By Matt Mueller Culture Editor Published May 10, 2024 at 5:01 PM

The big screen is back! And if there's one thing I learned over the past several years, it's that watching a movie at home is nice and convenient, but the big screen is the best – between the sound, the picture and the ability to give yourself to the story without distractions. (Or at least TOO many distractions.)

But while big screens are certainly back, audiences' ability to keep track of what movies are playing on it? Less so. Between disappearing movie listings, ad campaigns unable to reach increasingly fractured audiences and the firehose of content shooting at audiences across all sorts of services these days, it's easy to lose track of everything to be seen.

So we're here to help!

Here's a lineup of everything showing in Milwaukee and Milwaukee-area cinemas – from the biggest blockbusters, to special screenings showing maybe just once or twice on the big screen, and beyond. This week, after somewhat of a false (but not un-fun!) start, NOW the summer blockbuster season begins with the latest chapter in the harrowing but entertaining "Planet of the Apes" series. But that's not all, as there's also the explosively charming "The Fall Guy" starring Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt, some Milwaukee Film Festival holdovers earning a well-deserved encore, Mother's Day movies new and old, the return of "The Phantom Menace" and much more on marquees around town. 

Here's the full list of movies found on Brew City big screens this weekend – arranged by theater. (For specific movie times, click the link and visit their respective websites – and for more movie takes and info, follow @aManAboutFilm on Twitter and Instagram!)

Marcus Theatres

"Abigail" – In the latest movie from the directors of "Ready or Not" and "Scream 5," a rogues gallery of hired hands (including "Scream 5" star Melissa Barrera, Kathryn Newton and Dan Stevens) kidnap a little ballet-loving girl for the hopes of a big payday. Just one trip-up with their perfect plan: The girl ends up being a blood-sucking vampire, and they're now the ones trapped with her. For fans of the directors' black horror comedy mash-ups, "Abigail" shouldn't suck. (Because vampires, you see.) (Now showing at the Majestic, Menomonee Falls, Ridge and South Shore locations)

"The Amazing Spider-Man" – Spider-Man, Spider-Man, returns to theaters when he can! Indeed, Hollywood-changing comic book blockbusters are swinging back into theaters as a part of Marcus Theatres' Spider-Mondays program, spinning through all of the web-slinger's live-action big-screen adventures. After flipping through Sam Raimi's original trilogy, now revisit the first chapter in Marc Webb's take on the superhero, starring Andrew Garfield, Emma Stone and a villain I no longer remember. (Now showing at the Majestic and South Shore locations)

"The Amazing Spider-Man 2" – And while you're swinging down memory lane, check out the sequel to "The Amazing Spider-Man" – which is definitely one of the lesser Spider-Man movies but still has its charms with the charisma of Andrew Garfield and Emma Stone as well as the zippy direction from Marc Webb. Needed approximately 71 more villains, though, and more ominous foreshadowing lore-building. (Showing Monday-Thursday at the Majestic and South Shore locations)

"Challengers" – Yeah, it's tennis night ... in America! Get some buds and some brews, because it's gonna be a fight on the big screen as two rival tennis players – Josh O'Connor of "The Crown" and Mike Faist of Spielberg's "West Side Story" – try to win over the heart (and the tennis-coaching prowess) of a former tennis superstar played by Zendaya. For those looking for both romance and original movies for grown-ups back in cinemas, "Challengers" – earning rave reviews from critics nationwide – is a grand slam. (Now showing at the BistroPlex, Hillside, Majestic, Menomonee Falls, Movie Tavern, North Shore, Ridge and South Shore locations)

"Civil War" – You know, just some light escapism about the United States embroiled in a violent and vicious civil war! A fun, turn-off-your-brain matinee! But actually, the latest from the great Alex Garland ("Annihilation," "Ex Machina" and allegedly most of "Dredd") follows a pack of journalists as they attempt to tell the story of the U.S.'s collapse from the brutal frontlines. More of a drama than a rollicking action movie, "Civil War" will be one of the conversation points of the cinematic year. (Now showing at the Hillside, Majestic, Menomonee Falls, North Shore, Ridge and South Shore locations)

