The Birth of the Summer Blockbuster

As the 36th annual Shark Week wraps up on the Discovery channel, I started thinking about the movie “Jaws” and how it is considered the first summer blockbuster. I read the Peter Benchley novel it was based on years ago. It’s a good read, but not what I was expecting. In the book, the shark is a side note while the relationship between the human characters is the focus.

*Roy Scheider (with Bruce the shark) in Jaws (1975)*

Movie directors are known to take liberties with book-to-movie adaptations, changing the narrative to fit their vision. Do you remember Mayor Vaugh being in debt to the mob? No, but it does explain why he was desperate for the beaches to be open. Or how about Ellen and Hooper’s affair? I’m pretty sure a cuckolded Sherrif Brody would not give us those hero vibes. We certainly wouldn’t have those buddy moments between Hooper and Brody, giving the viewer a bit of levity before dropping the duuuuuuun dun duuuuuuuuu dun. (Spoiler alert – Hooper dies in the book.)

*Beachgoers running out of the water in Jaws*

‘Jaws’ came out in June 1975, just in time to intentionally scare beachgoers out of the water. Before that summer, movie theaters saw low ticket sales during the summer months because most people preferred to be outside in the sun than in a dark theater. Of course, the word ‘blockbuster’ was around well before Bruce the Shark hit the big screen. The word first appeared in the pages of TIME in a Nov. 29, 1942, article on the Allied bombing of key industrial targets in fascist Italy; the bombs used for such missions were called blockbusters because of their ability to destroy an entire city block.

Eventually, the word was detached from military references and became associated primarily with popular, big-budget, high-impact Hollywood hits.

The Biggest Summer Blockbuster Each Year since 1975

Jaws – June 1975

Directed by Steven Spielberg and written by Peter Benchley and Carl Gottlieb, “Jaws” stars Roy Scheider as Chief Martin Brody, Richard Dreyfuss as marine biologist Matt Hooper, and Robert Shaw as professional shark hunter Quint. The film is based on Peter Benchley’s novel of the same name and follows the trio as they hunt down a massive great white shark terrorizing the small island community of Amity. “Jaws” not only terrified audiences but also set the template for summer blockbusters with its suspenseful storytelling, groundbreaking special effects, and masterful marketing.

Fun Fact: The mechanical shark used in the film was nicknamed “Bruce” after Steven Spielberg’s lawyer.

The Omen – June 1976

Written by David Seltzer and directed by Richard Donner, “The Omen” stars Gregory Peck as Robert Thorn, Lee Remick as Katherine Thorn, and Harvey Spencer Stephens as their sinister son Damien. This chilling horror film, which delves into the birth of the Antichrist, captivated audiences with its eerie atmosphere and shocking twists, cementing its place as a summer horror classic.

Fun Fact: The film’s production was plagued by eerie events, including a lightning strike on Gregory Peck’s plane and a hotel bombing.

Star Wars: A New Hope – May 1977

Created by George Lucas, “Star Wars” features an ensemble cast including Mark Hamill as Luke Skywalker, Harrison Ford as Han Solo, and Carrie Fisher as Princess Leia. This epic space opera, later retitled “Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope,” revolutionized special effects and merchandising, and its immense success marked the beginning of one of the most beloved franchises in cinematic history.

Fun Fact: The iconic opening crawl was inspired by the Flash Gordon serials of the 1930s.

Grease – June 1978

Directed by Randal Kleiser and based on the 1971 musical by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey, “Grease” stars John Travolta as Danny Zuko and Olivia Newton-John as Sandy Olsson. The film follows the summer romance between Danny and Sandy and their subsequent high school reunion, filled with catchy songs and iconic dance numbers that have made “Grease” a beloved classic.

Fun Fact: Olivia Newton-John had to be sewn into her tight black pants for the final dance scene because the zipper broke.

