By Chloe Cramutola
Summer calls for soft serve and funnel cake on the boardwalk. It brings beach reads, flip-flops and high tides. Summer also beckons beachgoers and homebodies alike to keep an eye on the best blockbusters to escape the heat — even for a couple of hours.
Several films have already lit up the big screen, including franchise continuations such as “Ballerina: From the World of John Wick,” “Thunderbolts” and “Final Destination: Bloodlines” — all of which I’ve already seen. Before we get to the upcoming July and August releases, here are a few that are already out — highly recommended films I still plan to see.
Together
Set to released July 30th, this film delves into the horrific side of love, dependency and supernatural occurrences. Threads of dark humor shine through in a trailer that immediately hooked me. Starring Dave Franco and his real-life wife, Alison Brie, the two play the fictional couple in “Together.” The film boasts a perfect 100% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. It looks like one that’ll make me laugh, gasp and cringe in horror — I’m definitely excited to check it out.
Sorry, Baby
Released June 27, this film follows a college professor struggling with her past. It’s described as an offbeat story about processing trauma through humor. Some are calling it a “traumedy,” praising its thoughtful and empathetic execution. Sorry, Baby holds a 96% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, and I expect to find it both beautiful and profound.
F1: The Movie
Another recent release, F1: The Movie stars Brad Pitt and is directed by Joseph Kosinski, known for Top Gun: Maverick and Tron: Legacy. I’ve never been into F1 racing, but I’m still revved up to see this. Any racing movie promises an adrenaline rush, and this one looks like no exception.
Now, what about the big-name films we’re still itching to see in July and August?
Superman
At the top of my must-watch list is Superman, set to release July 11. DC Studios CEO James Gunn is directing, writing and producing this reboot. I saw the 1978 original for the first time a few months ago, so I’m curious to see how the new version compares. I’ve heard it will bring back the optimistic Superman — reminiscent of the classic Clark Kent played by Christopher Reeve — which has me excited.
The Fantastic Four:
First Steps
Set to release July 25, this film has me nostalgic. I adored the 2005 version, even if critics didn’t. It was one of my favorites, right up there with Disney and Pixar movies. I’m hoping this reboot is fun, a little cheesy and packed with superhero charm. Marvel has been in a bit of a slump lately, but Thunderbolts and this film give me hope.
The Naked Gun
Another reboot, The Naked Gun casts action-hero actor Liam Neeson as Frank Drebin Jr., son of the original character played by Leslie Nielsen — a near-name match that feels cheeky in itself. The trailer already has a few laugh-out-loud moments. I haven’t seen a comedy like this in a while, and I’m looking forward to its Aug. 1 release.
Jurassic World: Rebirth
Even though I’ve grown tired of Jurassic World sequels, I’m intrigued by this one, releasing July 2. It introduces a new cast, including Scarlett Johansson and Mahershala Ali. I know it’ll be familiar territory, but sometimes that’s all you want — a big-budget, dinosaur-packed film to enjoy with a tub of popcorn in the AC.
I Know What You
Did Last Summer
This reboot of the 1997 horror film hits theaters July 18. Original stars Jennifer Love Hewitt and Freddie Prinze Jr. return to reprise their roles. The original followed four friends who accidentally kill a fisherman and are later stalked by a killer. In this updated version, five friends cause a car accident and try to keep it secret — until their past comes back to haunt them.
Now that summer is in full swing, I’m ready to hit the theaters with friends and family. It’s extra hot this season, so stay cool — the big screen is always a sweet escape.
