July in California isn’t just about sunshine, beaches, and parties — it’s also a huge month for movies! From epic blockbusters to indie thrillers, this summer has something for everyone.
We’ve picked 5 of the most exciting new releases — with trailers included — so you can plan your next trip to the cinema or your cozy movie night at home.
1. Avatar: Rise of the Na’vi
📅 Release Date: July 4, 2025
📍 Where to Watch: IMAX, Dolby Cinema, Disney+ (in ~45 days)
🔗 Watch Trailer
James Cameron brings us back to Pandora — this time, deep underwater. Two new Na’vi clans face off: the sky-loving Wind Traders and the fire-driven Ash People.
🎥 Stunning underwater worlds and a powerful environmental story make this a must-see on the big screen.
Why Watch:
• Groundbreaking visuals and effects
• A new cultural and nature-focused storyline
• Premiering on Independence Day — tickets will sell fast!
2. Steelheart (Ironheart)
📅 Released: June 24 (new episodes weekly)
📍 Where to Watch: Theaters and Disney+
🔗 Watch Trailer
Marvel introduces Riri Williams — a teenage tech genius from San Francisco who builds her own Iron Man-style suit to fight digital threats.
Why Watch:
• A fresh superhero story from Silicon Valley
• Strong female lead for a new generation
• Produced by Ryan Coogler (Black Panther) — smart, stylish, action-packed
3. Yosemite Mystery (Untamed)
📅 Release Date: July 17, 2025
📍 Where to Watch: Landmark, indie theaters, Hulu, Netflix
🔗 Watch Trailer
A dark mystery set in California’s Yosemite National Park. A park ranger goes missing, local legends rise, and the forest hides secrets you don’t want to miss.
Why Watch:
• A rare mix of nature, mystery, and suspense
• Filmed in the real Yosemite
• Perfect for fans of slow-burn thrillers and haunting California landscapes
4. Sunset Boulevard: New Era
📅 Release Date: July 25, 2025
📍 Where to Watch: Arclight, Laemmle, Netflix
🔗 Watch Teaser
This is a modern remake of the classic 1950 film. An aging Hollywood actress makes a comeback with help from a young TikTok star. A sharp drama full of nostalgia and modern twist.
Why Watch:
• A clever take on old Hollywood and today’s influencer culture
• Strong female characters and social commentary
• Beautifully filmed and emotionally smart
5. Peak Heat
📅 Release Date: July 3, 2025
📍 Where to Watch: U.S. theaters, HBO Max
🔗 Watch Trailer
A disaster film set in a dangerously hot Los Angeles. A climate systems engineer (played by Michael B. Jordan) must save the city from collapse during an energy emergency.
Why Watch:
• Intense and real — feels like California right now
• Touches on climate change and city infrastructure
• Michael B. Jordan leads a powerful cast
More Movies Coming This July
• Silicon Valley Heist – a smart comedy about tech startups and AI
• Star #23 – a sports drama about a rising NBA player
• TikTok Down – a documentary on the app’s ban and its impact on youth
Where to Watch in California
Indie Theaters:
• The Tower Theatre (Sacramento)
• Landmark Theatres (Los Angeles, San Francisco)
• Frida Cinema (Santa Ana)
Open-Air & Drive-In Cinemas:
• Rooftop Cinema Club (LA, San Diego)
• West Wind Drive-In (Sacramento, San Jose)
Streaming at Home:
• Netflix – dramas, documentaries, remakes
• Disney+ – blockbusters and Marvel
*****
This summer, don’t just soak in the sun — soak in some amazing stories. From big-screen adventures to indie thrills, California movie nights are back in full swing.
Call your friends, grab the popcorn, and enjoy a season full of great films!