Alien – May 1979

Directed by Ridley Scott and written by Dan O’Bannon, “Alien” stars Sigourney Weaver as Ellen Ripley, Tom Skerritt as Dallas, and John Hurt as Kane. This sci-fi horror masterpiece, featuring the terrifying xenomorph creature, combines intense suspense with groundbreaking special effects, making it a standout film of the genre.

Fun Fact: The chestburster scene was filmed in one take, and the cast’s horrified reactions were genuine because they were not told what would happen.

The Empire Strikes Back – May 1980

Star Wars Episode V The Empire Strikes Back

Directed by Irvin Kershner and written by Leigh Brackett and Lawrence Kasdan, “The Empire Strikes Back” is the second installment in the Star Wars saga. Starring Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, and Carrie Fisher, this darker sequel explores the struggles of the Rebel Alliance against the Galactic Empire, featuring iconic moments like the revelation of Darth Vader’s true identity.

Fun Fact: The line “I am your father” was kept a secret, and only a few people knew about it before the film’s release.

Raiders of the Lost Ark – June 1981

Raiders Of The Lost Ark Brickwall Pictures

Directed by Steven Spielberg and written by Lawrence Kasdan, “Raiders of the Lost Ark” stars Harrison Ford as the adventurous archaeologist Indiana Jones. Co-created by George Lucas, this action-packed film follows Indy’s quest to find the biblical Ark of the Covenant before the Nazis, blending thrills, humor, and unforgettable set pieces.

Fun Fact: Harrison Ford did many of his own stunts, including the famous boulder chase scene.

E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial – June 1982

E.T. The Extra Terrestrial Brickwall Pictures

Directed by Steven Spielberg and written by Melissa Mathison, “E.T.” stars Henry Thomas as Elliott, a young boy who befriends a stranded alien. This heartwarming sci-fi classic explores themes of friendship and home, enchanting audiences with its touching story and groundbreaking special effects.

Fun Fact: E.T.’s face was modeled after poet Carl Sandburg, Albert Einstein, and a pug dog.

Return of the Jedi – May 1983

Directed by Richard Marquand and written by Lawrence Kasdan and George Lucas, “Return of the Jedi” concludes the original Star Wars trilogy. Starring Mark Hamill, Harrison Ford, and Carrie Fisher, this epic finale sees the Rebel Alliance’s final battle against the Empire, featuring the redemption of Darth Vader and the destruction of the Death Star.

Fun Fact: The Ewok language was based on Tibetan and Nepalese languages.

Ghostbusters – June 1984

Directed by Ivan Reitman and written by Dan Aykroyd and Harold Ramis, “Ghostbusters” stars Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, Harold Ramis, and Ernie Hudson as a team of paranormal investigators. This comedy-horror film combines supernatural thrills with hilarious performances, creating an enduring cultural phenomenon.

Fun Fact: Three Stay Puft Marshmallow Man suits were made for the movie. Each one cost $20,000.

Back to the Future – July 1985

Directed by Robert Zemeckis and written by Zemeckis and Bob Gale, “Back to the Future” stars Michael J. Fox as Marty McFly and Christopher Lloyd as Doc Brown. This sci-fi adventure follows Marty as he travels back in time to 1955, inadvertently altering the past and struggling to ensure his parents’ future.

Fun Fact: The time machine was originally supposed to be a refrigerator.

Top Gun – May 1986

Directed by Tony Scott and written by Jim Cash and Jack Epps Jr., “Top Gun” stars Tom Cruise as naval aviator Pete “Maverick” Mitchell. This high-octane action film, known for its thrilling aerial combat scenes and iconic soundtrack, follows Maverick’s journey through the Top Gun Naval Fighter Weapons School.

Fun Fact: The Pentagon charged Paramount Pictures $1.8 million to use its aircraft carriers for filming.

Beverly Hills Cop II – May 1987

Directed by Tony Scott and written by Larry Ferguson and Warren Skaaren, “Beverly Hills Cop II” stars Eddie Murphy as the wisecracking detective Axel Foley. This action-comedy sequel follows Axel’s return to Beverly Hills to solve a series of heists, blending humor with high-stakes action.

