Ottawa residents looking for weekend plans have a fresh slate of entertainment options to consider from January 9 to 11, 2026. Film critic Matt Demers guides audiences through the latest cinematic releases, headlined by a chilling horror story about an unexpected pet turning violent.
New Film Releases Take Center Stage
The highlight of this weekend's entertainment is a new horror film that explores a terrifying scenario: a beloved pet going rabid. This release promises to deliver suspense and shocks for genre fans seeking a thrill during the January chill. Matt Demers provides his expert breakdown of this and other new movies hitting local theaters, offering valuable insights for moviegoers deciding how to spend their leisure time.
Beyond the Big Screen: Local and National Context
While entertainment offers an escape, the weekend news cycle also brings serious stories from across Canada. In Ancaster, police have charged two 17-year-olds in a hate-motivated assault, highlighting ongoing concerns about community safety and prejudice. Meanwhile, in British Columbia, a man has received a life sentence for a double homicide that was initially deemed 'not suspicious,' a case that raises questions about investigative processes.
Closer to Ottawa, significant developments continue. Watermain repair work is ongoing as crews prepare to reactivate a critical line. In a notable environmental ruling, a company was fined $1.35 million for depositing sodium chlorite into a Gatineau-area river, underscoring the consequences for industrial pollution. On a positive note, a former Ottawa forensic scientist has been appointed to the Order of Canada, recognized for decades of work advancing justice.
Planning Your Weekend in the Capital
For those in Ottawa, the weekend offers a mix of indoor entertainment and the ongoing reality of winter city life. With new films premiering, it's an ideal time to visit a local cinema. However, residents should also be aware of municipal work, like the continued watermain repairs, which could affect travel or services in certain areas.
The juxtaposition of weekend leisure and serious news reflects the dynamic nature of life in the capital. From deciding on a film to understanding local infrastructure projects and celebrating national honors for a hometown scientist, Ottawa's weekend is multifaceted. As January progresses, these events set the tone for the year's first full month of 2026.
