If you’re a film enthusiast like me, you know that summer is one of the best times of the year. The scent of buttery popcorn fills the theatres, the anticipation and excitement lingers in the air as the audience walks into the building, eager to discover new stories. From the adventures of beloved superheroes to emotional dramas and experimental gems, there’s a film you’ll connect with and enjoy. Here are four upcoming movies I recommend for you to check out this summer.
The first one coming up is a heartwarming Disney picture now in a live-action remake: Lilo & Stitch, which premiered on May 23. Directed by Dean Fleischer Camp, this funny and nostalgic story follows the events of the animated picture, rekindling this tender story for a newer generation and old fans alike. I’m very curious about this remake and how the story might be adapted to this format. If you want to revive Lilo’s and Stitch’s adventures with your loved ones, then this film will be as comforting as re-encountering an old friend: Ohana.
Later on, if you want to shift the mood to a more thoughtful alternative, Celine Song’s Materialists (opening on June 13) is for you. This story, set in New York City, explores the emotional romantic journey of a matchmaker, having the characteristic style and substance of Song’s work, which is emotionally powerful and real. The cast, which features Dakota Johnson, Chris Evans, and Pedro Pascal, promises a deep but interesting narrative with a visually stunning cinematography.
On June 20, the anticipated sequel to horror/thriller 28 Days Later drops, featuring a return from director Danny Boyle, who previously worked on the first film. 28 Years Later, starring Ralph Fiennes and Aaron Taylor-Johnson, brings zombie films back to cinemas, inviting fans and new audiences to dive into the post-apocalyptic genre. I’m guessing the film will show the ongoing power of horror and the relevance of post-pandemic themes in cinema. Fans of tense and fast-paced horror pictures are interested in finding what new direction Boyle will bring to the franchise, as the movie will be a new beginning for it. The original picture has been recognized for its impact on the genre; I hope that 28 Years Later stands even stronger than its predecessor.
Last but surely not least, James Gunn’s Superman premieres on July 11. This is the Superman movie that fans have been waiting for years, expecting to become the new hope and fresh start of a new era for the DC universe. The action, emotion, and world-building that is so unique to Gunn offers a fresher approach to the hero, trying to remain as true as possible to the comic’s Superman. This film will certainly foster debate, with its more hopeful approach, contrasted to past, much darker versions of the superhero.
Movies are ways to foster connection; whether you’re into dramatic, epic, or suspenseful journeys, this summer lineup offers something worth visiting the theatres for. Become an active participant in stories, allow yourself to imagine and escape into those worlds of immense possibility. I’ll certainly be in the audience, witnessing the picture and event that cinema is and hopefully will be for many years to come. And you, are you coming to the movies this summer?