Whether you’re escaping the heat or looking for the perfect plan this Juneteenth weekend, Chicago’s theaters are packed with blockbuster releases this summer. From long-awaited sequels to epic adventures and superhero spectacles, there’s something for every kind of moviegoer. Grab your popcorn and head to your favorite cinema: here are 5 Chicago summer movies you won’t want to miss.
Toy Story 5 (out now)
Pixar’s beloved toys are back for another heartfelt adventure. Toy Story 5 reunites Woody, Buzz, and the gang as they face a new generation of playtime challenges. Set in Bonnie’s evolving childhood, the story introduces a world where AI-powered smart toys begin replacing traditional play, forcing the gang to confront what happens when imagination gets outsourced to technology. It’s already shaping up to be one of the biggest family hits of the summer.
Disclosure Day (out now)
Steven Spielberg returns to the director’s chair with Disclosure Day, a sci-fi thriller that mixes alien mystery with globe-spanning suspense. Starring Emily Blunt, Josh O’Connor, and Colman Domingo, the film has opened at the top of the box office and is quickly becoming one of the season’s must-see cinematic events.
Supergirl (releasing June 26)
The DC Universe continues to expand with Supergirl, introducing Milly Alcock as Kara Zor-El in a fresh take on the iconic heroine. Expect cosmic action, breathtaking visuals, and one of the summer’s biggest superhero releases as it lands in Chicago theaters later this month.
The Odyssey (releasing July 17)
Christopher Nolan takes on Homer’s legendary epic in one of the year’s most anticipated films. Starring Matt Damon as Odysseus, The Odyssey promises massive practical effects, sweeping action sequences, and the kind of spectacle best experienced on the biggest screen you can find. In Chicago, the film will roll out across IMAX, Dolby Cinema, and highly limited IMAX 70mm screenings, with the latter expected to be the most in-demand format for audiences chasing Nolan’s signature large-format experience.
Spider-Man: Brand New Day (releasing July 31)
Marvel swings back into theaters with Spider-Man: Brand New Day. While plot details remain tightly under wraps, anticipation is sky-high, and the latest web-slinging adventure is expected to close out the summer blockbuster season in spectacular fashion. Tom Holland and Zendaya return, and Sadie Sink joins the cast in a mysterious role.
