5 Biggest Movies of August 2017

We’re not quite in full blockbuster swing, yet, but August has some promising looking movies on the horizon.

Baby Driver

Release date: 4 August 2017

Fun heist movies with a brisk tempo and plenty of driving action are not at all rare, but when they’re done well they can be extremely fun. Baby Driver promises not only to be fun but also to feature the trademark slick cinematography and pacing that comes with all of Edgar Wright’s projects. His two most accomplished and loved films would probably be buddy-cop comedy Hot Fuzz and meta-fantasy/comedy Scott Pilgrim Vs. the World, both of which contain Wright’s signature comedic and visual style. Baby Driver follows the titular “Baby”, played by Ansel Elgort, as he tries to find a balance between being a getaway driver for some dangerous people while a budding romance with a beautiful waitress develops in the background. Jamie Foxx’s charisma and humor will also be a major draw, as well as the vibrant soundtrack that accompanies all the story beats. Rather than being a one-trick pony Baby Driver is combines all the enjoyable elements of a tense heist flick with the charisma and heart of a strong ensemble piece. Wright’s ability to immerse compelling characters in interesting worlds is well know, Baby Driver is likely to be added to his list of projects that have gained cult status.

The Hitman’s Bodyguard

Release date: 18 August 2017

Samuel L. Jackson and Ryan Reynolds are both actors equally comfortable in the action or comedic genres and they join forces in this action comedy caper. Samuel L. Jackson plays an infamously dangerous hitman who must testify in a court case – but it’s the duty of Reynolds’ character to deliver the hitman there safely. Naturally, what could have just been a simple plane trip will erupt into absolute mayhem as all and sundry try and prevent the hitman from arriving in the courthouse with a pulse.
Both the leads are charismatic actors and will ensure that the punchlines and the action aren’t in short supply.

The Lost City of Z

Release date: 11 August 2017

Moving from the gratuitously stylish to the methodically sophisticated, The Lost City of Z is a biographical drama that follows explorer Percy Fawcett as he treks to South America in search of an ancient civilization. It takes an elegant approach to its cinematography and tells a measured story of Fawcett’s growing obsession with the ancient tribe and all the difficulties this obsession causes for himself and his family. The aesthetic and characters combine to create a movie reminiscent of older times and more stately visuals. Rising star Charlie Hunnam is quickly making a name for himself as an accomplished actor with his portrayal of Fawcett, and he’s joined by Sienna Miller and Robert Pattinson in what may be an acquired taste, but definitely an immersive experience. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=teUMcu6p9o0

Annabelle: Creation

Release date: 18 August 2017

The Conjuring director James Wan set up a thrilling and intense universe that follows a set of paranormal investigators that get caught in supernatural, and usually terrifying events based on events recorded by real people. The universe ticks on but Wan has handed over the directorial reigns to David Sandberg, who continues the intertwining stories that link the Conjuring and Annabelle universe. This story is a prequel to the original Annabelle film and delves into the origin of the possessed doll, focusing on a dollmaker and his wife who welcome a group of strangers into their home – but as is the norm in horror movies, what is supposed to  be a pleasant act of generosity quickly takes a terrifying turn. Those who want to see the genesis of the evil doll’s existence won’t want to miss this.

Atomic Blonde

Release date: 25 August 2017

Contrary to what the title suggests this isn’t about a nuclear powered model. Instead it places Charlize Theron, playing an elite spy, in Berlin in 1989 – right before the fall of the Berlin Wall. The mystery thriller follows her character as she attempts to investigate the murder of a fellow agent and retrieve prized information. Taking a hint from hit-successes like John Wick and The Raid there are a lot of stylized action sequences primarily charting Theron’s bloody and spectacular navigation of her mission. The rest of the cast is rounded out with an impressive amount of acting talent; James McAvoy, John Goodman, and the quickly rising Sofia Boutella. Anyone in the market for a fast-paced ride with a high body count will want to give Atomic Blonde a shot.

What movie are you most excited for this month? Let us know by tweeting @MenStuffZA and commenting below.