Aside from films such as the massively popular “Top Gun: Maverick,” this summer has seemed relatively quiet on the blockbuster front. While films such as “Lightyear” and “Jurassic World Dominion” have failed to successfully stick the landing (be it critically or commercially), there’s been plenty to seek out in smaller, independent scenes. This remains largely true for July, where, despite films such as “Thor: Love and Thunder,” there are still plenty of more character-driven films worthy of seeking out — though “Nope” will likely make the argument for both being true for the same film.
There’s a strong showing for female directors this month, from those making their debuts like Emma Holly Jones for the period-set romance “Mr. Malcolm’s List,” to the return of talents such as Claire Denis and Clio Barnard. There might not be some record-breaking release each week but, between independent films and the off-the-beaten-path big, studio picture (again looking to Jordan Peele) there’s still plenty to find as we enter the summer midpoint.
“Mr. Malcolm’s List”
Based on Suzanne Allain’s popular book, “Mr. Malcolm’s List” is the latest period-set romance ala “Bridgerton.” Set in 19th-century England, a wealthy, young lady is spurned by a wealthy suitor who has a list of qualities required for a future wife. Directed by Emma Holly Jones, the film’s diverse cast features Frieda Pinto, Ṣọpẹ Dìrísù, Oliver Jackson-Cohen, Zawe Ashton, and Ashley Park. Our critic wrote “‘Mr. Malcolm’s List’ may not have the lasting power of Jane Austen’s masterworks, but it should be tolerable enough to tempt her fans into spending a perfectly diverting couple of hours in its world.”
Release Date: July 1 in theaters via Bleecker Street.
“Both Sides of the Blade”
French filmmaker Claire Denis reunites with actress Juliette Binoche for “Both Sides of the Blade,” with Binoche starring as a woman whose life begins to spiral out of control once she becomes entangled in a passionate love triangle. Vincent London, Grégoire Colin, and Mati Diop are also featured in a screenplay from Denis and Christine Angot. The film premiered at the 2022 Berlin Film Festival where Denis won the Silver Bear for Best Director. Our critic praised Binoche in particular, writing “…Marie, played by Juliette Binoche with a charisma so radiant it can almost, but not quite, encompass all her knotty contradictions.”
Release Date: July 8 in theaters via IFC Films.
“Thor: Love and Thunder”
We’ve had no shortage of Marvel content in recent months, from the series “Ms. Marvel,” and “Moon Knight” to Sam Raimi’s “Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness.” Up next is Taika Waititi’s sequel to “Thor: Ragnarok” with “Thor: Love and Thunder,” and, in this iteration, he’s bringing some big names along with him from the return of Natalie Portman, to Russel Crowe as Zeus and Christian Bale as the baddie, Gorr the God Butcher. Chris Hemsworth and Tessa Thompson also reprise their roles with appearances from the “Guardians of the Galaxy” cast.
Release Date: July 8 in theaters via Marvel.
“Where the Crawdads Sing”
Based on the popular novel by author Delia Owens, Daisy Edgar Jones (“Fresh”) stars as Kyra, a girl who was abandoned as a young girl in the marshlands of North Carolina. Isolated from her community, Kyra begins to open herself up when she’s drawn to two young men in town. Olivia Newman (“First Match”) directs the film which also stars Taylor John Smith, Harris Dickinson, Michael Hyatt, and David Strathairn and boasts Reese Witherspoon as a big champion and producer.
Release Date: July 13 in theaters via Sony Pictures.