Time is flying, and somehow the year is already more than halfway over. Now is the perfect moment to step back and take a look at some of the standout films from the first half of the year, a diverse list spanning animation, action and sports drama.
“Thunderbolts*”
Marvel continues to expand their cinematic universe with “Thunderbolts*”, a film that assembles the MCU’s B-list heroes and tasks them with saving the world in the absence of the original Avengers such as Iron Man and Captain America. Familiar sidekicks Bucky Barnes, Yelena Belova and the Red Guardian are forced to unite as they confront the ghosts of their past and an uncertain future.
“Lilo & Stitch”
The live-action version of “Lilo & Stitch” made a major splash at the box office as one of the top ten highest grossing films of the year. While the film retains the heart of the animated original and its central theme of ‘ohana,’ the Hawaiian word for family, it made several significant plot changes. Some fans felt that the changes diluted the storyline, while others felt that they provided a more hopeful future for the characters and set the movie up for its sequel, already in development.
“Mission Impossible – Final Reckoning”
Tom Cruise is back once again as Ethan Hunt in his eighth Mission Impossible film. This newest installment “Mission Impossible – The Final Reckoning” serves as an action-packed final installment in the series. Clocking in at nearly three hours, the film doesn’t hold back on action, delivering the death-defying stunts and international intrigue fans have come to expect. While not for the faint of heart, it is a fitting conclusion to a series known for pushing the boundaries of practical effects and cinematic scale.
“KPop Demon Hunters”
After the widespread success of “Spiderman: Into the Spiderverse” Sony Pictures Animation is back with “KPop Demon Hunters.” More than just a niche novelty, the movie is a vibrant, high-energy adventure. Released directly on Netflix, the film celebrates Korean culture with dazzling visuals, catchy songs and sharp humor. The movie satirizes the world of K-pop while simultaneously embracing its appeal, making the film accessible to longtime fans and newcomers.
“F1”
Brad Pitt returns to screen as a nomadic racecar driver in the film “F1,” a feel-good story about redemption and second chances. The movie is a spectacle of speed and daring, capturing the adrenaline and danger of Formula 1 racing. The highly decorated racecar driver Lewis Hamilton appears throughout the film and also served as a producer, lending a touch of reality to the drama. Even for those unfamiliar with motorsport, the film is an accessible entry point to introduce viewers to the drama and excitement of Formula 1.
The first half of the year has delivered a wide variety of standout films, offering something for nearly every kind of moviegoer. From superhero ensembles and animated adventures to high-speed racing dramas and action-packed finales, this year’s releases have showcased creativity and range across genres. Whether enjoyed in theaters or streamed at home, these films have made a strong case for the enduring power of cinematic storytelling.
