The big screen is back! And if there's one thing I learned over the past several years, it's that watching a movie at home is nice and convenient, but the big screen is the best – between the sound, the picture and the ability to give yourself to the story without distractions. (Or at least TOO many distractions.)

But while big screens are certainly back, audiences' ability to keep track of what movies are playing on it? Less so. Between disappearing movie listings, ad campaigns unable to reach increasingly fractured audiences and the firehose of content shooting at audiences across all sorts of services these days, it's easy to lose track of everything to be seen.

So we're here to help!

Here's a lineup of everything showing in Milwaukee and Milwaukee-area cinemas – from the biggest blockbusters, to special screenings showing maybe just once or twice on the big screen, and beyond. This week, the 2024 Milwaukee Film Festival may be over, but there are still tons of great movies to see all around town this week – including at the newly opened Downer Theatre! For fans of sports and steamy romances, big screens are serving up the new love triangle "Challengers," while action fans can check out the likes of "Boy Kills World" and "Monkey Man." And if you miss the film fest, don't feel too bad because several of its standouts – such as "Late Night with the Devil," "La Chimera," "The Beast" and "We Grown Now" – are back to take another bow. 

Here's the full list of movies found on Brew City big screens this weekend – arranged by theater. (For specific movie times, click the link and visit their respective websites – and for more movie takes and info, follow @aManAboutFilm on Twitter and Instagram!)

• Marcus Theatres
• Oriental Theater
• Downer Theatre
• AMC Mayfair
• Avalon Atmospheric Theater
• Rosebud Cinema
• Times Cinema
• Silverspot Cinema of Brookfield
• ACX Cinemas at Bayshore

Marcus Theatres

"Abigail" – In the latest movie from the directors of "Ready or Not" and "Scream 5," a rogues gallery of hired hands (including "Scream 5" star Melissa Barrera, Kathryn Newton and Dan Stevens) kidnap a little ballet-loving girl for the hopes of a big payday. Just one trip-up with their perfect plan: The girl ends up being a blood-sucking vampire, and they're now the ones trapped with her. For fans of the directors' black horror comedy mash-ups, "Abigail" shouldn't suck. (Because vampires, you see.) (Now showing at the BistroPlex, Hillside, Majestic, Menomonee Falls, Movie Tavern, North Shore, Ridge and South Shore locations)

"Aepsa: World Tour" – No, this isn't a movie about the ASPCA, no matter how many times my brain misreads the name that way. It's actually a concert film bringing K-pop fans into the audience and into the energy of an Aepsa show – their first London show, to be specific. For fans of the band, K-pop or just a good concert, book your ticket. (Because it's sure as heck cheaper here than at the actual show these days.) (Showing Saturday at the Majestic, Ridge and South Shore locations)

"Alien" – In space, no one can here how excited you are to see one of the greatest sci-fi movies AND one of the greatest horror movies, all wrapped in one film, back on the big screen. Yes, in honor of its 45th anniversary – and in preparation for a new installment coming this summer – Ridley Scott's iconic venture into the horrors of space will face-hug audiences yet again this week. See it and then have fun debates with your movie friends about which movie's better: "Alien" or "Aliens"? You win no matter which film wins! (Now showing at the Hillside, Majestic, Menomonee Falls, Ridge and South Shore locations)

"Arthur the King" – Brace yourself for tears: It's a movie about an adorable dog. To be more specific, it's a movie about an adventure racing team (led by action stars Mark Wahlberg and Simu Liu) that gets an unexpected team member when a precious stray pupper starts racing alongside them. Based on a true story and with a better cast than these kinds of movies typically get, all I'm saying is we better not have a "Marley & Me" situation and that dog better get to happily see the end credits. (Now showing at the Hillside and Ridge locations)

"Boy Kills World" – For some crazed violent chaos, check out "Boy Kills World" starring Bill Skarsgaard (aka Pennywise the clown from "It") as a mute man seeking revenge in the dystopian future on the powerful family that murdered his parents. It may sound a little familiar – but did I mention that his inner thoughts are all in voiceover provided by "Bob's Burgers"? And that the bloody action looks viciously wild and entertaining? (Now showing at the BistroPlex, Hillside, Majestic, Menomonee Falls, Movie Tavern, North Shore, Ridge and South Shore locations)

"Challengers" – Yeah, it's tennis night ... in America! Get some buds and some brews, because it's gonna be a fight on the big screen as two rival tennis players – Josh O'Connor of "The Crown" and Mike Faist of Spielberg's "West Side Story" – try to win over the heart (and the tennis-coaching prowess) of a former tennis superstar played by Zendaya. For those looking for both romance and original movies for grown-ups back in cinemas, "Challengers" – earning rave reviews from critics nationwide – is a grand slam. (Now showing at the BistroPlex, Hillside, Majestic, Menomonee Falls, Movie Tavern, North Shore, Ridge and South Shore locations)