Fun Fact: Eddie Murphy improvised much of his dialogue, adding to the film’s spontaneous humor.

Who Framed Roger Rabbit – June 1988

Directed by Robert Zemeckis and written by Jeffrey Price and Peter S. Seaman, “Who Framed Roger Rabbit” stars Bob Hoskins as private detective Eddie Valiant, alongside a cast of animated characters. This groundbreaking film blends live-action and animation, following Eddie as he uncovers a conspiracy in a world where cartoons and humans coexist.

Fun Fact: To convince Disney and Warner Bros. to share their characters, filmmakers promised equal screen time for each.

Batman – June 1989

Directed by Tim Burton and written by Sam Hamm and Warren Skaaren, “Batman” stars Michael Keaton as the Dark Knight and Jack Nicholson as the Joker. This dark, stylish adaptation of the DC Comics character follows Batman’s battle to save Gotham City from the Joker’s reign of terror.

Fun Fact: The Batmobile was built on a Chevy Impala chassis and included parts from jet aircraft and other vehicles.

Total Recall – June 1990

Directed by Paul Verhoeven and written by Ronald Shusett, Dan O’Bannon, and Gary Goldman, “Total Recall” stars Arnold Schwarzenegger as construction worker Douglas Quaid. Based on Philip K. Dick’s short story “We Can Remember It for You Wholesale,” the film follows Quaid as he uncovers a conspiracy involving implanted memories and a mission to Mars.

Fun Fact: In the original script, the story was set on Earth, and it was Arnold Schwarzenegger who suggested moving the action to Mars to create a more fantastical and visually striking setting.

Terminator 2: Judgment Day – July 1991

Directed by James Cameron and written by Cameron and William Wisher Jr., “Terminator 2: Judgment Day” stars Arnold Schwarzenegger as the Terminator and Linda Hamilton as Sarah Connor. This action-packed sequel sees the Terminator protecting Sarah and her son John from a more advanced cyborg, the T-1000.

Fun Fact: Linda Hamilton’s twin sister, Leslie Hamilton, was used in several scenes as a double for Sarah Connor.

Batman Returns – June 1992

Directed by Tim Burton and written by Daniel Waters, “Batman Returns” stars Michael Keaton as Batman, Michelle Pfeiffer as Catwoman, and Danny DeVito as the Penguin. This dark, gothic sequel follows Batman as he battles the Penguin’s sinister plot to take over Gotham City.

Fun Fact: Danny DeVito stayed in character as the Penguin between takes, including wearing his makeup and prosthetics even when not filming.

Jurassic Park – June 1993

Directed by Steven Spielberg and written by Michael Crichton and David Koepp, “Jurassic Park” stars Sam Neill as Dr. Alan Grant, Laura Dern as Dr. Ellie Sattler, and Jeff Goldblum as Dr. Ian Malcolm. Based on Crichton’s novel, this groundbreaking film features a dinosaur-themed amusement park where cloned dinosaurs run amok.

Fun Fact: The sound of the T. rex’s roar was a combination of a baby elephant, a tiger, and an alligator.

The Lion King – June 1994

Directed by Roger Allers and Rob Minkoff, “The Lion King” features the voices of Matthew Broderick as Simba, James Earl Jones as Mufasa, and Jeremy Irons as Scar. This animated musical follows the journey of young lion Simba as he reclaims his rightful place as king of the Pride Lands.

Fun Fact: “Hakuna Matata” was almost cut from the film because the production team was unsure if it fit the story.

