Get Your Popcorn Ready: The Most Anticipated Movies of 2024

As Hollywood was on the road to recovery from the challenges of the pandemic, it encountered unexpected hurdles in the form of WGA and SAG-AFTRA strikes. These strikes disrupted production schedules and prompted major movies to reschedule their release dates. However, those obstacles are now behind us, and we're eagerly anticipating what 2024 has in store. The upcoming year promises an exciting lineup including superhero blockbusters, a long-awaited musical adaptation, the much-anticipated return of George Miller to the Mad Max universe, the third installment of Avatar, and a whole lot more! Check out the list below for the movies that have us buzzing with excitement for 2024.

Mean Girls (2024)

Directed by: Arturo Perez Jr., Samantha Jayne

Starring: Angourie Rice, Reneé Rapp, Auliʻi Cravalho, Bebe Wood, Jaquel Spivey, Tina Fey, Tim Meadows, Jenna Fischer, Jon Hamm, Ashley Park

Opening on: January 12, 2024

Even though it might seem like a redo of the 2004 comedy, this latest version isn't exactly that. Penned by Tina Fey(who not only wrote the original but also appears in this film), this adaptation draws from the stage musical "Mean Girls," which itself based on the original movie. Angourie Rice portrays the new girl, Cady Heron, while Reneé Rapp embodies the character of the lead Mean Girl, Regina George.

Argylle (2024)

Directed by: Matthew Vaughn

Starring: Bryce Dallas Howard, Sam Rockwell, Henry Cavill, John Cena, Dua Lipa, Bryan Cranston, Sofia Boutella, Ariana DeBose, Samuel L. Jackson

Opening on: February 2, 2024

Director Matthew Vaughn, known for "Kingsman," makes a comeback to the world of playful spies with this action-packed comedy. The story revolves around a novelist (portrayed by Bryce Dallas Howard) whose espionage novels unexpectedly catch the interest of an underground crime syndicate due to their striking resemblance to real-life activities. When her life is in danger, an undercover spy (played by Sam Rockwell) steps in to rescue her and even her beloved cat.

Madame Web (2024)

Directed by: S.J. Clarkson

Starring: Dakota Johnson, Sydney Sweeney, Celeste O’Connor, Isabela Merced, Tahar Rahim, Emma Roberts, Mike Epps, Adam Scott, and Zosia Mamet

Opening on: February 14, 2024

Sony's "Spider-Man Movie Franchise (Without Spider-Man)" has seen its share of successes (like Venom) and disappointments (such as Morbius). However, the upcoming film Madame Web, featuring Dakota Johnson portraying the clairvoyant character from the Spider-Man universe, might just be worth the watch—even without Peter Parker making an appearance. The movie also stars Sydney Sweeney, Adam Scott, and Zosia Mamet in supporting roles.

Dune: Part Two (2024)

Directed by: Denis Villeneuve

Starring: Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson, Javier Bardem, Josh Brolin, Stellan Skarsgård

Opening on: March 1, 2024

Initially, the sequel's future was uncertain due to the first installment's simultaneous release on HBO Max. However, Warner Bros. decided to proceed, granting Denis Villeneuve the opportunity to continue. Part Two of this saga welcomes notable names like Florence Pugh, Léa Seydoux, Austin Butler, and Christopher Walken to the cast. Villeneuve takes on the task of narrating the latter half of Frank Herbert's expansive sci-fi novel.

Imaginary (2024)

Directed by: Jeff Wadlow

Starring: DeWanda Wise, Tom Payne, Taegen Burns, Pyper Braun, Veronica Falcon, Betty Buckley

Opening on: March 8, 2024

In this unique horror flick by Blumhouse, the storyline revolves around a woman (portrayed by DeWanda Wise) who relocates to her childhood home with her family. However, their peaceful return takes a chilling turn when her stepdaughter (played by Pyper Braun) becomes unnervingly attached to a stuffed bear found in the basement. The bear seems to influence her, leading her into progressively perilous games.