"Civil War" – You know, just some light escapism about the United States embroiled in a violent and vicious civil war! A fun, turn-off-your-brain matinee! But actually, the latest from the great Alex Garland ("Annihilation," "Ex Machina" and allegedly most of "Dredd") follows a pack of journalists as they attempt to tell the story of the U.S.'s collapse from the brutal frontlines. More of a drama than a rollicking action movie, "Civil War" will be one of the conversation points of the cinematic year. (Now showing at the BistroPlex, Hillside, Majestic, Menomonee Falls, North Shore, Ridge and South Shore locations)

"Dune: Part Two" – Feeling spicy? Take a journey to the second part of Denis Villeneuve's grandiose sci-fi adaptation epic – whose first installment already won six Academy Awards back at the Will Smith Oscars in 2022, and this chapter's supposed to be even better. With a massive cast of stars (returning stars Timothee Chalamet, Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson, Josh Brolin and Javier Bardem, plus new faces Austin Butler and Florence Pugh) and even more massive visuals and sense of scope, see this one on the biggest, loudest screen around town. (Now showing at the Hillside, Majestic, Menomonee Falls, North Shore, Ridge and South Shore locations.)

"The First Omen" – Hot off Easter weekend comes – of course – the birth of the devil. This prequel to the '70s horror icon that ruined the name Damien follows a nun who travels to Rome only to discover something deeply unholy afoot close to the Vatican – and apparently the horrific results are not for the faint of heart, with the movie almost scoring an NC-17 for its gnarly satan-heavy scares. Horror hounds, it's all for you! (Now showing at the Menomonee Falls, North Shore, Ridge and South Shore locations)

"Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire" – In case there wasn't enough frost everywhere, the latest "Ghostbusters" big screen adventure finds the supernatural exterminators, new and old, battling a mega-demon releasing all sorts of ghosts and causing the world to freeze in fear. Fans of the original will certainly find plenty in the film to feel nostalgic about – while more casual fans might be wondering, "Hey, weren't these movies originally goofy comedies?" (Now showing at the Hillside, Majestic, Menomonee Falls, Movie Tavern, North Shore, Ridge and South Shore locations.)

"Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire" – Did you enjoy "Godzilla Minus One"? Well, the big guy is back in this chapter from the American take on the raging reptile – and King Kong is in tow too, as the two team up to monster mash another threat to the planet. Unlike this past winter's terrific Oscar winner, brace yourself for a big and ridiculous movie ... as you should probably predict from a movie about a giant lizard and giant ape becoming planetary buddy cops. (Now showing at the BistroPlex, Hillside, Majestic, Menomonee Falls, Movie Tavern, North Shore, Ridge and South Shore locations.)

"Hard Miles" – Cycling is exhausting and hard ... so why not watch a movie about it instead. Indeed, check out "Hard Miles," an indie drama about a social worker (Matthew Modine) who takes imprisoned teens on a thousand-mile biking quest in the hopes of helping reform their lives and put them on the right track. (Now showing at the Majestic, Ridge and South Shore locations)

"Kung Fu Panda 4" – Skadoosh hits to the big screen once again as the world's jolliest and hungriest ultimate kung fu warrior has to save the day and battle a new foe: a shape-shifting chameleon (voiced by Oscar winner Viola Davis) who can take on the form and powers of those it encounters. It's been a while since there's a been a big new animated movie for kids – Hollywood, what's your deal? You hate money or something? – and this Jack Black-led franchise has been pretty consistently colorful, comedic, kinetic and action-packed for all ages. (Now showing at the Hillside, Majestic, Menomonee Falls, North Shore, Ridge and South Shore locations.)

"Late Night with the Devil" – You can see a lot of crazy things on old late night television – maybe even an exorcism battle with the devil? That's the thinking behind this buzzy indie horror film about a '70s late-night show that books a supposed exorcism for its next episode, only for the evil spirits to refuse to stick to the script. Tense and textured, if you're looking for a unique blast of retro-styled horror, tune into "Late Night with the Devil." (Now showing at the Majestic and Menomonee Falls locations)

"The Long Game" – Looking for a FORE!-star choice at the cinemas this weekend? Take a hack at "The Long Game," a sports drama set on the links telling the true story of J.B. Pena who bands together a group of local Texas high schoolers to not only take the tournaments by storm but also earn equal rights and access to the town's all-white exclusionary country club. With drama both on and off the green, "The Long Game" might just turn you into a water hazard. (Now showing at the Ridge)

"The Matrix" – It's been 25 years since this essential sci-fi action saga showed up in theaters – and "The Matrix" is still one of the coolest movies ever made, from the style to the slick genre-mashing and physics-defying action to the world-building to the ground-breaking special effects and the way it's perfectly shot for maximum impact. Plug back in with the original classic back on the big screen, still a quarter of a century later showing Hollywood how to do smart action right. (Showing Sunday and Wednesday at the Majestic, Menomonee Falls and South Shore locations)

