F1 

Directed by “Top Gun: Maverick” director Joseph Kosinski, “F1” delivers the same levels of cinematography, as well as similar themes. The film immerses the viewer in the lifestyle surrounding F1 racing. It follows Sonny Hayes (Brad Pitt), an aged ex-F1 racer, who reluctantly joins a racing team when a former teammate convinces him he’s needed to save the team from being sold. The movie is lengthy at two and a half hours. While the plot moves slowly and isn’t overly hooking, the movie was very well done and a must-watch for anyone who appreciates sports movies. 

A Minecraft Movie

“A Minecraft Movie,” based on the titular video game, follows a somewhat boring and wildly unrealistic plot. A group of unlikely heroes work together to fight off a dragon who’s destroying their world. The film maintains the blocky animation found in the game, along with familiar characters, locations, and objects. While the audience consisted of almost entirely Minecraft fans, the reception was mixed. Many viewers admitted that the movie wasn’t great, while others were all in for seeing their favorite video game characters brought to cinema. Despite its flaws, the movie was a major success at the box office, and the highest grossing film in the U.S. this year. 

Superman

James Gunn pulls audience members back into the DC Universe with his film “Superman” which dominated this summer’s box office. Clark Kent/Superman (David Corenswet) must defeat the villain, Lex Luther (Nicholas Hoult), who is holding his friends captive. This high-action, feel-good film embodies everything viewers want in a superhero movie. It examines Clark’s inner conflicts: his complicated relationship with girlfriend Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan) and the struggles of balancing his Kryptonian heritage with his human upbringing. The thing which stood out the most was Clark’s adorable dog, Krypto. While the superdog isn’t a new character in the DC Universe, this film marks his first major appearance. Krypto proves to be a loyal, likeable, and unforgettable companion, further enhancing this excellent film. 

Lilo and Stitch 

“Lilo and Stitch” disproved the criticism facing live action remakes, and exceeded expectations globally. Based on the popular animated original, “Lilo and Stitch” keeps the same main characters and roughly follows the same plot as the 2002 version. While critics complain that the live-action remake loses the whimsical charm of cartoon illustrations, the film makes up for this by heightening the story and characters. Live action makes emotional scenes feel more real, and the film emphasizes Lilo and Nani’s struggles as a low income family in urban Hawaii. Child actress Maia Kealoha excellently builds Lilo’s character, adding more depth and personality. Although the animated original may always be superior to some, the live-action version enhances it rather than undermines it, and is a great watch for anyone raised on its predecessor. 

Regretting You

“Regretting You” focuses on a sweet love story between two high schoolers, Clara Grant (Mckenna Grace) and Miller Adams (Mason Thames). The beginning of their relationship is complicated and messy. Clara is burdened by the death of her father and the horrible secrets it revealed, while Miller is stuck in a relationship with another girl. Throughout the film, the characters grow closer. The film ends with a promposal, and promises for a bright future. “Regretting You” embodies everything essential to a great comfort movie: an excellent soundtrack, and a small town setting makes the film homey and aesthetic. Moreover, the film feels unerringly real. The actors perfectly capture the emotions of their characters, making their struggles more heartfelt, and the intense chemistry between the two lovers enjoyable to watch.