Movie theaters, both chain and local, have been closed since mid-March due to the COVID-19 pandemic; however, film companies have come up with several ways to still produce and release movies. In the United States, specifically New York state, there have been phases of businesses reopening based on importance and risk of transmission. Movie theaters are in the final phase, since they are seen as least essential and one of the highest risks. Soon enough, the movies will open again, with safety precautions in place, and many movie-goers are excited to see some of the new films coming out right off the bat.
“I just miss the atmosphere of being in the movie theater itself,” SUNY Plattsburgh student and movie-goer Kendall Bush says. “Watching movies at home these past months has gotten a bit repetitive.”
- “Black Widow” Directed by Cate Shortland
Possibly the most anticipated film of 2020, “Black Widow,” is the first film in Phase Four of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). The story follows Natasha Romanoff, a.k.a. Black Widow, in a prequel following the events of “Captain America: Civil War” (2016). The film was originally meant to be released in May 2020; however, the pandemic put the studio’s plans on hold. The film stars Scarlett Johansson as Natasha Romanoff, Florence Pugh as Yelena Belova and David Harbour as Alexei Shostakov. Marvel fans and action fans can come together to watch this guaranteed hit.
“I got movie passes for Valentine’s Day, and before I got to use them, everything shut down,” Bush continues. “I’ve been patiently waiting for them to open so I can watch Black Widow.”
2. “Tenet” Directed by Christopher Nolan
This film, directed by esteemed filmmaker Christopher Nolan, is a sci-fi action flick starring John David Washington and Robert Pattinson. It follows an unnamed CIA agent who attempts to affect the flow of time to prevent the Third World War. “Tenet” was released in select U.S. theaters Sep. 3 to mostly positive reviews from critics and consumers.
3. “No Time To Die” Directed by Cary Joy Fukunaga
The 27th installment of the long running “James Bond” movie series stars Daniel Craig as the famous Agent 007 for the fifth and final time. The film will debut in theaters Nov. 20 in the United States and revolves around Bond returning from retirement to set out on a dire mission to search for a missing scientist. The cast includes Rami Malek and Christoph Waltz to name a few. The film was originally planned to release in April, but was postponed. Billie Eilish wrote and performed the movie’s theme song, fittingly named “No Time To Die.” At 18, this makes her the youngest artist to record a “James Bond”theme song.
4. “Wonder Woman 1984” Directed by Patty Jenkins
The sequel to “Wonder Woman” (2017) and the second woman-led superhero film on this list is set for release Dec. 25, starring Gal Gadot, Chris Pine and Kristen Wiig. The movie takes place during the Cold War and follows Diana Prince, a.k.a. Wonder Woman, as she fights off enemies. The film is the ninth movie in the DC Extended Universe, also known as the DCEU, which has been the butt of many negative reviews from both critics and consumers.
Whichever film you’re excited to see, if any, everyone still misses that movie theater popcorn, large soda and box of candy that seemingly costs $50 altogether. Although movies will not be totally the same due to social distancing requirements, face masks and no eating or drinking, watching a new film on that big screen is always a special experience.
APN 