THE 55 MOST ANTICIPATED MOVIES OF This Year

Over the past couple of years, the entertainment industry, including Hollywood, has experienced some unprecedented challenges and had to adapt accordingly. One notable example was Warner Bros.’ decision to simultaneously release their major 2021 films on HBO Max and in theaters, which received mixed responses. Other studios also experimented with various combinations of theatrical and digital strategies during this time.

As we move into 2023, the approach seems to have evolved, with studios successfully releasing some highly anticipated movies that have performed well at the box office. As more titles are announced and details are revealed, this page will be regularly updated with the most anticipated movies of 2023. Make sure to check back frequently for the latest updates.

JULY

Insidious: The Red Door (2023)

Directed by: Patrick Wilson
Starring: Patrick Wilson, Rose Byrne, Ty Simpkins, Andrew Astor, Hiam Abbass
Opening on: July 7, 2023
Patrick Wilson, known for his role in the Insidious franchise, steps into the director’s chair for the first time in this fifth installment. The movie is set ten years after the events of Insidious 2 and centers around Dalton, the older son of the Lambert family. While away at college, Dalton finds himself haunted by the same malevolent entities that tormented his family in the past. Joining Wilson and Ty Simpkins, who plays Dalton, are Rose Byrne and Andrew Astor, reprising their roles to complete the Lambert family.

Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning, Part One (2023)

Directed by: Christopher McQuarrie
Starring: Tom Cruise, Rebecca Ferguson, Simon Pegg, Ving Rhames, Vanessa Kirby, Henry Czerny, Hayley Atwell, Pom Klementieff, Shea Whigham, Esai Morales
Opening on: July 14, 2023
Originally scheduled for Mission: Impossible 8, due to COVID, we’ll now see M:I 7 in 2023 and M:I 8 in 2024. Tom Cruise will have portrayed Ethan Hunt for an impressive 27 years when this movie releases. Returning cast members include Simon Pegg, Ving Rhames, Rebecca Ferguson, Henry Czerny, and Vanessa Kirby, with Esai Morales as the main antagonist. Time flies indeed!

Barbie (2023)

Directed by: Greta Gerwig
Starring: Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling
Opening on: July 21, 2023
Following her successful adaptation of Little Women, director Greta Gerwig returns with an imaginative original film (co-written with Noah Baumbach). The story follows the iconic doll, portrayed by Margot Robbie, as she faces exile from Barbieland and is introduced to the real world.

Oppenheimer (2023)

Directed by: Christopher Nolan
Starring: Cillian Murphy, Florence Pugh, Emily Blunt, Matt Damon, Robert Downey Jr., Rami Malek, Josh Hartnett, Benny Safdie
Opening on: July 21, 2023
The highly anticipated biopic by Christopher Nolan, focusing on physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer, features Cillian Murphy in the lead role, with Emily Blunt and Matt Damon also part of the cast. As expected from Nolan’s work, the film was shot in IMAX format and should be experienced on the largest screen available for the full cinematic impact.

Haunted Mansion (2023)

Directed by: Justin Simien
Starring: Rosario Dawson, Jamie Lee Curtis, Jared Leto, Owen Wilson, Tiffany Haddish, Danny DeVito, LaKeith Stanfield, Winona Ryder, Dan Levy
Opening on: July 28, 2023 (formerly August 11, 2023)

After Disney’s initial unsuccessful try at adapting their Haunted Mansion ride into a feature film, they are giving it another shot, two decades later. The new story revolves around a single mother, played by Rosario Dawson, who moves into the famous mansion with her son. To rid the house of malevolent spirits, she seeks assistance from a priest, a paranormal investigator, a psychic, and a history professor. This fresh take aims to bring a thrilling and chilling experience to the audience.

AUGUST

Meg 2: The Trench (2023)

Directed by: Ben Wheatley
Starring: Jason Statham, Sienna Guillory, Cliff Curtis
Opening on: August 4, 2023

Despite receiving mixed reviews from critics, the 2018 film “The Meg” turned out to be a surprising success at the box office, leading to the development of a sequel. The sequel comes with a promising aspect: it will be directed by Ben Wheatley, known for his work on films like “Kill List” and “Free Fire,” showcasing his adeptness in the genre. With Wheatley at the helm and Jason Statham facing off against a colossal shark, audiences are curious to see the exciting outcome of this collaboration.