"The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare" – Famed Brit director Guy Ritchie ("The Gentlemen") goes to war with his latest tough-guy romp, following the declassified origins of the UK's first special forces department during WWII. Much more in the vein of "Inglourious Basterds" than a serious war film, "Ungentlemanly Warfare" seems like ideal dad fare for a lazy afternoon this week. (Now showing at the BistroPlex, Hillside, Majestic, Menomonee Falls, Movie Tavern, North Shore, Ridge and South Shore locations)

"Monkey Man" – Dev Patel blasts his way into the director's chair with this vibrant and vicious action movie brawler, about a young Indian outsider who plots brutal revenge against the political leaders, corrupt cops and abusive rich folk that crush the lower classes in his society. Some have made "John Wick" references – but it's really more like "The Raid 2," "The Man From Nowhere" and other raw and rugged Asian action flicks that take their stories, and definitely their no-holds-barred bloody fisticuffs, seriously. Patel's freshman effort may be more dense than necessary – but it also dishes out some dynamite action. (Now showing at the Majestic, Menomonee Falls, Ridge and South Shore locations)

"The Mummy" – Man, 1999 ruled. In case "The Matrix" back in theaters didn't remind you that enough, here's another pre-Y2K classic roaring back onto the big screen and totally dusting its modern day competition in the process: "The Mummy," starring newly crowned Oscar winner Brendan Fraser as an explorer who comes across a supernatural horror awakened in Egypt. Full of both classic and new CG-aided Hollywood blockbuster spectacle, charming leads and a winning old-school full entertainment tone, "The Mummy" will make you wonder why former blockbuster director Stephen Sommers can't get a job anymore. (Answer: "Van Helsing" and "G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra." But come on, Hollywood, give him another chance!) (Now showing at the Hillside, Majestic, Menomonee Falls, Ridge and South Shore locations)

"Rathnam" – It wouldn't be a week at Milwaukee movie theaters without a noteworthy new Bollywood blockbuster – and this week it's "Rathnam," a brutal and blade-throwing action flick about an unassuming henchman who helps protect a young woman suddenly under siege by local gangsters. (Now showing at the Ridge)

"Sasquatch Sunset" – It's just another movie about a family ... except it's a family of big foots (big feet?) hunting and pooping and grunting and just living out their lives wordlessly roaming in the woods and somehow played by an unrecognizable Jesse Eisenberg and Riley Keough. You'll either be on its sometimes sweet/sometimes nasty wavelength (it comes from producer Ari Aster of "Midsommar" and "Beau Is Afraid," so that's the wavelength we're looking at here) or not, but either way, you'll definitely have something to say after seeing this unique indie. (Now showing at the Hillside, Menomonee Falls, Ridge and South Shore locations)

"Spider-Man 2" – Spider-Man, Spider-Man, returns to theaters when he can! Indeed, Sam Raimi's Hollywood-changing comic book blockbusters are swinging back into theaters as a part of Marcus Theatres' Spider-Mondays program, spinning through all of the web-slinger's live-action big-screen adventures. Come see one of the best comic book movies ever made – still, more than 20 years later. (Showing Friday, Saturday and Sunday at the Majestic and South Shore locations)

"Spider-Man 3" – And then after you're dong with the second "Spider-Man" installment, revisit the last part of Sam Raimi's superhero trilogy – which honestly is a lot better than you remember. Yes, even the dancing Peter Parker stuff. (Showing Monday through Thursday at the Majestic and South Shore locations)

"Spirited Away" – Some of the greatest animated films of all time are returning to the big screen with Studio Ghibli Fest – beginning this week with the Oscar-winning, critically adored "Spirited Away," telling the story of a young girl who gets summoned into a world of ghosts and spirit beings, and begins working at a bath house for the beyond in order to get back home. (Hopefully with her parents returned back to human form rather than pigs, too.) Strangely beautiful and beautifully strange, if you haven't seen "Spirited Away" before, this is great time to amend that. (Showing Saturday-Thursday at the BistroPlex, Hillside, Majestic, Menomonee Falls, North Shore, Ridge and South Shore locations)

"Spy x Family Code: White" – Anime favorites keep popping up on the big screen – and making pretty significant box office in the process. The latest entrant is "Spy x Family Code: White," a kind-of anime take on the "Mr. and Mrs. Smith" formula about a spy and an assassin married together ... but with a telepathic daughter who knows both of their secrets while they're both in the dark about their significant other's real job. You know, that classic telepathic daughter drama. It's a little action, a little comedy and a lot of entertainment. (Now showing at the BistroPlex, Hillside, Majestic, Menomonee Falls, Movie Tavern, North Shore, Ridge and South Shore locations)

"Unsung Hero" – From the makers of surprise faith-based smash hits "I Can Only Imagine" and "Jesus Revolution" comes "Unsung Hero," the based-on-a-true-story tale of how a sprawling family from Australia came to the States and made their dreams of music stardom come true, eventually evolving into the successful Christian pop stars For King + Country and Rebecca St. James. (Now showing at the BistroPlex, Hillside, Majestic, Menomonee Falls, Movie Tavern, North Shore, Ridge and South Shore locations)

