Let’s face it: there’s nothing like the rush of a great movie. It’s that magic when the screen lights up, the world fades away, and you’re transported into another universe. The last leg of 2024 is shaping up to be a real box office powerhouse, with sequels, prequels, and brand-new adventures that are bound to make you laugh, cry, and maybe even rethink your entire existence. So, whether you’re a lover of nostalgia, ready to relive your childhood, or just looking for a wild ride, here are five films that absolutely need to be on your radar this year.
WICKED
We all know the story of The Wizard of Oz, but what about the women behind the curtain? Wicked flips the familiar tale, focusing on Elphaba, a misunderstood young woman with green skin, and her unlikely bond with Glinda, the popular student who will stop at nothing to be adored. Their friendship takes a dramatic turn after an encounter with the Wizard of Oz, leading them down very different paths that will change the fate of Oz forever. With Ariana Grande stepping into the role of Glinda and Cynthia Erivo playing Elphaba, this adaptation promises some seriously powerful vocal performances. Expect soaring songs, jaw-dropping costumes, and a look at the darker side of this fantastical world.
MUFASA: THE LION KING
Before Simba, there was Mufasa, the lion who would one day rule the Pride Lands. In Mufasa: The Lion King, we get the origin story of the majestic king, tracing his journey from an orphaned cub to the leader we all know and love. Along the way, Mufasa meets Taka, the heir to a royal bloodline, and their unexpected meeting sets in motion a story of misfits on a quest to find their true destinies. Get ready for a visual feast and a powerful tale of friendship, fate, and family.
GLADIATOR 2
Remember that iconic line, Are you not entertained? Well, Gladiator 2 is back to make sure we are. This sequel picks up years after the death of Maximus, with Lucius, the young boy who witnessed it all, now grown and ready to face the brutal Roman Empire head-on. When his home is conquered by the emperors, Lucius enters the Colosseum with rage in his heart, looking to honor the past and restore glory to Rome. Expect brutal battles, political intrigue, and a hefty dose of revenge.
MOANA 2
Moana 2 sees our favorite wayfinder called upon by her ancestors to embark on a daring journey into treacherous, forgotten waters. Moana will face dangers unlike anything she’s ever encountered. Full of heart, hope, and, of course, epic songs, this sequel promises to be as adventurous and empowering as the original.
WE LIVE IN TIME
Love in the modern world is complicated, but what happens when time itself becomes your biggest obstacle? We Live in Time tells the story of Almut and Tobias, two strangers whose lives change after a chance encounter. As they navigate their growing relationship, they must learn to make the most of the fleeting moments they have, knowing that time is their greatest challenge. Expect sharp dialogue, emotional depth, and a love story that defies the typical romance.
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