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem (2023)

Directed by: Jeff Rowe
Starring: Brady Noon, Nicolas Cantu, Micah Abbey, Shamon Brown Jr., Paul Rudd, Jackie Chan, Giancarlo Esposito, Seth Rogen, John Cena, Ice Cube
Opening on: August 4, 2023
Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, known for their frequent collaborations, are taking on the reboot of the TMNT (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles) franchise with a new computer-animated film. The movie will retell the origin story of the four titular turtles, who rise from the sewers to combat crime and seek acceptance from the city they defend. Besides the turtles, the film boasts an impressive voice cast filled with renowned actors. The animation style is said to draw inspiration from a particular Spider-Verse movie, making this project highly anticipated and promising.

Gran Turismo: The Movie (2023)

Directed by: Neill Blomkamp
Starring: David Harbour, Orlando Bloom, Darren Barnet, Archie Madekwwe, Djimon Hounsou
Opening on: August 11, 2023
Look beyond the title, as this film isn’t your typical video game adaptation. It’s a coming-of-age story based on true events, following a teenager who achieved success by winning various video game competitions, specifically playing the popular racing game Gran Turismo. His victories ultimately led him to fulfill his dreams of becoming a professional race car driver.

Blue Beetle (2023)

Directed by: Angel Manuel Soto
Starring: Xolo Maridueña, Susan Sarandon, Harvey Guillen
Opening on: August 18, 2023

Initially intended as an HBO Max exclusive, Blue Beetle underwent a shift in plans and will now receive a theatrical release, thanks to Warner Bros.’ change of decision. The DC superhero film will be directed by Angel Manuel Soto, known for his work on “Charm City Kings,” and will feature Xolo Maridueña in the lead role. Maridueña has gained recognition through his performance in the popular Netflix series “Cobra Kai,” which draws inspiration from the Karate Kid franchise.

SEPTEMBER

The Equalizer 3 (2023)

Directed by: Antoine Fuqua
Starring: Denzel Washington, Dakota Fanning, David Denman, Gaia Scodellaro, Sonia Ammar
Opening on: September 1, 2023
The vigilante action thriller franchise, based on the classic TV series of the same name, sees the return of director Antoine Fuqua and star Denzel Washington. They join forces once again for another installment in the series. This time, Washington reunites with his co-star from “Man on Fire,” Dakota Fanning. However, specific details about Fanning’s character and the plot of the film have yet to be revealed.

The Nun II (2023)

Directed by: Michael Chaves
Starring: Bonnie Aarons
Opening on: September 8, 2023

The Conjuring Universe is set to grow with a sequel to the 2018 horror film, The Nun. The original movie featured Taissa Farmiga as a young nun who encounters the demon Valak at her convent. The upcoming sequel takes place four years later, with Farmiga’s character, Sister Irene, facing Valak once again after a priest is murdered. Currently, the only confirmed star attached to the film is Bonnie Aarons, who portrayed Valak. There is no official word yet on whether Taissa Farmiga will reprise her role in the sequel.

The Creator (2023)

Directed by: Gareth Edwards
Starring: John David Washington, Gemma Chan, Allison Janney, Ken Watanabe, Benedict Wong, Danny McBride
Opening on: September 29, 2023
“The Creator,” an ambitious sci-fi action thriller from writer/director Gareth Edwards, unfolds in a future where a massive war ensues between humanity and artificial intelligence.

Saw X (2023)

Directed by: Kevin Greutert
Starring: Tobin Bell
Premiering on: September 29, 2023
Arriving just in time for Halloween, a new installment in the Saw franchise is set to hit theaters. Kevin Greutert, known for directing Saw VI and Saw 3D, returns as the director for this tenth movie. While details about the plot remain a mystery, it has been confirmed that Tobin Bell’s iconic character, Jigsaw, will make an appearance. For fans familiar with the series’ lore, this revelation is sure to pique their interest.

OCTOBER

Kraven the Hunter (2023)

Directed by: J.C. Chandor
Starring: Aaron Taylor-Johnson
Opening on: October 6, 2023

After initial plans to include the classic Spider-Man villain in the Andrew Garfield Spider-Man franchise were abandoned by Sony, the character is now making its long-awaited leap to the big screen. The upcoming film will be directed by J.C. Chandor, known for his work on “All Is Lost” and “Triple Frontier.” Stepping into the role of the iconic villain is Aaron Taylor-Johnson, who previously portrayed Pietro Maximoff/Quicksilver in “Avengers: Age of Ultron.” Fans can finally anticipate seeing this beloved character in a standalone movie.

