An intriguing mix of options—from blockbuster sci-fi sequel to survival drama, from documentary biography to historical biopic—makes for a busy early-fall weekend at local movie theaters.

Blade Runner 2049 tries fascinating new things, while also remaining a bit too beholden to its predecessor. Memory and identity also play a role in the sci-fi theatrical adaptation Marjorie Prime, which remains a bit too chilly in its philosophical musings. Pioneering activist Dolores Huerta gets a respectful but not worshipful documentary biography in Dolores. Lively tunes and an unexpectedly trenchant allegory for current politics give a kick to My Little Pony: The Movie.  The fact-based feel-good  family story of The Stray gets lost in its determination to emphasize goofy comedy.

David Riedel is grateful that attractive stars Idris Elba and Kate Winslet help distract from the absurd plot of The Mountain Between Us (pictured).

MaryAnn Johanson celebrates the return of Judi Dench to playing Queen Victoria in Victoria and Abdul, a charming tale of friendship and colonialism.

In this week's feature, plan your scary October movie-watching around the Tower of Theatre's month-long "Tower of Terror" program.