"The Fall Guy" – For the first time in basically two decades, the summer blockbuster season is starting with something besides a superhero movie – and a quite fun movie at that, starring Ken himself Ryan Gosling in insanely charming superstar mode as a stunt double who tries to win over his film director crush (Emily Blunt, equally charismatic) by finding the missing star of her movie. With genuinely funny banter, impressive stunts and a light playful vibe, "The Fall Guy" is a satisfying start to the summer movie season. (Now showing at the BistroPlex, Hillside, Majestic, Menomonee Falls, Movie Tavern, North Shore, Ridge and South Shore locations)

"Force of Nature: The Dry 2" – Milwaukee Film Festival fans may recall "The Dry" from a few years ago, a well-received desert-wandering Australian detective procedural starring Eric Bana ("Hulk," "Troy"). So well-received that it received a sequel from its native Australia, following Bana as he tries to solve another case over in the Outback – this time involving a hiking crew that finds itself missing a member when they return to civilization. Maybe a dingo is to blame? (Now showing at the Hillside and Ridge locations)

"Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire" – In case there wasn't enough frost everywhere, the latest "Ghostbusters" big screen adventure finds the supernatural exterminators, new and old, battling a mega-demon releasing all sorts of ghosts and causing the world to freeze in fear. Fans of the original will certainly find plenty in the film to feel nostalgic about – while more casual fans might be wondering, "Hey, weren't these movies originally goofy comedies?" (Now showing at the Hillside, Majestic, Menomonee Falls, Ridge and South Shore locations.)

"Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire" – Did you enjoy "Godzilla Minus One"? Well, the big guy is back in this chapter from the American take on the raging reptile – and King Kong is in tow too, as the two team up to monster mash another threat to the planet. Unlike this past winter's terrific Oscar winner, brace yourself for a big and ridiculous movie ... as you should probably predict from a movie about a giant lizard and giant ape becoming planetary buddy cops. (Now showing at the BistroPlex, Hillside, Menomonee Falls, Movie Tavern, Ridge and South Shore locations.)

"Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes" – You know what franchise is rather good and doesn't get enough credit? Considering this is the blurb for "Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes," I think you can take a guess – but indeed, the modern "Apes" movies have all been impressive, from their tense, thoughtful, moody take on the evolution of the apes' evolution, to the groundbreaking special effects. And now there's a new chapter, continuing the story as the apes build their society and humans live hunted on the edge in fear – all directed by series newcomer Wes Ball, who did really underappreciated grounded and intense work helming the "Maze Runner" series. Sign me up for this summer blockbuster! (Now showing at the BistroPlex, Hillside, Majestic, Menomonee Falls, Movie Tavern, North Shore, Ridge and South Shore locations)

"Kung Fu Panda 4" – Skadoosh hits to the big screen once again as the world's jolliest and hungriest ultimate kung fu warrior has to save the day and battle a new foe: a shape-shifting chameleon (voiced by Oscar winner Viola Davis) who can take on the form and powers of those it encounters. It's been a while since there's a been a big new animated movie for kids – Hollywood, what's your deal? You hate money or something? – and this Jack Black-led franchise has been pretty consistently colorful, comedic, kinetic and action-packed for all ages. (Now showing at the Majestic, Menomonee Falls, North Shore, Ridge and South Shore locations.)

"The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare" – Famed Brit director Guy Ritchie ("The Gentlemen") goes to war with his latest tough-guy romp, following the declassified origins of the UK's first special forces department during WWII. Much more in the vein of "Inglourious Basterds" than a serious war film, "Ungentlemanly Warfare" seems like ideal dad fare for a lazy afternoon this week. (Now showing at the Hillside, Majestic, Menomonee Falls and Ridge locations)

"Monkey Man" – Dev Patel blasts his way into the director's chair with this vibrant and vicious action movie brawler, about a young Indian outsider who plots brutal revenge against the political leaders, corrupt cops and abusive rich folk that crush the lower classes in his society. Some have made "John Wick" references – but it's really more like "The Raid 2," "The Man From Nowhere" and other raw and rugged Asian action flicks that take their stories, and definitely their no-holds-barred bloody fisticuffs, seriously. Patel's freshman effort may be more dense than necessary – but it also dishes out some dynamite action. (Now showing at the Menomonee Falls)

