July Film Lineup: From Blockbuster Reboots to Indie Gems, A Guide to UK Releases
A wave of highly anticipated films is set to hit UK cinemas and streaming platforms this July, offering a diverse range of cinematic experiences. From a gripping German thriller to a comedy lauded as the “funniest movie of the year,” moviegoers have much to look forward to in the coming weeks. Here’s a curated selection of six must-watch titles, as highlighted by Digital Spy.
Trapped in Tension: “Brick” Arrives on Netflix
Premiering on Netflix on July 10th, “Brick” is a twist-filled German thriller from writer and director Philip Koch. The film centers on Tim (Matthias Schweighöfer) and Olivia (Ruby O. Fee), a couple who find themselves inexplicably confined within their apartment building by a mysterious brick wall. Their escape hinges on collaboration with their neighbors, leading to a suspenseful and claustrophobic narrative. According to Screen International, “Brick” is “a satisfying and watchable audience-pleaser,” promising to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
The Man of Steel Soars Again: “Superman” Takes Flight
James Gunn’s reboot of the iconic DC franchise, “Superman,” lands in UK cinemas on July 11th. David Corenswet steps into the role of the Man of Steel, alongside Rachel Brosnahan as Lois Lane and Nicholas Hoult as Lex Luthor. This film marks the beginning of Gunn’s reimagined DC Universe, exploring Clark Kent’s struggle to reconcile his Kryptonian heritage with his human identity. The cast also includes Edi Gathegi, Anthony Carrigan, and Nathan Fillion, with rumors of a significant A-list cameo adding to the excitement.
A Hilarious Exploration of Male Friendship: “Friendship” Lands in the UK
After its US release in May, A24’s comedy “Friendship” arrives in British cinemas on July 18th. The film delves into the complexities of male bonding, starring Tim Robinson as Craig Waterman, a socially awkward marketing executive who desperately seeks friendship with his charismatic neighbor, played by Paul Rudd. “Friendship” has garnered widespread acclaim, boasting an impressive 88% fresh score on Rotten Tomatoes. The Daily Beast declared it “the funniest film of the year,” with supporting performances from Kate Mara and Jack Dylan Grazer.
The Future is Fantastic: “The Fantastic Four: First Steps”
The iconic Marvel franchise returns to the big screen on July 24th with “The Fantastic Four: First Steps.” Pedro Pascal, Vanessa Kirby, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, and Joseph Quinn embody the central foursome as they defend a retro-futuristic 1960s world from the villainous Galactus (Ralph Ineson). This film serves as the inaugural project of the MCU’s Phase Six, and features Julia Garner as the Silver Surfer, alongside John Malkovich, Paul Walter Hauser, Natasha Lyonne, and Sarah Niles.
Happy Returns: “Happy Gilmore 2” Tees Off on Netflix
Nearly three decades after the original, Adam Sandler reprises his role as Happy Gilmore in a new Netflix sequel, available to stream from July 25th. The former ice hockey player-turned-golfing sensation returns to the game, now a five-time Tour Championship winner, facing off against his longtime rival, Shooter McGavin (Christopher McDonald). Julie Bowen also reprises her role, and Sandler’s real-life daughters, Sunny and Sadie, join the cast, alongside Travis Kelce and Bad Bunny.
A Descent into Darkness: “An Honest Life” Streams on Netflix
Concluding the month on July 31st, Netflix releases “An Honest Life,” a Swedish thriller described as a story of “betrayal, class and the appeal of living outside the law.” Based on the novel by Joakim Zander, the film follows Simon, a law student who becomes entangled in a world of anarchists after falling for a woman named Max. Starring Simon Lööf, Nora Rios, and Peter Andersson, the film is directed by Mikael Marcimain, known for “Blackwater.”