Die Hard with a Vengeance – June 1995

Directed by John McTiernan and written by Jonathan Hensleigh, “Die Hard with a Vengeance” is the third installment in the Die Hard series. Bruce Willis reprises his role as John McClane, a New York City cop who is drawn into a deadly game of “Simon Says” by a vengeful terrorist named Simon Gruber, played by Jeremy Irons. The film also stars Samuel L. Jackson as Zeus Carver, an unwilling civilian who becomes McClane’s partner in solving Simon’s riddles. The high-stakes chase leads them across New York City in a race against time to prevent catastrophic explosions. T

Fun Fact: The film’s plot was initially based on a script titled “Simon Says,” which had no connection to the Die Hard franchise. It was reworked to fit into the series, making it one of the rare instances where a pre-existing script was adapted into a sequel.

Independence Day – July 1996

Directed by Roland Emmerich and written by Emmerich and Dean Devlin, “Independence Day” stars Will Smith as Captain Steven Hiller, Jeff Goldblum as David Levinson, and Bill Pullman as President Whitmore. This sci-fi blockbuster follows humanity’s fight to survive an alien invasion.

Fun Fact: The alien language in the movie was created by combining various Earth languages, including a mix of Arabic, Hebrew, and Chinese.

Men in Black – July 1997

Directed by Barry Sonnenfeld and written by Ed Solomon, “Men in Black” stars Will Smith as Agent J and Tommy Lee Jones as Agent K. Based on the comic series by Lowell Cunningham, this sci-fi comedy follows the secret agents as they monitor extraterrestrial activity on Earth.

Fun Fact: The alien “J” is chasing at the beginning of the movie is played by John Alexander, who also served as the alien movement coach.

Armageddon – July 1998

Directed by Michael Bay and written by Jonathan Hensleigh and J.J. Abrams, “Armageddon” stars Bruce Willis as Harry Stamper and Ben Affleck as A.J. Frost. This disaster film follows a team of oil drillers sent to space to destroy an asteroid threatening to annihilate Earth.

Fun Fact: NASA uses scenes from the film in their training program to teach new managers about the importance of communication and problem-solving.

Star Wars: Episode I – The Phantom Menace – May 1999

Directed by George Lucas, “The Phantom Menace” stars Liam Neeson as Qui-Gon Jinn, Ewan McGregor as Obi-Wan Kenobi, and Natalie Portman as Padmé Amidala. This prequel to the original Star Wars trilogy explores the rise of Anakin Skywalker and the political machinations of the Galactic Republic.

Fun Fact: Anakin Skywalker’s podracer sound effects were created using the recordings of a Ferrari F355.

Gladiator – May 2000

Directed by Ridley Scott and written by David Franzoni, John Logan, and William Nicholson, “Gladiator” stars Russell Crowe as Maximus Decimus Meridius and Joaquin Phoenix as Commodus. This epic historical drama follows the story of Maximus, a betrayed Roman general who seeks vengeance against the corrupt emperor.

Fun Fact: The tiger that Maximus fights in the Colosseum was real, but a safety wall of clear plexiglass was used to protect the actors.

Shrek – May 2001

Directed by Andrew Adamson and Vicky Jenson, “Shrek” stars Mike Myers as the voice of Shrek, Eddie Murphy as Donkey, and Cameron Diaz as Princess Fiona. Based on William Steig’s book, this animated comedy follows the journey of an ogre named Shrek who sets out to rescue Princess Fiona from a dragon-guarded castle.

Fun Fact: The character of Shrek was originally voiced by Chris Farley, and some of his recordings still exist.

Spider-Man – May 2002

Directed by Sam Raimi and written by David Koepp, “Spider-Man” stars Tobey Maguire as Peter Parker/Spider-Man, Kirsten Dunst as Mary Jane Watson, and Willem Dafoe as Norman Osborn/Green Goblin. This superhero film, based on the Marvel Comics character, follows Peter Parker as he gains superpowers and battles the Green Goblin.

Fun Fact: The scene where Peter Parker catches Mary Jane’s lunch tray took 156 takes to get right because the director insisted on practical effects instead of CGI.

