has it a fourth movie is already in the works.
Wicked: For Good
We truly haven’t stopped talking about Wicked since last November. The memes, the pink-and-green color palettes, the excitement—it’s been everywhere. Wicked: For Good stars Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, and the cast’s vocal performances have fans obsessed.
People were especially curious to hear Cynthia’s rendition of “No Good Deed,” while viewers unfamiliar with the Broadway show were on edge to see how the story would end. The movie released on November 21, and yes—dodging spoilers was impossible. I caved and listened to the soundtrack immediately.
If you’re a musical lover, an Ariana Grande fan, or someone who enjoyed the first film, this sequel is a must-watch.
It: Welcome to derry
This one is giving major middle school nostalgia. It: Welcome to Derry is a prequel to It and It Chapter Two, except this time the story is told through a TV series instead of a movie. The first episode premiered in late October, with new episodes continuing through November.
If you’re a horror fan—or loved the original movies—this show is definitely for you. I recommend rewatching the first two films beforehand so you can catch all the callbacks and references.
Stranger Things — Season 5
The Duffer Brothers are finally closing out the Stranger Things saga with its fifth and final season. Starring Millie Bobby Brown, Finn Wolfhard, Winona Ryder, and more, this season is easily one of the most anticipated releases of the year—arguably even more than Wicked.
Netflix revealed a three-part release schedule, which sent fans spiraling into theory mode online:
- Volume 1: November 26
- Volume 2: December 25
- Volume 3: December 31
Releasing episodes on holidays is… a bold choice, but honestly perfect for break binge-watching.
Something new this year: the final part will hit theaters. So you can choose between watching the ending from your couch or experiencing it on the big screen. It’s wild to think how long this show has been part of our lives—I started Stranger Things in fourth grade, and now I’m a sophomore in college. Let that sink in.
I hope these recommendations help cure your break’s boredom and maybe even help you discover a new comfort movie or show before we head into the spring semester.