"We Grown Now" – Did you miss out on this coming-of-age inner city drama when it screened at the Milwaukee Film Festival? Well, aren't you lucky: You've got a second chance to see this lovely and thoughtful indie drama about two young Black boys growing up in a housing project in 1990s Chicago, and the highs and lows that brings them. With strikingly gorgeous cinematography capturing the beauty of the everyday and a touching story, see why this seemingly small movie made a big impact at festivals all around – from Toronto to Chicago – and even the Independent Spirit Awards. (Now showing at the Menomonee Falls and South Shore locations)

"Wicked Little Letters" – There are a lot of polite, respectable, buttoned-up middlebrow British dramas out there ... this is not one of them. But in a good way! Somehow based on a true story, this small-town darkly comic period drama about anonymous profane letters causing chaos around a 1920s village offers a feisty and fun platform for supreme Brit actors Olivia Colman and Jessie Buckley to let loose and say unpublishable insults. Wicked fun, indeed! (Now showing at the North Shore)

Oriental Theater

"The Beast" – The Milwaukee Film Festival may be over – but you can still see several of the fest's best at the Oriental and Downer this week, including this spellbinding and eerie fable following a woman venturing through a love story told across multiple eras. But there's something creepy and wrong with this saga, told with the help of technology that's maybe breaking reality. For fans of David Lynch and big-brained time-hopping epics like "Cloud Atlas" and "The Fountain," don't risk missing out on "The Beast" on the big screen again. 

"The Blood is at the Doorstep" – Ten years after he was killed by Milwaukee police, Dontre Hamilton's family continues to fight for justice and peace. To remember Dontre and to remember what people are still fighting for today, the Oriental will show the powerful and clear-eyed locally-made documentary "The Blood is at the Doorstep" on Friday night – complete with a Q&A session after the film with director Erik Ljung and the Hamilton family. (Showing Friday)

"Challengers" – Yeah, it's tennis night ... in America! Get some buds and some brews, because it's gonna be a fight on the big screen as two rival tennis players – Josh O'Connor of "The Crown" and Mike Faist of Spielberg's "West Side Story" – try to win over the heart (and the tennis-coaching prowess) of a former tennis superstar played by Zendaya. For those looking for both romance and original movies for grown-ups back in cinemas, "Challengers" – earning rave reviews from critics nationwide – is a grand slam.

"Chicken for Linda" – For those looking for an animated movie for all ages, take a bite out of "Chicken for Linda," a gorgeously hand-drawn animated story about a struggling mother who sets her mind on making her daughter her favorite dish – chicken with peppers – after a tough day. Just one problem: She's a terrible cook. With a sweet family story and humbly beautiful painted animation, "Chicken for Linda" is a small feast of a film. 

"Indigo Girls: It's Only Life After All" – Didn't get a chance to catch the Indigo Girls' latest show at the Bradley Symphony Center last weekend? Well, here's the next best thing, as the documentary about the group's origins, stardom and timeless songs will return to the Oriental as a throwback Best of Fest selection from last year. And though it's not "Stop Making Sense," I'm sure no one would mind if you danced and sang a little during this rock doc too. (Showing Wednesday)

"The People's Joker" – It's the movie Hollywood didn't want you to see – literally, there were lawsuits and legal issues. "The People's Joker" is a DIY indie extravaganza through pop culture and personal evolution, telling a person's story about trying to find their gender identity ... while also battling with Batman and the crazy world of Gotham. There may be a lot of Joker movies out these days (including one still to come this fall) but I assure you that you won't see one like this. (Showing Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Thursday)

"Stop Making Sense" – Let's dance! (Wait, that's a different '80s music icon.) But anyways, it's time for the only movie screening that requires comfortable dancing shoes as Jonathan Demme's essential and inspirational Talking Heads concert film will return to the big screen for a perfect post-Milwaukee Film Festival party. Stop making excuses and start making plans to see "Stop Making Sense" this weekend! (Showing Saturday)

Downer Theatre

"La Chimera" – The Milwaukee Film Festival may be closed, but the Downer is still open and showing great movies – including this best of the fest option, a magical realist tale of an archaeologist journeying to a small town to find (and take) some relics and fossils from the past, only to dig up much more than he bargained for from both the locals and from the ruins around him. It's a great movie – and a great excuse to head back to the Downer!

"Sasquatch Sunset" – It's just another movie about a family ... except it's a family of big foots (big feet?) hunting and pooping and grunting and just living out their lives wordlessly roaming in the woods and somehow played by an unrecognizable Jesse Eisenberg and Riley Keough. You'll either be on its sometimes sweet/sometimes nasty wavelength (it comes from producer Ari Aster of "Midsommar" and "Beau Is Afraid," so that's the wavelength we're looking at here) or not, but either way, you'll definitely have something to say after seeing this unique indie. 

