NEW DELHI: In the dynamic realm of cinema, anticipation builds as audiences eagerly await a diverse array of upcoming films that promise to captivate, entertain, and leave an indelible mark on the cinematic landscape. From sequels to original creations, each production brings its unique blend of storytelling, talent, and creative vision. Let’s embark on a cinematic journey as we introduce a selection of highly anticipated movies slated for release in the coming year. Whether it’s the return of beloved characters, exploration of uncharted territories, or a deep dive into the lives of iconic figures, these upcoming films are poised to deliver memorable and impactful experiences for movie enthusiasts worldwide.
1. Mean Girls
While it may give the impression of a 2004 comedy remake, this fresh interpretation distinguishes itself as a product of Tina Fey’s creative prowess. Fey, serving as the mind behind the original film and making a cameo appearance in this production, has crafted an adaptation of the Mean Girls stage musical, itself inspired by the original movie. Angourie Rice takes on the role of the newcomer Cady Heron, and Reneé Rapp skillfully portrays the formidable head Mean Girl, Regina George.
In addition to Fey’s significant contributions, this new take on ‘Mean Girls’ introduces a unique twist by transforming the original story into a stage musical. Angourie Rice brings depth to the character of the new girl, Cady Heron, while Reneé Rapp infuses her flair into the role of Regina George. Fey’s dual involvement in both the original and this musical adaptation adds a layer of continuity and creative synergy to the film, providing audiences with a fresh and engaging cinematic experience.
2. Madame Web
Directed by S.J. Clarkson and set to hit theatres on February 14, 2024, ‘Madame Web’ is the latest instalment in Sony’s intriguing ‘Spider-Man Movie Franchise (Without Spider-Man).’ The film features an ensemble cast, including Dakota Johnson in the lead role as the clairvoyant Spidey side character, Madame Web. Known for her abilities to perceive events across time and space, Madame Web takes centre stage in this instalment, offering a fresh perspective on the Spider-Man universe. Despite the absence of Peter Parker, the film boasts a promising lineup with Sydney Sweeney, Adam Scott, and Zosia Mamet as co-stars, hinting at a compelling narrative that might elevate the franchise beyond its previous highs and lows, such as ‘Venom’ and ‘Morbius.’
With a mix of established talent and rising stars, including Celeste O’Connor, Isabela Merced, Tahar Rahim, and Emma Roberts, ‘Madame Web’ seems poised to captivate audiences with a blend of mystery, psychic intrigue, and the trademark web-slinging elements that fans have come to associate with the Spider-Man universe. As the franchise continues to expand its scope beyond the titular hero, this film promises to explore uncharted territory while maintaining the captivating essence of the beloved comic book world.
3. Dune: Part two
Directed by Denis Villeneuve and scheduled to open on March 1, 2024, the highly anticipated sequel to the 2021 blockbuster, ‘Dune: Part Two,’ boasts a star-studded cast that includes Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson, Javier Bardem, Josh Brolin, and Stellan Skarsgård. Following the success of the first instalment, which faced initial uncertainties due to its day-and-date release on HBO Max, Warner Bros. has greenlit Villeneuve’s vision for the second half of Frank Herbert’s epic sci-fi novel.
In ‘Dune: Part Two,’ the narrative expands with the introduction of renowned actors such as Florence Pugh, Léa Seydoux, Austin Butler, and Christopher Walken. Villeneuve, known for his masterful storytelling and visually stunning cinematography, is set to continue the epic journey, bringing to life the intricate and expansive universe crafted by Herbert. As the saga unfolds, audiences can expect a seamless continuation of the captivating narrative, further exploring the complex characters and political intrigue that have made ‘Dune’ a groundbreaking and immersive cinematic experience.
4. Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire
Directed by Adam Wingard and set to open on April 12, 2024, the much-anticipated sequel to the Monsterverse’s 2021 epic showdown, this film brings back the colossal titans Godzilla and Kong for another thrilling round. However, the dynamic between the two iconic kaiju appears to take an unexpected turn, as the synopsis hints at the possibility of Godzilla and Kong starting as allies against a shared, colossal, and undiscovered threat lurking within our world. This twist adds an intriguing layer to the narrative, promising audiences a fresh perspective on the legendary clash between these iconic monsters. Dan Stevens takes on the lead role, joining the returning ensemble of Rebecca Hall, Brian Tyree Henry, and Kaylee Hottle, ensuring continuity from the previous instalment. With Adam Wingard at the helm once again, the film is poised to deliver another visually spectacular and action-packed cinematic experience.
