July is packed with cinematic treats, both in theaters and on streaming platforms. From superhero reboots to surreal horror and political documentaries, here’s your guide to this month’s must-watch releases.
Eddington
Release: July 18 (US), July 24 (Australia)
Platform: Theatrical
Director Ari Aster, known for horror hits Hereditary and Midsommar, takes a sharp turn into political satire with Eddington. Set in a quirky New Mexico town during the chaos of 2020, the film follows a tense rivalry between the local sheriff (Joaquin Phoenix) and the profit-driven mayor (Pedro Pascal), with Emma Stone as the sheriff’s wife caught in the middle. Critics have called it a clever, darkly funny take on America’s recent upheavals — “the ultimate doom-scroll movie,” says Elle’s Tomris Laffly.
Heads of State
Release: July 2
Platform: Prime Video (Worldwide)
In this action-packed comedy, John Cena stars as a former actor turned U.S. president who finds himself stranded behind enemy lines with the British Prime Minister, played by Idris Elba. As they fight their way back to safety, expect sharp humor, explosive action, and a playful take on modern leadership. Priyanka Chopra Jonas and Jack Quaid round out the cast. Director Ilya Naishuller (Nobody) delivers what Cena calls a nonstop thrill ride.
Together
Release: July 30 (US, UK, Canada), July 31 (Australia)
Platform: Theatrical
Allison Brie and Dave Franco star as a couple whose relationship turns terrifying in this body-horror romance set in the Australian outback. After drinking from a strange cave, Franco’s character becomes physically and emotionally dependent on Brie’s character — quite literally. Critics have praised Together for its bizarre, unforgettable imagery and emotional depth, with IndieWire calling it a “delightfully deranged midnight gem.”
40 Acres
Release: July 2
Platform: Theatrical (US)
This tense survival drama by debut filmmaker RT Thorne is set in a future where animals are extinct and food is scarce. A family of color tries to protect their isolated farm from roving gangs, raising timely questions about community, survival, and racial justice. The Wrap calls it “a gory yet thought-provoking thriller exploring what it means to protect your own when society crumbles.”
Superman
Release: July 8 (Global)
Platform: Theatrical
James Gunn introduces a new era for DC with Superman, starring David Corenswet in the iconic role. This reboot promises more optimism than previous versions and includes appearances from Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan), Lex Luthor (Nicholas Hoult), and even Krypto the Superdog. Gunn says this iteration highlights Superman’s humanity as much as his powers — a hero grounded in compassion.
Smurfs
Release: July 16 (Global)
Platform: Theatrical
The blue icons return in a musical adventure that sends the animated Smurfs to live-action Paris. Rihanna lends her voice to Smurfette and contributes original music. Director Chris Miller (Puss in Boots) takes inspiration from the original Belgian comics, blending traditional animation with energetic visuals in what he hopes will revive the franchise’s appeal.
I Know What You Did Last Summer
Release: July 16 (Global)
Platform: Theatrical
This legacy sequel revisits the iconic teen slasher franchise, reuniting Jennifer Love Hewitt and Freddie Prinze Jr. as survivors from the original 1997 film. A new group of teens and another tragic accident bring the Fisherman back — with deadly consequences. Writer-director Jennifer Kaytin Robinson explores how trauma shapes people over time, offering both nostalgia and a modern twist.
The Fantastic Four: First Steps
Release: July 23 (Global)
Platform: Theatrical
Marvel’s first superhero team returns in a fresh reimagining that places the Fantastic Four in a stylized, retro-futuristic 1960s alternate universe. With Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as the leads, this version leans into the optimism of the Space Race era. Director Matt Shakman describes it as a “bright, adventurous tribute to a more hopeful time in sci-fi.”
Apocalypse in the Tropics
Release: July 14
Platform: Netflix (Worldwide)
Brazilian filmmaker Petra Costa follows up her Oscar-nominated The Edge of Democracy with a new documentary exploring the rise of evangelical politics in Brazil. Apocalypse in the Tropics analyzes how religious leaders have influenced national politics, particularly under Jair Bolsonaro. According to The Hollywood Reporter, Costa’s film offers a broader look at how faith-based politics are reshaping democracies worldwide.
Jurassic World: Rebirth
Release: July 2 (Global)
Platform: Theatrical
The Jurassic Park franchise gets a reboot with Jurassic World: Rebirth, returning to its roots: humans trapped on an island with dinosaurs. With Scarlett Johansson, Mahershala Ali, and Jonathan Bailey in leading roles, and Godzilla’s Gareth Edwards directing, the film aims to revive the tension and awe of the original. Bailey says it “captures the wonder and terror” that made the first Jurassic Park unforgettable.
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