By Caroline Rice
In the new era of streaming, movies and TV shows can be watched in the comforts of your own home without coughing up $20 for a single movie ticket and smuggling candy into the theater (let’s be real, we’ve all done it). Yet as Nicole Kidman famously said, “We come to this place [AMC] for magic,” and there’s something nostalgic about going to the movie theater with family, friends, or even alone. If you’re a movie buff like my sisters and I, you’re willing to pay a good chunk of money to watch a movie that you’re excited about, but it better be worth it. Here are some upcoming movies in 2024 that may entice you just enough to go to the movie theater.
Dune 2: March 1, PG-13
While some say it was too long and boring, the first movie had beautiful cinematics, a solid script, and a stellar cast. It continues the story of Paul Atreides fighting against the ones who seek to destroy his family and monopolize the priceless resource spice. One of the factors attributed to the success of the first Dune movie is the number of big-name actors, such as Timothee Chalamet, Oscar Isaac, Rebecca Ferguson, and Jason Momoa. We definitely didn’t get enough Zendaya in the first movie, so here’s hoping she’ll play a more prominent role in Dune 2.
Kung Fu Panda 4: March 8, PG
Back in 2008 (yikes I’m old) when the first Kung Fu Panda movie was released, it captured the hearts and minds of kids and adults alike. Releasing just at the end of the Lunar New Year, the fourth installment sends us back to Imperial China, with the return of the comedic Jack Black and a new character joining the cast, voiced by the Awkafina herself. It’s a full circle moment as the Dragon Warrior Po must now train a new Dragon Warrior.
Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire: March 29, PG-13
Classic icons Godzilla and King Kong unite once more to face off against a new colossal enemy: the giant Orangutan-ish creature Skar King. This will be the fifth installment of the Monsterverse series and marks a decade since the first Godzilla movie of the franchise was released. It’s bound to be action-packed and adventurous, so lay off the soda and don’t take any bathroom breaks. Are you a Kong or a Godzilla fan? (Godzilla, duh.)
Inside Out 2: June 14th, PG
Emotions can be good, bad, and ugly, but in this case, particularly ugly. That’s right, I’m talking about everyone’s favorite emotion: anxiety. Disney’s Inside Out sequel introduces a new (and uninvited) character, and what this means for the protagonist Riley’s life is yet to be determined. Since Riley has officially reached the teenager milestone, her emotions have their work cut out for them.
A Quiet Place: Day One: June 28, PG-13
Shh! If you’re a fan of anticipatory suspenseful horror with family survival, take a look at the third Quiet Place movie, telling the prequel story of when the alien creatures, who operate solely on noises, first invaded and turned society silent. It’s led by Lupita Nyong’o, who’s also starred in other major films, such as Black Panther, Star Wars (2015-2019), and Us. If you choose to see it (with parental permission and/or guidance), don’t make a sound.
Despicable Me 4: July 4, PG
Just like the Kung Fu Panda series, Illumination continues one of their famous franchises with a fourth movie, bringing back Gru (Steve Carell), Lucy (Kristen Wiig), their daughters, and Gru’s collectively-sharing-one-braincell minions. Despicable Me is a favorite among many, full of witty jokes, crazy situations, and vibrant characters, and the movie comes out just in time for the Fourth! Did I mention minions?
Moana 2: November 27, PG
Make way, make way! Moana has easily become one of Disney’s most beloved princesses with her plucky stubbornness, her courageous wit, and her love for her family. Once again, Moana embarks on a voyage across Oceania to answer the mysterious call from her sea-faring ancestors and will encounter many new dangers and adventures. There’s bound to be amazing tunes throughout the colorful movie and maybe even a dance number.
From musicals to horror to cinematic masterpieces, one thing all these movies have in common is they’re sequels or new additions to their respective movie franchises. These movies may make it or break it, and all have an opportunity to re-spark interest in their films anew. Happy viewing! Remember, bring a big jacket so you can stay warm in cold theaters and sneak as many snacks as possible without it being too obvious.
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