This summer, several greatly anticipated movies were released to cinemas across the US, many taking box offices by storm. Teenagers, now with free time, flocked to the big screen with friends and family–and students at MLEC were no exception. Now that the summer has concluded, let’s count down the top movies of the season.
Number Four, Twisters
Twisters is the sequel to the 1996 film Twister. Rated at 75% on Rotten Tomatoes by critics, the movie generated nearly $225,000,000 at the box office this summer. The idea of a second movie also served to revitalize several old enthusiasts.
“As a fan of the original Twister, I was looking forward to a sequel, full of the same silly act,” said Mr. Morales, a beloved English teacher at MLEC.
Twisters featured an entirely new cast of characters. In particular, it followed Kate Carter, played by Daisy Edgar-Jones, and a group of storm chasers as they investigated increasing tornado reports in Oklahoma.
“It was a much more thoughtful movie than I had expected, and the highlight of the film– the final scenes set in a movie theater– reflect the human interest in danger and spectacle back onto the viewer,” said Mr. Morales.
Number Three, Despicable Me 4
One of the most popular series returned once more this summer– Despicable Me 4 hit theaters on July 3rd, making over $300,000,000 since. The movie received an overall positive reaction and acquired a rating of 88% from audiences on Rotten Tomatoes.
Despite the overall positive review, the movie received a rating of only 56% on Rotten Tomatoes from critics. Linet elaborated further on the topic, pointing out some logical inconsistencies.
“It is a good movie, a great comedy, and had a good animation, but I wouldn’t call it the ‘Top Movie of the Summer,’” said senior Linet Linet.
Once again following Gru and his three adoptive daughters, Agnes, Edith, and Margo. Despicable Me 4 navigates the family welcoming a new addition to their family. At the same time, Gru faces off against a new enemy, forcing the group to go on the run.
“I would recommend it to others. I found it hilarious, especially the scenes with the baby. The movie had an entirely different plot compared to the other [movies],” said Linet.
Number Two, Deadpool & Wolverine
Deadpool & Wolverine starred both Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman, so its success should come as no surprise. Critics rated it 78% on Rotten Tomatoes, and the movie made over $200,000,000 more than Despicable Me 4, despite being played in fewer theaters.
“The promo leading up was good, and you had a great movie to follow through. It keeps people wanting to come back for more,” said freshman Kenya Maddox.
Deadpool and Wolverine combine two beloved Marvel characters in a thrilling adventure as Deadpool attempts to save his world from destruction. The duo butt heads often and make for a comedic pair. Their actors also put on a spectacular performance.
“[Hugh Jackman] contributed so much to the movie. He really made it a 5/5,” said junior Alexander Ladeira.
Number One, Inside Out 2
Undoubtedly the movie of the summer, Inside Out 2 has made nearly $650,000,000 since its release on June 14. Critics give it a 91% on Rotten Tomatoes, and the film has become widely popular across social media. One large cause of intrigue was the movie’s introduction of new characters.
“I was really excited about the choices for some of the voices of the new emotions, like Maya Hawke and Ayo Edibiri,” said junior Raquel Weaver.
The movie follows a grown-up Riley as she wrestles with the new emotions and all that comes with being a teenager. Throughout the film, Riley learns to handle her anxiety and forms a new sense of being.
“Every experience that Riley endured throughout the movie felt relatable to my younger self … I felt like I was brought back,” said Raquel.
Without a doubt, the summer of 2024 hosted the release of many wildly successful movies across countless audiences. A longer list of the films can be found on The Box Office Mojo. Curiously, many of the most successful films were sequels. Will this pattern continue in the future? What films will the new school year bring? Only time will tell.