AMC Mayfair

"Abigail" – In the latest movie from the directors of "Ready or Not" and "Scream 5," a rogues gallery of hired hands (including "Scream 5" star Melissa Barrera, Kathryn Newton and Dan Stevens) kidnap a little ballet-loving girl for the hopes of a big payday. Just one trip-up with their perfect plan: The girl ends up being a blood-sucking vampire, and they're now the ones trapped with her. For fans of the directors' black horror comedy mash-ups, "Abigail" shouldn't suck. (Because vampires, you see.)

"Alien" – In space, no one can here how excited you are to see one of the greatest sci-fi movies AND one of the greatest horror movies, all wrapped in one film, back on the big screen. Yes, in honor of its 45th anniversary – and in preparation for a new installment coming this summer – Ridley Scott's iconic venture into the horrors of space will face-hug audiences yet again this week. See it and then have fun debates with your movie friends about which movie's better: "Alien" or "Aliens"? You win no matter which film wins!

"Boy Kills World" – For some crazed violent chaos, check out "Boy Kills World" starring Bill Skarsgaard (aka Pennywise the clown from "It") as a mute man seeking revenge in the dystopian future on the powerful family that murdered his parents. It may sound a little familiar – but did I mention that his inner thoughts are all in voiceover provided by "Bob's Burgers"? And that the bloody action looks viciously wild and entertaining? 

"Challengers" – Yeah, it's tennis night ... in America! Get some buds and some brews, because it's gonna be a fight on the big screen as two rival tennis players – Josh O'Connor of "The Crown" and Mike Faist of Spielberg's "West Side Story" – try to win over the heart (and the tennis-coaching prowess) of a former tennis superstar played by Zendaya. For those looking for both romance and original movies for grown-ups back in cinemas, "Challengers" – earning rave reviews from critics nationwide – is a grand slam.

"Civil War" – You know, just some light escapism about the United States embroiled in a violent and vicious civil war! A fun, turn-off-your-brain matinee! But actually, the latest from the great Alex Garland ("Annihilation," "Ex Machina" and allegedly most of "Dredd") follows a pack of journalists as they attempt to tell the story of the U.S.'s collapse from the brutal frontlines. More of a drama than a rollicking action movie, "Civil War" will be one of the conversation points of the cinematic year.

"Dancing Village: The Curse Begins" – The horror flick "KKN Curse of the Dancing Village" was the highest grossing movie in Indonesia – so of course, they made a sequel. (International films are not immune from Hollywood logic.) The latest creep-out chapter follows the origins of the first film's story, as a village deals with a spooky menace causing terror and death with locals and visitors. 

"Dune: Part Two" – Feeling spicy? Take a journey to the second part of Denis Villeneuve's grandiose sci-fi adaptation epic – whose first installment already won six Academy Awards back at the Will Smith Oscars in 2022, and this chapter's supposed to be even better. With a massive cast of stars (returning stars Timothee Chalamet, Zendaya, Rebecca Ferguson, Josh Brolin and Javier Bardem, plus new faces Austin Butler and Florence Pugh) and even more massive visuals and sense of scope, see this one on the biggest, loudest screen around town. 

"Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire" – In case there wasn't enough frost everywhere, the latest "Ghostbusters" big screen adventure finds the supernatural exterminators, new and old, battling a mega-demon releasing all sorts of ghosts and causing the world to freeze in fear. Fans of the original will certainly find plenty in the film to feel nostalgic about – while more casual fans might be wondering, "Hey, weren't these movies originally goofy comedies?"

"Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire" – Did you enjoy "Godzilla Minus One"? Well, the big guy is back in this chapter from the American take on the raging reptile – and King Kong is in tow too, as the two team up to monster mash another threat to the planet. Unlike this past winter's terrific Oscar winner, brace yourself for a big and ridiculous movie ... as you should probably predict from a movie about a giant lizard and giant ape becoming planetary buddy cops.

"Kung Fu Panda 4" – Skadoosh hits to the big screen once again as the world's jolliest and hungriest ultimate kung fu warrior has to save the day and battle a new foe: a shape-shifting chameleon (voiced by Oscar winner Viola Davis) who can take on the form and powers of those it encounters. It's been a while since there's a been a big new animated movie for kids – Hollywood, what's your deal? You hate money or something? – and this Jack Black-led franchise has been pretty consistently colorful, comedic, kinetic and action-packed for all ages. 

"The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare" – Famed Brit director Guy Ritchie ("The Gentlemen") goes to war with his latest tough-guy romp, following the declassified origins of the UK's first special forces department during WWII. Much more in the vein of "Inglourious Basterds" than a serious war film, "Ungentlemanly Warfare" seems like ideal dad fare for a lazy afternoon this week.