"Not Another Church Movie" – Love to hate Tyler Perry movies? Well, did I just find you your favorite comedy of the summer movie season, as "Not Another Church Movie" parodies the adored and detested Hollywood mega-honcho as well as his preposterous, preachy and mostly profitable plethora of melodramas – complete with Mickey Rourke and Jamie Foxx as (who else?) God. (Now showing at the Menomonee Falls, Ridge and South Shore locations)

"Poolman" – The best Hollywood Chris – that would be Pine; my apologies to Hemsworth, Pratt and Evans – makes his first move behind the camera for "Poolman," a sunny, silly indie L.A. noir mystery about a upbeat pool guy (Pine himself) who gets caught up in some "Chinatown" lite-esque shadiness involving DeWanda Wise, Annette Bening, Danny DeVito and many more. The movie got rough write-ups out of the Toronto Film Festival – but judge for yourself! They also liked "Belfast" at that fest, so they have their share of misses too. (Now showing at the Majestic)

"Prathinidhi 2" – The biggest Bollywood arrival of the weekend arguably is this sequel epic to 2014's "Prathinidhi," a political thriller about a journalist battling corruption to find the truth. (Now showing at the Majestic, North Shore, Ridge and South Shore locations)

"Star" – Bollywood brings Brew City yet another genre-mashing, energetic bit of sprawling entertainment with "Star," an inspirational showbix dramedy touching on all sorts of genres (in line with traditional Bollywood fare) about a young man aspiring to be a star.(Now showing at the Ridge)

"Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace" – Happy Star Wars Day month to you all! I hope you had a great May the Fourth – and it keeps going as, even after the unofficial holiday, Disney has re-released "The Phantom Menace" back into theaters! And honestly? Sure, it's still got Jar Jar Binks and Jake Lloyd ... but I think it might also be the best of the prequels, thanks to some still impressive special (and practical) effects, actors with good presence and thrilling sequences like the podrace and the Duel of the Fates. (Now showing at the BistroPlex, Hillside, Majestic, Menomonee Falls, Movie Tavern, North Shore, Ridge and South Shore locations)

"Tarot" – Somehow, while they've been a staple of horror movies and creepy culture, tarot cards have never been the star of their own movie ... until now! This new horror flick follows a bunch of teens (including Jacob Batalon of the new "Spider-Man" movies and Avantika from "Mean Girls") who make the mistake of playing with the supernatural cards and get hunted by a bunch of murderous beasty creatures. (Now showing at the BistroPlex, Hillside, Majestic, Menomonee Falls, Movie Tavern, North Shore, Ridge and South Shore locations)

"Transformers" – No, this isn't just a throwback showing of the Michael Bay live-action adaptation from about two decades ago, or even a retro throwback to the original animated film. This is a special "Transformers" 40th anniversary evening, featuring several original voice actors discussing their runs with the beloved show, behind-the-scenes footage, a one-of-a-kind look at the animated program's debut episode and much more. Overall, it's a must event for any true "Transformers" mega-fan. (Showing Wednesday at the Majestic, Ridge and South Shore locations)

"Unsung Hero" – From the makers of surprise faith-based smash hits "I Can Only Imagine" and "Jesus Revolution" comes "Unsung Hero," the based-on-a-true-story tale of how a sprawling family from Australia came to the States and made their dreams of music stardom come true, eventually evolving into the successful Christian pop stars For King + Country and Rebecca St. James. (Now showing at the Hillside, Majestic, Menomonee Falls, North Shore, Ridge and South Shore locations)

"The Wizard of Oz" – One of the most iconic and beloved films of all time – a movie that hasn't lost any of its magical, whimsical, wonderful power all these years later – waltzes back down the yellow brick road and onto the big screen this week to celebrate its 85th anniversary. You've almost certainly seen this Judy Garland classic before, but if you haven't seen it at a cinema, you owe it to yourself to experience it in the best way possible. (Showing starting Saturday at the Majestic, Menomonee Falls and South Shore locations)

