Movie theatres have suffered greatly from the pandemic, with many being shut down for a year during the beginning of the pandemic. As more and more people return to watching movies in-person, many anticipated movies are set to be released in the coming months. From action to comedy to animated films, there is something for everyone this summer.

Top Gun: Maverick

Releasing on May 27th, Top Gun: Maverick is a long-anticipated sequel to the movie Top Gun which follows Lt. Pete “Maverick” Mitchell, who is a test pilot whose career stalled out as a captain yet he stuck around the Navy so he can fulfill his need for speed.

“I can’t believe this movie was supposed to come out 2 years ago but because of the pandemic it got pushed back, I feel that adds more hype to the movie,” said Mathew Vanslyke (´25).

Jurassic World: Dominion

Coming out on June 10th, Jurassic World is about Claire and Owen, who are largely living off the grid due to the planet being overrun with dinosaurs. They are joined by characters from the Jurassic Park movies including Jeff Goldbloom and Laura Dern. Owen has to save everyone yet again — only this time, he is saving the entire world.

“I am very excited for Jurassic World. I think the cliffhanger the last movie left us on was insane and led into this movie. I also think that the trailers look really cool so this is gonna be a good movie,” said Andrew Snider (‘25).

Lightyear

Releasing on June 17th, Lightyear is a movie following Buzz Lightyear from the popular movie franchise Toy Story. The movie is based on Buzz Lightyear’s story before he becomes another toy. Buzz gets stranded on a hostile planet and has to work with his crew to get back home.

“When I was younger, I used to love watching the Toy Story movies and I am excited for this to come out because I feel like we have been waiting for another Toy Story movie for a while.” said Trinity Perault (´22).

Minions: Rise of Gru

In theaters on July 1st, Minions: Rise of Gru is about the story of Gru, who is twelve years old, and his journey to becoming the greatest supervillain in the entire world. The first movies of the Despicable Me franchise followed Gru as the world’s greatest villain, and this prequel shows his journey from kid to villain.

“I can’t wait for this movie, ever since the first few movies came out this has been one of my favorite series and it was only a matter of time until they made a prequel,” said Vanslyke.

Thor: Love and Thunder

Releasing July 8th, Thor: Love and Thunder is about Thor’s quest for inner peace. But, his retirement is interrupted by a galactic killer known as Gorr the God Butcher, who seeks the extinction of the gods. The movie features the Guardians of the Galaxy and characters from past movies.

“I’m a big Marvel fan and I think [Thor: Love and Thunder] it’s going to be one of the best marvel movies of recent time,” said Alex Klokkenga (‘25).