"Monkey Man" – Dev Patel blasts his way into the director's chair with this vibrant and vicious action movie brawler, about a young Indian outsider who plots brutal revenge against the political leaders, corrupt cops and abusive rich folk that crush the lower classes in his society. Some have made "John Wick" references – but it's really more like "The Raid 2," "The Man From Nowhere" and other raw and rugged Asian action flicks that take their stories, and definitely their no-holds-barred bloody fisticuffs, seriously. Patel's freshman effort may be more dense than necessary – but it also dishes out some dynamite action. 

"The Mummy" – Man, 1999 ruled. In case "The Matrix" back in theaters didn't remind you that enough, here's another pre-Y2K classic roaring back onto the big screen and totally dusting its modern day competition in the process: "The Mummy," starring newly crowned Oscar winner Brendan Fraser as an explorer who comes across a supernatural horror awakened in Egypt. Full of both classic and new CG-aided Hollywood blockbuster spectacle, charming leads and a winning old-school full entertainment tone, "The Mummy" will make you wonder why former blockbuster director Stephen Sommers can't get a job anymore. (Answer: "Van Helsing" and "G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra." But come on, Hollywood, give him another chance!)

"Rathnam" – It wouldn't be a week at Milwaukee movie theaters without a noteworthy new Bollywood blockbuster – and this week it's "Rathnam," a brutal and blade-throwing action flick about an unassuming henchman who helps protect a young woman suddenly under siege by local gangsters.

"Sasquatch Sunset" – It's just another movie about a family ... except it's a family of big foots (big feet?) hunting and pooping and grunting and just living out their lives wordlessly roaming in the woods and somehow played by an unrecognizable Jesse Eisenberg and Riley Keough. You'll either be on its sometimes sweet/sometimes nasty wavelength (it comes from producer Ari Aster of "Midsommar" and "Beau Is Afraid," so that's the wavelength we're looking at here) or not, but either way, you'll definitely have something to say after seeing this unique indie. 

"Spirited Away" – Some of the greatest animated films of all time are returning to the big screen with Studio Ghibli Fest – beginning this week with the Oscar-winning, critically adored "Spirited Away," telling the story of a young girl who gets summoned into a world of ghosts and spirit beings, and begins working at a bath house for the beyond in order to get back home. (Hopefully with her parents returned back to human form rather than pigs, too.) Strangely beautiful and beautifully strange, if you haven't seen "Spirited Away" before, this is great time to amend that.

"Spy x Family Code: White" – Anime favorites keep popping up on the big screen – and making pretty significant box office in the process. The latest entrant is "Spy x Family Code: White," a kind-of anime take on the "Mr. and Mrs. Smith" formula about a spy and an assassin married together ... but with a telepathic daughter who knows both of their secrets while they're both in the dark about their significant other's real job. You know, that classic telepathic daughter drama. It's a little action, a little comedy and a lot of entertainment.

"Unsung Hero" – From the makers of surprise faith-based smash hits "I Can Only Imagine" and "Jesus Revolution" comes "Unsung Hero," the based-on-a-true-story tale of how a sprawling family from Australia came to the States and made their dreams of music stardom come true, eventually evolving into the successful Christian pop stars For King + Country and Rebecca St. James. 

"We Grown Now" – Did you miss out on this coming-of-age inner city drama when it screened at the Milwaukee Film Festival? Well, aren't you lucky: You've got a second chance to see this lovely and thoughtful indie drama about two young Black boys growing up in a housing project in 1990s Chicago, and the highs and lows that brings them. With strikingly gorgeous cinematography capturing the beauty of the everyday and a touching story, see why this seemingly small movie made a big impact at festivals all around – from Toronto to Chicago – and even the Independent Spirit Awards.

Avalon Atmospheric Theater

"Challengers" – Yeah, it's tennis night ... in America! Get some buds and some brews, because it's gonna be a fight on the big screen as two rival tennis players – Josh O'Connor of "The Crown" and Mike Faist of Spielberg's "West Side Story" – try to win over the heart (and the tennis-coaching prowess) of a former tennis superstar played by Zendaya. For those looking for both romance and original movies for grown-ups back in cinemas, "Challengers" – earning rave reviews from critics nationwide – is a grand slam.

"Civil War" – You know, just some light escapism about the United States embroiled in a violent and vicious civil war! A fun, turn-off-your-brain matinee! But actually, the latest from the great Alex Garland ("Annihilation," "Ex Machina" and allegedly most of "Dredd") follows a pack of journalists as they attempt to tell the story of the U.S.'s collapse from the brutal frontlines. More of a drama than a rollicking action movie, "Civil War" will be one of the conversation points of the cinematic year.

Rosebud Cinema

"Challengers" – Yeah, it's tennis night ... in America! Get some buds and some brews, because it's gonna be a fight on the big screen as two rival tennis players – Josh O'Connor of "The Crown" and Mike Faist of Spielberg's "West Side Story" – try to win over the heart (and the tennis-coaching prowess) of a former tennis superstar played by Zendaya. For those looking for both romance and original movies for grown-ups back in cinemas, "Challengers" – earning rave reviews from critics nationwide – is a grand slam.

