<P> Halloween is a 2018 American slasher film directed by David Gordon Green and written by Green, Jeff Fradley, and Danny McBride . It is the eleventh installment in the Halloween film series, and a direct sequel to the 1978 film of the same name, while effecting a retcon of all previous sequels . Set 40 years after the original film, the plot follows Laurie Strode as she prepares to face Michael Myers when he returns to Haddonfield, Illinois, after his killing spree on Halloween night in 1978 . Jamie Lee Curtis and Nick Castle reprise their roles as Strode and Myers, respectively, with stuntman James Jude Courtney also portraying Myers . The film also stars Judy Greer, Andi Matichak, Will Patton, and Virginia Gardner . </P> <P> After failing to develop a new Halloween film in time, Dimension Films lost the production rights for a sequel, which reverted back to Miramax, which then joined with Blumhouse Productions . In May 2017, a new installment was officially announced, with original co-creator John Carpenter's involvement as a composer, executive producer, and creative consultant . Principal photography commenced on October 31, 2017 in South Carolina, and concluded on November 19 . </P> <P> Halloween premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 8, 2018, and was theatrically released in the United States on October 19, 2018, by Universal Pictures . The film received generally positive reviews from critics, with many considering it to be both the best Halloween sequel and a return to form for the series; Curtis' performance was also met with praise . The film has grossed over $172 million worldwide, making it the highest grossing film in the franchise, as well as breaking several other box office records . A sequel is in early development . </P> <P> Four decades after the 1978 murders in Haddonfield, Illinois, true - crime podcasters Aaron Korey and Dana Haines travel to Smith's Grove Rehabilitation Hospital (formerly Sanatarium) to interview Michael Myers and his handler, Dr. Ranbir Sartain, before Michael is transported to a new facility . Their intent in obtaining an answer to Michael's past actions isn't successful . Aaron and Dana then arrive unannounced at Laurie Strode's heavily armed and guarded home . Despite attempting to bribe her into an interview, Laurie kicks the two out . She has since developed PTSD and spent the last forty years preparing for Michael's return . </P>

When is the new halloween movie going to be released