As summer arrives, a variety of studios are premiering and reviving shows and movies. Ranging from the anticipated season 4 of Stranger Things, new additions to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, the return of Illumination Entertainment’s Minions and the conclusion of the Jurassic World era, the summer of 2022 will be filled with much-anticipated releases.

Stranger Things: Season Four

Release Date: May 27, 2022 (On Netflix)

The upcoming fourth season of the hit sci-fi horror drama series Stranger Things released on Netflix on Friday, May 27. After season three ended back in 2019, many viewers have been anxiously awaiting the new season.

“I’ve been waiting so long for season four to come out, so I’m really excited to binge-watch it all,” sophomore Caitlyn Lee said. “It’s kind of emotional to see how far the actors have come, especially since we have basically grown up along with them since season 1 in 2016.”

Ms. Marvel

Release Date: June 8, 2022 (On Disney+)

The upcoming Disney series introduces the newest teenage superhero to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Ms. Marvel is the first superhero project featuring a Muslim hero as the lead. The series focuses on teenager Kamala Khan, a Pakistani-American from New Jersey with shapeshifting powers, struggling to find the balance between high school and saving the world.

“This is the first time that a Pakistani Muslim is being represented in Marvel,” sophomore Minahil Ishaq said. “Kamala is being taught to appreciate her culture, and she is around our age and can relate to the same struggles as South Asian teenagers, so I am really looking forward to this show.”

She Hulk

Release Date: Aug. 17, 2022 (On Disney+)

She Hulk is another one of Marvel’s TV series set to hit Disney+ in August. The show follows lawyer Jennifer Walters, who acquires Hulk-like qualities and powers after receiving a blood transfusion from her cousin, Bruce Banner.

“I’ve really been invested in the Marvel TV series and I’ve watched every show that Marvel has released so far,” sophomore Neha Pamidala said. “So now I’m interested in watching She Hulk. I always found Hulk really cool growing up, so it’ll be interesting to see Marvel’s take on a female version of Hulk.”

Jurassic World Dominion

Release Date: June 9, 2022 (In Theaters)

The epic conclusion to the Jurassic era, Jurassic World Dominion takes place four years after Isla Nublar, the site of Jurassic World, was destroyed. Dinosaurs now live and hunt beside humans all over the world.

“I’ve been a big fan of both the Jurassic Park and Jurassic World series for a while, and I find the concept really cool,” senior Nathan Ho said. “I’ve been really invested in the series so I’m interested to see how it will all play out.” 

Lightyear

Release Date: June 17, 2022 (In Theaters)

Lightyear focuses on the origin story of Buzz Lightyear, a character from the popular Disney-PIXAR Toy Story movie series. This film will offer a more in-depth version of the adventures of Buzz Lightyear in space. 

“I am really excited that Buzz Lightyear is finally getting his own movie as the main character, because it gives us more background about him and he deserves it,” sophomore Tatum King said.

Minions: The Rise of Gru

Release Date: July 1, 2022 (In Theaters)

The Minions go back to the 1970s, when main character Gru is just 12 years old. The film reveals the origin story of how the world’s greatest villain-turn-hero met his iconic Minions and plotted to take over the world from his basement.

“I remember watching the Minions movies years ago when I was a kid,” sophomore Melina Turnage said. “I always laughed a lot and found them really entertaining, so when it comes out in theaters, I plan to go with my friends for a fun time.”

Thor: Love and Thunder

Release Date: July 8, 2022 (In Theaters)

The next upcoming Marvel movie focuses on Thor’s journey to find inner peace, as he enlists the help of Valkyrie, Korg, and the newly super-powered Jane Foster, to defeat Gorr the God Butcher from eliminating all gods.

“Marvel always has well thought out movies and Thor is one of the coolest avengers so I’m really excited,” junior Noor Ramzi said.