Times Cinema

"Cry-Baby" – The Friday Night Freak Show, brought to you by WMSE, is back this weekend with a special old-school showing of "Cry-Baby," John Waters' wild musical-doused riff on 1950s culture about a greaser (a young Johnny Depp) who falls in love with a square normal girl and causes chaos throughout Baltimore with their clique-defying romance. Complete with a DJ spinning before the movie and the lovely neighborhood theater briefly back in action after the Milwaukee Film Festival, this retro screening should be a party. (Plus, here's a bonus recommendation: Get great wings before or after the movie at Neighborhood Draft right across the street.) (Showing Friday)

Silverspot Cinema of Brookfield

"Abigail" – In the latest movie from the directors of "Ready or Not" and "Scream 5," a rogues gallery of hired hands (including "Scream 5" star Melissa Barrera, Kathryn Newton and Dan Stevens) kidnap a little ballet-loving girl for the hopes of a big payday. Just one trip-up with their perfect plan: The girl ends up being a blood-sucking vampire, and they're now the ones trapped with her. For fans of the directors' black horror comedy mash-ups, "Abigail" shouldn't suck. (Because vampires, you see.)

"Alien" – In space, no one can here how excited you are to see one of the greatest sci-fi movies AND one of the greatest horror movies, all wrapped in one film, back on the big screen. Yes, in honor of its 45th anniversary – and in preparation for a new installment coming this summer – Ridley Scott's iconic venture into the horrors of space will face-hug audiences yet again this week. See it and then have fun debates with your movie friends about which movie's better: "Alien" or "Aliens"? You win no matter which film wins!

"Challengers" – Yeah, it's tennis night ... in America! Get some buds and some brews, because it's gonna be a fight on the big screen as two rival tennis players – Josh O'Connor of "The Crown" and Mike Faist of Spielberg's "West Side Story" – try to win over the heart (and the tennis-coaching prowess) of a former tennis superstar played by Zendaya. For those looking for both romance and original movies for grown-ups back in cinemas, "Challengers" – earning rave reviews from critics nationwide – is a grand slam.

"Civil War" – You know, just some light escapism about the United States embroiled in a violent and vicious civil war! A fun, turn-off-your-brain matinee! But actually, the latest from the great Alex Garland ("Annihilation," "Ex Machina" and allegedly most of "Dredd") follows a pack of journalists as they attempt to tell the story of the U.S.'s collapse from the brutal frontlines. More of a drama than a rollicking action movie, "Civil War" will be one of the conversation points of the cinematic year.

"Good Will Hunting" – How do you like THESE apples? The movie that made Matt Damon and Ben Affleck into household names – oh, and won two of the rare Oscars "Titanic" didn't in 1998 – will return to the Silverspot big screen this week for a special throwback showing. And they're throwing back ticket prices too for this retro screening, with admission only costing $7. (Showing Tuesday)

"Kung Fu Panda 4" – Skadoosh hits to the big screen once again as the world's jolliest and hungriest ultimate kung fu warrior has to save the day and battle a new foe: a shape-shifting chameleon (voiced by Oscar winner Viola Davis) who can take on the form and powers of those it encounters. It's been a while since there's a been a big new animated movie for kids – Hollywood, what's your deal? You hate money or something? – and this Jack Black-led franchise has been pretty consistently colorful, comedic, kinetic and action-packed for all ages. 

"The Matrix" – It's been 25 years since this essential sci-fi action saga showed up in theaters – and "The Matrix" is still one of the coolest movies ever made, from the style to the slick genre-mashing and physics-defying action to the world-building to the ground-breaking special effects and the way it's perfectly shot for maximum impact. Plug back in with the original classic back on the big screen, still a quarter of a century later showing Hollywood how to do smart action right. (Showing Sunday and Wednesday)

"The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare" – Famed Brit director Guy Ritchie ("The Gentlemen") goes to war with his latest tough-guy romp, following the declassified origins of the UK's first special forces department during WWII. Much more in the vein of "Inglourious Basterds" than a serious war film, "Ungentlemanly Warfare" seems like ideal dad fare for a lazy afternoon this week.

"The Mummy" – Man, 1999 ruled. In case "The Matrix" back in theaters didn't remind you that enough, here's another pre-Y2K classic roaring back onto the big screen and totally dusting its modern day competition in the process: "The Mummy," starring newly crowned Oscar winner Brendan Fraser as an explorer who comes across a supernatural horror awakened in Egypt. Full of both classic and new CG-aided Hollywood blockbuster spectacle, charming leads and a winning old-school full entertainment tone, "The Mummy" will make you wonder why former blockbuster director Stephen Sommers can't get a job anymore. (Answer: "Van Helsing" and "G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra." But come on, Hollywood, give him another chance!)

