What’s New to Binge on Netflix in October

“Chicken Run”

While this movie does fill the definition of “family friendly” it’s also just plain funny with sly, tongue-in-cheek humor. From Aardman Animations (the studio that brought you Wallace and Gromit cartoons and worked with Dreamworks on “Flushed Away”), “Chicken Run” tells the story of a group of chickens whose lives are suddenly put in jeopardy by their sadistic owner’s sudden desire to make chicken pies instead of just selling their eggs. Led by a rooster named Rocky (voiced by Mel Gibson) the chickens plan to make their great escape, with a few small hiccups along the way.

“The Hunger Games Catching Fire” (October 22)

Who doesn’t love Jennifer Lawrence? The sequel to “The Hunger Games” from 2012, “Catching Fire” continues the story of Katniss Everdeen and her two leading men, Gale and Peeta. Touted as a better and more polished film than its predecessor, “Catching Fire” is coming to Netflix perfectly in time for fans to catch up and prepare for the release of “Mockingjay – Part 1” in November. And for everyone that’s already seen it—can you really resist more JLaw?

The Originals Season 1

The spin-off from “The Vampire Diaries” is even more fun than its predecessor. Starring Claire Holt, Joseph Morgan, Daniel Gillies, Phoebe Tonkin, and more, the show follows the Mikaelson siblings down to New Orleans along with some friendly and not so friendly faces from Mystic Falls. While the show definitely has some kinks to work out from its first season, it’s still great and a bit of much-needed fresh air after 5 seasons of Elena/Damon/Stefan.

Tim Minchin and the Heritage Orchestra Live (October 15)

An accomplished musician, comedian and actor, Tim Minchin most recently composed music and wrote lyrics for the Tony nominated musical “Matilda.” Again, he shows off his musical talent in a comedy show performed with the Heritage Orchestra. An interesting blend of comedy and music, Minchin is unlike any performer out there with his first class compositions and genius comedy melded together seamlessly. Unfortunately, the tour with the Heritage Orchestra was only throughout the UK and Australia, but with the recorded performance you can get to know Minchin’s style—without having to cram into the Royal Albert Hall like a sardine.

“Rain Man” (October 31)

Admittedly, I couldn’t pick Tom Cruise out of a police lineup if my life depended on it, but I still love him and Dustin Hoffman in this dramedy directed by Barry Levinson. Critically acclaimed “Rain Man” tells the story of Charlie Babbitt (Cruise) whose father recently died only to leave all of his money and inheritance to his other son, an autistic savant named Raymond, whom Charlie never knew existed. Sweet and funny, it’s a great movie with a lot of heart and a message that doesn’t absolutely bash you over the head with it.