Arrange your summer plans accordingly: the box office is going to be heating up with a truckload of highly-anticipated blockbusters this year. Highlights include live-action remakes from Disney, the return of our friendly neighborhood Spider-Man, the resurgence of Godzilla, and even a new chapter from our favorite Pixar toys.
With all the major studios vying for your movie dollars (seriously, the summer schedule is packed), how do you decide which blockbusters to see? We rounded up a list of the movies we are most excited about; here’s a preview, in order of release date.
May 24
“Aladdin“
How could you not be excited about Disney’s new live-action “Aladdin”? With Guy Ritchie directing, Will Smith reprising Robin Williams’ iconic role as the Genie, and a live-action magic carpet ride? We will be first in line to see this movie. Plus, the original composer of the songs and score, Alan Menken, returns for the soundtrack, so you know the music is going to be legendary.
“Brightburn“
This is not your typical superhero movie. What if Superman chose to use his powers for evil? “Brightburn,” starring Elizabeth Banks, will explore a new genre: superhero horror. Bring a date so you have a hand to squeeze during the most chilling moments.
May 31
“Godzilla: King of the Monsters“
Godzilla is back and this time he brought some mythical friends. Humanity will hang in the balance, as it usually does in “Godzilla” movies, and you know this one will be a visual thrill ride to watch. The movie stars Millie Bobbie Brown (“Stranger Things“), who is no stranger to science fiction, and Kyle Chandler and Vera Farmiga.
June 7
“Dark Phoenix“
X-Men fans, prepare for your “Endgame.” The new movie in the expansive X-Men franchise tells the story of Joan Grey, played by Sophie Turner, as she evolves into the Dark Phoenix. It is already being billed as “the most intense and emotional X-Men movie ever made.” There has also even been speculation that with Disney’s acquisition of 20th Century Fox, this film could open the door to bridging the gap between X-Men and the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
June 14
“Men in Black: International“
Fans of the MCU will love the genius casting of Chris Hemsworth and Tessa Thompson as MIB agents in London. From director Steven Spielberg, this new adventure will see the agents not only fighting against other-worldly aliens, but also a mole within the agency. The film also stars Emma Thompson as Agent O (aka the boss), and you know we are all about the #girlpower.
June 21
“Toy Story 4“
Grab your tissues, because your favorite animated toys are back. And this time they brought a … Spork named Forky? Yes, Woody, Buzz, and crew will help Bonnie’s new reluctant friend learn his place in their group as well as some valuable life lessons along the way. Also noteworthy — Bo Peep will be making a triumphant return after being absent from “Toy Story 3,” and she’s got a new look and more character depth.
July 2
“Spider-Man: Far From Home“
Thank goodness for Spider-Man, because we can hardly wait for another MCU fix after the epic showdown of “Avengers: Endgame.” “Spider-Man: Far From Home” picks up right where “Endgame” left off, and without giving away any spoilers, Spider-Man is going on a European vacation. The film will introduce some new characters too, like Jake Gyllenhaal’s Mysterio. Now only if we could figure out if he will be a friend or foe…
July 19
“The Lion King“
It feels like we’ve been waiting forever for this movie since they announced that Beyonce would be cast in the live-action remake of Disney’s classic “The Lion King.” Directed by Jon Favreau, it’s more like a “photorealistic” remake, but we are not complaining. With an expertly curated cast including Donald Glover, Seth Rogen (Pumbaa!), and the return of James Earl Jones, this promises to be the biggest family-friendly blockbuster of the summer. Elton John even reworked some of his award-winning music before his retirement.
July 26
“Once Upon a Time in Hollywood“
Quentin Tarantino assembled a heartthrob dream cast featuring Leonardo DiCaprio and Brad Pitt for his ninth film. If the actors alone don’t get you into the theater, the plot should. The film centers around a film-actor and his stunt double seeking fame during Hollywood’s golden age. It also takes place during the time of the murders by members of the Manson Family, with Margot Robbie playing Sharon Tate.
August 2
“Fast & Furious Presents: Hobbs & Shaw“
The Rock is back again in the first stand-alone film from the “Fast & Furious” franchise. You know there will be epic stunts, cringe-worthy one-liners, and threats against the earth that only two outcasts can fix. Whether you love or hate the genre, this blockbuster action movie is a blast to watch.
Macaire Douglas lives in Chicago with her husband and two sons. She proudly supports Share Our Spare, a local nonprofit that collects goods for children in need.