Kung Fu Panda 4 (2024)

Directed by: Mike Mitchell

Starring: Jack Black, Angelina Jolie, Jackie Chan, Seth Rogen, Lucy Liu, Dustin Hoffman, and David Cross

Opening on: March 8, 2024

DreamWorks Animation's Kung Fu Panda series is surprisingly remarkable, turning what might have seemed like a frivolous concept (where Jack Black voices a hefty panda skilled in martial arts) into a story filled with humor, genuine emotions, and captivating fight sequences. At CinemaCon 2023, it was revealed that Mike Mitchell (known for Trolls and The LEGO Movie 2: The Second Part) would take the helm as director for the upcoming film. The storyline focuses on Po as he confronts a formidable chameleon adversary and embarks on a quest to find a new Dragon Warrior.

Arthur the King (2024)

Directed by: Simon Cellan Jones

Starring: Mark Wahlberg, Simu Liu, Juliet Rylance, Nathalie Emmanuel, Ali Suliman

Opening on: March 22, 2024

Mark Wahlberg takes the lead role in this extraordinary tale based on true events. The story follows a man who forms an unlikely bond with a stray dog while striving to conquer the Adventure Racing World Championship, a grueling 435-mile endurance race set in the challenging terrain of the Dominican Republic.

Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire (2024)

Directed by: Gil Kenan

Starring: Carrie Coon, Paul Rudd, McKenna Grace, Finn Wolfhard, Kumail Nanjiani, Patton Oswalt

Opening on: March 22, 2024

Not much has been officially disclosed about this sequel, except for the replacement of director Jason Reitman by Gil Kenan (known for Monster House and Poltergeist 2015), who co-wrote Afterlife. Returning to the cast are stars Carrie Coon, McKenna Grace, Finn Wolfhard, and Paul Rudd, alongside new additions like Kumail Nanjiani and Patton Oswalt. Furthermore, the film's setting is confirmed to be in New York, featuring the iconic firehouse from the original films, as hinted after Afterlife.

Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire (2024)

Directed by: Adam Wingard

Starring: Dan Stevens, Rebecca Hall, Brian Tyree Henry, Kaylee Hottle, Fala Chen, Alex Ferns, and Rachel House

Opening on: March 29, 2024

The iconic kaiju, Godzilla and Kong, return for another epic clash in the sequel to the Monsterverse's 2021 showdown. However, the storyline hints at a twist this time around, suggesting that they might start as allies rather than adversaries. Together, they'll confront "a colossal undiscovered threat hidden within our world." Dan Stevens takes on the lead role in the film, joining returning GVK actors Rebecca Hall, Brian Tyree Henry, and Kaylee Hottle. Adam Wingard, who directed the previous battle between the two titans, will once again be at the helm for this installment.

The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare (2024)

Directed by: Guy Ritchie

Starring: Henry Cavill, Eiza González, Henry Golding, Alan Ritchson, Cary Elwes, Til Schweiger, Alex Pettyfer

Opening on: April 19, 2024

Guy Ritchie's upcoming film marks a reunion between the director and his The Man from U.N.C.L.E. star Henry Cavill, alongside The Gentlemen star Henry Golding. Cavill leads an ensemble cast in this spy action movie inspired by true events. The plot revolves around a covert military organization, established by Winston Churchill during World War II to combat the Nazis—an idea akin to Inglourious Basterds, but rooted in reality. Given Ritchie's recent forays into more serious storytelling, it remains uncertain whether this film will lean towards his trademark witty style or follow a more serious tone.

Challengers (2024)

Directed by: Luca Guadagnino

Starring: Zendaya, Josh O’Connor, Mike Faist

Opening on: April 26, 2024

Zendaya takes the lead role in the newest movie by Luca Guadagnino, which delves into the intricate dynamics between a tennis prodigy-turned-coach (portrayed by Zendaya), her struggling ex-champion husband (played by Mike Faist), and his former close friend (Josh O'Connor)—who also shares a romantic history with her.

Civil War (2024)

Directed by: Alex Garland

Starring: Kirsten Dunst, Wagner Moura, Cailee Spaeny, Stephen McKinley Henderson, Jesse Plemons, Nick Offerman

Opening on: April 26, 2024

Alex Garland, known for "Ex Machina" and "Annihilation," presents his fourth film portraying the United States amid a civil war. Described as a "race to the White House in a near-future America balanced on the razor’s edge," the movie promises a provocative storyline, evident from the trailer's striking and contentious images. Brace yourself for what seems to be a controversial and thought-provoking film.

