Summer Movie Preview: Superheroes duke it out with dinosaurs (and your desire to stay home)

— After a spring of some surprising hits and bristling disappointments at the box office, summer is somehow just around the corner. With it, of course, comes a fair share of big budget popcorn flicks, as well as a collection of curious smaller movies that may just capture the cultural conversation. But the question always remains, in the post-pandemic world: what films will convince potential audiences to leave the comfort of their homes to sit in a theater for the communal experience of moviegoing? Along with the promise of cool air-conditioning, here is a list of best-bets for summer theater escapes.

‘The Phoenician Scheme’ (May 30)

The acclaimed director of “The Royal Tenenbaums” and “The Darjeeling Limited” is back with his next feature, again showcasing a long list of major screen stars, this time led by Benicio del Toro, Scarlett Johansson, Tom Hanks and Anderson stalwart Bill Murray. Joining them in a major role is Kate Winslet’s daughter Mia Threapleton. Expect artfully composed camera shots populated by deadpan-looking stars (see above for an example).

‘Karate Kid: Legends’ (May 30)