With the Academy Awards officially behind us, we can breathe a collective sigh of relief and go back to enjoying movies the old-fashioned way—without constantly asking ourselves whether or not we're watching an Oscar-worthy film.
This weekend is a big one: With Black Panther still holding strong and Peter Rabbit still delighting audiences, the box office will also be hit with Natalie Portman's latest, plus two new surprisingly exciting flicks: The Death of Stalin and Thoroughbreds.
Grab the popcorn and get ready to watch these five awesome movies this weekend:
The Death of Stalin
From the creator of Veep (and equally as vicious), Armando Iannucci’s lacerating comedy lampoons Stalinist Russia to within an inch of its life. Local theaters; opens Fri 9. Read our full review
Thoroughbreds
A film about extremely wealthy Connecticut teens with bad impulses, this comedy has a steely sheen. While you’re howling at how mean it is, shed a tear for the late Anton Yelchin, giving his final (and best) performance. Local theaters; opens Fri 9. Read our full review
Annihilation
Natalie Portman squares off against an alien presence in a rare example of Hollywood sci-fi–horror thoughtfulness, directed by Ex Machina’s Alex Garland. Only the U.S. gets this in theaters, so enjoy it big while you can. Read our full review
Black Panther
We never knew a Marvel movie could be so rich with real-world subtext. Creed director Ryan Coogler seems to have been inspired by both the comic books and the revolutionary political party that shares the title. Read our full review
Peter Rabbit
James Corden voices Beatrix Potter’s sly bunny in this updated animated take that makes room for the talents of Margot Robbie and Sia. There’s no “Carpool Karaoke,” but you’ll survive. Read our full review