The science fiction genre is expected to continue being a significant part of the cinematic landscape in 2023, with many highly anticipated films drawing a lot of audience attention. Superhero films will still dominate, with three blockbuster releases from Marvel Studios. Meanwhile, DC Studios will also gradually unveil its final projects in the DCEU to prepare for the new cinematic direction under James Gunn.
However, aside from superhero films, the science fiction genre this year is also diverse and richer, thanks to the contributions from various production companies that have established themselves with a long-standing reputation.
Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves
Based on the iconic tabletop role-playing game, Dungeons & Dragons was first adapted into a film in 2000 but did not receive positive critical feedback. It wasn’t until over two decades later that this game made a triumphant return to the big screen, in a project that has garnered considerable anticipation, featuring renowned actors like Chris Pine, Michelle Rodriguez, and Hugh Grant, alongside the captivating setting of the Forgotten Realms.
Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves holds numerous advantages that could potentially help it become one of the biggest blockbusters of 2023: it is based on a beloved franchise, has a rich character and monster roster, features an immensely talented cast, and boasts significant advancements in special effects technology compared to over 20 years ago.
Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3
James Gunn has officially transitioned to become the chief creative officer of DC Studios, but he will still collaborate with Marvel on another project – Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, the final chapter of the beloved cosmic superhero team. This film will focus on Peter Quill’s emotional struggles after losing Gamora, as well as delve into Rocket’s tragic past and his encounter with the new antagonist, the High Evolutionary. Additionally, this film will introduce Adam Warlock (Will Poulter) to the audience after multiple teases in the previous installments.
Transformers: Rise of the Beasts
The Transformers franchise, initiated by Michael Bay, once dominated the global box office in the 2010s. However, Bay’s era effectively ended five years ago with the prequel Bumblebee. The upcoming blockbuster Transformers: Rise of the Beasts, directed by Steven Caple Jr., will officially bring the Maximals and Predacons from the Beast Wars storyline to the big screen.
Dinosaurs and robotic creatures have always been a huge attraction, especially in blockbuster action films or global disaster movies. This combined with the legacy of the Transformers franchise makes many believe that Rise of the Beasts will create a significant impact at the box office this year.
Indiana Jones & the Dial of Destiny
Indiana Jones & the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull did not receive the success that many expected. However, fans of the iconic character played by Harrison Ford still hope for a more thrilling adventure. Indiana Jones & the Dial of Destiny has to embark on a long journey to reconnect with audiences this year, with Ford stepping into his senior years.
James Mangold has been chosen to direct this installment set against the backdrop of 1969, during a tumultuous period in history. However, some sources suggest that Indiana Jones & the Dial of Destiny will explore more sci-fi elements, potentially incorporating time travel themes.
Meg 2: The Trench
The Meg was one of the biggest box office hits of 2018, featuring action star Jason Statham battling the colossal Megalodon. Even though its box office performance was impressive, the sequel, Meg 2: The Trench, is set to be released this August.
Compared to the first film, Meg 2: The Trench is expected to have even more potential under the direction of Ben Wheatley, an expert in the action film genre. Additionally, this film will take a darker turn, aiming for an R rating instead of PG-13.
Dune: Part Two
In 2021, Denis Villeneuve exceeded audience expectations with his adaptation of Frank Herbert’s famous science fiction novel Dune. However, the first film only covered the beginning of the story that Villeneuve wanted to bring to the big screen. By splitting the project into two parts, he has had to face significant challenges, with no guarantees that part two of Dune would be produced. However, the success of Dune has allowed Dune: Part Two to proceed as planned, with a release set for the end of this year.
This installment will continue to follow the journey of Paul Atreides, played by Timothée Chalamet, as he navigates the challenges of survival and the responsibilities of leadership in a vast universe.
Rebel Moon
Zack Snyder is a director known for his bold and innovative approach to contemporary cinema. The idea of creating a film reminiscent of Star Wars did not deter him. Instead, he conceived a unique battle between different factions in space, transforming it into an epic sci-fi saga titled Rebel Moon, which will premiere on Netflix at the end of this year.
Rebel Moon revolves around a group of rebels who unite to save their home planet from a tyrannical empire. The film is set in a visually stunning universe that allows Snyder to showcase his unique style of cinematography and creative world-building. This film promises to deliver more upscale imagery compared to Man of Steel, another acclaimed work from Snyder in the DC cinematic universe.
Poor Things
Yorgos Lanthimos is one of the most innovative filmmakers today, known for standout works such as The Lobster, The Killing of a Sacred Deer, and The Favourite. Poor Things marks his next collaboration with Emma Stone, in a film that explores the bizarre narrative akin to Frankenstein’s story.
According to reports, Poor Things will delve into the resurrection of a woman who escapes the confines of her abusive husband. However, after her resurrection, she finds herself in a body that does not belong to her. Lanthimos’s projects have always been critically acclaimed for their “quirky” nature, and Poor Things is expected to be no exception.
The Mothership
Netflix has made significant investments in science fiction projects, with varying budgets ranging from blockbuster productions to smaller films. One of the notable upcoming titles is The Mothership, starring Halle Berry in the lead role, which is expected to hit screens later this year, although it has yet to finalize its release date.
Taking place one year after the mysterious disappearance of her husband, Sara Morse (played by Halle Berry) discovers an alien artifact beneath her home. She believes it is the key to understanding her husband’s disappearance, leading her and her children into a perilous adventure to uncover the hidden truths in an expansive universe.
Source: CBR