The Fall Guy (2024)

Directed by: David Leitch

Starring: Ryan Gosling, Emily Blunt

Opening on: May 3, 2024

David Leitch, a former stuntman renowned for directing action-packed hits like John Wick, Atomic Blonde, Deadpool 2, and Hobbs & Shaw, stands out as one of the top action directors in recent times. He's set to take on the challenge of adapting an '80s TV show centered around a stuntman doubling as a bounty hunter—a perfect fit for his expertise. Leading the cast is Ryan Gosling, joined by Emily Blunt, in what seems to be a project tailor-made for Leitch's style.

Back to Black (2024)

Directed by: Sam Taylor-Johnson

Starring: Marisa Abela, Jack O’Connell, Lesley Manville, Eddie Marsan

Opening on: May 10, 2024

This biographical film follows the journey of jazz singer-turned-pop sensation Amy Winehouse, chronicling her life and ascent to stardom culminating in the release of her studio album, Back to Black. Directed by Sam Taylor-Johnson, known for Fifty Shades of Grey, the movie features Marisa Abela from HBO's Industry portraying the complex and troubled singer.

IF (2024)

Directed by: John Krasinski

Starring: Ryan Reynolds, John Krasinski, Fiona Shaw, Cailey Fleming, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Steve Carell, Matt Damon, Emily Blunt, Maya Rudolph, Awkwafina

Opening on: May 17, 2024

John Krasinski and Ryan Reynolds, who also starred in this film, collaborated on this fantasy comedy project. Krasinski penned the script, which revolves around a young girl discovering her unique ability to see Imaginary Friends that have been left behind, hence the title IF. Joining Reynolds and Krasinski is a stellar voice cast, likely portraying imaginary friends, which includes Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Matt Damon, Steve Carell, Emily Blunt, Awkwafina, and other notable names.

Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga (2024)

Directed by: George Miller

Starring: Anya Taylor-Joy, Chris Hemsworth, Tom Burke, Nathan Jones, and Angus Sampson

Opening on: May 24, 2024

Anya Taylor-Joy takes on the role of a younger Imperator Furiosa, the fearless driver of the war rig, in this prequel to Mad Max: Fury Road hailed as one of the standout films of the century. George Miller returns as the director, with Chris Hemsworth joining the cast. The film chronicles Furiosa's abduction and her ascent within Immortan Joe's ranks, providing insight into her origin story.

The Garfield Movie (2024)

Directed by: Mark Dindal

Starring: Chris Pratt, Samuel L. Jackson, Nicholas Hoult, Cecily Strong, Hannah Waddingham, and Ving Rhames

Opening on: May 24, 2024

Following Chris Pratt's voice role as Mario, he joked that he shed tears because there were no more animated characters left to conquer. However, he is set to voice the beloved lasagna enthusiast and Monday-detesting cat, Garfield, in an upcoming movie adaptation based on the enduring comic strip. Additionally, Samuel L. Jackson will lend his voice to Vic, Garfield's father. Excitement is building for this project!

Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes (2024)

Directed by: Wes Ball

Starring: Owen Teague, Freya Allan, Peter Macon, Eka Darville, and Kevin Durand

Opening on: May 24, 2024

After 2017's "War for the Planet of the Apes," Caesar, the chimpanzee who led the apes in their quest for dominance, met his end. This marked the finale of the reboot trilogy within the classic sci-fi franchise. However, there's a new chapter unfolding in this world. (Yes, we know there's a distinction between apes and monkeys, but allow us this one!) Wes Ball, known for directing the Maze Runner films, takes the helm for the fourth installment, set many years after the events portrayed in "War."

