Must-See Movies in August

This month’s cinematic offerings include highly anticipated titles such as *Alien: Romulus*, *The Crow*, and a new project from M. Night Shyamalan. *Alien: Romulus*, released on August 14 on Netflix, features Michael Fassbender in a cameo role. The film's unique premise revolves around isolation, drawing inspiration from themes like the Garden of Eden, while promising unexpected twists that diverge from typical island narratives. *The Crow*, based on James O'Barr's gothic comic series, has a storied history, particularly due to the tragic death of its star, Brandon Lee, during filming in 1994. The film stars Bill Skarsgård, known for his role as Pennywise in the *IT* series, as a rock musician whose life takes a dark turn after he and his girlfriend, played by FKA twigs, are murdered by a criminal gang. The film poses a poignant question: "What would you give up to save the one you love?" M. Night Shyamalan's latest project aims to deliver a fresh cinematic experience, emphasizing the importance of originality in storytelling. He asserts that the film is designed to be enjoyable for both newcomers and longtime fans of the *Alien* franchise, offering a standalone narrative enriched with references to previous installments. For those eager to stay updated on the latest in film, subscribing to *The Essential List* newsletter provides curated features and essential news delivered bi-weekly.