Hey there, pop culture lovers! I’m Kelsey, your guide to the latest in entertainment, and welcome to the It List, your weekly roundup of all things new and exciting. This week, I’m bringing you my top recommendations for what to watch, listen to, and read, with a mix of thrilling dramas, festive films, and a highly anticipated sports showdown. Let’s dive in!
🎬 Heretic — Hugh Grant’s Dark Side
When: Heretic releases on November 7.
What to Know: Chloe East and Sophie Thatcher star as Mormon missionaries who visit the home of a sweater-clad academic played by Hugh Grant. What begins as a simple visit quickly takes a sinister turn as Grant’s character reveals his darker intentions.
Why I Recommend It: Known for his charming roles in romantic comedies, Hugh Grant is now embracing his villainous side, and he’s excelling at it. He’s confessed to feeling more comfortable than ever playing “twisted, narcissistic monsters,” and his portrayal in Heretic proves it. [Entertainment Weekly]
🎄 The Best Christmas Pageant Ever — A Holiday Classic
When: The Best Christmas Pageant Ever is in theaters on November 8.
What to Know: Based on the 1972 book, this film follows the story of a volunteer director who’s tasked with including a group of unruly children in her church’s Christmas production.
Why I Recommend It: Perfect for getting into the holiday spirit, this wholesome tale brings the classic Christmas story to life on the big screen. I’m especially excited about the director, Dallas Jenkins, whose work on The Chosen has earned him major acclaim. [Yahoo Entertainment/IndieWire]
🐎 Yellowstone Season 5, Part 2 — The Dutton Family Saga Continues
When: Yellowstone Season 5, Part 2 premieres on November 10 at 8 p.m. ET on Paramount Network and 10 p.m. ET on CBS.
What to Know: After a long hiatus since January 2023, Yellowstone returns with explosive drama as the Duttons face off in family wars, alongside tensions with the nearby reservation and land developers.
Why I’ll Be Watching: I’m curious to see how the show will wrap up without Kevin Costner, and with so many spin-offs to follow, I need to be ready for what’s next. [Yahoo Entertainment/The Hollywood Reporter]
🎧 Stranded — An Auditory Adventure
When: All eight episodes of Stranded are now available on Audible.
What to Know: In this star-studded comedy podcast, Taraji P. Henson and Tracee Ellis Ross play two best friends whose girls’ trip takes a dramatic turn when their party boat crashes, leaving them stranded on a mysterious island.
Why I’ll Be Listening: The amazing voice cast, including Lamorne Morris, Whoopi Goldberg, and Phylicia Rashad, brings this hilarious and unpredictable adventure to life. [The Hollywood Reporter]
🥊 Countdown: Paul vs. Tyson — Behind the Scenes of the Ultimate Showdown
When: The first two episodes of Countdown: Paul vs. Tyson are now streaming on Netflix.
What to Know: YouTube sensation Jake Paul faces off against boxing legend Mike Tyson, and Netflix is giving us an inside look at the intense buildup to this highly anticipated fight.
Why I’ll Be Watching: The drama surrounding this fight is next level, and I can’t wait to see how it all unfolds—plus, I’ll be attending the fight live! [USA Today]
From gripping thrillers to holiday cheer and sports drama, there’s something for everyone this week. Whether you’re streaming, listening, or heading to the theater, these picks are sure to keep you entertained!