Ballerina (2024)

Directed by: Len Wiseman

Starring: Ana de Armas, Keanu Reeves, Ian McShane, Lance Reddick, Norman Reedus, Anjelica Huston, Gabriel Byrne

Opening on: June 7, 2024

The inaugural spin-off movie from the John Wick universe features Ana de Armas in the lead role as one of the female assassins trained by the Ruska Roma. This criminal organization is overseen by Anjelica Huston's character known as the "Director," previously glimpsed in John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum. Although details remain scarce, it's confirmed to be another revenge-driven story. Notably, the film is set between the events of Chapter 3 and Chapter 4, ensuring appearances from Keanu Reeves and other characters from the Continental world.

Bad Boys 4 (2024)

Directed by: Adil El Arbi, Bilall Fallah

Starring: Will Smith, Martin Lawrence

Opening on: June 14, 2024

Had the third film in the Bad Boys franchise been titled differently, this fourth installment might have been easily named Bad Boys 4 Life. However, in reality, things unfold differently. As of now, it is referred to as Bad Boys 4, marking the return of detectives Mike Lowery (played by Will Smith) and Marcus Burnett (portrayed by Martin Lawrence) for another high-octane action adventure.

Inside Out 2 (2024)

Directed by: Kelsey Mann

Starring: Amy Poehler, Phyllis Smith, and Lewis Black

Opening on: June 14, 2024

The beloved Pixar movie Inside Out offered a peek into the emotional landscape of a young girl's mind. So, how do you elevate the stakes for the sequel? You delve into the mind of a teenager, naturally. Inside Out 2 will revisit Riley during her college years, introducing a fresh set of emotions to the story. While Amy Poehler is reportedly returning, there are indications that not all of the original voice cast, which included talents like Bill Hader and Mindy Kaling, will be reprising their roles for this sequel.

The Bikeriders (2023)

Directed by: Jeff Nichols

Starring: Austin Butler, Jodie Comer, Tom Hardy, Michael Shannon, Mike Faist, Norman Reedus, Boyd Holbrook

Opening on: June 21, 2024

Originally removed from the 2023 release schedule due to the SAG-AFTRA strike, Jeff Nichols' period drama found a new home as it moved from 20th Century Studios to Focus Features, securing a fresh release date in the summer of 2024. Drawing inspiration from the 1967 photobook with a matching title, the fictional narrative unfolds, chronicling the ascent of a Chicago motorcycle club across a decade, portrayed through the perspectives of its members.

A Quiet Place: Day One (2024)

Directed by: Michael Sarnoski

Starring: Lupita Nyong’o, Joseph Quinn, Alex Wolff, Djimon Hounsou, Denis O’Hare

Opening on: June 28, 2024

Except for the gripping opening scene of the second movie, the action in the A Quiet Place series unfolds after the invasion of super-hearing and highly lethal aliens, leading to the collapse of society. The title of the third film hints at a different approach: it will depict the initial days of the alien attack, exploring the period before people comprehend the nature of the threat. Michael Sarnoski, known for directing Nicolas Cage in the acclaimed 2021 film Pig, will helm this installment. While most of the cast announced is new, Djimon Hounsou's character from Part II is set to make a return.

Despicable Me 4 (2024)

Directed by: Chris Renaud, Patrick Delage

Starring: Steve Carell, Kristen Wiig, Miranda Cosgrove, and Steve Coogan

Opening on: July 3, 2024

Let's not forget the master that the Minions faithfully serve. Two years after the last franchise installment, the spin-off film Minions: The Rise of Gru, Despicable Me returns to the mainline series. However, at this point, there are no specific details available about the mischief and adventures that Gru and the Minions will encounter in this upcoming installment.

Twisters (2024)

Directed by: Lee Isaac Chung

Starring: Daisy Edgar-Jones, Glen Powell, Anthony Ramos, Brandon Perea, Maura Tierney

Opening on: July 19, 2024

Initially conceived as a remake of the 1996 disaster film Twister, Twisters evolved into a sequel. However, it's being touted as a "new chapter," leaving uncertainty about its connection to the original movie. Lee Isaac Chung, known for directing Minari, transitions from indie drama to a summer blockbuster with this project. The film is set to feature Daisy Edgar-Jones, Glen Powell, and Anthony Ramos in starring roles.

