If you're planning a trip to the movies this weekend, Hollywood has something for nearly every taste. From gritty revenge thrillers and cerebral science-fiction horror to twisted fairy tales, documentaries, and independent dramas, this week's lineup offers a diverse mix of mainstream entertainment and specialty fare. Here's a look at the most notable releases opening in theaters on July 24.
Motor City
The weekend's highest-profile release is Motor City, a stylish revenge thriller directed by Potsy Ponciroli and starring Alan Ritchson, Shailene Woodley, Ben Foster, Pablo Schreiber, and Lionel Boyce. Set in 1970s Detroit, the story follows a working-class man who is framed by a ruthless gangster after falling in love with the wrong woman. After years behind bars, he emerges with only one purpose: vengeance. Critics have largely praised the film's striking visual style, atmospheric cinematography, and Alan Ritchson's commanding performance, although some feel the emphasis on style occasionally overshadows character development. It currently holds a 71–72% critics' score on Rotten Tomatoes, while audience scores have yet to accumulate. If you enjoy gritty crime dramas such as Drive, John Wick, or classic revenge pictures, Motor City should be at the top of your list.
Her Private Hell
For horror fans looking for something far less conventional, Her Private Hell arrives from acclaimed Danish filmmaker Nicolas Winding Refn, co-directed by Magnus Nordenhof Jønck. The film stars Sophie Thatcher, Charles Melton, Havana Rose Liu, Diego Calva, and Dougray Scott. Set in a futuristic metropolis engulfed by an eerie supernatural mist, the story follows a troubled young woman searching for her missing father while her journey intersects with an American soldier desperately trying to rescue his daughter from a nightmarish realm. Critics have been sharply divided. Many admire Refn's hypnotic visuals, ambitious production design, and dreamlike atmosphere, while others criticize its deliberately slow pacing and abstract storytelling. With a Rotten Tomatoes score hovering around 45–50%, this is likely to be one of the year's most polarizing releases. Fans of Only God Forgives or The Neon Demon will probably embrace it, while viewers seeking straightforward storytelling may find it frustrating.
Pinocchio: Unstrung
Those craving old-fashioned horror may gravitate toward Pinocchio: Unstrung, another entry in the recent trend of turning beloved children's stories into gruesome horror films. This dark reimagining transforms the famous wooden puppet into a murderous nightmare, promising plenty of graphic violence and supernatural mayhem. While reviews are still limited ahead of opening weekend, expectations suggest the film will appeal primarily to fans of campy, low-budget horror rather than general audiences.
Haunted Heist
Comedy fans can seek out the limited release Haunted Heist, featuring Tiffany Haddish, Brett Gelman, Lil Rel Howery, and Andrew Bachelor. Mixing supernatural scares with comedic chaos, the film follows an ill-fated robbery that quickly spirals into paranormal madness. Early reactions suggest an entertaining blend of humor and spooky fun, particularly for audiences looking for lighter fare.
Sheep in the Box
Art-house audiences may prefer Sheep in the Box, the latest drama from acclaimed Japanese filmmaker Hirokazu Kore-eda. Known for emotionally rich films like Shoplifters and Broker, Kore-eda once again explores themes of family, memory, and human connection. Although critical reaction has been mixed compared to his strongest works, many reviewers still praise the film's quiet emotional power and elegant direction.
Documentary enthusiasts have two worthwhile options. Brunello: The Gracious Visionary profiles celebrated Italian fashion designer Brunello Cucinelli, exploring his philosophy of ethical capitalism and craftsmanship, while Pillars of Power: The Hidden Secret Behind Achieving Greatness examines the qualities shared by exceptional leaders and innovators. Both films open in limited release for audiences interested in biography and personal inspiration.
Independent horror also joins the lineup with Cruel Hands, while classic film lovers can enjoy theatrical reissues of Michael Mann's Manhunter, Jane Campion's The Piano, and Taylor Hackford's White Nights, giving audiences an opportunity to experience these acclaimed films on the big screen once again.
This week's releases don't feature the kind of blockbuster spectacle that dominated earlier in the summer, but they do offer an impressive variety of choices. Motor City appears to be the strongest recommendation for fans of crime thrillers and action, while adventurous moviegoers may find Her Private Hell an intriguing, if divisive, cinematic experience. Horror fans have multiple options, independent film lovers are well served, and classic movie enthusiasts can revisit several enduring favorites in theaters. Whatever your taste, this weekend proves that the midsummer movie season still has plenty to offer.
Be sure to check back tomorrow as I take a look at the fascinating life and legacy of Larry Edmunds, whose legendary Hollywood bookshop became a cherished destination for movie lovers, collectors, filmmakers, and anyone passionate about the history of cinema. You won't want to miss this journey into one of Hollywood's most beloved cultural landmarks!
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