It’s summer in the UK, and the cinema scene is sizzling! Whether you’re escaping a surprise heatwave, dodging a drizzle, or just looking for the perfect feel-good day out, this season’s movie line-up is bursting with blockbuster energy, nostalgic throwbacks, and a few hidden gems. Grab your popcorn—here’s what’s lighting up the big screen.
🦖 Jurassic World: Rebirth (July 2)
Dinos are back—and they’re bigger, bolder, and more beautifully shot than ever. In this fresh reboot of the legendary franchise, a new global cast led by Scarlett Johansson and Mahershala Ali explores a world where dinosaurs now roam beyond the confines of a park. Director Gareth Edwards (Rogue One) brings a gritty realism to the chaos, while the score and sweeping visuals tug on both your nerves and your heartstrings.
🦸♂️ Superman (July 11)
James Gunn takes the helm in this soulful reimagining of DC’s ultimate boy scout. David Corenswet dons the cape as a younger Clark Kent, navigating his alien legacy and human empathy in a world that’s more cynical than ever. Expect jaw-dropping flight scenes, intimate Smallville flashbacks, and a Lex Luthor who’s more philosophical than maniacal.
🧪 Fantastic Four: First Steps (July 25)
Set in a retro-futuristic 1960s aesthetic, this reboot offers a stylish origin tale of four explorers who return from a cosmic mission with strange new powers. Pedro Pascal leads as Reed Richards alongside Vanessa Kirby, Joseph Quinn, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach. Smart, funny, and packed with MCU Easter eggs.
👻 I Know What You Did Last Summer (July 18)
Jennifer Love Hewitt and Freddie Prinze Jr. reprise their roles in this sleek sequel-meets-reboot, where a new group of teens finds themselves haunted by a dark secret. Equal parts nostalgic and modern, with smarter scares, Gen-Z energy, and just the right amount of camp.
💙 Smurfs (July 18)
This animated reboot features Rihanna voicing a bold, independent Smurfette. The story dives deeper into her origins, as she sets out on a quest to uncover who she really is. Add in toe-tapping musical numbers and life lessons, and it’s a charming family treat.
🏌️♂️ Happy Gilmore 2 (July 25)
Adam Sandler returns in this surprise sequel. Now a retired legend, Happy must coach a cocky young upstart—and face a rival with very familiar quirks. Classic Sandler with slapstick laughs and even a few heartwarming moments.
🤠 Eddington (August 22)
Directed by Ari Aster, this Western stars Joaquin Phoenix as a loner drawn into a tense desert standoff. Emma Stone and Pedro Pascal add depth in this darkly funny, slow-burn drama.
🔍 The Thursday Murder Club (August 22 – limited)
Based on Richard Osman’s novel. Helen Mirren, Ben Kingsley, and Pierce Brosnan play retirees who form an amateur detective club and stumble upon a real mystery. A cozy British crime caper with genuine twists.
🎟️ Bonus Picks:
- The Great Ice Cream Hunt (July 11): CBeebies musical fun.
- The Bad Guys 2 (August): Slick heist sequel.
- The Naked Gun (August 1): Liam Neeson’s absurdist reboot.
- Moana 2, Paddington in Peru, Minecraft: The Movie – part of £1 summer deals at select cinemas.
Bright Shiny Takeaway:
This summer’s cinema is packed with joy, drama, nostalgia, and family fun. So grab your mates, your date, or your gran—and head to your local cinema!