Deadpool 3 (2024)

Directed by: Shawn Levy

Starring: Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman, and Leslie Uggams

Opening on: July 26, 2024

The return of the Merc With a Mouth is here, and there are whispers about Hugh Jackman's Wolverine making an appearance. The upcoming Deadpool movie marks the character's return since Disney's acquisition of Fox, promising a thrilling experience led by Ryan Reynolds, known for the franchise's beloved R-rated humor. How this humor will mesh with the typically PG-13 tone of the MCU remains a mystery. Equally puzzling is the speculation around Hugh Jackman reprising Wolverine's role after the acclaimed finale in Logan.

Borderlands (2024)

Directed by: Eli Roth

Starring: Cate Blanchett, Kevin Hart, Jack Black, Ariana Greenblatt, Jamie Lee Curtis, Edgar Ramirez, Haley Bennett, Florian Munteanu

Opening on: August 9, 2024

Prepare for a cosmic adventure helmed by Eli Roth in this adaptation of the zany and beloved video game series. The movie boasts a star-studded cast featuring Cate Blanchett, Kevin Hart, and Jack Black. Penned by Craig Mazin, known for his success with The Last of Us adaptation, the film promises to bring the game's essence to the big screen.

Kraven the Hunter (2024)

Directed by: J.C. Chandor

Starring: Aaron Taylor-Johnson

Opening on: August 30, 2024

Originally intended to appear in the Andrew Garfield Spider-Man franchise, the iconic Spider-Man villain is now making his long-awaited leap to the big screen. The movie will be directed by J.C. Chandor (known for All Is Lost and Triple Frontier), and Aaron Taylor-Johnson, recognized for his role as Pietro Maximoff/Quicksilver in Avengers: Age of Ultron, is set to portray the character.

Transformers One (2024)

Directed by: Josh Cooley

Starring: Scarlett Johansson, Chris Hemsworth, Brian Tyree Henry, Jon Hamm, Laurence Fishburne, Keegan-Michael Key

Opening on: September 13, 2024

The Transformers franchise revisits its origins in an animated prequel that delves into the backstory of the robots' home world, Cybertron, and the enduring rivalry between Optimus Prime and Megatron. This animated tale stands apart from the ongoing storyline of the live-action films. Toy Story 4 director Josh Cooley is at the helm, with Chris Hemsworth lending his voice to Optimus Prime and Brian Tyree Henry voicing Megatron.

Joker: Folie à Deux (2024)

Directed by: Todd Phillips

Starring: Joaquin Phoenix, Lady Gaga, Brendan Gleeson, Zazie Beetz, Catherine Keener, and Jacob Lofland

Opening on: October 4, 2024

Director Todd Phillips leads the sequel to the immensely successful R-rated portrayal of the iconic Batman villain, a role that earned Joaquin Phoenix an Oscar for Best Actor. Titled Folie à Deux, this film pairs Phoenix with Lady Gaga, cast as his complicated love interest, Harley Quinn. Surprisingly, reports suggest that the movie will take on a musical format. Yes, you read that correctly!

Terrifier 3 (2024)

Directed by: TBD

Starring: David Howard Thornton

Opening on: October 25, 2024

Details about the third installment of the beloved horror series Terrifier remain scarce. However, what we do know is that David Howard Thornton will reprise his role as Art the Clown, and the movie's setting will be on Christmas Eve. Additionally, reports suggest that the budget for this film is significantly larger than the previous two, promising upgraded production value that fans can anticipate.

Venom 3 (2024)

Directed by: Kelly Marcel

Starring: Tom Hardy, Juno Temple, Chiwetel Ejiofor

Opening on: November 8, 2024

In this third installment of the Spider-Man-related antihero series, Tom Hardy reprises his role as a San Francisco reporter possessed by an alien symbiote. Kelly Marcel, the writer, takes the directorial reins for this movie. Currently, details about the plot are scarce, leaving much unknown about the storyline at this point.

Gladiator 2 (2024)

Directed by: Ridley Scott

Starring: Paul Mescal, Denzel Washington, Connie Nielsen, Djimon Hounsou, Joseph Quinn, Derek Jacobi

Opening on: November 22, 2024

Ridley Scott is back at the helm for the sequel to the historical epic Gladiator. The narrative is set to focus on a matured Lucius, portrayed by Paul Mescal, who has ascended to the role of emperor. Additionally, Connie Nielsen is set to reprise her role as Lucilla in this anticipated sequel.

