Review: A Blockbuster Month with Sony Pictures Australia

What a massive month for Sony Pictures Australia, with not one, not two, not even three—but technically four powerhouse releases lighting up the big screen. I was lucky enough to be invited along for the ride, attending the premieres and celebrating each cinematic moment. Sony continues to prove itself as a leader in top-tier film production and performance, and this month has truly showcased the depth and variety of its slate.

BRING HER BACK

Released May 28
Written and directed by Danny and Michael Philippou

Technically a May release, but absolutely worthy of being counted as a June heavyweight, Bring Her Back is a South Australian horror film from the creators of Talk to Me. If you haven’t seen Talk to Me, hit rewind—there’s something uniquely eerie about spotting Adelaide Metro buses and Mawson Lakes on screen. My hometown touch adds a layer of familiarity, and yes—they’ve returned in Bring Her Back.

I attended this premiere amid extreme weather warnings, 120km/h wind gusts, and pouring rain—a perfect setting for a horror film. This film didn’t just deliver on fear—it hit me emotionally too. I genuinely felt for the villain by the end. With outstanding performances and deeply unsettling body horror elements, this one lingers long after the credits roll. The punches land hard and keep on coming. And thanks to a brilliantly unnerving use of The Veronicas’ “Untouched”, I now have a new exorcism anthem.

Verdict: An absolute winner. Don’t miss it.

KARATE KID: LEGENDS

Starring Jackie Chan and Ralph Macchio, while introducing Ben Wang
Directed by Jonathan Entwistle

A respectful continuation of both the 2010 Karate Kid and the Cobra Kai series, Karate Kid: Legends honours the legacy of Mr. Miyagi and Daniel LaRusso while ushering in a new era. Ben Wang is a revelation—performing most of his own stunts, including a jaw-dropping, multi-flip evolution of the iconic crane kick.

While the story beats may be a little predictable, I was fully invested. Aramis Knight as Conor Day—the new Johnny Lawrence-type—stole the show for me. Every time he appeared, tension followed. (Okay, okay—I root for the villains. #KyloRenForever). And yes, Jackie Chan remains legendary. This film is a worthy addition to the franchise and delivers nostalgia, action, and heart.

Verdict: Respectful, thrilling, and a blast for fans.

MATERIALISTS

Starring Dakota Johnson, Pedro Pascal, and Chris Evans
Written and directed by Celine Song

Let’s just say… I was the Lone Ranger at the “Girls Night Out” premiere. The audience skewed heavily female, and while it felt a bit like walking into a sequel screening of Fifty Shades of Grey, I owned it—front row seat and all.

MATERIALISTS dives into the luxury matchmaking world with a love triangle that mixes true story elements and personal insight from director Celine Song, who lived the experience. The film carries real emotional weight—there’s truth and trauma here, balanced with sharp humor. Pedro Pascal brings his signature charm, while Chris Evans plays the loveable underdog (alas, no banana splits, but a beer and coke did the trick).

Verdict: Witty, heartfelt, and a fresh spin on the rom-com-drama genre.

28 YEARS LATER

Releasing next week
Directed by Danny Boyle | Written by Alex Garland

The final (and most anticipated) Sony Pictures entry this month is the long-awaited sequel to 28 Days Later. Danny Boyle and Alex Garland reunite for the first time since the genre-defining original—and I am beyond ready.

I still remember being blown away by 28 Days Later in the early 2000s. This new chapter, filmed with IMAX cameras and experimental new techniques, promises to push the horror genre into new territory. Just the thought of returning to this universe has me on the edge of my seat.

Verdict: This is the big screen horror event of the year. Do. Not. Miss. It.

Additionally, look out for I Know What You Did Last Summer, Next month!