"Ruslaan" – This Bollywood genre-blasting actioner follows the son of a terrorist who decides to not follow in his father's footsteps and instead quests to become a secret agent – with all the stylish explosive and emotional conflict that plot synopsis implies. 

"The Shawshank Redemption" – Between "The Mummy" and now this classic popping up for a special screening, it seems as though vintage era TNT has taken over booking duties at the Silverspot. That is not at all a complaint, as we now get a chance to see this beloved Oscar-nominated drama about the bond between two imprisoned men (Tim Robbins and Morgan Freeman) back on the big screen – and back for '90s era prices, as tickets will only cost $7. (Showing Saturday)

"Spy x Family Code: White" – Anime favorites keep popping up on the big screen – and making pretty significant box office in the process. The latest entrant is "Spy x Family Code: White," a kind-of anime take on the "Mr. and Mrs. Smith" formula about a spy and an assassin married together ... but with a telepathic daughter who knows both of their secrets while they're both in the dark about their significant other's real job. You know, that classic telepathic daughter drama. It's a little action, a little comedy and a lot of entertainment.

"Unsung Hero" – From the makers of surprise faith-based smash hits "I Can Only Imagine" and "Jesus Revolution" comes "Unsung Hero," the based-on-a-true-story tale of how a sprawling family from Australia came to the States and made their dreams of music stardom come true, eventually evolving into the successful Christian pop stars For King + Country and Rebecca St. James. 

ACX Cinemas at Bayshore

"Abigail" – In the latest movie from the directors of "Ready or Not" and "Scream 5," a rogues gallery of hired hands (including "Scream 5" star Melissa Barrera, Kathryn Newton and Dan Stevens) kidnap a little ballet-loving girl for the hopes of a big payday. Just one trip-up with their perfect plan: The girl ends up being a blood-sucking vampire, and they're now the ones trapped with her. For fans of the directors' black horror comedy mash-ups, "Abigail" shouldn't suck. (Because vampires, you see.)

"Alien" – In space, no one can here how excited you are to see one of the greatest sci-fi movies AND one of the greatest horror movies, all wrapped in one film, back on the big screen. Yes, in honor of its 45th anniversary – and in preparation for a new installment coming this summer – Ridley Scott's iconic venture into the horrors of space will face-hug audiences yet again this week. See it and then have fun debates with your movie friends about which movie's better: "Alien" or "Aliens"? You win no matter which film wins!

"Boy Kills World" – For some crazed violent chaos, check out "Boy Kills World" starring Bill Skarsgaard (aka Pennywise the clown from "It") as a mute man seeking revenge in the dystopian future on the powerful family that murdered his parents. It may sound a little familiar – but did I mention that his inner thoughts are all in voiceover provided by "Bob's Burgers"? And that the bloody action looks viciously wild and entertaining? 

"Challengers" – Yeah, it's tennis night ... in America! Get some buds and some brews, because it's gonna be a fight on the big screen as two rival tennis players – Josh O'Connor of "The Crown" and Mike Faist of Spielberg's "West Side Story" – try to win over the heart (and the tennis-coaching prowess) of a former tennis superstar played by Zendaya. For those looking for both romance and original movies for grown-ups back in cinemas, "Challengers" – earning rave reviews from critics nationwide – is a grand slam.

"Civil War" – You know, just some light escapism about the United States embroiled in a violent and vicious civil war! A fun, turn-off-your-brain matinee! But actually, the latest from the great Alex Garland ("Annihilation," "Ex Machina" and allegedly most of "Dredd") follows a pack of journalists as they attempt to tell the story of the U.S.'s collapse from the brutal frontlines. More of a drama than a rollicking action movie, "Civil War" will be one of the conversation points of the cinematic year.

"Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire" – Did you enjoy "Godzilla Minus One"? Well, the big guy is back in this chapter from the American take on the raging reptile – and King Kong is in tow too, as the two team up to monster mash another threat to the planet. Unlike this past winter's terrific Oscar winner, brace yourself for a big and ridiculous movie ... as you should probably predict from a movie about a giant lizard and giant ape becoming planetary buddy cops.

"The Ministry of Ungentlemanly Warfare" – Famed Brit director Guy Ritchie ("The Gentlemen") goes to war with his latest tough-guy romp, following the declassified origins of the UK's first special forces department during WWII. Much more in the vein of "Inglourious Basterds" than a serious war film, "Ungentlemanly Warfare" seems like ideal dad fare for a lazy afternoon this week.

"Spirited Away" – Some of the greatest animated films of all time are returning to the big screen with Studio Ghibli Fest – beginning this week with the Oscar-winning, critically adored "Spirited Away," telling the story of a young girl who gets summoned into a world of ghosts and spirit beings, and begins working at a bath house for the beyond in order to get back home. (Hopefully with her parents returned back to human form rather than pigs, too.) Strangely beautiful and beautifully strange, if you haven't seen "Spirited Away" before, this is great time to amend that. (Showing Saturday, Monday and Wednesday)