It’s a beautiful summer day, so the only logical thing to do is go to the movies.
Summer 2019 was a great one for movies. Fans of every genre — from superhero flicks to shocking horror films, all the way to chaotic action adventures — were treated to an array of unique and entertaining experiences. In no particular order, here are five films that were sure to be a hit with college students this summer.
"Spider-Man Far From Home"
“Spider-Man: Far From Home” took Marvel fans back to the universe they love following the drastic events of the record-breaking film “Avengers: Endgame.” “Far From Home” put the spotlight back on Tom Holland’s Spider-Man and his gaggle of high school buddies from the previous installment. The web-slinging story pushed boundaries by placing Spidey in international territory for the first time in live-action Spider-Man history. The film featured a live-action interpretation of infamous villain Mysterio, seemingly ripped straight from the comics, and finally, a taste of MJ (Zendaya) and Peter Parker’s romantic relationship.
"Hobbs & Shaw"
Fans of the “Fast & Furious” franchise were given quite the treat while they wait for the next installment. “Hobbs & Shaw” is a spinoff involving two of the characters from the original films played by Dwayne Johnson and Jason Statham . In true “Fast & Furious” fashion, the duo dives into a series of high stakes and explosive set pieces that fans have come to love. In addition to a star-studded leading duo, Johnson and Statham face off against Idris Elba in the villainous role of Brixton.
"Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark"
The illustrations that haunted children for decades came to life in a whole new way in “Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark.” Based on the terrifying short stories and illustrations of Alvin Schwartz and Stephen Gammell, “Scary Stories” chronicles the story of a small group of kids who accidentally summon some of Schwartz’s iconic creatures. The film excelled in its incredibly impressive creature design that was reimagined by genre auteur Guillermo del Toro. “Scary Stories” pushed its PG-13 rating to the brim, certainly terrifying children the same way the books did all those years ago.
"Once Upon a Time in Hollywood"
Critically acclaimed director Quentin Tarantino returned this past July with a trip to 1960s Hollywood through the lens of Leonardo DiCaprio’s Rick Dalton and Brad Pitt’s Cliff Booth in “Once Upon a Time In Hollywood.” Tarantino masterfully directed his slice-of-life style film with a retro score, brilliant performances and an impressive recreation of a bygone Hollywood era. Margot Robbie puts on a whimsical and charming performance as the late Sharon Tate in a beautiful tribute to her glowing personality.
"Good Boys"
Stemming from the producers of the iconic coming-of-age film “Superbad,” “Good Boys” takes the comedic tale of a group of friends doing whatever it takes to be able to attend a party and dials down the age of its main characters to hilarious results. After premiering at Austin’s South by Southwest festival last spring to mostly good critical reception, “Good Boys” took the box office by storm this August as viewers set out for a healthy dosage of summer comedy. The film explored the harsh realities of childhood and how friendships devolve as one gets older through a heartfelt comedic story.
