There are numerous exciting new releases coming to theaters over the next month. In addition to “Sinners,” a new horror thriller directed by Ryan Coogler and starring Michael B. Jordan, expect titles like “The Legend of Ochi,” David Cronenberg’s “The Shrouds,” “Thunderbolts,” and more. However, if you’re looking for some excellent sci-fi to enjoy from the comfort of your own home right now, we have a great lineup of this month’s best.
Our selections include the Oscar-nominated sequel to “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse,” one of the most impressive mecha anime films from the past five years, and an Oscar-winning kaiju thriller with an upcoming sequel.
Let’s dive into what this month has to offer!
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse
Image: Sony Pictures
Directors: Joaquim Dos Santos, Kemp Powers, Justin K. Thompson
Cast: Shameik Moore, Hailee Steinfeld, Jason Schwartzman
It’s probably for the best that the final entry in the Spider-Verse trilogy is taking its time to be perfected. Yet, it’s a bit disappointing that we’ll have to wait until 2027 to see the conclusion of “Across the Spider-Verse”‘s dramatic cliffhanger. On the bright side, rewatching “Across the Spider-Verse” is a fantastic way to pass the two years until the next movie releases.
“Across the Spider-Verse” may not quite reach the emotional heights of its predecessor, but it compensates with one of the most visually stunning and ambitious animated films ever. Every frame, whether for action or dialogue, is brimming with detail, references, and colors without overwhelming the film’s flow. It might be good that there are two more years to catch all the references. —Austen Goslin
Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway
Image: Sunrise/Netflix
Director: Shūkō Murase
Cast: Kensho Ono, Reina Ueda, Junichi Suwabe
This month, Bandai Namco Entertainment released “Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX”, the latest entry in the long-running mecha series, directed by Kazuya Tsurumaki. For more top-tier mecha action, consider Shūkō Murase’s 2021 film “Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway”.
Set 12 years after “Mobile Suit Gundam: Char’s Counterattack,” it follows Hathaway Noa, the son of a prominent Earth Federation officer, who secretly leads an insurgency to force humanity to leave Earth for environmental reasons. After stopping a hostage situation, Hathaway becomes a target for Kenneth Sleg, a determined military officer. The stakes intensify with Gigi Andalucia, a mysterious woman who suspects Hathaway’s true identity.
With beautifully animated battles, stunning settings, and a thrilling plot, “Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway” is an excellent sci-fi thriller, even if you’re not familiar with the extended universe. The much-anticipated sequel, “Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway: Son of Bright,” is expected next year, making now a perfect time to watch the first movie. —Toussaint Egan
Godzilla Minus One
Image: Toho
Director: Takashi Yamazaki
Cast: Ryunosuke Kamiki, Minami Hamabe, Yuki Yamada
Every new Godzilla film is an event, but few have had as much cultural impact as Takashi Yamazaki’s “Godzilla Minus One.” It was a global box office success, critically acclaimed, and even won the franchise its first Academy Award. Not to mention it excellently revisited the iconic character’s roots. It’s no surprise that Toho announced a direct sequel, again under Yamazaki’s direction.
Since the sequel’s timing is uncertain, it’s a perfect opportunity to revisit “Godzilla Minus One” on Netflix and remember why it’s remarkable. A second watch highlights all the incredible details in the film, especially in Godzilla’s visuals. Few modern movies boast effects as impressive, enhancing the old-school horror vibe that Yamazaki masterfully captures. —AG
