Real Men’s Movies to Watch This Autumn
When the nights draw in, nothing beats a big screen, a tub of tummy stuff, and a film that hits you in the gut. From brutal biopics and gritty thrillers to high-tech heists and cyberpunk epics, the next few weeks are stacked with films worth a trip to the cinema — or a night in with Netflix. Here’s your no-nonsense guide to the blokey movies landing in UK cinemas and on streaming from early October to mid-November.
The Smashing Machine
Where / When: UK Cinemas, from 3 October 2025
Why watch: A biopic of MMA fighter Mark Kerr, with Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson in one of his most serious roles to date. Expect brutal fight scenes and an unflinching look at the cost of chasing glory.
Tron: Ares
Where / When: UK Cinemas, 10 October 2025
Why watch: Sci-fi spectacle at its slickest. Cyber warfare, neon visuals and blockbuster action. A full-blown cinematic ride for fans of Tron and anyone who wants their brain fried by light cycles and lasers.
The Black Phone 2
Where / When: UK Cinemas, 17 October 2025
Why watch: Horror meets thriller in this chilling sequel. Dark, intense and loaded with atmosphere — one for the lads who want something a bit twisted on a Friday night.
Ballad of a Small Player
Where / When: Limited UK Cinemas mid-October, then on Netflix UK from 29 October 2025
Why watch: Colin Farrell stars in a slick gambling thriller based on Lawrence Osborne’s novel. High stakes, neon backdrops and a story soaked in grit and tension.
Frankenstein (Guillermo del Toro)
Where / When: Limited UK Cinemas from 17 October, streaming on Netflix UK from 7 November 2025
Why watch: Guillermo del Toro tackles the gothic classic with his trademark mix of horror, spectacle and heart. A darker, more stylish monster movie with heavyweight casting.
Now You See Me: Now You Don’t
Where / When: UK Cinemas, 14 November 2025
Why watch: The latest in the illusion-heist franchise brings more stunts, spectacle and slick cons. Flashy, fast and built for a Saturday night at the movies.
The Loaded Take: Whether you’re after a punch-up in the octagon, a neon-lit thrill ride or a monster movie with brains, autumn’s cinema slate has you covered. Grab the missus and settle in.