Clare’s Top 5 Movies to Look Out for in 2022

Now I wouldn’t necessarily consider myself a stereotypical “film buff”, but I do believe that I know my way around a good movie. As an avid watcher of many classic film franchises, I think I’m pretty qualified to share the movies I am most looking forward to in 2022.

1) The Batman

To start off strong with one of the films I have been most excited for, The Batman comes out March 4th, 2022. It’s set to star Robert Pattinson as Batman, Zoe Kravitz as Catwoman, Paul Dano as the Riddler, and Jeffrey Right as Commissioner Gordon. This darker version of the classic Batman story stands out to me more than the ones I’ve seen in the past. A villain like the Riddler should add a little mystery to an already action packed film, as he tries to trick Batman and the Commissioner of Gotham City. The introduction of a strong female character like Catwoman is also very intriguing and I am interested to see her role in the story’s plot. One of the main things drawing me to this film is Robert Pattinson’s portrayal of Batman. In the trailer, you can see him wearing plenty of black eye makeup and taking up the Batman torch with a more intense acting style. I can’t wait to see how this movie comes out. I have a feeling that the action and mystery in this movie might open it up to people who aren’t traditionally DC followers. 

2) Rumble

On a much lighter note than the previous film, this star studded animated comedy is set to premiere on February 18th, 2022. It follows a monster who is convinced to compete in a monster wrestling contest. A young girl is working to continue her father’s coaching legacy by turning an underdog into a competitor who can fight with the best. I am excited for the cast of this movie, as Will Arnett and Terry Crews are two of my favorite comedic actors. It also has characters voiced by up-and-coming actress Geraldine Viswanathan, comedian Ben Shwartz, basketball all-star Charles Barkley, and sports announcer Michael Buffer. So, I think it’s safe to say that this animated WWE film will be a great, lighthearted movie that anyone can enjoy, which is why it made it onto my list.

3) Legally Blonde 3

Here’s what we all needed to make up for the past year, more Elle Woods! This will continue the story of the girly-girl turned lawyer that we all know and love! Legally Blonde 3’s current release date is May 22nd, 2022, and, as of now, we know that Reese Witherspoon and Jennifer Coolidge will be returning to reprise their iconic roles. The movie will follow Elle’s life as a now middle-aged lawyer. Although I would love to see some of the moments from the past films reoccur, I can’t wait to see what they are going to do with this more modern version of the film. I think that the Legally Blonde series has always had a great concept and story that can inspire women to be what they want without changing for anyone. Hopefully this can translate in 2022 and we can now look to Elle’s character as an older role model.

4) Black Panther: Wakanda Forever

This is a sequel that I have been waiting for since the second I finished the first movie. It comes out July 8th, 2022. There is no trailer for it yet, but we can infer a few things. Due to the tragic death of star Chadwick Boseman, this will be a Black Panther film without the Black Panther we had in the original. There are rumors that his on-screen sister Shuri (played by Letitia Wright) will be taking over as Black Panther, and I am looking forward to having a female in a position of this kind. Of course this movie will also star Lupita Nyong’o, Daniel Kaluuya, Danai Gurira, Winston Duke, and Angela Bassett, who all had roles in the first film. Considering how well-made and captivating the first Black Panther was, I am going into the movie with high expectations. 

5) The Bad Guys

Finally, another animated film that I can’t wait for is The Bad Guys, coming out April 22, 2022. This motion picture, based off of a very popular book series for kids, follows characters Mr. Snake, Mr. Wolf, Ms. Tarantula, Mr. Piranha, and Mr. Shark (played by Marc Maron, Sam Rockwell, Awkwafina, Anthony Ramos, and Craig Robinson respectively). This family-friendly comedy sends the message that you can change and do good even if you are predisposed to bad behavior. It sounds like we can all learn something from this movie and, judging by the hilarious cast, I’m sure we are in for some good laughs as well.

I am counting down the days until 2022 in anticipation of these films. It sounds like we are in for some humor and action to keep us all entertained. Let me know if you would like me to review these movies once they come out, because I will definitely be watching them anyways!