Finding Nemo – May 2003

Directed by Andrew Stanton and written by Stanton, Bob Peterson, and David Reynolds, “Finding Nemo” features the voices of Albert Brooks as Marlin and Ellen DeGeneres as Dory. This animated adventure follows Marlin, a clownfish, as he searches for his missing son Nemo across the ocean.

Fun Fact: The whale that Dory speaks to in the movie uses a form of echolocation created by a professional sound designer.

Shrek 2 – May 2004

Directed by Andrew Adamson, Kelly Asbury, and Conrad Vernon, “Shrek 2” stars Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy, and Cameron Diaz reprising their roles. This sequel follows Shrek and Fiona as they visit Fiona’s parents, leading to a series of comedic adventures.

Fun Fact: The fairy godmother’s song “I Need a Hero” was recorded by Jennifer Saunders, who insisted on singing her own vocals.

Star Wars: Episode III – Revenge of the Sith – May 2005

Directed by George Lucas, “Revenge of the Sith” stars Ewan McGregor as Obi-Wan Kenobi, Hayden Christensen as Anakin Skywalker, and Natalie Portman as Padmé Amidala. This film depicts Anakin’s transformation into Darth Vader and the fall of the Jedi Order.

Fun Fact: Ewan McGregor and Hayden Christensen practiced their lightsaber duel for months and became so fast that their moves had to be slowed down in post-production.

Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest – July 2006

Pirates Of The Caribbean Dead Mans Chest Fb

Directed by Gore Verbinski and written by Ted Elliott and Terry Rossio, “Dead Man’s Chest” stars Johnny Depp as Captain Jack Sparrow, Orlando Bloom as Will Turner, and Keira Knightley as Elizabeth Swann. This swashbuckling adventure follows Jack Sparrow’s quest to avoid the clutches of Davy Jones and his cursed crew.

Fun Fact: The heart in the jar scene was achieved using a mixture of fake blood, animal organs, and a silicone heart.

Transformers – July 2007

Directed by Michael Bay and written by Roberto Orci and Alex Kurtzman, “Transformers” stars Shia LaBeouf as Sam Witwicky and Megan Fox as Mikaela Banes. This action-packed film, based on the toy line, follows the battle between the Autobots and Decepticons on Earth.

Fun Fact: The Autobot Bumblebee’s voice was supposed to be provided by actor Mark Ryan throughout the film, but the character’s damaged voice box was used as a plot point instead.

The Dark Knight – July 2008

Directed by Christopher Nolan and written by Nolan and Jonathan Nolan, “The Dark Knight” stars Christian Bale as Batman, Heath Ledger as the Joker, and Aaron Eckhart as Harvey Dent. This critically acclaimed superhero film explores Batman’s battle against the chaotic Joker and the descent of Harvey Dent into madness.

Fun Fact: Heath Ledger designed the Joker’s makeup himself, using white clown makeup and cosmetics purchased from a drugstore.

Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince – July 2009

Harry Potter And The Half Blood Prince Fb

Directed by David Yates and based on the sixth book in J.K. Rowling’s beloved series, “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” delves deeper into the darkening world of Harry Potter. The screenplay by Steve Kloves follows Harry (Daniel Radcliffe) as he enters his sixth year at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. Alongside his friends Hermione (Emma Watson) and Ron (Rupert Grint), Harry discovers a mysterious potions book belonging to the “Half-Blood Prince.” Meanwhile, Dumbledore (Michael Gambon) and Harry work together to uncover the secrets of Voldemort’s (Ralph Fiennes) past, seeking a way to defeat him once and for all. The film blends moments of teenage romance and humor with the looming threat of the Dark Lord’s rise to power.

Fun Fact: In the film, Tom Felton, who plays Draco Malfoy, performed the scene where he stands on the Astronomy Tower completely alone, even though Daniel Radcliffe (Harry) was supposed to be in the scene. This was because the director wanted Felton to feel the isolation Draco was experiencing at that moment.

