Scarlett Johansson and Jonathan Bailey in "Jurassic World: Rebirth." (Universal Pictures)
by Princess Jones
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Sun, sand and … cinema!
This summer, Hollywood's serving up a perfect mix of nostalgia and fresh takes, promising an epic lineup of blockbuster films ready to entertain, excite and surprise moviegoers. Here are a few of the films creating the biggest buzz.
Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning
In the latest installment of "Mission: Impossible," Tom Cruise returns as Ethan Hunt, taking on a high-stakes mission to recover the lost Sevastopol submarine while racing to stop a powerful and dangerous artificial intelligence. Familiar faces return to reprise their roles: Hayley Atwell (Grace), Simon Pegg (Benji), Vanessa Kirby (Alanna), Ving Rhames (Luther), Pom Klementieff (Paris) and Esai Morales (Gabriel). Christopher McQuarrie is back in the director’s chair for what's sure to be a thrilling ride.
Release Date: June 27, 2025
Lilo & Stitch
Aloha, Experiment 626! Disney is bringing the beloved "Lilo & Stitch" story to a new generation — with a live-action twist. This new adaptation of the early 2000s animated classic was directed by Dean Fleischer-Camp. Newcomer Maia Kealoha takes on the role of Lilo Pelekai, while Sydney Agudong plays her big sister, Nani. Fan-favorite alien duo Jumba and Pleakley will be played by Zach Galifianakis and Billy Magnussen as they team up to track down the mischievous Stitch.
Release Date: May 23, 2025
How to Train Your Dragon
This coming-of-age adventure follows the unbreakable bond between Hiccup and his loyal dragon, Toothless. Fans of the original animated film will surely feel nostalgic as the story takes flight once again — this time in live-action. Skeptics can rest easy: Dean DeBlois, the director of the original trilogy, is back at the helm. The lead roles will be played by Mason Thames, as Hiccup, and Nico Parker, as Astrid.
Release Date: June 13, 2025
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M3GAN 2.0
After becoming a viral sensation in 2023 thanks to that unforgettable trailer featuring M3GAN the AI robot dancing before taking out a threat to her beloved Cady, the futuristic doll is returning for more mayhem. "M3GAN 2.0" picks up right after the events of the first film, when her protective programming had turned deadly. This time, an unexpected alliance forms between Gemma (Allison Williams) and Cady (Violet McGraw) as they face M3GAN’s evolution.
Release Date: June 27, 2025
Jurassic World: Rebirth
The next chapter in the "Jurassic World" franchise roars to life five years after the events of "Jurassic World: Dominion." Directed by Gareth Edwards, this star-studded addition features Scarlett Johansson, Mahershala Ali and Jonathan Bailey. With Steven Spielberg returning as executive producer and original "Jurassic Park" screenwriter David Koepp back on board, fans can expect a thrilling blend of legacy and fresh energy.
Release Date: July 2, 2025
Superman
James Gunn and Peter Safran are breathing new life into the "Superman" franchise with a highly anticipated reboot. While fans have soaring hopes, the film doesn’t come without controversy, as Henry Cavill won’t be donning the cape this time. Instead, David Corenswet steps into the iconic role, with Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor. The story will follow Superman as he reconciles his Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing as Clark Kent.
Release Date: July 11, 2025
The Fantastic Four: First Steps
Marvel's Multiverse Saga just got a retro twist. With the introduction of the 1960s "Fantastic Four" team, Marvel fans will get the chance to travel back in time and explore one of Marvel’s most iconic groups. The cast is one to watch: Pedro Pascal is Reed Richards, Vanessa Kirby is Sue Storm, Joseph Quinn plays Johnny Storm and Ebon Moss-Bachrach rounds out the team as Ben Grimm. Directed by Matt Shakman — best known for WandaVision, Marvel Studios’ first Emmy win — the anticipation is high for this one.
Release Date: July 25, 2025
Freakier Friday
After 22 years, things are getting freaky again for Tess and Anna. The long-awaited sequel to "Freaky Friday" brings back familiar faces, with Lindsay Lohan and Jamie Lee Curtis reprising their former roles. Joining them are newcomers Manny Jacinto and Maitreyi Ramakrishnan. This time, the film follows the chaos that unfolds as Tess and Anna navigate life, love and the blending of two families — with another unexpected body-swap twist, of course.
Release Date: August 8, 2025
