By Keith Walther | Rose Law Group Reporter
If you thought May was a jam-packed cinematic start to the summer, you haven’t seen anything yet. This month, there will be a blonde guy with a sword and a colorful panther yelling that he has the power, a group of animated toys trying to justify their existence, Superman’s party animal cousin, and Spielberg’s return to sci-fi. There are even a few others that may not compete in the box office but will surely compete in terms of quality. Let’s take a look at what Hollywood has to offer in June.
June 5th
First up is everyone’s favorite ‘80s action hero in a loincloth. “Masters of the Universe” is only the second live action attempt to bring the 1980’s cartoon/toys to life, the first movie being in 1987. It will be interesting to see if Nicholas Galitzine can bulk up enough to fill the rather large shoes of He-Man the way that Dolph Lundgren did, but based on the trailer, there looks to be a strong commitment to matching the visuals of this universe. Still, best to wait for early reviews to see if it will be a worthy adaptation or pure hokey drivel.
Just when you thought it was safe to laugh in movies again, the Wayans brothers return with their brand of humor that seems to only amuse themselves. “Scary Movie” is the sixth installment of this franchise that is known for spoofing horror films, most notably “Scream.” Out of all of these films, only “Scary Movie 3” was halfway amusing, while the rest have been contenders for worst film of the year for their respective years. It’s a safe bet to avoid this production altogether.
John Carney is the writer/director known for the severely underrated and underappreciated 2019 film, “Sing Street.” He returns with another musically inspired comedy/drama called “Power Ballad,” featuring Paul Rudd and Nick Jonas in the starring roles. With Carney’s track record and the positive buzz it’s been getting on the film festival circuit, this looks to be a must see.
June 12th
The legendary name of Steven Spielberg should be enough in and of itself to sprint to the theaters for his latest effort. “Disclosure Day” marks a return for Spielberg to the sci-fi genre, and it couldn’t be more topical with the recent release of government files on UFO sightings and investigations. It has a “Close Encounters of the Third Kind” feel to it with the energy of “Indiana Jones.” And if you possibly need any more justification to see this movie on the biggest possible screen, Emily Blunt is in the starring role. Book your tickets now.
While Spielberg’s latest will dominate the box office, do not overlook this Chinese made film that is being hailed as the greatest martial arts movie since “The Raid” movies. “The Furious” debuted at the Toronto International Film Festival last year and has been receiving accolades ever since. The action looks to be over the top and nonstop with a “Taken” type of storyline. So, if you’re in the mood for martial arts fueled action, then check this one out, it may be a surprising hit.
June 19th
The fifth installment of what is considered by many to be the best animated film ever made returns to life in theaters this week. That’s right, Woody, Buzz, and the rest of the gang return for “Toy Story 5,” and this time they have to deal with their biggest threat yet, technology. This is a franchise Pixar seems to get right with every film, so there’s no reason you shouldn’t expect that same good-natured comedy mixed with emotional attachment. It will undoubtedly be one of the biggest blockbusters of the summer.
On the opposite end of the spectrum comes a very dark take on an iconic fictional character. “The Death of Robin Hood” features this character in an unsavory light as a murderer instead of the morally righteous burglar who steals from the wealthy to give back to the poor. Hugh Jackman portrays this unscrupulous titular role in his twilight years with one last chance for salvation. It’s written and directed by Michael Sarnoski, who did a remarkable job with 2021’s “Pig,” so this is a film worth bearing notice.
June 26th
Closing out the month is the first comic book movie of the year. “Supergirl,” who first appeared in last year’s “Superman,” flies into theaters with her own movie. The trailers give this film an obvious “Guardians of the Galaxy” vibe, but hopefully director Craig Gillespie crafts an identity of its own that doesn’t become a cheap copy. It remains to be seen if Milly Alcock can handle the responsibility of a starring role in a blockbuster film, so you’ll want to tread carefully with your expectations for this one. At least Jason Momoa as Lobo should be fun to see
