This week, the Milwaukee area welcomes a range of new films and cinema events that promise to entertain audiences across various genres. From superhero blockbusters to international award-winning thrillers, there's something for everyone. Leading the pack is "Captain America: Brave New World," which introduces Anthony Mackie as the new Captain America, alongside Harrison Ford in an intriguing role. Meanwhile, "Paddington in Peru" brings back the beloved bear in a heartwarming adventure. For those interested in international cinema, "Armand" offers a gripping Norwegian thriller, while "Ne Zha 2" showcases stunning Chinese animation. Additionally, several festivals and special screenings, including Oscar-nominated short films and Black History Month programming, provide diverse viewing options.
The arrival of "Captain America: Brave New World" marks a significant return to the Marvel universe with a fresh twist. The film not only features Anthony Mackie as the new Cap but also introduces Harrison Ford as the new president, stepping into a role previously played by William Hurt. The plot thickens as these characters are thrust into an international incident revealing a global conspiracy. Ford’s transformation into the Red Hulk adds an unexpected twist, making this film a must-watch for Marvel fans. Co-starring alongside Mackie and Ford are Giancarlo Esposito, Danny Ramirez, Carl Lumbly, Liv Tyler, and Tim Blake Nelson, setting the stage for what could be the revival of Marvel’s dominance in the cinematic world.
For families, "Paddington in Peru" offers a delightful escape. When Paddington discovers that his Aunt Lucy has gone missing from her retirement home in Peru, he embarks on an adventurous journey to find her, accompanied by his human family. The third installment in the Paddington series brings back Ben Whishaw as the voice of Paddington, along with Hugh Bonneville, Imelda Staunton, Jim Broadbent, and Julie Walters. The cast expands with Emily Mortimer, Antonio Banderas, and Olivia Colman, adding depth and charm to this charming tale.
Norwegian filmmaker Halfdan Ullmann Tøndel's debut feature, "Armand," delves into a school incident involving a young boy and his friend. The mother, played by Renate Reinsve, finds herself called to the school to address the situation. This psychological thriller won the Golden Camera at Cannes last year, highlighting its compelling narrative and exceptional direction. The film provides a tense and thought-provoking experience for adult audiences.
Chinese animation takes center stage with "Ne Zha 2," which has already achieved massive success globally, earning over $1 billion before its North American release. The story follows the souls of two heroes who live on after their sacrifice, leading an ally to attempt reconstructing their bodies using the seven-colored lotus. With English subtitles, this visually stunning film offers a unique cultural perspective for viewers.
In addition to these major releases, several film festivals and special screenings enrich the local cinema scene. The Oriental Theatre hosts the Oscar-nominated short films, featuring live-action, documentary, and animated categories. Meanwhile, the Festival of Films in French at UWM Union Cinema showcases a variety of contemporary and classic French-language movies. Black History Month programming at the Oriental Theatre includes rare screenings of films like "Obsessed" and "Boyz N the Hood." The Times Cinema revivals bring classics such as "The Bodyguard" and "The Godfather" back to the big screen, ensuring there's always something exciting happening in Milwaukee's theaters.
Beyond theatrical releases, streaming services offer a wealth of new content. Apple TV+ premieres "The Gorge," an action-packed film starring Miles Teller and Anya Taylor-Joy. Max debuts "Watchmen: Chapter II," continuing the animated adaptation of Alan Moore’s graphic novel. Hulu presents "Memes & Nightmares," a comedy-mystery co-produced by LeBron James. These platforms ensure that even those staying home have plenty of entertainment options.
This week's cinematic offerings in Milwaukee cater to a wide array of tastes, from blockbuster adventures to intimate dramas and cultural explorations. Whether you're looking for thrilling action, heartfelt stories, or thought-provoking narratives, the city's theaters and streaming services provide ample choices to satisfy every movie lover.