The days are drawing in, and a familiar comfort settles over us. It’s the season for drawing the curtains against the early darkness, and losing ourselves in the captivating worlds offered on screen. As awards season approaches, a wave of compelling films are arriving, beginning this week with a new work from the acclaimed director of *The Hurt Locker*. This week’s most-watched titles span genres – from chilling true crime to heart-stopping thrillers, and heartwarming dramas.
A tie marks the beginning of the countdown, with *Taken In Plain Sight* and *Attack 13* both capturing 3.3 million viewers. *Taken In Plain Sight* is a gripping story of a mother’s desperate search when authorities falter in finding her kidnapped daughter. Simultaneously, *Attack 13*, a Thai horror, unveils a terrifying tale of revenge within a high school’s competitive volleyball team, where a new student’s arrival ignites a deadly conflict.
Next, the Argentine drama *27 Nights* draws viewers with its intriguing premise – 3.9 million tuned in. The film centers on an 80-year-old art patron admitted to a psychiatric clinic by her daughters. But is she truly unwell, or simply determined to savor the freedom of her remaining years? The story is inspired by the real-life experience of artist Natalia Kohen, who faced a similar misdiagnosis and fought for her autonomy.
A heartwarming contrast arrives with *Caramelo*, a Brazilian drama resonating with 6.7 million viewers. The film beautifully portrays the unlikely bond between a chef facing a terminal illness and a caramel-colored dog rescued from the streets. Their connection blossoms at a time when both desperately need companionship, offering a poignant reminder of life’s simple joys.
A journey back to 2002 delivers a nail-biting thriller, *Don’t Say A Word*, watched by 7.6 million. Michael Douglas stars as a psychiatrist whose world is shattered when his daughter is kidnapped. His only hope for her safe return lies in unlocking the secrets held by a traumatized patient, a woman connected to a stolen gemstone and a dangerous abductor.
Perfect for half-term viewing, *The Twits* continues to enchant audiences with 8.1 million views. Based on Roald Dahl’s beloved novel, this animated adventure follows two orphans who team up with magical creatures to outwit the notoriously awful Mr. and Mrs. Twit. Featuring the voices of Emilia Clarke and Natalie Portman, it’s a delightful escape for all ages.
*The Woman In Cabin 10*, previously at the top, now rests at number five with a remarkable 9.9 million views. Journalist Laura “Lo” Blacklock witnesses a shocking event on a luxury yacht – a passenger thrown overboard. But when no one believes her, she risks everything to uncover a disturbing truth hidden beneath the glamorous surface.
A new entry, the Indonesian horror *The Elixir*, lands at number four with 11.4 million views, just in time for Halloween. Set in a remote village, the film follows a herbalist who discovers a potion promising to reverse aging. But this miracle comes at a terrifying cost, plunging his family into a desperate struggle for survival.
Still captivating audiences after 19 weeks, *KPop Demon Hunters* maintains its strong position at number three, reaching 14.6 million viewers. The film unveils a secret world where members of a popular band, Huntr/x, lead double lives as demon hunters, a skill that proves invaluable when a mysterious new boyband emerges.
Holding steady at number two, *The Perfect Neighbour* commands attention with 20.2 million views. This true crime documentary delves into the tragic events in Ocala, Florida, where a dispute between neighbors escalated to a fatal shooting. Utilizing bodycam footage, the film explores the series of conflicts that ultimately led to the death of Ajike Owens, and is already generating Oscar buzz.
Finally, *A House Of Dynamite* explodes onto the scene at number one, captivating 22.1 million viewers. From the first female Oscar-winning director, this political thriller unfolds in real-time, depicting the frantic response to an unexplained missile launch on Chicago. Featuring a stellar cast including Rebecca Ferguson and Idris Elba, it’s a thought-provoking and intense cinematic experience, even if its ending sparks debate.