Oriental Theater

"20th Century Women" – 'Tis the season for moms – and when it comes to recent mom movies, it's hard to think of one better than "20th Century Woman," a lovely story about parenthood through generations starring Annette Bening (who should've finally won her Oscar, or at least gotten a nom, for this great film), Greta Gerwig, Elle Fanning and many more. A lovely and honest movie that's great for watching with the major mother figure in your life. (Showing Saturday)

"Almost Sunrise" – Almost a decade ago, "Almost Sunrise" was a showcase screening at the Milwaukee Film Festival, a documentary telling the story of two veterans walking across the country in the hopes of bringing awareness to PTSD and helping their fellow soldiers coming home. Unfortunately, these many years later, this powerful doc hasn't lost its importance or impact. Check out this return showing, then stick around afterward for a post-screening panel. (Showing Saturday)

"Challengers" – Yeah, it's tennis night ... in America! Get some buds and some brews, because it's gonna be a fight on the big screen as two rival tennis players – Josh O'Connor of "The Crown" and Mike Faist of Spielberg's "West Side Story" – try to win over the heart (and the tennis-coaching prowess) of a former tennis superstar played by Zendaya. For those looking for both romance and original movies for grown-ups back in cinemas, "Challengers" – earning rave reviews from critics nationwide – is a grand slam.

"The Fall Guy" – For the first time in basically two decades, the summer blockbuster season is starting with something besides a superhero movie – and a quite fun movie at that, starring Ken himself Ryan Gosling in insanely charming superstar mode as a stunt double who tries to win over his film director crush (Emily Blunt, equally charismatic) by finding the missing star of her movie. With genuinely funny banter, impressive stunts and a light playful vibe, "The Fall Guy" is a satisfying start to the summer movie season. 

"The Lady Vanishes" – The Oriental's Hitchcock appreciation series screens on this week with an underrated chapter from his filmography: "The Lady Vanishes," another classic Alfred Hitchcock train crime thriller about a woman who discovers a different passenger has gone missing on a ride and tries to solve the mystery ... before it swallows her up as well. Another black-and-white gem you shouldn't miss at Milwaukee Film's majestic hub. (Showing Wednesday)

"Mars Express" – There's not much animated entertainment for kids in theaters right now ... but what about animated entertainment for adults!? For those wanting an indie, out-of-this-world trip this week, check out the French animated sci-fi saga about a murder investigation ... ON MARS! For a visually unique take on science fiction noir, book a ticket this week for the "Mars Express." (And I mean this week, because with all the giant big-name summer movies coming down the pipeline, I can't imagine it'll be around too long.)

"Mother!" – In honor of Mother's Day month, the Oriental is showing all sorts of famous big-screen matriarchs – some of them are good moms, some are bad moms and some of them are just simply bugnuts bonkerstown. That's "Mother!," Darren Aronofsky's uniquely intense and unrelenting saga about a woman and her husband suddenly plagued by a series of visitors of increasing strangeness and violence. It's a great movie from a mother's perspective that you may not expect – so check it out and then stay tuned for the rest of the Oriental's Cool Moms movie series(Screening Saturday)

"The Rocky Horror Picture Show" – One of the best and longest-lasting cinematic traditions around the country is staying up late yet again: "The Rocky Horror Picture Show" will do the time warp again at midnight on Saturday night once more, bringing together the lively cult movie with an even livelier crowd of celebrants inexperienced and seasoned. You're not a Milwaukee movie fan unless you've stayed up late with "Rocky Horror" at the Oriental! (Showing Saturday)

"Terms of Endearment" – It's the ultimate mothers weekend, so why not check out the ultimate mothers movie – the mother of all mother movies, if you will. "Terms of Endearment" earned a legacy as an acting showcase and weepy icon – but it's far better and even more beautiful than that simplistic description, earning its Oscar clout and still a touching emotional journey decades after its original big screen debut. (Showing Sunday)

"Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story" – One of the last great cult classics, this spoof of musician biopics flopped hard the box office when it originally came out in 2007, but over the years became one of the most quoted comedies in recent years – and making it almost impossible to watch a cliche rock star biopic without an unintentional chuckle. THE WRONG SON DIED all those years ago, but it's culturally alive and kicking now – including with a big screen return this week as a staff pick on Thursday. (Showing Thursday)

Downer Theatre

"Civil War" – You know, just some light escapism about the United States embroiled in a violent and vicious civil war! A fun, turn-off-your-brain matinee! But actually, the latest from the great Alex Garland ("Annihilation," "Ex Machina" and allegedly most of "Dredd") follows a pack of journalists as they attempt to tell the story of the U.S.'s collapse from the brutal frontlines. More of a drama than a rollicking action movie, "Civil War" will be one of the conversation points of the cinematic year.

"Remembering Gene Wilder" – Did you miss out on this big-screen tribute to the wonderful Gene Wilder at the Milwaukee Film Festival, tracing the actor's off-screen life and on-screen career through some of his most iconic performances with the help of close family and famous friends? Well, you don't have to live in a world of pure imagination anymore, because it's back at the Oriental for a Best of Fest run – and stay tuned to the Oriental's movie listings for more Gene Wilder back on the big screen in the future!

AMC Mayfair

"Abigail" – In the latest movie from the directors of "Ready or Not" and "Scream 5," a rogues gallery of hired hands (including "Scream 5" star Melissa Barrera, Kathryn Newton and Dan Stevens) kidnap a little ballet-loving girl for the hopes of a big payday. Just one trip-up with their perfect plan: The girl ends up being a blood-sucking vampire, and they're now the ones trapped with her. For fans of the directors' black horror comedy mash-ups, "Abigail" shouldn't suck. (Because vampires, you see.)

"Challengers" – Yeah, it's tennis night ... in America! Get some buds and some brews, because it's gonna be a fight on the big screen as two rival tennis players – Josh O'Connor of "The Crown" and Mike Faist of Spielberg's "West Side Story" – try to win over the heart (and the tennis-coaching prowess) of a former tennis superstar played by Zendaya. For those looking for both romance and original movies for grown-ups back in cinemas, "Challengers" – earning rave reviews from critics nationwide – is a grand slam.

"Civil War" – You know, just some light escapism about the United States embroiled in a violent and vicious civil war! A fun, turn-off-your-brain matinee! But actually, the latest from the great Alex Garland ("Annihilation," "Ex Machina" and allegedly most of "Dredd") follows a pack of journalists as they attempt to tell the story of the U.S.'s collapse from the brutal frontlines. More of a drama than a rollicking action movie, "Civil War" will be one of the conversation points of the cinematic year.

"The Fall Guy" – For the first time in basically two decades, the summer blockbuster season is starting with something besides a superhero movie – and a quite fun movie at that, starring Ken himself Ryan Gosling in insanely charming superstar mode as a stunt double who tries to win over his film director crush (Emily Blunt, equally charismatic) by finding the missing star of her movie. With genuinely funny banter, impressive stunts and a light playful vibe, "The Fall Guy" is a satisfying start to the summer movie season. 

"Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire" – In case there wasn't enough frost everywhere, the latest "Ghostbusters" big screen adventure finds the supernatural exterminators, new and old, battling a mega-demon releasing all sorts of ghosts and causing the world to freeze in fear. Fans of the original will certainly find plenty in the film to feel nostalgic about – while more casual fans might be wondering, "Hey, weren't these movies originally goofy comedies?"

"Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire" – Did you enjoy "Godzilla Minus One"? Well, the big guy is back in this chapter from the American take on the raging reptile – and King Kong is in tow too, as the two team up to monster mash another threat to the planet. Unlike this past winter's terrific Oscar winner, brace yourself for a big and ridiculous movie ... as you should probably predict from a movie about a giant lizard and giant ape becoming planetary buddy cops.

"Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes" – You know what franchise is rather good and doesn't get enough credit? Considering this is the blurb for "Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes," I think you can take a guess – but indeed, the modern "Apes" movies have all been impressive, from their tense, thoughtful, moody take on the evolution of the apes' evolution, to the groundbreaking special effects. And now there's a new chapter, continuing the story as the apes build their society and humans live hunted on the edge in fear – all directed by series newcomer Wes Ball, who did really underappreciated grounded and intense work helming the "Maze Runner" series. Sign me up for this summer blockbuster!

"Kung Fu Panda 4" – Skadoosh hits to the big screen once again as the world's jolliest and hungriest ultimate kung fu warrior has to save the day and battle a new foe: a shape-shifting chameleon (voiced by Oscar winner Viola Davis) who can take on the form and powers of those it encounters. It's been a while since there's a been a big new animated movie for kids – Hollywood, what's your deal? You hate money or something? – and this Jack Black-led franchise has been pretty consistently colorful, comedic, kinetic and action-packed for all ages. 

"The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare" – Famed Brit director Guy Ritchie ("The Gentlemen") goes to war with his latest tough-guy romp, following the declassified origins of the UK's first special forces department during WWII. Much more in the vein of "Inglourious Basterds" than a serious war film, "Ungentlemanly Warfare" seems like ideal dad fare for a lazy afternoon this week.

"Monkey Man" – Dev Patel blasts his way into the director's chair with this vibrant and vicious action movie brawler, about a young Indian outsider who plots brutal revenge against the political leaders, corrupt cops and abusive rich folk that crush the lower classes in his society. Some have made "John Wick" references – but it's really more like "The Raid 2," "The Man From Nowhere" and other raw and rugged Asian action flicks that take their stories, and definitely their no-holds-barred bloody fisticuffs, seriously. Patel's freshman effort may be more dense than necessary – but it also dishes out some dynamite action. 

"Not Another Church Movie" – Love to hate Tyler Perry movies? Well, did I just find you your favorite comedy of the summer movie season, as "Not Another Church Movie" parodies the adored and detested Hollywood mega-honcho as well as his preposterous, preachy and mostly profitable plethora of melodramas – complete with Mickey Rourke and Jamie Foxx as (who else?) God.

"Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace" – Happy Star Wars Day month to you all! I hope you had a great May the Fourth – and it keeps going as, even after the unofficial holiday, Disney has re-released "The Phantom Menace" back into theaters! And honestly? Sure, it's still got Jar Jar Binks and Jake Lloyd ... but I think it might also be the best of the prequels, thanks to some still impressive special (and practical) effects, actors with good presence and thrilling sequences like the podrace and the Duel of the Fates. 

"Tarot" – Somehow, while they've been a staple of horror movies and creepy culture, tarot cards have never been the star of their own movie ... until now! This new horror flick follows a bunch of teens (including Jacob Batalon of the new "Spider-Man" movies and Avantika from "Mean Girls") who make the mistake of playing with the supernatural cards and get hunted by a bunch of murderous beasty creatures. 

"Unsung Hero" – From the makers of surprise faith-based smash hits "I Can Only Imagine" and "Jesus Revolution" comes "Unsung Hero," the based-on-a-true-story tale of how a sprawling family from Australia came to the States and made their dreams of music stardom come true, eventually evolving into the successful Christian pop stars For King + Country and Rebecca St. James. 

"Wicked Little Letters" – If you think this is just another middlebrow British lark, well, does it have some words for you. This bawdier-than-usual British comedy tells a somehow true story about a literal war of words in a small Brit community between a rowdy woman (scenestealer Jessie Buckley) and the aghast neighbors convinced she's the culprit – including Oscar winner Olivia Colman.

Avalon Atmospheric Theater

"The Fall Guy" – For the first time in basically two decades, the summer blockbuster season is starting with something besides a superhero movie – and a quite fun movie at that, starring Ken himself Ryan Gosling in insanely charming superstar mode as a stunt double who tries to win over his film director crush (Emily Blunt, equally charismatic) by finding the missing star of her movie. With genuinely funny banter, impressive stunts and a light playful vibe, "The Fall Guy" is a satisfying start to the summer movie season. 

"Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes" – You know what franchise is rather good and doesn't get enough credit? Considering this is the blurb for "Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes," I think you can take a guess – but indeed, the modern "Apes" movies have all been impressive, from their tense, thoughtful, moody take on the evolution of the apes' evolution, to the groundbreaking special effects. And now there's a new chapter, continuing the story as the apes build their society and humans live hunted on the edge in fear – all directed by series newcomer Wes Ball, who did really underappreciated grounded and intense work helming the "Maze Runner" series. Sign me up for this summer blockbuster!

Rosebud Cinema

"Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes" – You know what franchise is rather good and doesn't get enough credit? Considering this is the blurb for "Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes," I think you can take a guess – but indeed, the modern "Apes" movies have all been impressive, from their tense, thoughtful, moody take on the evolution of the apes' evolution, to the groundbreaking special effects. And now there's a new chapter, continuing the story as the apes build their society and humans live hunted on the edge in fear – all directed by series newcomer Wes Ball, who did really underappreciated grounded and intense work helming the "Maze Runner" series. Sign me up for this summer blockbuster!

Silverspot Cinema of Brookfield

"Challengers" – Yeah, it's tennis night ... in America! Get some buds and some brews, because it's gonna be a fight on the big screen as two rival tennis players – Josh O'Connor of "The Crown" and Mike Faist of Spielberg's "West Side Story" – try to win over the heart (and the tennis-coaching prowess) of a former tennis superstar played by Zendaya. For those looking for both romance and original movies for grown-ups back in cinemas, "Challengers" – earning rave reviews from critics nationwide – is a grand slam.

"Civil War" – You know, just some light escapism about the United States embroiled in a violent and vicious civil war! A fun, turn-off-your-brain matinee! But actually, the latest from the great Alex Garland ("Annihilation," "Ex Machina" and allegedly most of "Dredd") follows a pack of journalists as they attempt to tell the story of the U.S.'s collapse from the brutal frontlines. More of a drama than a rollicking action movie, "Civil War" will be one of the conversation points of the cinematic year.

"The Fall Guy" – For the first time in basically two decades, the summer blockbuster season is starting with something besides a superhero movie – and a quite fun movie at that, starring Ken himself Ryan Gosling in insanely charming superstar mode as a stunt double who tries to win over his film director crush (Emily Blunt, equally charismatic) by finding the missing star of her movie. With genuinely funny banter, impressive stunts and a light playful vibe, "The Fall Guy" is a satisfying start to the summer movie season. 

"Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes" – You know what franchise is rather good and doesn't get enough credit? Considering this is the blurb for "Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes," I think you can take a guess – but indeed, the modern "Apes" movies have all been impressive, from their tense, thoughtful, moody take on the evolution of the apes' evolution, to the groundbreaking special effects. And now there's a new chapter, continuing the story as the apes build their society and humans live hunted on the edge in fear – all directed by series newcomer Wes Ball, who did really underappreciated grounded and intense work helming the "Maze Runner" series. Sign me up for this summer blockbuster!

"Srikanth" – Bollywood will hope to summon some big feels with one of their latest imports: "Srikanth," an inspirational saga about a blind man who pursues his dreams through school and becomes an MIT student and eventually a business giant. Clearly this is great choice if you want some inspired tears and also if you want to feel like a massive slacker.

"Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace" – Happy Star Wars Day month to you all! I hope you had a great May the Fourth – and it keeps going as, even after the unofficial holiday, Disney has re-released "The Phantom Menace" back into theaters! And honestly? Sure, it's still got Jar Jar Binks and Jake Lloyd ... but I think it might also be the best of the prequels, thanks to some still impressive special (and practical) effects, actors with good presence and thrilling sequences like the podrace and the Duel of the Fates. 

"Tarot" – Somehow, while they've been a staple of horror movies and creepy culture, tarot cards have never been the star of their own movie ... until now! This new horror flick follows a bunch of teens (including Jacob Batalon of the new "Spider-Man" movies and Avantika from "Mean Girls") who make the mistake of playing with the supernatural cards and get hunted by a bunch of murderous beasty creatures. 

