Summer is in full swing, New York!
While the city is buzzing with rooftop parties and park picnics, sometimes you just need to beat the heat. Stepping into an icy-cold theater or staying in the A/C for a movie marathon is the ultimate July survival tactic.
This month brings a fantastic mix of highly anticipated streaming releases and theatrical drops. From Stephen King adaptations to the return of everyone’s favorite teen detective, the lineup is heavily stacked.
Here are all the new movies you need to watch this July.
Minions & Monsters (July 1)
What it’s about: The beloved franchise returns for a brand new cinematic adventure. Fans can expect the usual animated hijinks as the title hints at an epic clash between our favorite yellow henchmen and some massive monsters.
Why we recommend: It is the perfect family-friendly escape for a scorching summer afternoon. Expect loud, ridiculous, and mindless fun that will have both kids and adults laughing out loud.
Young Washington (July 3)
What it’s about: This historical war drama focuses on the early life of George Washington during the French and Indian War. The film stars William Franklyn-Miller as the future president, alongside Hollywood heavyweights like Ben Kingsley and Andy Serkis.
Why we recommend: It is a gritty, epic origin story of a founding father. If you love sweeping historical dramas, this one brings high-stakes battles and incredible performances to the big screen.
Moana (July 10)
What it’s about: The beloved animated hit is getting the live-action treatment. Moana returns to the big screen, with Dwayne Johnson reprising his iconic role as Maui alongside newcomer Catherine Laga’aia.
Why we recommend: Directed by Thomas Kail, this highly anticipated remake brings the magic of the original into the real world. It is the ultimate family-friendly summer blockbuster.
Evil Dead Burn (July 10)
What it’s about: The terrifying horror franchise is back with a brand new sequel. A woman seeks solace with her in-laws in their secluded family home, only to face absolute supernatural chaos.
Why we recommend: If you are a horror fanatic, you know exactly what you are signing up for. Expect relentless scares, terrifying entities, and plenty of gore that will definitely keep you up at night.
The Odyssey (July 17)
What it’s about: Christopher Nolan tackles Homer’s ancient Greek epic. Matt Damon stars as Odysseus, navigating mythical beings and a perilous journey home after the Trojan War to reunite with his wife, played by Anne Hathaway.
Why we recommend: An action epic from Christopher Nolan shot entirely with IMAX film cameras? This is a must-watch cinematic event. With a massive, star-studded cast including Tom Holland, Robert Pattinson, and Zendaya, it demands to be seen on the biggest screen possible.
Motor City (July 24)
What it’s about: Set in 1970s Detroit, a working-class romantic is framed by a ruthless gangster. After falling for the gangster’s girlfriend, he must fight his way out of trouble.
Why we recommend: Sometimes you just need an intense action thriller. It is packed with raw emotion and high-octane sequences that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Spider-Man: Brand New Day (July 31)
What it’s about: The beloved Marvel hero is swinging back into theaters. This long-awaited adventure brings Peter Parker into a brand new chapter.
Why we recommend: It is the perfect blockbuster to close out the month. Nothing screams summer movie season quite like a massive, web-slinging action spectacle.