As the director who successfully orchestrated the previous epic confrontation between Godzilla and Kong, Adam Wingard returns to guide the colossal Titans in their next chapter. With Wingard’s proven expertise in delivering gripping monster battles and visually stunning sequences, fans can expect a seamless continuation of the Monsterverse saga. The prospect of Godzilla and Kong teaming up against a common threat introduces a fresh narrative angle, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats as they eagerly await the spectacular clashes and jaw-dropping moments that have become synonymous with the Monsterverse franchise.
5. Challengers
Directed by Luca Guadagnino and slated to open on April 26, 2024, the upcoming film featuring Zendaya in the lead role promises an exploration of intricate relationships in the world of tennis. Zendaya portrays a tennis prodigy-turned-coach, navigating the complexities of her professional and personal life. The narrative unfolds around the dynamic between Zendaya’s character, her husband (Mike Faist), a former champion grappling with his challenges, and his former best friend (Josh O’Connor) — who also shares a romantic history with Zendaya’s character. This tangled web of relationships sets the stage for a compelling and emotionally charged story, with Guadagnino at the helm, known for his ability to capture the nuances of human connection.
With Zendaya, Josh O’Connor, and Mike Faist in the lead roles, the film not only boasts a talented ensemble but also promises to delve into the multifaceted nature of love, ambition, and friendship. Luca Guadagnino’s directorial style, characterised by his keen sensitivity to human emotions and relationships, hints at a cinematic experience that will not only captivate audiences but also offer a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities inherent in the characters’ interconnected lives. As the narrative unfolds against the backdrop of the tennis world, the film is poised to deliver both sporting excitement and a deeply resonant examination of the human condition.
6. Inside II
Directed by Kelsey Mann and set to hit theatres on June 14, 2024, the highly anticipated sequel to Pixar’s emotional masterpiece, ‘Inside Out,’ takes us back into the intricate world of human emotions. Titled ‘Inside Out 2,’ the film raises the stakes by shifting the focus to Riley’s life in college, providing a fresh perspective on the challenges and emotions that come with this new chapter. The sequel promises to introduce a host of new emotions, offering audiences an opportunity to explore the complexities of the teenage mind in an evolving and dynamic setting. While Amy Poehler reprises her role, reports are suggesting that not all members of the original voice cast, which included Bill Hader and Mindy Kaling, will return for this highly anticipated sequel.
As the sequel delves into the emotional landscape of a teenager navigating college life, viewers can anticipate the trademark Pixar blend of heartwarming storytelling and visually stunning animation. Kelsey Mann, at the helm of the project, brings his creative vision to the beloved world of ‘Inside Out,’ promising an engaging and emotionally resonant cinematic experience. With the introduction of new characters and the exploration of the challenges faced by Riley in her college years, ‘Inside Out 2’ is poised to capture the essence of growing up and the ever-evolving tapestry of human emotions.
7. Fighter
In this upcoming action-packed film, an aspirational young man named Shamsher Pathania embarks on a challenging journey when he enlists in the Indian Air Force with the lofty goal of becoming a hero within the esteemed ranks of the Indian Armed Forces. The narrative promises to be an inspiring exploration of determination, resilience, and the pursuit of heroism in the face of formidable obstacles. With a post-production status, the film boasts a stellar cast featuring Bollywood heavyweights Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone, among others, ensuring a captivating on-screen chemistry that audiences are eager to witness. Directed by Siddharth Anand, known for his work on high-energy, adrenaline-fuelled projects, the film is expected to deliver heart-pounding action sequences and a gripping storyline that transcends the genre.
Set to release on January 25, 2024, the ‘Fighter’ movie falls within the action genre, promising an intense cinematic experience that combines the thrill of aerial combat with the personal journey of Shamsher Pathania. As the protagonist faces the challenges inherent in enlisting in the Indian Air Force, viewers can anticipate a narrative that pays homage to the bravery of those in the armed forces and serves as an aspirational tale for audiences worldwide. With the dynamic duo of Hrithik Roshan and Deepika Padukone leading the cast and Siddharth Anand at the helm, this film holds the potential to be a standout addition to the action genre in Indian cinema.
