5) How To Train Your Dragon 

Only a few films have been able to retain the same magic in the transition from animation to live-action, but the new How to Train Your Dragon accomplished it —and more. It follows Hiccup Haddock, a lanky Viking boy whose village suffers in a constant battle against dragons, as he discovers companionship in the very thing his people seek to destroy: a dragon named Toothless. The visual effects are worth the watch alone; everything from scenic landscapes to heart-pounding action to life-like fantasy creatures. The film is an emotional rollercoaster, with belly-laughing moments to scenes that tug at the heartstrings. 

4) Jurassic World: Rebirth 

Jurassic World: Rebirth perfectly captures the thrills of its original 1993 counterpart; gorgeous special effects, a gifted cast, and somehow, even more dinosaurs. The film focuses on the future of the franchise, where dinosaurs have struggled to adapt to modern climates, except for Earth’s equator, where our team of agents is sent to retrieve DNA vital to modern medicine. The performances are a highlight, with Mahershala Ali, Scarlett Johansson, and Jonathan Bailey making their characters feel compelling- despite the frightening events they go through.

3) Elio 

Pixar’s newest film, Elio, is an utter delight from start to finish, with a refreshing story that leaves you feeling optimistic (and a little misty-eyed). Accompany our protagonist Elio, a struggling little boy, as he’s mistaken for Earth’s leader by a peaceful community of Aliens. Elio is forced to navigate everything from representing Earth to wartime diplomacy, all while exploring the strained relationship between him & his aunt. With charming animation, excellent voice acting, and a deeply moving story that brought me, a grown woman, to tears in the theater- it’s a must-watch for anyone who loves science fiction, animation, or a fun-loving movie. 

2) The Fantastic Four:
First Steps

Since Stan Lee & Jack Kirby’s creation of The Fantastic Four in 1961, several film adaptations of Marvel’s first family have been made- but Matt Shakman’s “Fantastic Four: First Steps” has come the closest to bringing the comic books to life. Come along as The Fantastic Four deal with an earth-shattering threat of Galactus, a cosmic being who plans to devour the world. This danger coincides with the arrival of the team’s youngest member, newborn Franklin Richards. With a kitchy, retro-futuristic set design that looks like it came straight from The Jetsons, exceptional casting for its characters, such as Pedro Pascal as Mr. Fantastic or Vanessa Kirby as Invisible Woman, you cannot miss it.

1) Superman

Without a doubt, James Gunn’s Superman has captured the world by storm- and for good reason. This new version of Superman couldn’t have come at a better time: giving us an inspiring protagonist to look up to (literally!) when the world feels increasingly polarizing. Journey with Superman as he struggles to try and prevent an invasion from the tyrannical nation of Boravia, as he discovers the complexities of being a superhero.

David Corenswet’s depiction of the Man of Steel is beyond compelling, but the supporting characters truly stand out with a no-nonsense Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan), or a downright terrifying Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult)- it’s a movie that truly takes the time to understand its characters, story, and world.