Killers of the Flower Moon (2023)

Directed by: Martin Scorsese
Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Robert De Niro, Jesse Plemons, Lily Gladstone, Tantoo Cardinal
Opening on: October 20, 2023
Killers of the Flower Moon is an adaptation of David Grann’s highly acclaimed and bestselling book. The movie offers a thought-provoking examination of America’s complex relationship with Indigenous peoples. It promises to be another exceptional work from the renowned filmmaker Martin Scorsese and his team of collaborators, showcasing their artistic brilliance once again.

The Exorcist: Believer (2023)

Directed by: David Gordon Green
Starring: Leslie Odom Jr., Ellen Burstyn, Ann Dowd
Opening on: October 13, 2023

Following the conclusion of his Halloween trilogy, director David Gordon Green seamlessly transitions into another cherished horror franchise. Similar to his approach with the Michael Myers saga, Green’s take on The Exorcist serves as a direct sequel to the 1973 original. This film is said to be the first installment of a planned trilogy, and fans will be delighted to see Ellen Burstyn reprising her iconic role.

Pain Hustlers (2023)

Directed by: David Yates
Starring: Emily Blunt, Chris Evans, Andy Garcia, Catherine O’Hara, Jay Duplass
Premiering on: October 27, 2023 on Netflix

Departing from his work on Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts, director David Yates ventures into a distinctly different realm with this crime drama, inspired by real events. The story revolves around a woman who secures a job at a pharmaceutical start-up in Florida, only to become entangled in a criminal conspiracy. Emily Blunt, Chris Evans, and Andy Garcia headline the cast, among other talented actors.

NOVEMBER

Dune: Part Two (2023)

Directed by: Denis Villeneuve
Starring: Timothée Chalamet, Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson, Javier Bardem, Josh Brolin, Stellan Skarsgård
Opening on: November 3, 2023

Despite initial uncertainty due to the first installment’s day-and-date release on HBO Max, fans can now rest assured as Dune: Part Two is officially confirmed. Director Denis Villeneuve has assured audiences that the sequel will continue to adapt the rest of Frank Herbert’s 1965 opus. Moreover, this second film will exclusively hit theaters, promising an immersive cinematic experience for viewers.

The Killer (2023)

Directed by: David Fincher
Starring: Michael Fassbender, Tilda Swinton, Kerry O’Malley, Charles Parnell
Premiering on: November 10, 2023 on Netflix

After his successful Oscar-winning film Mank for Netflix, David Fincher shifts his focus to a darker project. While the details are still scarce, what is known is that this upcoming film will be a neo-noir thriller based on a French graphic novel series. The talented cast, including Michael Fassbender and Tilda Swinton, among others, promises to deliver another gripping cinematic experience under Fincher’s direction.

The Marvels (2023)

Directed by: Nia DaCosta
Starring: Brie Larson, Teyonah Parris, Iman Vellani, Samuel L. Jackson
Opening on: November 10, 2023 (formerly July 28,2023)

As the MCU continues to expand, Marvel has ambitious plans to release five films in 2023. Among them is the much-anticipated sequel to Captain Marvel, which will be directed by Nia DaCosta, known for her work on 2021’s Candyman. Brie Larson will reprise her role as the iconic Carol Danvers. Additionally, the film will mark the big screen debut of Iman Vellani’s Kamala Khan, also known as Ms. Marvel, following the debut of her Disney+ series in 2022.

The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes (2023)

Directed by: Francis Lawrence
Starring: Tom Blyth, Rachel Zegler, Peter Dinklage, Hunter Schafer, Josh Andrés Rivera, Jason Schwartzman, Viola Davis
Opening on: November 17, 2023
Coming full circle in the franchise, Francis Lawrence, a veteran of the series, once again takes the director’s chair for this Hunger Games prequel. The film is adapted from Suzanne Collins’ novel of the same name. It primarily delves into the backstory of a young Coriolanus Snow, a character originally portrayed by Donald Sutherland. Set years before the events of the original series, the story revolves around Snow’s pivotal role as a game-changing mentor in the Hunger Games.

