The summer movie season continues to gather momentum with a surprisingly diverse lineup of new releases arriving in theaters this weekend. Family audiences get the return of one of cinema’s most beloved animated franchises, while adults can choose between a revisionist Robin Hood tale, an LGBTQ coming-of-age drama, and a pair of darker independent offerings. Whether you're looking for nostalgia, adventure, romance, or something unsettling, this weekend provides an unusually wide range of cinematic choices.
Toy Story 5
Pixar returns to familiar territory with Toy Story 5, directed by Andrew Stanton and McKenna Harris and featuring the return of Tom Hanks as Woody, Tim Allen as Buzz Lightyear, and Joan Cusack as Jessie. This latest chapter finds the toys confronting a new challenge when Bonnie becomes increasingly fascinated with technology and a tablet companion named Lilypad, threatening to replace traditional playtime altogether. Early critical reaction has been largely positive, with reviewers praising Pixar’s ability to find fresh emotional territory in a franchise many believed had already reached a satisfying conclusion. Audiences who have attended advance screenings have responded warmly to the film’s humor, heart, and nostalgic appeal. While some critics question whether another sequel was necessary, most agree it delivers exactly what families expect from Pixar: warmth, laughter, and a few tears. For parents, children, and longtime fans, this appears to be the safest recommendation of the weekend.
The Death of Robin Hood
At the opposite end of the spectrum is The Death of Robin Hood, directed by Michael Sarnoski, whose acclaimed Pig demonstrated a gift for quiet, emotionally rich storytelling. Hugh Jackman stars as an aging Robin Hood confronting the consequences of a lifetime spent outside the law. Rather than a traditional swashbuckling adventure, the film presents a darker, more reflective examination of the legendary outlaw's final days. Critics have been enthusiastic, praising Jackman’s performance and Sarnoski’s willingness to treat the familiar legend as a meditation on mortality, regret, and redemption. Audience reactions from festival screenings suggest the film may surprise viewers expecting a conventional action picture. Those seeking mature storytelling and strong performances may find this one of the most rewarding releases of the month.
Girls Like Girls
The coming-of-age drama Girls Like Girls, based on Hayley Kiyoko’s popular novel and music video, arrives with strong interest from younger audiences and LGBTQ viewers. Directed by Kiyoko herself, the film explores friendship, identity, and first love through the relationship between two teenage girls navigating the uncertainties of adolescence. Early reviews praise the film’s sincerity, emotional authenticity, and sensitivity toward its characters. While some critics note familiar coming-of-age elements, most agree that Kiyoko brings a personal perspective that gives the material added resonance. Audience response has been enthusiastic, particularly among younger viewers who see their experiences reflected on screen. For those looking for a heartfelt and contemporary drama, Girls Like Girls may prove one of the weekend’s most appealing discoveries.
Leviticus
For genre fans, Neon offers Leviticus, a science-fiction horror thriller that combines body horror, psychological suspense, and dark romance. Directed by Nicholas Ash Bateman and starring Joe Bird and Stacy Clausen, the film follows characters whose lives become entangled in a disturbing and increasingly surreal series of events. Critics have described the film as ambitious, unsettling, and visually striking, though some caution that its unconventional narrative may not appeal to mainstream audiences. Horror enthusiasts, however, have already embraced its willingness to take risks and venture into genuinely uncomfortable territory. Viewers seeking something far removed from studio formula may find Leviticus worth investigating.
Among the weekend’s smaller releases is The Voices of Our Mother, a supernatural family drama blending emotional storytelling with elements of mystery and spirituality. Also opening in limited release is O Horizon, starring Maria Bakalova and David Strathairn, which has attracted favorable notices on the festival circuit for its thoughtful performances and humanistic themes. Music lovers may also find interest in Peter Asher: Everywhere Man, a documentary examining the life and career of the musician, producer, and member of Peter and Gordon whose influence extended far beyond the British Invasion.
Overall, the weekend belongs to Toy Story 5, which should dominate the box office and satisfy family audiences seeking a reliable crowd-pleaser. Yet some of the most interesting choices may be found elsewhere. The Death of Robin Hood offers serious dramatic filmmaking anchored by Hugh Jackman, while Girls Like Girls and Leviticus provide fresh alternatives for viewers looking beyond franchise entertainment. As always, the healthiest moviegoing landscape is one filled with choices, and this weekend offers plenty of them.
Tomorrow on The Hollywoodland Revue: the remarkable life and legacy of Rev. Troy Perry, the pioneering founder of the Metropolitan Community Church whose ministry helped transform the lives of countless LGBTQ people around the world.
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