Archaeologists who are mild in age and nimble speedsters: the most important cinema highlights in June

Archaeologists who are mild in age and nimble speedsters
The most important cinema highlights in June

In June there are two comebacks, a first solo adventure and ageless entertainment: The “Transformers” make the start, and they crash into each other again with “Rise of the Beasts”. Shortly thereafter, DC hero “The Flash” gives heels – for the first time without the Justice League to help. The four elements are used by Pixar for the latest animation coup, the highlight is the longest in coming: Harrison Ford (80) in his fifth and final role as Indiana Jones.

“Transformers: Rise of the Beasts,” June 8

Back in the 90s: While Optimus Prime has arrived some time ago, the warring Decepticons are only just landing on planet Earth. Meanwhile, in Peru, archaeologist Elena and soldier Noah find signs of a centuries-old conflict between the metal beings: humanity and the Autobots meet a whole new breed of Transformers, known as the Maximals. It doesn’t take long and the powerful factions are once again at odds with each other.

Assessment:

The new part of the “Transformers” series comes up with a star ensemble – but only in the original version. Among other things, Oscar winner Michelle Yeoh (60) speaks one of the metal giants, but German viewers are of no use. In the case of the actors appearing in flesh and blood, on the other hand, less radiance is required. No Mark Wahlberg (51), no Megan Fox (37) and no Shia LaBeouf (36) – instead, Anthony Ramos (31) and Dominique Fishback (32) should fix it. But that can also be an opportunity – this was recently proven by the offshoot “Bumblebee” with Hailee Steinfeld (26).

“The Flash”, June 15

Barry “The Flash” (Ezra Miller, 30) uses his superpowers to travel back in time and manipulate past events. But while trying to save his family, he accidentally changes the future – and suddenly finds himself trapped in a reality where General Zod has returned, threatening total annihilation and there are no superheroes to come to the rescue. Barry’s only hope is to bring a completely different Batman out of retirement and free a captive Kryptonian – if not the one he’s really looking for.

Assessment:

More than the return of Michael Keaton (71) as Batman, “The Flash” actor Ezra Miller made headlines – albeit negative. However, Warner Bros. Discovery has high hopes for the flick, which should finally break the DC film universe. Not an easy and certainly not a rewarding undertaking when you consider that “Black Adam” crashed despite fan favorite Dwayne Johnson (51) and the already wacky “Batgirl” was completely thrown into the bin. There is a great burden on the thin shoulders of “The Flash” – but as is well known, heroes grow with their tasks.

“Elemental”, June 22

“Elemental” follows Ember – a tough, quick-witted and, quite literally, fiery young woman – whose friendship with a fun, easygoing guy named Wade challenges her beliefs about the world they live in: Because opposites attract but when you meet the right person! And so it comes to a particularly extraordinary love story.

Assessment:

The people at Pixar are very familiar with allegorical figures, at least since “Inside Out”. The film about the emotional world of a young girl managed in an impressive way to send an important message to young and old. With “Elemental” it is now the elements fire, water, earth and air that are in the center instead of feelings and the statement at first glance is therefore perhaps a bit more abstract. Film-loving families can once again buy cinema tickets with a clear conscience, as there will be entertainment for everyone.

“Indiana Jones and the Wheel of Destiny,” June 29

Most of the action of “Indiana Jones 5” takes place in the late 1960s when the Soviet Union and the United States are in a race to the moon. Indie is not at all pleased that the US is recruiting former Nazi henchmen to gain an advantage in the fight for space. But professionally and privately, things are not going well for the supposed fossil: while working at the university, retirement is suggested to him, his wife Marion (Karen Allen, 71) wants a divorce. But there is also a ray of hope: Indies adventurous goddaughter Helena (Phoebe Waller-Bridge, 37).

Assessment:

The legend is back. Seeing Harrison Ford in his Indiana Jones outfit again brings back wonderful memories for the slightly older film fans – of melting Nazis, monkey brains on ice and last but not least the Holy Grail! But concern is also watching: the fear that the debacle that goes by the name “Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull” (2008) will repeat itself. Knowing that “The Wheel of Destiny” is really supposed to be Ford’s last appearance as an indie, we are even willing to worship death goddess Kali if necessary – the main thing is that Indiana Jones gets a worthy farewell.

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