Movie studios will be hoping that three is a lucky number at the box office this summer. This month sees the release of the third instalments in the Planet of the Apes and Cars franchises, as well as the third major development in the Spider Man universe in recent years. While most sequels leave much to be desired, these continuations are well worth the ticket fee. However, for those who want to start fresh with a new film idea, Christopher Nolan’s latest movie is based on the battle at Dunkirk during World War II.
Here are our recommendations for what to see in July:
Spider Man: Homecoming
For those who may have lost track, Homecoming is the second reboot of the Spider Man franchise. Separate from the Sony films starring Tobey Maguire and the two Amazing Spider-Man films, this new venture sees Tom Holland star as a high school-aged Peter Parker as he struggles to balance his “normal” life with his growing responsibilities as a superhero. In the ultimate showdown, he faces off against the villainous Vulture, played by Michael Keaton.
In cinemas 6 July
War for the Planet of the Apes
The third instalment of the Planet of the Apes saga pits Caesar and his apes against an army of humans led by a merciless colonel. Only one species can emerge victorious in this epic battle for dominion – a war that will ultimately determine the future of the planet. The film has received rave reviews. According to critic Todd McCarthy, “Almost as rare as winning the Triple Crown in horse racing is to make a film trilogy that clicks from beginning to end, but Fox has pretty much pulled it off with its refurbished Planet of the Apes trio.”
In cinemas 13 July
Cars 3
While its ratings aren’t quite as high as Planet of the Apes, there’s still a lot to love about the new Cars film. The beloved character of Lightning McQueen (voiced by Owen Wilson) faces stiff competition from a new generation of ultra-fast race cars – so much so that he’s pushed out of the sport entirely. A young technician, Cruz, helps Lightning get back in the game. This charming motivational tale features an all-star cast including Kerry Washington, Lea DeLaria and more.
In cinemas 13 July
Dunkirk
Based on the true story of the Battle of Dunkirk in France during World War II between the Allies and Nazis, the latest movie by Christopher Nolan is expected to be a huge summer hit. Most of the film’s pre-release hype has centred around the fact that it’s singer Harry Styles’ first foray into the movie world. But with a stellar cast including Tom Hardy, Cillian Murphy and Kenneth Branagh, there is clearly more to Dunkirk than a former boy band member.
In cinemas 20 July
Text: Emily Petsko, Andrew Scott