8. Singham Again
In the realm of high-octane action and gripping narratives, a cinematic spectacle is in the making as Ajay Devgn’s Singham, Akshay Kumar’s Simba, and Arjun Kapoor’s Suryavanshi join forces with the formidable Shakti Shetty, played by Deepika Padukone, and ACP Satya to confront a mysterious and formidable adversary. The plot, shrouded in secrecy, holds the promise of escalating intensity and larger-than-life sequences as this ensemble of iconic characters unites to take on a common enemy. With director Rohit Shetty at the helm, known for his mastery in delivering adrenaline-fuelled blockbusters, this upcoming action extravaganza is poised to push the boundaries of cinematic grandeur and deliver an unparalleled experience for audiences.
Currently in the filming stage, this action-packed venture brings together a stellar cast, featuring the powerhouse trio of Ajay Devgn, Akshay Kumar, and Arjun Kapoor, each reprising their iconic roles as Singham, Simba, and Suryavanshi, respectively. The addition of Deepika Padukone as Shakti Shetty adds a new dynamic to the team, while the formidable ensemble is further strengthened by the inclusion of ACP Satya. With Rohit Shetty steering the ship, the film is scheduled for release on 15th August 2024, promising to make Independence Day a thrilling celebration for moviegoers. Positioned within the action genre, this cinematic collaboration is set to redefine the benchmarks of high-octane entertainment.
9. Bhool Bhulaiya 3
Prepare for a spine-chilling yet hilarious cinematic experience as the sequel to the 2022 box office hit ‘Bhool Bhulaiyaa 2’ is announced, promising to double the horror and double the comedy. Titled ‘Rooh Baba,’ the film brings back the enigmatic and eccentric characters to confront a new set of demons and supernatural mysteries. With the charismatic Karthik Aryan and the versatile Tabu leading the cast, the movie ensures a potent blend of scares and laughter. Helmed by the director of the successful predecessor, this horror-comedy, scheduled for release in 2024, invites audiences to once again immerse themselves in the captivating world of Rooh Baba, where the line between the eerie and the comical becomes delightfully blurred. As the sequel takes the franchise to new heights, fans can expect a rollercoaster ride of thrills and laughs that will leave them eagerly anticipating the return of the beloved characters.
10. Stree 2
Immerse yourself in the intriguing world of horror and humour with the upcoming film, currently in the filming stage, that unveils the story of a witch with a peculiar nocturnal routine. Directed by Amar Kaushik, the movie features a stellar cast led by Shraddha Kapoor and Pankaj Tripathi, among others, ensuring a dynamic mix of talent. Set to hit screens on August 30, 2024, this horror-comedy delves into the mystifying tale of a witch who, under the cloak of darkness, captures unsuspecting men, leaving them abandoned with only their clothes. With the perfect combination of spine-tingling scares and rib-tickling comedy, the film promises to take audiences on an entertaining journey that skillfully weaves the supernatural with laughter, offering a unique cinematic experience that transcends conventional genre boundaries.
11. Devara
‘Devara,’ also known as ‘Devara: Part 1,’ is an eagerly awaited Indian Telugu-language action-drama film written and directed by the talented Koratala Siva. Produced by Sudhakar Mikkilineni and Kosaraju Harikrishna under the banners Yuvasudha Arts and N. T. R. Arts, the film stars the charismatic N. T. Rama Rao Jr. and the talented Janhvi Kapoor in the lead roles, with the versatile Saif Ali Khan portraying the main antagonist. Anirudh Ravichander takes charge of the soundtrack, promising a captivating musical experience. Renowned cinematographer R. Rathnavelu and esteemed editor A. Sreekar Prasad contribute their expertise to the film’s visual and narrative elements, while production designer Sabu Cyril adds his creative touch to the project. Anticipation is high as the first part of ‘Devara’ is scheduled for a worldwide release on April 5, 2024, promising audiences a compelling blend of action and drama under the directorial vision of Koratala Siva.