Toy Story 3 – June 2010

Directed by Lee Unkrich and written by Michael Arndt, “Toy Story 3” features the voices of Tom Hanks as Woody and Tim Allen as Buzz Lightyear. This heartwarming animated film follows the beloved toys as they face an uncertain future when their owner Andy goes to college.

Fun Fact: Andy’s home in the movie is modeled after the house in the first “Toy Story” film, with some changes to reflect the passage of time.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows – Part 2 – July 2011

Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows – Part 2 Fb

Directed by David Yates and written by Steve Kloves, “Deathly Hallows – Part 2” stars Daniel Radcliffe as Harry Potter, Emma Watson as Hermione Granger, and Rupert Grint as Ron Weasley. Based on J.K. Rowling’s book, this epic finale sees Harry and his friends face off against Voldemort in a battle for the wizarding world.

Fun Fact: The scene where Harry, Hermione, and Ron break into Gringotts Bank was one of the most complex sequences ever filmed for the series, requiring months of planning and special effects work.

The Avengers – May 2012

Directed by Joss Whedon and written by Whedon, “The Avengers” stars Robert Downey Jr. as Iron Man, Chris Evans as Captain America, and Chris Hemsworth as Thor. This superhero ensemble film unites the Avengers to stop Loki and his alien army from conquering Earth.

Fun Fact: Mark Ruffalo is the first actor to play both Bruce Banner and the Hulk, using motion capture technology for the Hulk’s movements.

Iron Man 3 – May 2013

Directed by Shane Black and written by Black and Drew Pearce, “Iron Man 3” stars Robert Downey Jr. as Tony Stark/Iron Man, Gwyneth Paltrow as Pepper Potts, and Ben Kingsley as the Mandarin. This superhero film explores Tony Stark’s struggle against a powerful terrorist organization.

Fun Fact: The Mandarin’s tattoos are Easter eggs, including one of Captain America’s shield and another of Fin Fang Foom, a dragon from Marvel Comics.

Guardians of the Galaxy – August 2014

Directed by James Gunn and written by Gunn and Nicole Perlman, “Guardians of the Galaxy” stars Chris Pratt as Peter Quill/Star-Lord, Zoe Saldana as Gamora, and Dave Bautista as Drax. Based on the Marvel Comics, this space adventure follows a group of misfits who band together to save the galaxy.

Fun Fact: The dance-off scene at the end of the movie was not in the original script; it was suggested by Chris Pratt during filming.

Jurassic World – June 2015

Directed by Colin Trevorrow and written by Trevorrow, Derek Connolly, Rick Jaffa, and Amanda Silver, “Jurassic World” stars Chris Pratt as Owen Grady and Bryce Dallas Howard as Claire Dearing. This sequel to “Jurassic Park” features a fully operational dinosaur theme park and the chaos that ensues when a genetically engineered dinosaur escapes.

Fun Fact: The film’s dinosaur sounds were created by combining recordings of various animals, including birds, pigs, and whales.

Finding Dory – June 2016

Directed by Andrew Stanton and written by Stanton and Victoria Strouse, “Finding Dory” features the voices of Ellen DeGeneres as Dory and Albert Brooks as Marlin. This animated sequel follows Dory’s quest to find her long-lost parents with the help of her friends.

Fun Fact: The voice of Bailey the beluga whale is provided by Ty Burrell, who improvised many of his lines.

Despicable Me 3 – June 2017

Directed by Pierre Coffin and Kyle Balda, “Despicable Me 3” continues the adventures of Gru (voiced by Steve Carell), who discovers he has a long-lost twin brother named Dru (also voiced by Carell). Dru is everything Gru is not—charming, wealthy, and exuberant. Together, they team up to take on Balthazar Bratt (voiced by Trey Parker), a former child star turned supervillain who is obsessed with the 1980s. Alongside Gru and Dru’s sibling rivalry, the Minions have their own subplot as they attempt to break away from Gru’s shadow and pursue their own adventures.

