August is shaping up to be an exciting month for film enthusiasts, with a lineup of must-watch movies that promise to deliver a mix of thrills, emotion, and entertainment. Among the highlights are “Alien: Romulus” and “The Crow,” both of which are set to captivate audiences with their unique narratives and stunning visuals.
First on the list is “Alien: Romulus,” directed by Fede Álvarez. This latest installment in the iconic Alien franchise takes a back-to-basics approach, reminiscent of Ridley Scott’s original 1979 film. Set aboard a nearly deserted space station, the story follows a group of young colonists who find themselves in a fight for survival against the terrifying alien creatures that have haunted the series since its inception. Álvarez promises a survival horror experience that will appeal to both newcomers and long-time fans of the franchise. The film is set for general release on August 16, and it aims to blend practical effects with the atmospheric tension that made the original a classic.
Next up is “The Crow,” a reboot of the beloved 1994 film that gained notoriety due to the tragic death of its star, Brandon Lee, during production. Directed by Rupert Sanders, this new adaptation stars Bill Skarsgård as Eric, a rock musician who is resurrected to avenge the murder of his girlfriend, played by FKA twigs. The film explores themes of love, loss, and the quest for justice, all while maintaining the gothic aesthetic that fans of the original have come to adore. “The Crow” is set to hit theaters on August 23, and it promises to deliver a fresh take on a story that has resonated with audiences for decades.
In addition to these two highly anticipated films, August also brings a variety of other noteworthy releases. “Daughters,” a poignant documentary about a program that allows inmates to bond with their children through a “Daddy Daughter Dance,” will be available on Netflix starting August 14. This film offers a heart-wrenching look at the impact of the prison system on families and highlights the importance of human connection.
Another film to watch is “Kneecap,” a raucous comedy-drama that tells the story of a rebellious hip-hop trio from West Belfast. With its energetic style and engaging performances, “Kneecap” is sure to entertain audiences when it releases on August 2 in the US and August 9 in Ireland.
Zoe Kravitz makes her directorial debut with “Blink Twice,” a psychological thriller that explores themes of memory and isolation. Starring Channing Tatum, the film follows two women who find themselves in a luxurious but dangerous situation on a private island. Set for release on August 23, “Blink Twice” promises to be a thought-provoking addition to the summer lineup.
M. Night Shyamalan’s latest thriller, “Trap,” is another film to keep an eye on. Described as “Silence of the Lambs at a Taylor Swift concert,” the film follows a father who discovers that a concert is a cover for a police sting operation targeting a serial killer. With its unique premise and Shyamalan’s signature twist, “Trap” is set to be released on August 2 in the US and Canada.
For animation lovers, “Kensuke’s Kingdom,” based on Michael Morpurgo’s novel, offers a heartfelt story about a boy stranded on a remote island. This hand-drawn film, which emphasizes themes of cultural understanding and environmental protection, will be available on August 2 in both the US and the UK.
“Between the Temples,” a comedy-drama from Nathan Silver, features a star-studded cast including Jason Schwartzman and Carol Kane. The film explores themes of grief and friendship, and it will be released on August 23 in the US, UK, and Ireland.
Fans of video game adaptations will want to check out “Borderlands,” directed by Eli Roth. This sci-fi action-comedy features a diverse cast, including Cate Blanchett and Kevin Hart, and promises to deliver a wild ride through the universe of the popular video game series. “Borderlands” is set for release on August 9.
Lastly, “Touch,” a romantic melodrama directed by Baltasar Kormákur, tells the story of a widower searching for his long-lost love while grappling with the onset of dementia. This film, which balances themes of love and loss across time, will be released on August 8 in Germany and later in the UK and Italy.
With such a diverse array of films hitting theaters and streaming platforms this August, cinephiles have plenty to look forward to. From the chilling depths of space in “Alien: Romulus” to the gothic romance of “The Crow,” this month promises to deliver unforgettable cinematic experiences.
Source: Lionsgate, Netflix, Curzon Films, Amazon MGM, Warner Media, 20th Century Studios, Modern Films, Focus Features