12. Game Changer
‘Game Changer’ is a highly anticipated Indian Telugu-language political action thriller film that marks the Telugu directorial debut of the renowned S. Shankar, with a screenplay crafted by Karthik Subbaraj. Produced by Dil Raju and Sirish under the banner Sri Venkateswara Creations, the film boasts a stellar cast led by the charismatic Ram Charan, alongside a talented ensemble including Kiara Advani, Anjali, S. J. Suryah, Jayaram, Sunil, Srikanth, Samuthirakani, and Nassar. Announced in February 2021 under the working title RC15, signifying Ram Charan’s 15th film as the lead actor, the official title, ‘Game Changer,’ was revealed in March 2023, heightening anticipation for this cinematic venture.
Principal photography for ‘Game Changer’ commenced in October 2021, taking the crew to various locations, including Hyderabad, New Zealand, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Visakhapatnam, and Punjab. The film promises a visual and auditory feast, with Thaman S at the helm of the score and soundtrack, while the cinematography and editing are in the capable hands of Tirru and Shameer Muhammed, respectively. With a stellar cast, seasoned filmmakers, and a storyline that combines political intrigue with high-stakes action, ‘Game Changer’ is poised to make a significant impact on the Telugu film industry upon its release.
13. Kali 2898 AD
‘Kalki 2898 AD’ is an upcoming Indian epic science fiction dystopian film directed by Nag Ashwin and produced by C. Aswani Dutt. With a budget of ₹600 crore (US$75 million), it’s the most expensive Indian film ever made. The ensemble cast features Prabhas, Amitabh Bachchan, Kamal Haasan, Deepika Padukone, and Disha Patani. Initially known as Project K, filming began in July 2021 in Hyderabad, delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Scheduled for a 2024 release, the film promises to redefine Indian cinema’s sci-fi genre with its grand scale, stellar cast, and creative team, including Santhosh Narayanan for the music score, Djordje Stojiljkovic as the cinematographer, and Nitin Zihani Choudhary for production design.
14. Deadpool 3
Directed by Shawn Levy and slated to open on July 26, 2024, ‘Deadpool 3’ marks the return of the Merc With a Mouth, played by the irrepressible Ryan Reynolds. This instalment holds particular intrigue as it is the first Deadpool film under Disney’s ownership of Fox, raising questions about how the character’s signature R-rated humour will mesh with the more family-friendly tone of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU). Reynolds, known for his charismatic portrayal of Deadpool, is set to bring his wit and irreverence back to the big screen, promising fans a unique blend of humour, action, and antihero antics. Adding to the excitement is the unexpected return of Hugh Jackman as Wolverine, a character presumed retired after the acclaimed and emotionally charged swan song in ‘Logan.’
The inclusion of Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine in ‘Deadpool 3’ adds an intriguing layer to the narrative, leaving fans curious about the circumstances that bring back the iconic character. The chemistry between Reynolds and Jackman has been a highlight of promotional events and social media banter, and their on-screen dynamic is anticipated to be a major draw for audiences. As ‘Deadpool 3’ navigates the transition into the MCU, the film promises to be a memorable addition to both the Deadpool franchise and the broader Marvel universe, challenging the boundaries of tone and humour in the superhero genre.
15. Back to Black
‘Back to Black,’ directed by Sam Taylor-Johnson and scheduled to open on May 10, 2024, is a poignant biopic that delves into the life and ascent to stardom of the iconic jazz singer-turned-pop star, Amy Winehouse. The film unfolds against the backdrop of Winehouse’s remarkable journey, chronicling the highs and lows that defined her career leading up to the release of her groundbreaking studio album, ‘Back to Black.’ Sam Taylor-Johnson, known for her directorial work on ‘Fifty Shades of Grey,’ takes the helm, promising audiences an intimate and compelling portrayal of Winehouse’s tumultuous life.
Marisa Abela, recognised for her role in HBO’s ‘Industry,’ steps into the challenging role of Amy Winehouse, capturing the essence of the troubled singer’s persona. Alongside a talented cast featuring Jack O’Connell, Lesley Manville, and Eddie Marsan, ‘Back to Black’ is poised to offer an authentic and heartfelt exploration of Winehouse’s artistry, struggles, and ultimate impact on the music industry. As the film navigates the complexities of fame, addiction, and the indomitable spirit of a gifted artist, audiences can anticipate a cinematic experience that pays tribute to the legacy of one of music’s most unforgettable voices.