With theatres now open and plenty of upcoming films to choose from, 2022 is shaping up to be a great year for movie-lovers. Whether you’re a fan of psychological thrillers, blockbuster superheroes, or compelling adventures, there is a movie for you. Here are some of the most anticipated films I plan on viewing this year.
The Northman, dir. Robert Eggers
Release date: Apr. 22
Best known for his horror films, director Robert Eggers is considered a visionary in his field. The trailer for his upcoming historical film, The Northman, highlights beautiful costume design, stunning sets, and fantastic soundtrack choices. Coming from a fantasy nerd who loves films such as Lord of the Rings, this movie looks to be similarly transportive.
The Batman, dir. Matt Reeves
Release date: Mar. 4
For many fans of the franchise, Ben Affleck’s Batman was less than satisfying. Despite Christian Bale remaining untouchable, I believe Robert Pattinson’s upcoming take on the DC hero will be a memorable one. Returning to a darker tone and introducing Paul Dano as the Riddler, the film looks like a promising watch for those who are tired of the more family-friendly Marvel franchise.
Top Gun: Maverick, dir. Joseph Kosinski
Release date: May 27
Movies from the 80s are my guilty pleasure, and Top Gun (1986) is no exception. Those who have seen the original American action film can understand my excitement for the long-awaited sequel. The movie’s release has already been pushed back on multiple occasions, but (knock on wood) 2022 seems to be the year. Although Tom Cruise receives occasional criticism and disapproval from the masses, there is no doubt that he puts 100% into all of his roles. Not only did he learn to fly the jets that appear throughout the movie, he also ensured that his co-stars were able to do the same. Top Gun: Maverick will be the adrenaline-fuelled flick to vivify another slow pandemic year.
Nope, dir. Jordan Peele
Release date: Jul. 22
Jordan Peele is known for his unique horror movies. With a filmography including Get Out (2017) and Us (2019), it’s easy to understand the anticipation around his thrilling new project. Although little is known about Nope thus far, my interest is already piqued. The movie boasts some impressive leads, starring Get Out‘s Daniel Kaluuya alongside Keke Palmer and Steven Yeun.
Don’t Worry Darling, dir. Olivia Wilde
Release date: Sep. 23
Florence Pugh. Harry Styles. Need I say more? Grasping that two of my favourite celebrities are starring as the leads in this upcoming thriller was enough to put Don’t Worry Darling on my watchlist. Following Olivia Wilde’s debut as a director with Booksmart, Don’t Worry Darling appears to be a more stylistic and large-scale production. The 11-second teaser in the form of a trailer is ominous, dramatic and sexy all at the same time. The cast, which includes other major talents such as Chris Pine and Gemma Chan, this film looks more than promising.
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (Part One), dir. Joaquim Dos Santos
Release date: Oct. 7
When Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse came out in 2018, it gained traction quickly, receiving lots of praise from fans. It even received the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature Film. The upcoming sequel to Miles Morales’ story, Across the Spider-Verse (Part One), has similar expectations. The sound design and various animation styles in the trailers themselves were enough to leave me eagerly awaiting its release.