Fun Fact: In “Despicable Me 3,” Balthazar Bratt’s character was inspired by the 1980s nostalgia, and his keytar, a keyboard worn like a guitar, plays classic ’80s hits. Trey Parker, co-creator of “South Park,” voiced Bratt, bringing his unique comedic touch to the character.

Incredibles 2 – June 2018

Description: Directed by Brad Bird, “Incredibles 2” picks up right where the original 2004 film left off. The superhero family, the Parrs, are trying to balance their everyday lives with their superhero duties. Elastigirl (voiced by Holly Hunter) is called upon to lead a campaign to bring Supers back into the spotlight, while Mr. Incredible (voiced by Craig T. Nelson) stays at home to take care of their children: Violet (voiced by Sarah Vowell), Dash (voiced by Huck Milner), and baby Jack-Jack, whose emerging superpowers are unpredictable and chaotic. The family must also confront a new villain, the Screenslaver, who uses hypnotic abilities to control others.

Fun Fact: The release of “Incredibles 2” came 14 years after the original film, yet the sequel begins immediately where the first movie ended. This continuity required the filmmakers to meticulously recreate the animation style and character designs from the original to ensure a seamless transition between the two films.

Spider-Man: Far From Home – July 2019

Description: Directed by Jon Watts, “Spider-Man: Far From Home” is the second installment in the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s Spider-Man series. The film follows Peter Parker (Tom Holland) as he embarks on a school trip to Europe, hoping to take a break from his superhero duties. However, his plans are disrupted when Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson) recruits him to team up with Quentin Beck, aka Mysterio (Jake Gyllenhaal), to battle elemental creatures wreaking havoc across the continent. As Peter navigates his feelings for MJ (Zendaya) and his responsibilities as Spider-Man, he discovers that Mysterio may not be the hero he appears to be.

Fun Fact: In “Spider-Man: Far From Home,” the character of Mysterio is known for his illusionist abilities. To create the illusion sequences in the movie, the filmmakers drew inspiration from classic Spider-Man comics and incorporated cutting-edge visual effects to bring Mysterio’s powers to life in a mind-bending and visually stunning way.

Top Gun: Maverick – May 2022

Directed by Joseph Kosinski and written by Ehren Kruger, Eric Warren Singer, and Christopher McQuarrie, “Top Gun: Maverick” stars Tom Cruise reprising his role as Pete “Maverick” Mitchell. This action-packed sequel follows Maverick as he trains a new generation of pilots while facing his past.

Fun Fact: Tom Cruise personally piloted several of the aircraft in the film, including a P-51 Mustang and a helicopter.

Barbie – July 2023

Directed by Greta Gerwig and written by Gerwig and Noah Baumbach, “Barbie” stars Margot Robbie as Barbie and Ryan Gosling as Ken. This whimsical and imaginative film explores Barbie’s journey of self-discovery in a world that challenges her ideals.

Fun Fact: Barbie’s Dreamhouse in the movie was inspired by mid-century modern architecture and was built as a full-scale set.

Summer of 2024

We’re in the height of summer with still loads of movies scheduled to hit the cinemas in the next couple months. The 2024 summer movie season officially kicked off on Memorial Day weekend with the release of “Furiosa”. This action pacted pre-quel was perfect to usher in summer movies and this year, there’s something for virtually everyone to watch before Labor Day weekend.

Our list of potential blockbusters coming out this summer:

‘Furiosa’ (May 24), ‘Bad Boys: Ride or Die’ (June 7), ‘The Watchers’ (June 7), ‘Inside Out 2’ (June 14), ‘The Bikeriders’ (June 21), ‘A Quiet Place: Day One’ (June 28), ‘Beverly Hills Cop: Axel F.’ (July 3), ‘Twisters’ (July 19), ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ (July 26), ‘Deadpool & Wolverine’ (July 26), ‘Trap’ (August 9), ‘Alien: Romulus’ (August 16), ‘The Crow’ (August 23).