By Bella Whitmore | Intern
After the whole “Barbenheimer” phenomenon that happened this summer, it may seem like the most iconic movies of the year are already behind us. However, there are still plenty of good movies set to come out this year, so let’s take a look at some of them.
1. “Wonka”
Despite becoming a certified TikTok meme, Timotheé Chalamet’s portrayal of Willy Wonka in his early years will no doubt do justice to the iconic character. This film serves as a prequel for the beloved story of the chocolate factory that we know today. Set to come out right before Christmas, it’s the perfect film to watch with the family as we all revisit the childlike wonder and imagination we associate with the earlier Willy Wonka films.
2. “The Ballad of Songbirds and Snakes”
It’s time to return to Panem after all these years and finally reenter our 2014 “Hunger Games” phase — but with a twist. Coming to theaters right before Thanksgiving, this film is a prequel to the “Hunger Games” trilogy and centers around how the games first came to be. Starring Rachel Zegler as Lucy Gray Baird and Tom Blyth as young President Snow, this film has no lack of young talent to carry the story of love, friendship and bravery in an unforgivable and harsh world.
3. “Killers of the Flower Moon”
The iconic duo of Martin Scorsese and Leonardo DiCaprio is back to tackle a fascinating and topical issue. Set to be released in late October, this film tells the story of the mysterious murders within the Osage tribe after oil was discovered on their land. With this being such an ambitious and complex story, DiCaprio is no doubt eyeing another chance at an Academy Award with this film.
4. “Priscilla”
It’s “Elvis,” but for the girls. Sofia Coppola is known for her powerfully feminine movies, and in showing how those two themes are interwoven, this film is no exception. “Priscilla” completely shifts the perspective from the iconic “Elvis” film that came out last year to tell the story of his wife. The timing of this movie is just perfect. Showing the importance of women’s stories and perspectives — and with such beautiful cinematography and editing — makes a truly magical film that I personally can’t wait to experience this November.
Continuing the quintessential legacy of one of the most iconic movie studios in history, Studio Ghibli, this film pays homage to its predecessors while pioneering the future of the studio. Hayao Miyazaki’s famous animation style is on display once again in this artistically beautiful film that follows the story of a young boy and a talking heron discovering a new world. Studio Ghibli has simply done no wrong in the 38 years it has been running, and this film will certainly be no exception.