Next Goal Wins (2023)

Directed by: Taika Waititi
Starring: Michael Fassbender, Elisabeth Moss, Will Arnett
Opening on: November 17, 2023
Shifting gears from his previous work on Thor: Love and Thunder, Taika Waititi embraces a more down-to-earth approach with his adaptation of the 2015 documentary of the same name. The film centers on Dutch-American soccer coach Thomas Rongen, portrayed by Michael Fassbender. Rongen is recruited to uplift the struggling American Samoa national team, widely regarded as one of the weakest teams globally.

Napoleon (2023)

Directed by: Ridley Scott
Starring: Joaquin Phoenix, Vanessa Kirby, Tahar Rahim, Ludivine Sagnier, Ben Miles
Opening on: November 22, 2023

Reuniting with Gladiator director Ridley Scott, Joaquin Phoenix stars in this historical drama centered around the renowned French general-turned-emperor, Napoleon. The film will chronicle Napoleon’s ascent to power, primarily focusing on his tumultuous relationship with his wife, Josephine, portrayed by Vanessa Kirby. Additionally, the movie is said to feature several grand battle sequences, which Scott is expected to handle with his signature flair.

Wish (2023)

Release Date: November 22, 2023
Director: Chris Buck and Fawn Veerasunthorn
Starring: Ariana DeBose, Chris Pine
In a similar vein to the meta approach taken in Lightyear, Wish delves into the origin story of the iconic wishing star that plays a significant role in numerous Disney fables. Penned by Frozen’s Jennifer Lee and Chris Buck, the animated film will explore the backstory of this magical star. Adding to its allure, Oscar winner Ariana DeBose is set to take the lead role in the movie.

DECEMBER

Poor Things (2023)

Directed by: Yorgos Lanthimos
Starring: Emma Stone, Mark Ruffalo, Ramy Youssef, Willem Dafoe, Christopher Abbott, Jerrod Carmichael, Margaret Qualley, Kathryn Hunter
Premiering on: December 8, 2023

Revived by an unorthodox scientist, a young woman embarks on a thrilling journey with a lawyer, spanning continents. Liberated from the constraints of her era, she becomes resolute in her mission to advocate for equality and liberation.

Leave the World Behind (2023)

Directed by: Sam Esmail
Starring: Julia Roberts, Mahershala Ali, Ethan Hawke, Kevin Bacon, Mhya’la Herrold
Premiering on: December 10, 2023 on Netflix
During a family vacation on Long Island, two strangers arrive with alarming news of a blackout, disrupting their peaceful getaway. As the danger escalates, both families must confront the impending crisis and make critical decisions to ensure their survival. Amidst the chaos of a collapsing world, they also face personal dilemmas and contemplate their roles in this dire situation.

Wonka (2023)

Directed by: Paul King
Starring: Timothée Chalamet, Olivia Colman, Sally Hawkins, Rowan Atkinson, Keegan-Michael Key
Opening on: December 15, 2023
In this origin story, Timothée Chalamet portrays the eccentric young Willy Wonka, immersing himself in the whimsical world of the budding chocolatier. The film delves into the enthralling tale of how Willy Wonka encounters the fascinating Oompa-Loompas. A stellar cast, including Olivia Colman, Sally Hawkins, Keegan Michael-Key, and Rowan Atkinson, brings life to the captivating characters. Leading the way as director is Paul King, known for the remarkable critical acclaim garnered by his two Paddington films.

The Color Purple (2023)

Directed by: Blitz Bazawule
Starring: Danielle Brooks, Halle Bailey, Fantasia Barrino, Taraji P. Henson, Louis Gossett Jr., H.E.R., Corey Hawkins, Deon Cole
Opening on: December 20, 2023
Arriving on the big screen to conclude the year, the musical, honored with a Tony for its revival on Broadway in 2016, is set to captivate audiences. Keep an eye out for R&B sensation H.E.R., who marks her screen debut in this epic Southern tale set in the early 1900s.

Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom (2023)

Directed by: James Wan
Starring: Jason Momoa, Amber Heard, Patrick Wilson, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Temuera Morrison
Opening on: December 25, 2023
Once again, James Wan takes the helm as the director for a return to the captivating world of Atlantis and the DC superhero Aquaman, portrayed by Jason Momoa. Alongside Momoa, the film will feature the talents of Amber Heard as Mera, Patrick Wilson as Ocean Master, and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II as Black Manta. While no further information about the movie has been disclosed, fans eagerly await to dive into this thrilling aquatic adventure.