"The Wizard of Oz" – One of the most iconic and beloved films of all time – a movie that hasn't lost any of its magical, whimsical, wonderful power all these years later – waltzes back down the yellow brick road and onto the big screen this week to celebrate its 85th anniversary. You've almost certainly seen this Judy Garland classic before, but if you haven't seen it at a cinema, you owe it to yourself to experience it in the best way possible. (Showing Saturday, Sunday and Wednesday)

ACX Cinemas at Bayshore

"Challengers" – Yeah, it's tennis night ... in America! Get some buds and some brews, because it's gonna be a fight on the big screen as two rival tennis players – Josh O'Connor of "The Crown" and Mike Faist of Spielberg's "West Side Story" – try to win over the heart (and the tennis-coaching prowess) of a former tennis superstar played by Zendaya. For those looking for both romance and original movies for grown-ups back in cinemas, "Challengers" – earning rave reviews from critics nationwide – is a grand slam.

"The Fall Guy" – For the first time in basically two decades, the summer blockbuster season is starting with something besides a superhero movie – and a quite fun movie at that, starring Ken himself Ryan Gosling in insanely charming superstar mode as a stunt double who tries to win over his film director crush (Emily Blunt, equally charismatic) by finding the missing star of her movie. With genuinely funny banter, impressive stunts and a light playful vibe, "The Fall Guy" is a satisfying start to the summer movie season. 

"Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire" – Did you enjoy "Godzilla Minus One"? Well, the big guy is back in this chapter from the American take on the raging reptile – and King Kong is in tow too, as the two team up to monster mash another threat to the planet. Unlike this past winter's terrific Oscar winner, brace yourself for a big and ridiculous movie ... as you should probably predict from a movie about a giant lizard and giant ape becoming planetary buddy cops.

"Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes" – You know what franchise is rather good and doesn't get enough credit? Considering this is the blurb for "Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes," I think you can take a guess – but indeed, the modern "Apes" movies have all been impressive, from their tense, thoughtful, moody take on the evolution of the apes' evolution, to the groundbreaking special effects. And now there's a new chapter, continuing the story as the apes build their society and humans live hunted on the edge in fear – all directed by series newcomer Wes Ball, who did really underappreciated grounded and intense work helming the "Maze Runner" series. Sign me up for this summer blockbuster!

"Not Another Church Movie" – Love to hate Tyler Perry movies? Well, did I just find you your favorite comedy of the summer movie season, as "Not Another Church Movie" parodies the adored and detested Hollywood mega-honcho as well as his preposterous, preachy and mostly profitable plethora of melodramas – complete with Mickey Rourke and Jamie Foxx as (who else?) God.

"Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace" – Happy Star Wars Day month to you all! I hope you had a great May the Fourth – and it keeps going as, even after the unofficial holiday, Disney has re-released "The Phantom Menace" back into theaters! And honestly? Sure, it's still got Jar Jar Binks and Jake Lloyd ... but I think it might also be the best of the prequels, thanks to some still impressive special (and practical) effects, actors with good presence and thrilling sequences like the podrace and the Duel of the Fates. 

"Tarot" – Somehow, while they've been a staple of horror movies and creepy culture, tarot cards have never been the star of their own movie ... until now! This new horror flick follows a bunch of teens (including Jacob Batalon of the new "Spider-Man" movies and Avantika from "Mean Girls") who make the mistake of playing with the supernatural cards and get hunted by a bunch of murderous beasty creatures. 

Matt Mueller Culture Editor

As much as it is a gigantic cliché to say that one has always had a passion for film, Matt Mueller has always had a passion for film. Whether it was bringing in the latest movie reviews for his first grade show-and-tell or writing film reviews for the St. Norbert College Times as a high school student, Matt is way too obsessed with movies for his own good.

When he's not writing about the latest blockbuster or talking much too glowingly about "Piranha 3D," Matt can probably be found watching literally any sport (minus cricket) or working at - get this - a local movie theater. Or watching a movie. Yeah, he's probably watching a movie.