Wicked Part 1 (2024)

Directed by: Jon M. Chu

Starring: Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, and Jonathan Bailey

Opening on: November 27, 2024

The iconic Broadway musical, known for offering a fresh perspective on the story of the Wicked Witch of the West, is slated for a two-part film adaptation. Director Jon M. Chu, recognized for his work on Crazy Rich Asians and In the Heights, will transport audiences to the world of Oz. The roles of Elphaba and Glinda will be portrayed by Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande, respectively, in this highly anticipated film.

The Karate Kid (2024)

Directed by: TBA

Starring: TBA

Opening on: December 13, 2024

The widely acclaimed Netflix series Cobra Kai has been instrumental in keeping the beloved '80s martial arts franchise alive and popular. In 2024, Sony is revisiting the IP with a new installment. Initially presumed to be unrelated to the original films or the Netflix show, a casting call announcement surprised fans by revealing that Ralph Macchio and Jackie Chan would star together in the new film, reprising their roles as Daniel LaRusso and Mr. Han. Apart from this revelation, few other details about the project have been disclosed.

The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim (2024)

Directed by: Kenji Kamiyama

Starring: Brian Cox, Miranda Otto

Opening on: December 13, 2024

Warner Bros.'s newest addition to the Lord of the Rings universe is an animated prequel, delving into the adventures of Helm Hammerhand, the renowned king of Rohan. Rohan is the home of the horsemen known as the Rohirrim, a significant presence in The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers. Brian Cox is set to voice the central character, who ruled 183 years before the events depicted in The Two Towers. Additionally, Miranda Otto, reprising her role as Eowyn from the latter film, will serve as a framing device for the storyline.

Mufasa: The Lion King (2024)

Directed by: Barry Jenkins

Starring: Aaron Pierre, Kevin Harrison Jr., Seth Rogen, Billy Eichner, and John Kani

Opening on: December 20, 2024

The "live-action" Lion King, entirely computer-generated and not actually live-action, is set to receive a prequel. This upcoming film will delve into the backstory of Simba's father, Mufasa. James Earl Jones, known for voicing Mufasa in both the original and the remake, will not be voicing the younger version of Mufasa. Instead, Aaron Pierre is set to portray the character. Kelvin Harrison Jr. will take on the role of Scar, known as Taka during the events of the film.

Sonic the Hedgehog 3 (2024)

Directed by: Jeff Fowler

Starring: Ben Schwartz, Idris Elba, James Marsden, and Colleen O’Shaughnessey

Opening on: December 20, 2024

The Sonic the Hedgehog film series continues its rapid pace with a third installment on the horizon. Expected to return are Ben Schwartz as Sonic, Colleen O’Shaughnessey as Tails, and Idris Elba as Knuckles. However, there's speculation that Jim Carrey, who portrayed the villainous Dr. Robotnik in the first two movies, might not reprise his role due to discussions about retiring from acting. Nonetheless, Sonic will face at least one adversary in the upcoming film. Sonic 2 hinted at a new villain, Shadow the Hedgehog, in its post-credits scene, adding an intriguing rival for Sonic.

Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse (2024)

Directed by: Joaquim Dos Santos, Kemp Powers, and Justin K. Thompson

Starring: Oscar Isaac, Shameik Moore, Hailee Steinfeld, Jake Johnson, Brian Tyree Henry, Luna Lauren Vélez, Issa Rae, and Jason Schwartzman

Opening on: TBD (previously March 29, 2024)

The 2018 movie Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse stands out as one of the finest superhero and animated films in recent years, leading naturally to the anticipation of a sequel. However, due to the multitude of Spider-Men, the sequel was split into two films. Across the Spider-Verse, released in 2023, received glowing reviews and a tremendous opening weekend but left viewers hanging with a cliffhanger involving Miles Morales and his companions. Beyond the Spider-Verse aims to resolve this narrative arc. Originally slated for a March 2024 release, the film was removed from the schedule due to industry strikes in 2023.